Topology optimization for designing strain-gauge load cells

Takezawa Akihiro

Nishiwaki Shinji

Kitamura Mitsuru

C. N. Silva Emílio

Structural and Multidisciplinary Optimization

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.

Load cell

Topology optimization

Singular value decomposition

Compliant mechanism

Strain gauge

Mechanical engineering [ 530 ]

eng

Springer

Copyright (c) 2010 Springer

The original publication is available at www.springerlink.com

[ISSN] 1615-147X

[DOI] 10.1007/s00158-010-0491-0

[NCID] AA11448308

[DOI] http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00158-010-0491-0