(Non-)linear stiffness customisation of metallic additive manufactured springs
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Author / Producer
Date
2023
Publication Type
Journal Article
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yes
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Abstract
Additive manufacturing (AM) facilitates the fabrication of compliant mechanisms through its free-form and design customisation capabilities. Specifically, the properties of kinetic mechanisms such as springs can be extended with regards to their inherent (non-)linear stiffness functions. This allows for the customisation of AM springs according to user preferences. By combining the design synthesis approach of building blocks with the structural optimisation approach for AM, it is possible to define and customise spring stiffness functionalities. The optimisation process employs an automated computational framework based on a genetic algorithm scheme, which has been demonstrated through randomised and reference case studies. This framework enables the attainment of linear, progressive (stiffening), and degressive (softening) stiffness curves. The manufacturability of the springs has been validated through laser powder bed fusion using stainless-steel material 17–4 PH (H900). The springs have resulted in an accuracy error of maximum 6.48% and precision error of maximum 5% through compression testing.
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Publication status
published
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Book title
Journal / series
Volume
18 (1)
Pages / Article No.
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
Event
Edition / version
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Software
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Date collected
Date created
Subject
Laser powder bed fusion; 3D-printing; automation; compliant mechanisms; design synthesis; design freedom
Organisational unit
03943 - Meboldt, Mirko / Meboldt, Mirko
Notes
Funding
178689 - AIProVE – Adjustable Impedance Elements for Product Validation in Compliant Environments (SNF)