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The permanent magnet claw pole machine (PMCPM) with soft magnetic composite (SMC) cores has shown better performance than the traditional transverse flux machine, and its performance can be improved by developing its stator with hybrid silicon sheet and SMC cores, and this kind of PMCPM is named as HPMCPM. Due to its complex 3D magnetic structure, analyzing its performance by using the traditional finite element method (FEM) is time-consuming. To overcome this constraint, this paper proposes a magneto-electric-thermal coupling network (METCN) model with bidirectional data transmission to calculate the electromagnetic performance and temperature distribution and the calculation results are verified by the FEM method and experimental measurement results. Compared with the 3D FEM, the proposed METCN method has the advantage of fast calculation speed and similar accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a design scheme for a wireless power transfer (WPT) system based on multi-relay coils to solve the power supply demand of 500 kV transmission line online monitoring equipment. The relationship between the operating frequency and the coil loss is established to analyze the influence of the number of relay coils and the coil distance on the transmission performance. The particle swarm optimization model is established with transmission efficiency as the optimization objective. The distribution spacing between coils, the working frequency, and the number of coils are optimized. Based on the equidistant arrangement of relay coils, an optimization scheme of non-equidistant arrangement is proposed. Under the condition of the same number of relay coils, the transmission efficiency of the system is increased by 20.56% and has been verified by experiments. In addition, finite element analysis software has simulated the surrounding high-voltage field strength of the WPT system added to the insulators. The results show that the insulators still meet the insulation standards. The simulation and experimental results show that the proposed scheme can effectively meet the power demand of high-voltage line monitoring equipment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a new design for line-start operation of synchronous reluctance motors. In the past years, synchronous reluctance motors have been studied by many researchers. Due to high efficiency, they have gained increasing interest because in the synchronous operation, there is limited losses in the rotor. On the other hand, line-start operation of the synchronous reluctance motors is an important challenge that can make this type of the motors popular in many applications. However, line-start operation techniques should not considerably affect the steady-state characteristics of the motor. In the proposed design, the arrangement, size and shape of the rotor conductor bars are designed based on the rotor magnetic circuit difference between induction and reluctance synchronous motors. Complete assessment of the motor parameters are examined using finite element analysis. The proposed structure improves the starting characteristics of the motor. Moreover, power factor of the proposed motor is slightly increased in comparison to that of conventional line-start synchronous reluctance motors. The results obviously show effectiveness of the proposed line-start operation strategy for the synchronous reluctance motors. Finally, experimental verification are also included to confirm the finite element analysis results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, three typical permanent magnet machines for All-Electric aircraft propulsion are designed, optimized and compared. Firstly, the necessary performances are determined based on the requirements of high power/torque density and an aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight of 1500 kg. The initial structures of interior permanent magnet (IPM) synchronous machine, vernier permanent magnet (VPM) machine and flux-switching permanent magnet (FSPM) machine are designed with identical stator outer radius and rotor shaft length. Then, parametric sensitivity analysis and multi-objective particle swarm are combined as an optimization methodology to optimize these machines. Based on the finite element analysis, the electromagnetic performances such as no-load airgap flux density harmonic spectrum, cogging torque, average output torque, losses, efficiency and power factor, etc., are generally compared and analyzed. Subsequently, the discussions are carried out, where the strength and weakness of these three machines are concluded and the future prospects are suggested. Finally, it is concluded that if effective measures are implemented to reduce the permanent magnet eddy current loss and improve the power factor, the VPM machine would be the most suitable choice among these machines for All-Electric aircraft propulsion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Material Point Method (MPM) is an established and powerful numerical method particularly useful for simulating large-scale, rapid soil deformations. Therefore, it is often used for the numerical investigation of mass movement hazards such as landslides, debris flows, or avalanches. It combines the benefits of both mesh-free and mesh-based continuum-based discretization techniques by discretizing the physical domain with Lagrangian moving particles carrying the history-dependent variables while the governing equations are solved at the Eulerian background grid, which brings many similarities with commonly used finite element methods. However, due to this hybrid nature, the material boundaries do not usually coincide with the nodes of the computational grid, which complicates the imposition of boundary conditions. Furthermore, the position of the boundary may change at each time step and, moreover, may be defined at arbitrary locations within the computational grid that do not necessarily coincide with the body contour, leading to different interactions between the material and the boundary. To cope with these challenges, this paper presents a novel element-wise formulation to weakly impose non-conforming Dirichlet conditions using Lagrange multipliers. The proposed formulation introduces a constant Lagrange multiplier approximation within the constrained elements in combination with a methodology to eliminate superfluous constraints. Therefore, in combination with simple element-wise interpolation functions classically utilized in MPM (and FEM) to approximate the unknown field, a suitable Lagrange multiplier discretization is obtained. In this way, we obtain a robust, efficient, and user-friendly boundary imposition method for immersed methods specified herein for implicit MPM. Furthermore, the extension to frictionless slip conditions is derived. The proposed methodologies are assessed by comparing the numerical results with both analytical and experimental data to demonstrate their accuracy and wide range of applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the method for water ingress detection in an aluminum honeycomb sandwich structure by laser ultrasonics. To clarify the propagation of Scholte waves generated at the solid-liquid interface, the theoretical dispersion curves in the water-aluminum layered structure are calculated by the global matrix method. Using a laser ultrasonic visualizing inspector, the guided wave propagation in the wavefields has been visualized, which shows the mode conversion behaviors occurring in the water ingress area. The clarification of mode conversion is then investigated by the finite element method. The Scholte modes at the solid-fluid interface and the Lamb modes in the face sheet are interconverted because of the change in the waveguide structure. Wavenumber filter reconstruction and the resulting energy maps are applied to illustrate the mode conversion in the wavefields and to detect the water ingress area. Results show that the appearance of the water layer contributes to the mode conversion behaviors during the guided wave propagation in the honeycomb sandwich structure, which offers the potential for water ingress detection based on the