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.

A multi-objective method of hinge-free compliant mechanism optimization

Abstract: A new multi-objective formulation for topology synthesis of hinge-free compliant mechanisms is presented based on the SIMP method. A weighted sum formed objective function is developed by taking into consideration the input and output mean compliances. The weighting factors are set based on the information that is obtained from the previous iteration and automatically updated with each optimization iteration step. Shape sensitivity analysis is addressed. Some numerical examples are presented to illustrate the validity of the proposed method.

Topology optimization of a cable-driven soft robotic gripper

Abstract: Improving the functionality of soft continuum manipulators to expand their application space has always been an important development direction for soft robotics. It remains very challenging to calculate the deformations of soft materials and predict the basic structure of soft fingers under complex objective functions and constraints. This work develops a cable-driven soft robotic gripper with multi-input and multi-output using topology optimization considering geometric nonlinearity, which not only performs adaptive grasping but also enables finer manipulations such as rotating or panning the target. A scheme that can describe adaptive grasping behavior is proposed, which converts the contact between the clamping surface and the object into a boundary condition to circumvent complex contact nonlinearities. An additive hyperelasticity technique is used to overcome numerical instabilities, and the finite element analysis is performed in ANSYS. Numerical simulations and experimental results are performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the optimization algorithm and to illustrate the application potential of the proposed gripper.

Structural Topology Optimization Using a Moving Morphable Component-Based Method Considering Geometrical Nonlinearity

Abstract: The moving morphable component (MMC)-based method is a newly developed approach for topology optimization. In the MMC-based method, the design problem is formulated using a set of morphable components, and the optimized structural topologies are obtained by optimizing shapes, sizes, and locations of these components. However, the optimization process often tends to break the connection between the load area and the supported boundary. This disconnection has a strong influence on the convergence, especially when the large deformation effects are considered. In this paper, a method is developed for topology optimization of geometrically nonlinear structures by using the MMC-based method. A scheme is developed to address the disconnection issue in the optimization process. Several numerical examples are used to demonstrate the validity of the proposed method.

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.