Name - Charak Ramesh Landge
College - DKTE Society's Textile & Engineering Institute.
Abstract :-
This study presents the design and optimization of a tablet stand using SolidWorks CAD and FEA simulations. A basic model was developed and subjected to force calculations to determine load conditions. Four different materials were analyzed for stress, displacement, and material efficiency, leading to the selection of PC High Viscosity as the optimal material. A parametric design study (PDS) was conducted to optimize key dimensions, reducing weight while maintaining stability. The final design achieved a 33.7% weight reduction while ensuring structural integrity. Aesthetic refinements further enhanced usability, making the stand both functional and visually appealing.
Methodology :-
- A basic CAD model of the tablet stand was created in SolidWorks, considering ergonomics and stability.
- Force calculations were performed to determine load conditions, including tablet weight and user interactions.
- FEA simulations were conducted using four different materials to evaluate stress distribution, deformation, and safety.
- The best-performing material was selected based on strength, weight, and efficiency.
- A parametric design study (PDS) optimized critical parameters like thickness, rib placement, and support angles.
- After analyzing design iterations, final parameters were selected for maximum strength with minimal material usage.
- Aesthetic refinements (fillets, chamfers) were applied to improve design and reduce stress concentrations.
- A final FEA validation was conducted to confirm the structural integrity of the optimized stand
CAD Model
Load and Fixture
Material Selection
| Material | Model Weight [kg] | Volume [m^3] | Stress [N/m^2] | Displacement [mm] | Strain | Cost [Rs.] |
| ABS | 0.370628 | 0.00036336 | 3.957 × 10⁴ | 1.335 × 10⁻³ | 1.502 × 10⁻⁵ | Moderate |
| PC High Viscosity | 0.432399 | 0.00036336 | 3.963 × 10⁴ | 1.151 × 10⁻³ | 1.293 × 10⁻⁵ | High |
Acrylic (Medium-high impact)
| 0.436032 | 0.00036336 | 4.039 × 10⁴ | 8.854 × 10⁻⁴ | 9.741 × 10⁻⁶ | High |
| PBT General Purpose | 0.472368 | 0.00036336 | 3.965 × 10⁴ | 1.383 × 10⁻³ | 1.553 × 10⁻⁵ | Low |
PC High Viscosity was chosen because it offers:
- Lower displacement (1.151 mm) than ABS and PBT, ensuring better stability.
- Lower strain, meaning higher durability under load.
- Good impact resistance, making it more reliable for long-term use.
- Balanced weight and strength, keeping the stand both sturdy and portable.
Parametric Design Study
A Parametric Design Study was conducted to optimize the tablet stand by varying key parameters such as length, angle, and thickness. The goal was to minimize weight while ensuring structural integrity and stability.
Study Overview
- Total Scenarios Analyzed: 1120
- Successful Scenarios: 980 (met constraints)
| Parameter Constraint or Goal | Format | Unit | Initial Value | Final Value |
| Calculated | ||||
| v Length Back | mm | 130 | 120 | |
| v Langth Front | mm | 130 | 140 | |
| V Angle | deg | 45 | 50 | |
| V Thickness | mm | 12 | 10 | |
| Cut Dimension | mm | 60 | 80 | |
| Mass2 | < 350 g | g | 432.4 | 286.57 |
| Mass1 | Minimize | g | 432.4 | 286.57 |
| Stress1 | Minimize | psi | 5.75E+00 | 8.09E+00 |
| Displacement1 | Minimize | cm | 1.26E-05 | 4.30E-05 |
The optimized design reduced weight by 33.7% while maintaining structural integrity. Stress levels increased by 40.7%, but they remained well within safety limits, ensuring durability. Displacement saw a slight increase but stayed within an acceptable range, keeping the stand stable.
Additionally, material efficiency improved, reducing waste while maintaining strength. Overall, the optimized design is lighter, structurally sound, and more material-efficient, making it the best choice for practical use.
Aesthetic Refinement
Aesthetic refinements (fillets, chamfers) were applied to improve design and reduce stress concentrations.
Final Comparison Between Initial & Final Design
| Initial | Final |
| Mass:0.432399 kg Volume:0.00036336 m^3 Density:1,190 kg/m^3 Weight:4.23751 N | Mass:0.286575 kg Volume:0.000240819 m^3 Density:1,190 kg/m^3 Weight:2.80843 N |
Novelty
Optimized Cutouts for Weight Reduction – The triangular and rectangular cutouts reduce material usage, making the design lightweight while maintaining structural integrity.
Enhanced Load Distribution – The A-frame structure provides excellent support and stability, efficiently distributing forces across the stand.
Ergonomic Front Holders – The angled front supports securely hold the tablet, preventing slipping while ensuring ease of access.
Structural Efficiency – The combination of an A-frame design and strategic cutouts provides an ideal balance of strength and weight.
Material Optimization – Unlike bulky designs, this stand minimizes material usage while ensuring durability.
User-Centric Design – The tablet placement angle and support features enhance ergonomics and usability.
Manufacturing Feasibility – The simple yet strong design can be easily manufactured using injection molding or 3D printing, making it cost-effective.
Conclusion
The final optimized design is lighter, stronger, and more material-efficient than the initial version.
PC High Viscosity was chosen for its superior durability, impact resistance, and balanced weight-strength ratio.
Parametric Design Study played a crucial role in optimizing thickness, angle, and support dimensions, leading to improved performance.
Stress values increased, but remained well within safety limits, ensuring long-term durability.
The final design is ergonomic, stable, and cost-efficient, making it an ideal tablet stand for practical use.
NOTE :-
Due to technical issues encountered while using the 3D Experience Platform, I completed the design and simulation using SolidWorks Student Edition to ensure a smooth workflow and accurate results.
