Title: Topology optimisation of crankshaft for weight reduction possibility in farming tractor

Authors: M. Giridharadhayalan; T. Ramkumar; M. Selvakumar

Addresses: Department of Mechatronics Engineering, Dr. Mahalingam College of Engineering and Technology, Pollachi-642003, India ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, Dr. Mahalingam College of Engineering and Technology, Pollachi-642003, India ' Department of Automobile Engineering, Dr. Mahalingam College of Engineering and Technology, Pollachi-642003, India

Abstract: The crankshaft is one of the heaviest parts of farm tractor which contributes around 11% total weight of vehicle. This research aims to optimise the lightweight model of internal combustion diesel engine crankshaft for better fuel economy of the farm tractor. Lightweight design of the crankshaft is carried out by sequential convex programming (SCP)-based topology optimisation. This optimisation is performed using minimum compliance as objective function and percentage of volume from 50% to 90% as response constraints. Analysis is carried out for optimisation results through ANSYS Workbench finite element analysis software. Optimised crankshaft model with feasible design and possible manufacturability is subjected for design validation to ensure strength. Von-Misses stress and total deformation of the volume fraction 90% optimised model are slightly higher compared to the benchmark model, but ensures good structural rigidity and factor of safety. Optimised crankshaft model results about 8% weight reduction in the existing crankshaft model by considering all factors influencing design and manufacturing.

Keywords: crankshaft; weight reduction; sequential convex programming; SCP; topology optimisation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMPT.2021.117758

International Journal of Materials and Product Technology, 2021 Vol.63 No.3, pp.212 - 227

Received: 28 Mar 2020
Accepted: 08 Jan 2021
Published online: 23 Sep 2021 *

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