Problem description
A new S-beam type load cell design, depicted in Figures 1 8t 2, has been
proposed. The load cell is required to produce reliable measurements under
cyclical loads with frequencies of up to 1500 Hz, but initial tests have indicated
that this is not satisfied.
The aims of this project are to (1) use FEA to investigate the dynamic response of
the load cell; (2) identify a possible source of the poor performance; and (3)
propose a modified design that alleviates it.
Investigate the problem as you think appropriate. A justification of your analysis
approach must be given, and all aspects of the modelling must be described. The
new design must still fit existing equipment, which means the bolt hole
diameters and overall device height must not change. Similarly, the
instrumentation cavity diameter should not change. You may alter any other
aspects of the design.
Report
Each student will produce an individual report, of the standard of a conventional
laboratory report. Along with the usual summary, introduction, discussion,
conclusions, references, etc., the report should include:
i. description of the analysis approach adopted;
ii. explanation of the model construction;
iii. assessment and interpretation of model results;
iv. description of the redesign; and
v. evidence that the redesign remedies the problem.
The report is limited to 2000 words (word count must be included). A penalty of
1 mark (out of 100) will be imposed for every 5% over this limit your report is.
Marks breakdown: analysis approach and model construction (40%), assessment
and interpretation of results (25%), description and assessment of the redesign
(25%), report quality and writing style (10%).
Problem data
The load cell is constructed of stainless steel 316. The geometry is shown in
Figures 1 & 2. The central cavity normally houses instrumentation, but these