mode conversion behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate estimation of rotational frequency response functions (FRFs) is an essential element of successful structural coupling. It is well known that the experimental estimation of structural excitations is very difficult with current technology. This paper proposes a scheme to improve the performance of the frequency-based substructuring (FBS) method by estimating unmeasured FRFs, including those corresponding to rotational degrees of freedom, from a set of experimentally determined translational FRFs. More specifically, the modal parameters extracted by modal analysis (EMA) from the experimentally determined FRFs are used for model updating, modal expansion and FRF synthesis. For this purpose, an approximate modelling approach is proposed, where a simplified and approximate finite element model (ASFE) is developed and updated to accurately reproduce the experimental responses. A modal expansion basis is then constructed from the ASFE to expand the mode shapes using the system equivalent reduction and expansion process (SEREP). FRF synthesis is then used to derive unmeasured translational and rotational FRFs. The synthesised FRFs within the frequency range of interest agree well with the experimental FRFs. The synthesised full FRF matrix is then used with the FBS method to derive the response model for the coupled structure in a bottom-up modelling approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the determination of numerical and experimental buckling loads for circular plates. In the study, plates made of isotropic material and laminated composites were taken into consideration. For the experimental part of the study, a buckling apparatus for circular plates (BACIP) was designed and manufactured to apply radial compression on plates simply supported along the outer edge, which was the most important aspect of the study. Experimental buckling loads were determined by connecting this apparatus to a tension machine. ANSYS software based on the Finite Element Method (FEM) and the analytical buckling load formula found in textbooks were also used for the determination of the numerical and analytical buckling loads. The effects of parameters such as plate thickness, number of layers, cutout sizes, and so on on critical buckling loads were investigated within the scope of the work. Comparisons of analytical, theoretical and experimental buckling loads were presented in both graphical and tabular form. The results of the experimental and theoretical buckling were found to be comparatively compatible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose three hollow-core anti-resonant fibers with different nested tube structures and numerically analyse their confinement loss, single-mode performance and bending loss by using the finite element method. The results show that the nested semi-elliptical structure FD#2 and the hybrid nested FD#3 structure have excellent transmission performance. The confinement loss of FD#2 and FD#3 at 1.55 µm is 0.00037 dB/km and 0.0004 dB/km respectively, and the high order mode extinction ratio is around 1700 for both FD#2 and FD#3. The bandwidths of FD#2 and FD#3 with losses less than 0.01 dB/km are within 1.36–1.73 μm and 1.42–1.8 μm, respectively. In addition, the bending resistance of FD#2 and FD#3 is excellent, with bending losses of 0.003 dB/km and 0.001 dB/km at a bending radius of 8 cm. We also evaluated the manufacturing tolerance range of these two structures in the actual manufacturing process. The structure proposed in this paper is expected to provide new ideas for the design of nested elements, and provide more possibilities for optical fiber design suitable for large-capacity data transmission and gas sensing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a new and simple structure of a photonic crystal fiber (PCF) surface plasmon resonance biosensor is designed for detecting aqueous solutions. The graphene and magnesium fluoride (MgF2) materials are used externally around the PCF to increase the sensitivity of the sensor. The performance of the sensor is analyzed using the finite element method. The numerical results show that the proposed PCF provides an average wavelength sensitivity (Sw) and amplitude sensitivity (SA) as high as 4000 nm/RIU−1 and 16,905.15 RIU−1, respectively, for analytes with refractive indices (RIs) ranging from 1.33 to 1.342. When the MgF2 layer is eliminated from the structure, the values of Sw and SA are decreased to 2500 nm/RIU−1 and 12,155.2 RIU−1, respectively. Therefore, it is concluded that adding an MgF2 layer externally on the graphene layer of the proposed PCF increases the Sw and SA parameters. It is also exhibited that by increasing the thickness of graphene layers, the confinement loss is enhanced, and the SA is decreased. In addition, by adding the thickness of the MgF2, both SA and confinement loss parameters are increased. The results also show a linear relationship between the parameters with a very high figure of merit (FOM) of 17,416.66RIU−1 and a resolution of 2.5 × 10–5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From the literature it is known that orthogonal polynomials as the Jacobi polynomials can be expressed by hypergeometric series. In this paper, the authors derive several contiguous relations for terminating multivariate hypergeometric series. With these contiguous relations one can prove several recursion formulas of those series. This theoretical result allows to compute integrals over products of Jacobi polynomials in a very efficient recursive way. Moreover, the authors present an application to numerical analysis where it can be used in algorithms which compute the approximate solution of boundary value problem of partial differential equations by means of the finite elements method. With the aid of the contiguous relations, the approximate solution can be computed much faster than using numerical integration. A numerical example illustrates this effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a posteriori error estimate for the weak Galerkin (WG) finite element method used to solve H(curl)-elliptic problems. Firstly, we introduce a WG method for solving H(curl)-elliptic problems and a corresponding residual type error estimator without a stabilization term. Secondly, we establish the reliability of the error estimator by demonstrating that the stabilization term is controlled by the error estimator. We also evaluate the efficiency of the error estimator using standard bubble functions. Finally, we present some numerical results to show the performances of the error estimator in both uniform and adaptive meshes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overloaded traffic is one of the major effects that cause more early damage to asphalt pavement than regular traffic. Moving overloaded traffic not only needs to consider dynamic coefficient and axle load coefficient when carrying out pavement mechanics calculations, but also accelerates pavement failure and boosts the cost of construction and maintenance. Although asphalt pavement of a stabilized base with inorganic binder has a strong bearing capacity, the shortcoming of reflective cracking also seriously restricts its performance. This paper describes the mechanical response and crack propagation of asphalt pavement of stabilized base with inorganic binder which has a crack, under the coupling effect of moving overloaded traffic and temperature. Extended finite-element method (XFEM) was conducted to simulate reflective cracks propagating freely from a stabilized base with inorganic binder to asphalt overlay. Dynamic analysis was also carried out by varying the axle weight and tire pressure, which could help highway builders understand the stress distribution of pavement under design traffic and the crack propagation law of pavement structures. Results indicated that the mechanical response of asphalt pavement was comprehensively related to tire pressure, axial weight, and its active position and that overloaded traffic accelerates crack propagation more than regular traffic. This research achievement contributes to providing roadway engineers with a more profound