Research Summary

My research centers on developing advanced modeling techniques for the analysis and design of complex engineering structures. My interests span structural dynamics, nonlinear vibrations, high-fidelity simulations, and reduced-order modeling. I also investigate the integration of machine learning into engineering applications, along with computational methods to address emerging challenges in mechanical systems.

Interests

  • Vibrations
  • Nonlinear Vibrations
  • Structural Dynamics
  • Computational Mechanics
  • Machine Learning in Engineering
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Research Projects

Blade

Dynamics of Rotating Blades

TÜBİTAK 1001: The Scientific and Technological Research Projects Funding Program (2023–2025)

Project Title: Nonlinear vibrations of a high-fidelity model of rotating pre-twisted blades with thickness and chord length variations including nonlinear centrifugal effects

PI: Saeed Lotfan

Co-PI: Prof. E. Ciğeroğlu

Partner: Middle East Technical University

Budget: 1,236,159.2 TL

In this project, studies are conducted to develop a new reduced-order modeling approach to investigate the nonlinear vibrations of rotating pre-twisted blades with variations in thickness and chord length, based on nonlinear centrifugal effects.
To ensure reliable, efficient, and economical design of rotating equipment, high-fidelity model and solution methodology are developed for analyzing mechanical vibrations of the system, addressing the challenges of balancing accuracy and efficiency in dynamic modeling. Unlike simplified models that neglect key effects like Coriolis forces or steady-state equilibrium deformations (SSEDs), the proposed approach incorporates rotation-induced force fields, geometric complexities (e.g., pre-set and pre-twist angles, thickness, and chord length variations), and nonlinear dynamics. Using a two-dimensional nonlinear spectral solution method and one-to-one mapping, the model achieves computational efficiency and accuracy, validated through finite element simulations. Additionally, a novel model order reduction followed by multi-harmonic harmonic balance method is developed to explore primary and internal resonances. The resulting model enables precise predictions of vibration behavior, facilitating the economical and reliable design of blades for various rotating equipment applications.
This work is supported by the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK) under the 1001 - The Scientific and Technological Research Projects Funding Program with project number 123M046. The project team includes 1 principal investigator, 1 researcher, 1 postdoctoral fellow, and 1 master student.