A low-fidelity model for the dynamic analysis of full-lattice wind support structures

This work aims to develop a low-fidelity model for a lattice support structure for offshore wind applications. The proposed low-fidelity model consists of a sequence of regular Timoshenko beams, each of them characterized by homogenized mechanical and mass properties representative of the single bays of the reference space-frame structure....

Topology optimization for dynamic and controlled systems: With application to motion system design

High-precision motion systems are crucial for many applications, such as in semiconductor equipment, microscopy, robotics, and medical devices. Next to high operating speeds, high accuracy and precision are required, which makes the design of these systems a challenging task. Dynamics, feedback control, and their interaction all play an...

Performance-aware design for piezoelectric energy harvesting optimisation via finite element analysis

Most of the optimisation studies of Vibration Energy Harvesters (VEHs) account for a single output quantity, e.g. frequency bandwidth or maximum power output, but this approach does not necessarily maximise the system efficiency. In those applications where VEHs are suitable sources of energy, to achieve optimal design it is important to...

Electromechanical dynamics analysis of pole-piece rotors in pseudo direct-drive wind turbine generators

This paper analyses the electromechanical dynamics of the pole-piece rotors in a pseudo direct-drive wind turbine generator. The investigated generator has a rated power of 10 MW and was designed in the INNWIND.EU project. One way coupled finite element analysis (FEA) was used to calculate the rotor dynamic defections caused by...

Constrained observability techniques for structural system identification using modal analysis

The characteristics of civil structures inevitably suffer a certain level of damage during its lifetime and cheap, non-destructive and reliable methods to assess their correct performance are of high importance. Structural System Identification (SSI) using measured response is the way to fine why performance is not correct and identify where...

Design and characterization of variable stiffness structural joints

This paper presents design and characterization of a new type of structural joint which can vary its stiffness through actuation. Stiffness variation is employed to control the dynamic response of frame structures equipped with such joints. The joint is made of a shape memory polymer (SMP) core which is reinforced by an SMP-aramid composite...

Applicability of the goda–takahashi wave load formula for vertical slender hydraulic structures

Vertical slender hydraulic structures such as sluices, navigation locks, or storm-surge barriers are often dynamically loaded by waves. For a safe and economic design, an accurate description of the wave loads is needed. A widely used formula for this purpose is the Goda–Takahashi wave load formula (GT). It was derived for the assessment of...

Dynamic behaviour of the Sognefjord bridge: Analysis and review of the world's largest floating bridge design

A project is under way to replace the ferry crossings in Norway's highway E39 with fixed links, such as highway bridges or tunnels. This thesis research is on the crossing located at the Sognefjord, the widest and deepest of the straight crossings in the E39 highway. Previous thesis projects at IV-Consult have yielded a design for a floating...