perception to potentially advance pavement design practitioners for specific traffic characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we use the weighted discontinuous Galerkin finite element method to solve the dual-porosity-Brinkman coupling model. The dual-porosity model describes fluid flow in a dual-porosity medium composed of matrix and microfractures, while the Brinkman equation describes fluid flow in hydraulic fractures or conduits containing "debris filling" or "proppant filling". The two models are coupled by the four physically effective interface conditions, which are constructed based on the fundamental properties of the dual-porosity model and the Brinkman-Darcy model. We provide a weighted discontinuous discrete scheme for the model and derive the optimal error estimates. Through numerical experiments, we verify the properties of the model and the advantages of the numerical method, such as the optimal convergence rate of the numerical solution and the simulation of the flow characteristics around hydraulic fractures and conduits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fractional Feynman–Kac equation governs the functional distribution of the trajectories of anomalous diffusion. The non-commutativity of the integral fractional Laplacian and time-space coupled fractional substantial derivative, i.e., A s 0 ∂ t 1 - α , x ≠ 0 ∂ t 1 - α , x A s , brings about huge challenges on the regularity and spatial error estimates for the forward fractional Feynman–Kac equation. In this paper, we first use the corresponding resolvent estimate obtained by the bootstrapping arguments and the generalized Hölder-type inequalities in Sobolev space to build the regularity of the solution, and then the fully discrete scheme constructed by convolution quadrature and finite element methods is developed. Also, the complete error analyses in time and space directions are respectively presented, which are consistent with the provided numerical experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transmission lines are affected by external environmental factors such as strong winds and ice cover. In recent years, extreme weather events have increased, leading to recurrent disturbances in transmission lines because of wind deflection. These incidents have resulted in significant financial losses and have disrupted regular industrial and domestic activities. In this paper, the ANSYS Workbench 2020 R2 finite element analysis platform was used to establish a transmission line-hanging insulator string system model. Calculations on transmission lines were conducted considering variations in different stall spacing, height differences, wind speed, and the wind attack angle. The impact of these diverse factors on the wind deflection of insulators was scrutinized, leading to the derivation of patterns describing how the wind deflection angle shifts in response to changes in stall spacing, height differences, wind speed, and the wind attack angle. Based on the generalized linear regression network and particle swarm improved support vector machine algorithm, a meteorological prediction-based early warning method for wind deflection of transmission lines was proposed, a transmission line wind deflection early warning model was established, and the practical effect of the model was evaluated. The outcomes of this study provide crucial data for the formulation and development of ultra-high voltage (UHV) and extra-high voltage (EHV) transmission networks. Furthermore, they can contribute to the advanced detection of wind deflection issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nuclear graphite plays a crucial role in thermal-spectrum thorium molten salt reactors (TMSRs) as both the neutron moderator and the construct for the coolant flowing channel. When subjected to irradiation and elevated temperatures, graphite components experience considerable deformation due to a combination of dimensional changes, thermal expansion, irradiation creep, elastic deformation, and changes in thermomechanical characteristics. The lifespan of the graphite component is a limiting factor in TMSR designs as it strongly correlates with the dimensional changes of the graphite. To evaluate the thermal and mechanical reactions of graphite component under TMSR core conditions, it is necessary to couple models of thermal-hydraulics, neutronics, and thermal-mechanics. This paper presents an enhanced methodology for analyzing the deformation of graphite components using the finite element method. Then, this method was applied to analyze a 10-year deformation history of a hexagonal prism assembly (HPA) and it was compared with the traditional hexagonal round channel assembly (RCA). The results demonstrate that the stress–strain field of both types of graphite components undergo significant variations with the increasing neutron fluence from irradiation. HPA graphite exhibits a slower deformation as compared to RCA graphite when subjected to identical operating conditions. In this case, HPA graphite has a lifespan of approximately 10 years, while RCA graphite lasts only 8.8 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motivated by heat dissipation, the rigid-compliant hybrid cellular expansion mechanisms with motion amplification and superposition are proposed in this paper. Compared with existing studies, the expansion mechanism is not only easy to realize the plane tessellation via cellular design due to its regular polygon structure but also has the ability of motion amplification and superposition due to its compliant displacement amplifier and rigid scissors. First, the scheme of expansion mechanisms, especially the working principle of motion amplification and superposition, is introduced. The configuration design of a family of expansion mechanisms is presented, including varying number of edges, concave/convex property, and inner/outer layout. Second, the constraint condition and analytical modeling of relations between output performances of expansion mechanisms and dimensional parameters are carried out. Third, the displacement amplification ratio of expansion mechanisms and output performances of several typical expansion mechanisms when they act as cells to tessellate a plane with a constrained area are analyzed. Finally, the output performances of expansion mechanisms are verified via the finite element analysis. The results show that proposed cellular expansion mechanisms are beneficial for realizing plane tessellation and offer motion amplification and superposition, which provide prospects in the field of mechanism design such as metamaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address the challenges associated with achieving high-fidelity printing of complex 3D bionic models, this paper proposes a method for spatially resolved defect characterization and fidelity assessment. This approach is based on 3D printer-associated optical coherence tomography (3D P-OCT) and GCode information. This method generates a defect characterization map by comparing and analyzing the target model map from GCode information and the reconstructed model map from 3D P-OCT. The defect characterization map enables the detection of defects such as material accumulation, filament breakage and under-extrusion within the print path, as well as stringing outside the print path. The defect characterization map is also used for defect visualization, fidelity assessment and filament breakage repair during secondary printing. Finally, the proposed method is validated on different bionic models, printing paths and materials. The fidelity of the multilayer HAP scaffold with gradient spacing increased from 0.8398 to 0.9048 after the repair of filament breakage defects. At the same time, the over-extrusion defects on the nostril and along the high-curvature contours of the nose model were effectively detected. In addition, the finite element analysis results verified that the 60-degree filling model is superior to the 90-degree filling model in terms of mechanical strength, which is consistent with the defect detection results. The results confirm that the proposed method based on 3D P-OCT and GCode can achieve spatially resolved defect characterization