Group for mechanical structural integrity and the development of independently controlled gear transmissions

group leader

assist. prof. Vjekoslav Tvrdić, PhD

associates

assist. prof. Milan Perkušić, PhD

other researchers

Stipe Pleština, MSc

Group description

The research group focuses on the reliability, durability, and structural integrity of mechanical systems, with particular emphasis on fatigue, fracture mechanics, and mechanical power and motion transmission systems. Its research activities include the assessment of damage initiation and propagation, service-life prediction of structural and machine components, and failure analysis under dynamic loading conditions.

Expertise and know-how

  • Fatigue analysis
  • Fracture mechanics
  • Mechanical power and motion transmission systems
  • Energy harvesting systems (energy harvesters and energy scavengers)

Research infrastructure

Laboratories

  • Machine Elements Laboratory (C809), equipped with educational and research models of machine elements

Equipment

  • Custom-designed test rig and prototype regenerative hydraulic device for harvesting vibration energy from mechanical systems

Key projects and references

  • Strength and Durability of Machine Elements (2000-2002)
  • Fatigue Crack Initiation in Machine and Structural Components (2003-2005)
  • Dynamic Strength of Thermally Cut Structural Components (2008-2010)

Collaboration opportunities

  • Fracture Mechanics – application of fracture mechanics principles and methodologies to assess the service life, damage evolution, and structural integrity of machine components and load-bearing structures.
  • Mechanical Power and Motion Transmission Systems, as well as General Machine Elements – engineering analysis, design calculations, technical consultancy, and scientific research related to individual machine components and complete mechanical assemblies.
  • Energy Harvesting Technologies – numerical and experimental research on systems that capture and convert ambient energy into usable power, including vibration-based and other energy harvesting solutions.
  • Polymer Gears – experimental investigation of the performance, durability, wear behaviour, and application potential of polymer-based gear systems.