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    Topological optimization of nanofiber placement in a continuum

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    Author
    Li, Chin-Mow
    Date
    2012
    Advisor
    Akin, John Edward.
    Degree
    Master of Science
    Abstract
    The structural integrity and/or electrical or thermal conductivity of a component can be improved with the optimal topological placement of very high strength or very high conductivity nanofibers. This thesis presents a heuristic procedure for the estimation of the optimal location for the nanofibers based on topological optimization concepts. Previously established topological procedures for continuum-only structures and for truss-only systems are reviewed. Then, this new hybrid approach, which utilizes the continuum model as a retained ground structure, and truss structure for nanofibers, is introduced and evaluated. To initiate this new procedure, a very large number of fiber elements are generated using the material continuum's geometry and then embedded into the component. A finite element method (FEM) program will analyze the structure. Post processing determines which fibers are the least necessary, and deletes them in an iterative process until the desired volume fraction of nanomaterials is reached, leaving only the vital fibers. This procedure is illustrated with several different example geometries and compared to bounding cases from other topological optimization approaches.
    Keyword
    Applied sciences; Mechanical engineering
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    Managed by the Digital Scholarship Services at Fondren Library, Rice University
    Physical Address: 6100 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77005
    Mailing Address: MS-44, P.O.BOX 1892, Houston, Texas 77251-1892