and fidelity assessment in situ, facilitating defect visualization and filament breakage repair. Ultimately, this enables high-fidelity printing, encompassing both shape and function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, piezoceramic-based excitation of shear horizontal waves is investigated. A thickness-shear d15 piezoceramic transducer is modeled using the finite-element method. The major focus is on the directivity and excitability of the shear horizontal fundamental mode with respect to the maximization of excited shear and minimization of Lamb wave modes. The results show that the geometry of the transducer has more effect on the directivity than on the excitability of the analyzed actuator. Numerically simulated results are validated experimentally. The experimental results show that transducer bonding significantly affects the directivity and amplitude of the excited modes. In conclusion, when the selected actuator is used for shear excitation, the best solution is to tailor the transducer in such a way that at the resonant frequency the desired directivity is achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferromagnetic pipes are widely used in the oil and gas industry. They are subject to cracks due to corrosion, pressure, and fatigue. It is significant to detect cracks for the safety of pipes. A residual magnetic field testing (RMFT) system is developed for crack detection in ferromagnetic pipes. Based on this background, a detection probe based on an array of tunneling magneto-resistive (TMR) sensors and permanent magnets is exploited. The probe is able to partially magnetize the pipe wall and collect magnetic signals simultaneously. First, a theoretical analysis of RMFT is presented. The physics principle of RMFT is introduced, and a finite element model is built. In the finite element simulations, the effects of the crack length and depth on the RMFT signal are analyzed, and the signal characteristics are selected to represent the crack size. Next, the validated experiments are conducted to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed RMFT method in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the results of research on the spatial distribution of the multi-phase, distributed windings in electric machines. The focus was on the analysis of the harmonics of the current linkage spatial distributions. To perform calculations for different windings patterns, taking into account the number of phases, pole pairs, and the number q of slots per pole and phase, the dedicated code was developed in the Matlab environment. Nine different multi-phase windings were studied, for which magnetomotive force (MMF) was determined to investigate the harmonic content and total harmonic distortion. The obtained results were compared with a reference three-phase symmetric system. Studies were also carried out on torque ripple and power density for different numbers of winding phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular illnesses are a primary global health concern because they are frequently brought on by arterial stenosis. The complicated hemodynamics of blood flow via elliptically shaped arteries with numerous stenotic lesions along their top and bottom walls are examined in this paper. Carreau fluid model is used with Navier–Stokes equations in this study. The complete comparative study is done by using the Finite Element and Finite Volume Methods. This study uses commercial software to examine blood flow velocity, pressure and temperature distributions under various physiological situations at Reynolds number 30. Our results illuminate the interaction between flow dynamics, stenosis characteristics, and arterial geometry. The novelty of the work is to investigate how stenosis size, shape, and location affect pressure gradients, and flow disturbances. These observations provide helpful direction for understanding disease progression, designing treatments, and possibly new stent designs. The future direction of this research may involve further exploration of the interplay between hemodynamics and arterial stenosis by incorporating advanced computational models. Additionally, studies focusing on in vivo validation and clinical applications could enhance the translational impact of the findings. Collaborations between researchers, clinicians, and engineers may pave the way for personalized treatment strategies and innovations in cardiovascular care based on a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics within diseased arteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports a detailed numerical investigation on the buckling aspects of laminated composite shell panels of three forms (cylindrical, spherical and hyperbolic paraboloid) with five support conditions exposed to linearly varying in-plane edge load employing eight nodded isoparametric finite element formulation. The impacts of different parameters including ply orientation, load factor, shell forms, aspect ratio, modulus ratio, curvature ratio, width-to-thickness ratio and angle of lamination on the buckling load of shell panels are examined. It is found that the various parameters addressed in this study have a remarkable impact on the buckling phenomena of laminated composite shell panels. Further, a comparison is made showing the effects of five types of compressive edge loads like uniform, triangular, parabolic, partial edge load and point load on the buckling phenomena of laminated shell panels with respect to five support conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Finite element models of electrical machines allow insights in electrothermal stresses which endanger the insulation system of the machine. This paper presents a thermal finite element model of a 3.7 kW squirrel-cage induction machine. The model resolves the conductors and the surrounding insulation materials in the stator slots. A set of transient thermal scenarios is defined and measured in the machine laboratory. These data are used to assess the finite element model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanical metamaterials are valued for their diverse properties and potential applications. Due to the instability and large deformability of soft mechanical metamaterials (SMMs), geometric reorganization will occur and lead to some unusual properties. It is possible to change the properties of materials by varying the parameters. Conventional SMMs contain a periodic distribution of holes with the same size and shape, which can be changed to a lesser extent. Periodic dispersion of regular through-hole patterns of various sizes or shapes into elastomers, resulting in metamaterials with more mechanical functionality and deformation scenarios. In this paper, we investigated the influence of parameters on the buckling mechanical behavior of SMMs and the buckling mechanical behavior of structures with multiple sizes and geometric shapes. The parameters studied include geometric parameters (pore shape, porosity and area ratio) and physical parameters (Poisson's ratio and compression mode). Simulation of the buckling behavior of SMMs uses the finite element method. The finite element software ABAQUS is used, taking into account the almost incompressible characteristics of materials, the triangular quadratic plane strain hybrid element is selected (CPE6H). Numerical calculation gives the following results: Area ratio, pore shape and compression mode have obvious effects on buckling behavior, but Poisson's ratio has little effect; the influence of parameters on the buckling critical strains varied for SMMs with various pore shapes; very different buckling behaviors will result from swapping out the pattern of holes with the same size or shape for holes with two different sizes or shapes; the expression of buckling behavior is also varied when the mix of hole shapes is modified. These findings demonstrate that the design parameters may be used to achieve the desired buckling behaviors. This is a new method that can be used to control the deformation of structures; modify the properties of the SMMs without changing stiffness; simplify the structures without significantly changing the material properties. The design