Biomechanical Performance Analysis of the Monolateral External Fixation Devices with Steel and Composite Material Frames under the Impact of Axial Load

This paper describes comparative analysis of the biomechanical performances conducted on the external fixation devices whose frames are made out of two different material (stainless steel and composite material). Biomechanical properties were determined with experimental and FEM (finite element method) models which are used to study the movement of the fracture crack, establish stiffness of the design solutions and monitor generated stresses on the zones of interest. Geometric modeling of two fixation devices configurations B50 and C50 is used as a basis for structural analysis under the impact of axial load. Structural analysis results are confirmed with an experimental setup. Analyzed deflection values in the load and fracture zones are used to define the exact values of the stiffness for the construction design and fracture, respectively. The carbon frame device configuration has 28% lower construction stiffness than the one with the steel frame (for B50 configuration), i.e., 9% (for C50 configuration). In addition, fracture stiffness values for the composite frame application are approximately 23% lower (B50 configuration), i.e., 13% lower (C50 configuration), compared to steel frame. The carbon frame device has about 33% lower stresses at the critical zones compared to the steel frame at the control zone MM+ and, similarly, 35% lower stresses at the control zone MM-. With an exhausting analysis of the biomechanical properties of the fixation devices, it can be concluded that steel frame fixation device is superior, meaning it has better biomechanical characteristics compared to carbon frame fixation device, regarding obtained data for stresses and stiffnesses of the frame construction and fracture. Considering stresses at the critical zones of the fixation device construction, the carbon frame device has better biomechanical performances compared to steel frame devices.

Work accident risk analysis with FMEA (failure mode and effect analysis) method on steel frame bridge project

Risk is the possibility of the occurrence of an event outside of which every activity that is likely to be detrimental is carried out by humans. In the Nangarasong Steel Frame construction project in Flores district, there is uncertainty which will create a risk that can encourage the project and can affect the potential for work accidents. Uncertainty factors can cause risk in an activity that has an impact on decreasing labor productivity, risk of cost, time, and damage to design or technology. To reduce these adverse impacts, a risk management system is needed, which includes analysis, analysis, and monitoring of risks that may occur. Risk management makes an integrated effort to manage the risk of work accidents by using the FMEA (Failure Mode And Effect Analysis) method. All construction projects that may experience accident risks are identified and analyzed for the severity with FMEA, from the results of which the causes and impacts of the work accident risks will be sought. After knowing and the impact of the risk of work accidents, the next action on the risk of work accidents that result.

Location of Semi-Rigid Connection Effect On The Seismic Performance of Steel Frame Structures

In design steel frames, combining semi-rigid and rigid connections can result in better structural performance, particularly in seismic locations. In this study, the effects of semi-rigid beam-to-column connections located on the seismic performance of steel frame structures are investigated. The analysis uses six and twelve-story moment resisting steel frames (MRSF) with rigid, semi-rigid, and dual beam-column connections. These frames are designed according to the Egyptian design codes. Drain-2Dx computer program and seven earthquake ground motions are used in the non-linear dynamic analysis. The rotational stiffness of beam-to-column connections is indicated through the end fixity factors with a value equal to 0.6. The performances of these frames are evaluated through the roof drift ratio (RDR), the maximum story drift ratios (SDR), and the maximum column axial compression force (MACF). The results indicated that the quantities of fundamental periods, roof drift ratio, the story drift ratio, and the column axial compression force are related to stiffness, rigidity, and the number of semi-rigid connections in steel frames.