How to increase the stiffness of a simple structure

In summary, the tool needs to be stiffer in order to prevent it from moving along the rail. It can be made out of tubes instead of sheet metal, and there are no limitations on materials or manufacturing techniques. The cost is under 50 euros.
  • #1
omarmorocci
47
0
Hello everybody,

I am currently working on desinging a tool, and I would like to get your advice on how to increase it's stiffness.
upload_2017-5-29_16-53-46.png


The tool will be used for correct positioning of a component.
It consists of 2 parts :
upload_2017-5-29_16-54-47.png

And
upload_2017-5-29_16-55-4.png
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
Need some more information . What is the component being held and how is the holding tool supported ?
 
  • #3
Way too little information. In which plane does it need to be stiffer? Any limitations on materials? Manufacturing techniques? Cost?

Simple answer might be to make it out of tubes rather than sheet.
 
  • #4
Nidum said:
Need some more information . What is the component being held and how is the holding tool supported ?
Part one is connection the main frame via nuts and bolts
Part two has 4 teeth like structures that hangs onto the main frame

CWatters said:
Way too little information. In which plane does it need to be stiffer? Any limitations on materials? Manufacturing techniques? Cost?

Simple answer might be to make it out of tubes rather than sheet.
Direction.png

The only important direction is the one shown via the arrow.
Material is either sheet metal or aluminium.
no limitation on manufacturing techniques
Cost should be under 50 euros
 
  • #5
I'm afraid I still can't really visualise what's fixed and where the load is in relation to that fixed point.
 
  • #6
CWatters said:
I'm afraid I still can't really visualise what's fixed and where the load is in relation to that fixed point.
I will post a complete picture tomorrow to show exactly how everything's connected
 
  • #7
CWatters said:
I'm afraid I still can't really visualise what's fixed and where the load is in relation to that fixed point.

This is how the tool is connectec to the rail.
There is no load on it. The only requirement is that it's position along the rail should not exceed +- 5mm
Capture1.PNG
Capture2.PNG

Capture3.PNG
 

Attachments

  • Capture1.PNG
    Capture1.PNG
    6.6 KB · Views: 481
  • Capture2.PNG
    Capture2.PNG
    23.9 KB · Views: 482
  • #8
How is the end of the fixture with the tested part vertically supported and what is the weight load on the fixture from the tested part?

If there is any friction force in the direction you indicate then there is no provision in the fixture to prevent the fixture from twisting the vertical attachment arm of the fixture and deflecting the arm in the direction of the load you indicate.
 

1. How can I increase the stiffness of a simple structure without adding more material?

One way to increase the stiffness of a structure without adding more material is to change the shape or geometry of the structure. For example, adding diagonal supports or changing the angle of the structure can greatly increase stiffness without adding extra material.

2. Can using different materials increase the stiffness of a simple structure?

Yes, using materials with higher stiffness such as steel or carbon fiber can greatly increase the stiffness of a simple structure. However, this may also add weight to the structure.

3. Does the size of the structure affect its stiffness?

Yes, the size of a structure can greatly affect its stiffness. Generally, larger structures tend to be stiffer, as they have more material and can distribute loads more evenly. However, there are certain design factors, such as beam thickness, that also play a role in stiffness.

4. Is it possible to increase the stiffness of a structure after it has been built?

Yes, it is possible to increase the stiffness of a structure after it has been built by adding additional supports or reinforcements. However, this may require structural modifications and should be done carefully to ensure the overall stability of the structure.

5. Are there any disadvantages to increasing the stiffness of a structure?

Increasing the stiffness of a structure may lead to higher costs and may also add weight to the structure. Additionally, if the structure is too stiff, it may become brittle and more prone to failure under certain loads. It is important to find a balance between stiffness and flexibility in a structure for optimal performance.

Similar threads

Automotive Calculation of the reduced stiffness of a simple suspension
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
3
Views
1K
Stiffness Matrix For a Beam
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
1
Views
1K
What is the most incompressible elastomer?
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
2
Views
747
Vibration and Modal Analysis: Adding massless springs to a shaft
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
6
Views
945
How can I determine the overall stiffness matrix for a structure using Ansys?
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
2
Views
6K
Direct Stiffness Method for Analyzing Tripod Frame with Equally Spaced Legs
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
11
Views
1K
Seeking ideas for how to achieve an adjustably damped shaft connector
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
6
Views
1K
Shaft Friction Control: Simple Solutions
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
5
Views
2K
Signal transfer properties of a spring-suspended platform?
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
9
Views
948
Static structural ansys, rigid body boundary condition
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
5
Views
7K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top