Benliang Zhu

Bio: Benliang Zhu is an academic researcher from South China University of Technology. The author has contributed to research in topics: Topology optimization & Compliant mechanism. The author has an hindex of 18, co-authored 76 publications receiving 987 citations. Previous affiliations of Benliang Zhu include Kyoto University & University of Oldenburg.

Topology optimization of fusiform muscles with a maximum contraction.

Abstract: Understanding the optimal designs in nature is critical in bionics. This paper presents a method for designing the configuration of fusiform muscle with a maximum contractile displacement based on topology optimization methods. A nearly incompressible continuum constitutive model of skeletal muscle is utilized. The contractile displacement from the relaxed state to the contracted state is regarded as the objective function. To handle the numerical difficulties that result from the existence of element density, an energy interpolation equation is employed, and a modification of the constitutive model of skeletal muscle is proposed. Several numerical examples are given to demonstrate the reasonability of the proposed method.

A Phase Diagram-Based Stability Design Method for a Symmetrical Origami Waterbomb Base

Abstract: The symmetrical origami Waterbomb(WB) base shows promising applications in engineering due to its considerable mechanical behaviors. As the common phenomenon in actual origami, the stability performance of the WB base has attracted more and more attention. However, there are few studies on graphical design for the stability of WB base. Based on the phase diagram of the intrinsic parameters, this paper proposes an intuitive and synthesized stability design method for the WB base. First, the basic principles are demonstrated by using the Euler-Lagrange functional equation. Besides, the detail of the method is illustrated by two typical WB bases with the given stiffness ratio. Second, according to the proposed design method, the case studies are presented, and the stability behaviors are evaluated by the analytical method and Finite Element Analysis(FEA) simulation. Finally, the prototypes of the case study are designed, the measurement experiment of the stable statuses is carried out. Both FEA simulation and the experimental result can demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed design method.

Filter the shape sensitivity in level set-based topology optimization methods

Abstract: Filtering methods are widely used in density-based topology optimization methods, such as the SIMP method, to prevent checkerboards and mesh dependency due to their ease of implementation and their efficiency. In this study, several filtering schemes are presented to filter the shape sensitivity in level set-based structural topology optimization methods. It is revealed that filtering of the shape sensitivity can yield convergence with less iterations without considerably increasing the computing time of each iteration step. Thus, it can improve the overall computational efficiency. The validity of the method is tested on both the mean compliance minimization problem and the compliant mechanisms design problem.

Topology Optimization of Compliant Mechanisms Using Moving Morphable Components with Flexure Hinge Characteristic

Abstract: This paper presents a compliant mechanisms synthesis method using moving morphable components (MMC) topology optimization with a view of replacing de facto hinges by specific flexure hinge characteristic. The shape of a common used corner-filleted hinge is embed into the profile of quadratically varying thickness component. The geometric parameters of the hinge is treated as design variables, participate in the optimization process directly. To obtain relatively stable topological configurations in different spring stiffness, keynodes connectivity preservation is applied which can provide a forced connection between components and input, output and fixed ports. The validity of the method is demonstrated using numerical examples.

Buckling-induced smart applications: recent advances and trends

Abstract: A paradigm shift has emerged over the last decade pointing to an exciting research area dealing with the harnessing of elastic structural instabilities for ‘smart’ purposes in a variety of venues. Among the different types of unstable responses, buckling is a phenomenon that has been known for centuries, and yet it is generally avoided through special design modifications. Increasing interest in the design of smart devices and mechanical systems has identified buckling and postbuckling response as a favorable behavior. The objective of this topical review is to showcase the recent advances in buckling-induced smart applications and to explain why buckling responses have certain advantages and are especially suitable for these particular applications. Interesting prototypes in terms of structural forms and material uses associated with these applications are summarized. Finally, this review identifies potential research avenues and emerging trends for using buckling and other elastic instabilities for future innovations.