Structural Design and Mechanical Properties Optimization of a Balanced Fiber-Reinforced Rubber Hose

Abstract

This paper focuses on the optimal design of the structure of a balanced fiber-reinforced rubber hose (RH). A multi-spherical RH is proposed. Based on the grid method, the structure optimization design of single-spherical and multi-spherical RHs is performed. According to the constraints, the optimization results of the structural parameters of the RH are solved. Then, combined with the deformation characteristics of the conical RH, the cone-spherical RH is improved based on the spherical RH. The mechanical equilibrium angle and deformation expressions of the cone-spherical RH are deduced. The mechanical model of the balance performance, stiffness, and burst pressure for the cone-spherical RH is constructed. The structural optimization design of double-spherical and double cone-spherical RHs is performed to further reduce the stiffness of the RH based on the multi-spherical RH. Eventually, the correctness of the theoretical model and its optimization results is verified through experiments. The results of this research can provide reference data for future studies in related fields.