path of mechanical metamaterials is increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An SHS-CFSHS X-joint is fabricated by welding two square hollow section (SHS) braces to a concrete-filled square hollow section (CFSHS) chord. In this paper, the stress concentration factors (SCFs) of SHS-CFSHS X-joints are investigated through experimental tests and finite element analysis (FEA), with the hot spot stress method serving as the analytical approach. Eight specimens are designed and manufactured, with FE models built in software ANSYS. These FE models are validated against the test results. The specimens are tested under brace axial tension to determine the SCFs of the X-joints. It shows that the concrete filled in the chord effectively reduces the SCFs of the X-joints. To further explore various load conditions and the influence of the parameters, FEA is carried out and a total of 64 FE models are built. Based on the FEA results, multiple regression analysis is used to obtain the SCF formulae of SHS-CFSHS X-joints under axial tension load and in-plane bending load in the brace, respectively. Comparison and analysis of the SCF results obtained from experimental tests, the proposed formulae, and FE simulations reveal that the formulae presented in this study are both conservative and suitable for predicting SCFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The multiple intersecting stiffeners on the chemical milling stiffened panel (CMSP) limit the application of active health monitoring methods on it. An imaging algorithm based on electromechanical impedance (EMI) and probability-weighting is proposed to achieve quantitative evaluation and localization of the damage on CMSP. The proposed algorithm compensates for the difference in sensor performance with coefficients and there is no need to determine the key parameters of the algorithm through prior experiments. In the paper, the applicability of ultrasonic guided wave (GW) and EMI on CMSP was first studied through the finite element method. Based on EMI and the mean absolute percentage deviation (MAPD), the selected damage indicator (DI), a probability-weighted damage imaging algorithm are proposed and experimentally verified. The results indicate that due to the reflection and attenuation effects of stiffeners on GW, the signal characteristics of damage scattering waves are contaminated, making it difficult to quantitatively characterize the damage from GW signals through DIs. MAPD is positively correlated with the damage degree and has consistency in characterizing the signal of different PZTs under the same working condition. The feasibility and accuracy of the proposed algorithm are verified through experiments which show a strong engineering application capability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the finite element analysis of asphalt concrete (AC), it is nowadays common to incorporate the information from the underlying scales to study the overall response of this material. Heterogeneity observed at the asphalt mixture scale is analyzed in this paper. Reliable finite element analysis (FEA) of asphalt concrete comprises a set of complex issues. The two main aspects of the asphalt concrete FEA discussed in this study are: (1) digital reconstruction of the asphalt pavement microstructure using processing of the high-quality images; and (2) FEA of the asphalt concrete idealized samples accounting for the viscoelastic material model. Reconstruction of the asphalt concrete microstructure is performed using a sequence of image processing operations (binarization, removing holes, filtering, segmentation and boundaries detection). Geometry of the inclusions (aggregate) are additionally simplified in a controlled mode to reduce the numerical cost of the analysis. As is demonstrated in the study, the introduced geometry simplifications are justified. Computational cost reduction exceeds of several orders of magnitude additional modeling error occurring due to the applied simplification technique. Viscoelastic finite element analysis of the AC identified microstructure is performed using the Burgers material model. The analysis algorithm is briefly described with a particular focus on the computational efficiency aspects. In order to illustrate the proposed approach, a set of 2D problems is solved. Numerical results confirm both the effectiveness of the self-developed code and the applicability of the Burgers model to the analyzed class of AC analysis problems. Further research directions are also described to highlight the potential benefits of the developed approach to numerical modeling of asphalt concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming to address the vibration noise problems on ships, we constructed a piezoelectric phononic crystal (PC) plate structure model, solved the governing equations of the structure using the partial differential equations module (PDE) in the finite element softwareCOMSOL6.1, and obtained the corresponding energy band structure, transmission curves, and vibration modal diagrams. The application of this method to probe the structural properties of two-dimensional piezoelectric PCs is described in detail. The calculation results obtained using this method were compared with the structures obtained using the traditional plane wave expansion method (PWE) and the finite element method (FE). The results were found to be in perfect agreement, which verified the feasibility of this method. To safely and effectively adjust the bandgap within a reasonable voltage range, this paper explored the order of magnitude of the plate thickness, the influence of the voltage on the bandgap, and the dependence between them. It was found that the smaller the order of magnitude of the plate thickness, the smaller the order of magnitude of the band in which the bandgap was located. The magnitude of the driving voltage that made the bandgap change became smaller accordingly. The new idea of attaching the PC plate to the conventional plate structure to achieve a vibration damping effect is also briefly introduced. Finally, the effects of lattice constant, plate width, and thickness on the bandgap were investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces a unique finite element analysis (FEA) technique designed to predict elastic response in polymer matrix composites (PMCs). Extensive research has been conducted to model the manufacturing process of multiple 'L'-shaped components, fabricated from SPRINTTM materials (GLP 43 and GLP 96) at two thicknesses (15 mm and 25 mm). Three distinct FEA methodologies were utilised to determine the impact of thermal loads and rigid fixtures. An error deviation of 3.23% was recorded when comparing simulation results to experimental data, thereby validating the effectiveness of the FEA methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aimed to investigate the biomechanical changes during the talus impact with the calcaneus at varying velocities. Various three-dimensional reconstruction software was utilized to construct a finite element model that consisted of the talus, calcaneus, and ligaments. The explicit dynamics method was used to explore the process of the talus impacting on the calcaneus. The velocity of impact was altered from 5 m/s to 10 m/s with a 1 m/s interval. Stress readings were collected from the posterior, intermediate, and anterior subtalar articular (PSA, ISA, ASA), calcaneocubic articular (CA), Gissane Angle (GA), calcaneal base (BC), medial wall (MW), and lateral wall (LW) of the calcaneus. The changes in the amount and distribution of stress in the different regions of the calcaneus that varied with velocity were analysed. The model was validated through comparison with findings from the existing literature. During the process of impact between the talus and calcaneus, the stress in the PSA reached its peak first. Notably, stress was concentrated mainly in the PSA, ASA, MW, and LW of the calcaneus. At varying impact velocities of the talus, the mean maximum stress of the PSA, LW, CA, BA, and MW exhibited statistically significant differences (P values were 0.024, 0.004, <0.001, <0.001, and 0.001, respectively). However, the mean maximum stress of the