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Topology optimization for designing strain-gauge load cells

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Abstract

Load cells are used extensively in engineering fields. This paper describes a novel structural optimization method for single- and multi-axis load cell structures. First, we briefly explain the topology optimization method that uses the solid isotropic material with penalization (SIMP) method. Next, we clarify the mechanical requirements and design specifications of the single- and multi-axis load cell structures, which are formulated as an objective function. In the case of multi-axis load cell structures, a methodology based on singular value decomposition is used. The sensitivities of the objective function with respect to the design variables are then formulated. On the basis of these formulations, an optimization algorithm is constructed using finite element methods and the method of moving asymptotes (MMA). Finally, we examine the characteristics of the optimization formulations and the resultant optimal configurations. We confirm the usefulness of our proposed methodology for the optimization of single- and multi-axis load cell structures.

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Acknowledgements

This work was partly supported by the JGC-S scholarship foundation, the MAZAK foundation and CNPq (Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico-Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development). We are deeply grateful to Prof. Svanberg for providing the source code for the Method of Moving Asymptotes (MMA).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Social and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Hiroshima University, 1-4-1 Kagamiyama, Higashihiroshima, Hiroshima, 739-8527, Japan

    Akihiro Takezawa & Mitsuru Kitamura

  2. Department of Mechanical Engineering and Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan

    Shinji Nishiwaki

  3. Department of Mechatronics and Mechanical Systems Engineering, Escola Politécnica da Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Mello Moraes, 2231, São Paulo, 05508-900, Brazil

    Emílio C. N. Silva

Authors
  1. Akihiro Takezawa
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  2. Shinji Nishiwaki
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  3. Mitsuru Kitamura
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  4. Emílio C. N. Silva
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Correspondence to Akihiro Takezawa.

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Takezawa, A., Nishiwaki, S., Kitamura, M. et al. Topology optimization for designing strain-gauge load cells. Struct Multidisc Optim 42, 387–402 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00158-010-0491-0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00158-010-0491-0

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