ISA, ASA, and GA was not statistically significant (P values were 0.289, 0.213, and 0.087, respectively). In comparison with the velocity at 5 m/s, the mean maximum stress increases in each region of the calcaneus at a velocity of 10 m/s were as follows: PSA 73.81%, ISA 7.11%, ASA 63.57%, GA 89.10%, LW 140.16%, CA 140.58%, BC 137.67%, MW 135.99%. The regions of stress concentration were altered, and the magnitude and sequence of peak stress in the calcaneus also varied according to the velocity of the talus during impact. In conclusion, the velocity of the talus during impact had a significant influence on the magnitude and distribution of stress within the calcaneus, which was a crucial factor in the development of calcaneal fractures. It was possible that the magnitude and sequence of stress peaks played a vital role in determining the emergence of fracture patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a comprehensive computational model for analyzing thermo‐hydro‐mechanical coupled processes in unsaturated porous media under frost actions. The model employs the finite element method to simulate multiphase fluid flows, heat transfer, phase change, and deformation behaviors. A new soil freezing characteristic curve model is proposed to consider the suctions from air‐water capillary pressure and water‐ice cryosuction. A total pore pressure with components from liquid water pressure, air pressure, and ice pressure is used in the effective stress law. Vapor and dry air are considered miscible gases, utilizing the ideal gas law and Dalton's law. The governing equations encompass the linear momentum balance equation, the energy balance equation, and mass conservation equations for water species (ice, liquid, and vapor) and dry air. Weak forms are formulated based on primary variables of displacement, water pressure, air pressure, and temperature. The spatial discretization is achieved through the finite element method, while temporal discretization employs the fully implicit finite difference method, resulting in a system of fully coupled nonlinear equations. To verify the proposed computational model, a numerical implementation is developed and validated against a set of experimental data from the literature. The successful verification demonstrates the robustness of the model. A detailed discussion of the contributions from phase change strain and different sources of pore pressure is also addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a method to optimize and simplify the electrode profile of a piezoelectric modal sensor. At the same time that the electrode profile is optimized to maximize the charge, a null-polarity phase is introduced. This gap-phase is modeled using the normalized norm of the spatial gradient of the polarity profile along with a two-step filtering and projection technique. High-order vibration modes generate a complex polarization profile that makes the manufacturing process difficult. The novelty of the proposed method is the addition of a constraint on the length of the interface in the topology optimization problem. This constraint simplifies the optimal designs and facilitates the fabrication process. Several examples show the simplified electrode profile that maximizes the electrical charge produced by a vibration mode, while reducing the number of different polarization regions by means of the gap-length constraint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the infusion process of a glass-fiber-reinforced thermosetting composite hose, the viscosity of its resin matrix undergoes temporal variations. Consequently, if the impact of resin viscosity changes over time on the internal resin fluidity is not considered during the infusion process, this may result in the incomplete impregnation of the hose, characterized by the presence of numerous voids. This phenomenon adversely affects the quality of the pipe's curing and forming process. Therefore, based on the characteristic variations in resin viscosity, this paper considers the changes in fluidity caused by the resin's temporal evolution within the material. We establish a finite element simulation model to calculate and analyze the overall infusion effects of resin viscosity changes during the hose infusion process. Furthermore, based on the predicted analysis, a variable parameter infusion strategy is proposed to increase resin impregnation in the hose, thereby reducing internal void content and subsequently improving the quality of material curing and forming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper contains research on the development of a fault-tolerant six-phase synchronous reluctance motor (SynRM) based on the stator adopted from a general-purpose three-phase induction motor. In the design and calculation process, an extended Clarke transformation was developed for a six-phase asymmetrical system. To verify the proposed design approach, a field–circuit model of electromagnetic phenomena in the studied motor was developed and used to study the motor performance. The increased torque value and reduction in torque ripples were confirmed by comparison to the classical three-phase SynRM design. To illustrate fault tolerance capabilities, the operation of the studied three- and six-phase synchronous reluctance motors under inverter-fault conditions was examined. The conducted analysis shows, among other things, that from the electromagnetic performance point of view, only the proposed six-phase machine is able to properly operate under inverter-fault conditions. The results of the winding design calculations, the performed simulations of six-phase motor operation, and the preliminary tests of the prototype motor are presented and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tunnel-boring machines (TBMs) are widely used in urban underground tunnel construction due to their fast and efficient features. However, shield-tunnel construction faces increasingly complex geological environments and may encounter geological hazards such as faults, fracture zones, water surges, and collapses, which can cause significant property damage and casualties. Existing geophysical methods are subject to many limitations in the shield-tunnel environment, where the detection space is extremely small, and a variety of advanced detection methods are unable to meet the required detection requirements. Therefore, it is crucial to accurately detect the geological conditions in front of the tunnel face in real time during the tunnel boring process of TBM tunnels. In this paper, a 3D-ERT advanced detection method using source-position electrode excitation is proposed. First, a source-position electrode array integrated into the TBM cutterhead is designed for the shield-tunnel construction environment, which provides data security for the inverse imaging of the anomalous bodies. Secondly, a 3D finite element tunnel model containing high- and low-resistance anomalous bodies is established, and the GREIT reconstruction algorithm is utilized to reconstruct 3D images of the anomalous body in front of the tunnel face. Finally, a physical simulation experiment platform is built, and the effectiveness of the method is verified by laboratory physical modeling experiments with two different anomalous bodies. The results show that the position and shape of the anomalous body in front of the tunnel face can be well reconstructed, and the method provides a new idea for the continuous detection of shield construction tunnels with boring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an extended work on the Finite Element Method (FEM) simulation of Love Wave (LW) sensors in a liquid medium. Two models are proposed to simulate the multiphysical response of the sensor. Both are extensively described in terms of principle, composition and behavior, making their applications easily reproducible by the sensor community. The first model is a Representative Volume Element (RVE) simulating the transducer and the second focuses on the sensor's longitudinal (OXZ) cut which simulates the multiphysical responses of the device. Sensitivity of the LW device to variations in the rheological and dielectric properties of liquids is estimated and then compared to a large set of measurements issued from LW sensors presenting different technological characteristics. This integral approach allows for a deeper insight into the multiphysical behavior of the LW sensor. This article also explores the advantages and drawbacks of each model. Both are in good accordance with the measurements and could be used for various applications, for which a non-exhaustive list is proposed in the conclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aimed to investigate the energy absorption characteristics and damage mechanism of carbon fiber reinforced plastics/aluminum (Al‐CFRP) under radial impact. In this study, the damage mode of the hybrid tube is analyzed by falling hammer impact experiments, and the correctness of the finite element model is verified by comparing the experimental and numerical simulation results. Then, the damage mechanism of the hybrid tube under impact loading and the effects of the increase of the fiber angle, the wall thickness of Aluminum, and the number of outer CFRP layers on the impact resistance were analyzed according to the model. The comprehensive performance model of the hybrid tube was established by using the complex scale comprehensive evaluation method, and the genetic algorithm was used to optimize the hybrid tube and determine its optimal performance under radial impact load. The results show that the Al‐CFRP hybrid tube's overall stiffness and deformation resistance under radial impact is improved with the increase of the fiber angle, the wall thickness of the Al tube, and the number of outer CFRP layers. Combined with the parametric analysis of the numerical simulation results, a comprehensive performance evaluation model based on the complex proportionality assessment method (COPRAS) was developed and a genetic algorithm (GA) under back propagation (BP) neural network prediction was used. The optimal hybrid tube form with the best overall performance under radial impact was obtained using GA with BP neural network prediction. Highlights: The energy absorption characteristics of hybrid tubes under radial impact are investigatedA comprehensive performance evaluation model of hybrid pipe based on the complex proportional assessment method (COPRAS) is developedThe failure process and energy absorption mechanism of the hybrid pipe under radial impact are analyzedA genetic algorithm (GA) with backpropagation (BP) neural network prediction was used to obtain the hybrid pipe form with the best overall performance under radial impact [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a new beam Euler–Bernoulli finite element for the transverse static bending analysis of cracked slender strip tapered footings on an elastic two-parameter soil is presented. Standard Hermitian cubic interpolation functions are selected to derive the closed-form expressions of complete stiffness matrix and the load vector. The efficiency of the proposed finite element is verified on an example with several width tapering variations of a simple cracked footing with the results of governing differential equation. Another novelty of this study is improved bending moment functions with included discontinuity conditions at the crack location. These functions now accurately describe the bending moments in the vicinity of the crack of the finite element. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the static and dynamic analysis of the higher-order shear deformation nanobeam is investigated within the framework of the two-phase local/nonlocal integral model, in which, the stress is described as the integral convolution form between the strain field and a decay kernel function to address the long-range force interactions in the domain. Based on the principle of minimum potential energy, the finite element formulation of the nonlocal higher-order shear deformation theory nanobeams is derived in a general sense through finite element method (FEM). The explicit expressions of the stiffness, geometric stiffness and mass stiffness matrix of the higher-order shear deformation theory nanobeams are derived directly. The efficiency and accuracy of the developed finite element model of higher-order shear deformation nanobeam are validated by conducting a comparation with the existing analysis results in the researches. Furthermore, under different loading and supported conditions, the effect of nonlocal parameter, nonlocal phase parameter and slenderness ratio on the bending, buckling and free vibration responses of higher-order shear deformation theory nanobeams is investigated in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a new double mover configuration of a linear switched reluctance motor (LSRM). The proposed design is established for optimization of the motional forces and to ensure a high-grade electromechanical energy conversion process. The major drawback of the traditional linear machine is that its force densities within and throughout its area is produced in its radial direction of the yoke and does not contribute to its motion or twisting force of the rotor. If these normal forces happen to be in the direction of motion, a larger motional force profile for SRM is yielded. Based on these guidelines, a new LSRM is developed. In order to compare the energy conversion efficiency of LSRM with that of the conventional SRM, a finite element model is constructed. The proposed system is simulated using the FEM software and tested under four conditions. Further, an experimental prototype of the proposed machine is also developed and tested in the laboratory. The results obtained from the prototype indicate that the proposed geometry offers superior performance in terms of high-power density and higher percentage of the national forces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By designing stator teeth using grain-oriented sheets (GO) and other parts still with non-grain-oriented sheets (NGO), the electromagnetic performance of the interior permanent magnet synchronous machine (GO-IPMSM) can be improved greatly. As the stator core of the designed GO-IPMSM is a hybrid core that is composed of two different silicon sheets, both the electromagnetic and mechanical performances are affected by the stator joint shape between GO and NGO sheets. Meanwhile, with the adoption of GO, the torque ripple of GO-IPMSM is increased though the average torque is increased as well. For reducing the torque ripple, optimizing the rotor barrier shape is an effective way. In this paper, the piecewise linear interpolation method is employed for establishing the stator joint shape between GO and NGO sheets, and the polynomial method is proposed to establish the rotor barrier shape. Through the analysis, it can be seen that the stator joint shape plays a strong role in affecting the mechanical performance of the GO-IPMSM, while the effect on the electromagnetic performance is weak. The genetic algorithm is used to optimize the rotor barrier shape for achieving high average torque and low torque ripple. Lastly, a quick and accurate efficiency map calculation method based on the Kriging model is proposed for GO-IPMSM with less finite element method (FEM) samples are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a new accurate method to compute the mechanical response of pavement structures using an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model coupled with Multi-Layer Elastic Analysis (MLEA). The ANN model is used to improve the numerical integration of the response function used in the MLEA method. It requires four inputs: total pavement thickness, the diameter of the contact area, radial distance, and depth of the response point; and it was trained on one million hypothetical pavement structures. The developed method has been validated by a comparative analysis against boundary conditions, finite element analysis, and available MLEA solutions using various hypothetical pavement structures. The results demonstrate that the developed solution gives excellent response in the vicinity of the pavement surface together with a significant improvement in computational efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bumper is an automotive part act as a protective shield in the vehicle. It bears and absorbs the load when the vehicle incurs a collision. If the bumper has got more weight it leads to more fuel consumption and decreases the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. This problem can be overcome by reducing the weight of the bumper without compromising its performance. The main objective in bumper design and fabrication is that it should possess less weight and at the same time, it should withstand the higher load during a collision. In this paper, the properties and performance of the developed bumper composite are compared with the existing bumper. The bumper performance is optimized using a finite element analysis with ANSYS R15.0. From the cost analysis, it has been observed that the weight and cost of the Basalt composite bumper is 49% and 56% lesser than the steel bumper. The Impact strength and Factor of Safety values of the Basalt fabric composite bumper is 47.6% and 32.5% higher than the steel bumper. The total deformation of the Steel bumper is 15.7 mm, and the Basalt composite bumper is 32 mm, which shows 51% higher deformation than steel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the three-dimensional progressive damage finite element models of composite bolted connection and adhesive-bolt hybrid connection were constructed, and the accuracy of the model is verified by comparing with the experimental results. The energy-based B-K criterion was used to simulate the damage and evolution of the adhesive layer, and the effects of bolt hole diameter, pre-tightening force and layup sequence on the failure characteristics of composite mechanical connections were analyzed. The results show that, in the bolted connection model, the final failure mode is typically extrusion damage near the bolt hole, with matrix failure being the primary form of failure. Appropriately increasing the diameter of the bolt hole or applying an appropriate pre-tightening force can both enhance the connection strength. Maximal strength of the connection structure is achieved when the first layer in the connection area is oriented at 0°, whereas if the first layer is oriented at 90°, the connection's bearing capacity is minimally reduced. In the adhesive-bolt hybrid connection model, the fiber and matrix damage of the four plies closest to the adhesive layer mainly spread along the 45°direction, and the damage is mainly matrix tensile damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A polyethylene pipe reinforced by winding steel wires (PSP) consists of steel wires and high- density Polyethylene (HDPE). Due to its unique structure and combination of material, the PSP possesses excellent mechanical properties, and it has been widely used in many fields as a buried pipe. Foundation settlement is an evitable loading, and strength failure of buried PSP sometimes occurs due to the foundation settlement. In this paper, numerical investigation of failure behavior of buried PSP was conducted. Firstly, groups of uniaxial tensile tests were carried out to acquire the rate-dependent constitutive equation of the HDPE. Secondly, finite element model of PSP embedded in soil subject to foundation settlement was established. Steel wires are represented by truss elements, and HDPE pipes were modeled with solid elements. The steel wires are built in a spiral structure similar to the real steel-wire mesh of PSP. The effect of the nonlinear material property of components were considered in the model, as the tensile curves were input into the model. The PSP was buried in soil, and foundation settlement was applied on a part of the soil's top surface as the displacement boundary condition. Due to the great ductility of HDPE, the steel wires broke prior to the HDPE, so the maximum stress of steel wires was used as the failure criterion of PSP. Once the maximum stress of steel wires exceeds the ultimate strength, PSP was considered to have failed. Based on this model, the stress distribution along PSP was investigated with various internal pressure and settlement displacement. The combined influence of the internal pressure and foundation settlement on PSP failure behavior was analyzed, and the location where failure most possibly occurred was determined under different loading conditions. Furthermore, the influence of different structural parameters of PSP and soil was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stent implantation may alter the post-operative patient's blood pressure, and bioresorbable vascular stents (BVS) as a candidate to treat vascular diseases, its degradation is affected by mechanical stress, thus, the altered pressure representing varying stress level will result in different degradation behaviors of the BVS. This paper first proposed a novel stress-regulated PLA degradation model that included swelling factor, and then the degradation evolutions of a PLA BVS within 180 days under normal and high blood pressures were simulated by finite element method, and more four degradation indexes were defined to study the effects of the two blood pressures on the degradation of the PLA BVS. The results showed that the high pressure weakly accelerated the degradation of the PLA BVS with respect to the normal pressure by examining the four indexes, e.g., the residual stent volume v r (t) decreased to 0.72 and 0.69, respectively for the normal and high pressures at day 180. The current finding provided a theoretical understanding of the PLA BVS degradation, and hinted that the PLA BVS may not need to be elaborately selected in clinical practices for treating hypertensive patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of the grain boundary (GB) misorientation on plastic deformation of Inconel 718 (IN718) alloy was investigated in this paper, using in-situ tensile experiment at 650 °C in combination with crystal plasticity finite element method (CPFEM). The results indicate that dislocations tend to accumulate at GBs to form stress concentration, but the degree of stress concentration does not necessarily increase with the increase of the GB misorientation. It is attributed to the slip transfer at the GBs, determined by the angle between the slip systems of the two adjacent grains. There is a significant uncertainty in the slip transfer for GB misorientation larger than 10°. However, the m α β ′ SF α + SF β criterion, which is a function of the Luster and Morris m α β ′ combining the Schmid factors of the two slip systems with the GB misorientation, has some statistical separation significance. Slip transfer tends to appear at GB misorientation less than 30° and m α β ′ SF α + SF β > 0.78 . This study clarifies the mechanism of the influence of GB misorientation on IN718 microplastic deformation and provides a new strategy to study the deformation behavior of superalloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rated temperature and its uniformity of lithium‐ion (Li‐ion) battery (LIB) pack are the main demands for safe and efficient operation. This paper investigates an air cooling system of a pack of five prismatic LIB's generating considerable heat through discharging energy. The cooling system is a three‐dimensional channel with flexible baffles of different arrangements installed on the walls of the channel to lower and regulate the temperature of the batteries. Three arrangements of these baffles are studied, transverse; L‐shaped and staggered. The study is formulated as turbulent fluid–structure interaction and solved numerically using the finite elements method. The study was conducted for five spaces between batteries, S = 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 mm and three different inlet air velocities, Uin = 0.5, 1 and 2 m/s. It was found that the flexible baffles guide the coolant towards the batteries smoothly with less pressure drop and this significantly improves the performance of the battery thermal management system due to the reduction of the maximum temperature and temperature variation as well. The staggered arrangement of the baffles shows the most effective configuration, where the maximum temperature difference between batteries is only 1.85°C for S = 1 mm and Uin = 2 m/s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]