bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Virtual Reality Based Multi-Modal Teleoperation Using Mixed Autonomy
Authors: Kadavasal Muthukkumar S. , Seth Abhishek , Oliver James H.
Published: July 2009

A multi modal teleoperation interface is introduced featuring an integrated virtual reality based simulation augmented by sensors and image processing capabilities on-board the remotely operated vehicle. The proposed virtual reality interface fuses an existing VR model with live video feed and prediction states, thereby creating a multi modal control interface. Virtual reality addresses the typical limitations of video-based teleoperation caused by signal lag and limited field of view thereby allowing the operator to navigate in a continuous fashion. The vehicle incorporates an on-board computer and a stereo vision system to facilitate obstacle detection. A vehicle adaptation system with a priori risk maps and real state tracking system enables temporary autonomous operation of the vehicle for local navigation around obstacles and automatic re-establishment of the vehicle’s teleoperated state. As both the vehicle and the operator share absolute autonomy in stages, the operation is referred to as mixed autonomous. Finally, the system provides real time update of the virtual environment based on anomalies encountered by the vehicle. The system effectively balances the autonomy between human and on board vehicle intelligence. The stereo vision based obstacle avoidance system is initially implemented on video based teleoperation architecture and experimental results are presented. The VR based multi modal teleoperation interface is expected to be more adaptable and intuitive when compared to other interfaces.
Power Flow Analysis in Parallel Force/Velocity Actuators (PFVA): Theory and Simulations
Authors: Rabindran Dinesh , Tesar Delbert
Published: July 2009

We introduce a dual input Parallel Force/Velocity Actuation (PFVA) concept in this paper to enable variable response manipulation. The objective of this paper is to develop an analytical model for power flow in PFVA systems. We studied the functional dependence of external and internal power flow phenomena on two dimensionless parameters we define in this paper, namely Relative Scale Factor (ρ) and Velocity Mixing Ratio (λ). We observed that overall mechanical efficiency of the PFVA decreases approximately 16% from the basic efficiency when the RSF was increased 5x and the VMR was increased 10x. For a specified load torque of −100 Nm at the output of a positive-ratio PFVA and a fixed VA angular velocity of 150 RPM, the Futile Power Ratio (FPR) was observed to increase by approximately 40% when the RSF was increased by 5x and the FA velocity was increased from 0–80 RPM. Based on our analytical development we suggest some design and operational guidelines for PFVA based systems.
Tangible Virtuality: Towards Implementation of the Core Functionality
Authors: Horva´th Imre , Rusa´k Zolta´n , van der Vegte Wilfred , Opiyo Eliab Z.
Published: July 2009

This paper reports on the results of the first phase of the research in tangible virtuality. This is a specific implementation of virtual reality with the goal to generate air-borne virtual objects, to simulate their physical behavior, and to enable interaction between virtual objects and humans. There are many application areas for tangible virtuality such as laparoscopic surgery, conceptual design, virtual presence, e-learning, web-hosted object retrieval, product analysis, etc. First, the paper analyses the functions and affordances of tangible virtuality, presents a formal specification for virtual objects, and studies their observable physical properties. Then, it discusses natural expression of virtual objects, air-borne volumetric visualization, tactile, haptic and auditory sensing, and simulation of physical behavior, and manipulative interaction with virtual objects. Finally, some issues related to functional integration and real-time computational are discussed. The paper demonstrates the results that have been achieved so far by the research team of the authors in terms of a theoretical clarification and practical implementation of a basic functionality for tangible virtuality. The conclusion is that, though the first steps are promising, but a lot of research and, in particular, new ideas, inventions and technologies are needed for a full scale implementation. The follow up phases of the research will focus on dedicated technology development, system integration, and user trials.
Novel Design of a 3-DOF Parallel Manipulator for Materials Handling
Authors: Zhang Dan , Gao Zhen , Hu XiaoLin , Parise Jason
Published: July 2009

In this paper, a new design of a parallel manipulator is proposed for industrial applications, specifically for material surface finishing processes. Though most current parallel mechanisms have been based on the Stewart-Gough platform which has 6 degrees of freedom (DOF), the focus of this design is on a 3-DOF manipulator with one novel configuration. In order to benefit production, a parallel kinematic machine (PKM) capable of high speed industrial operations with high accuracy and rigidity is necessary. First, system modelling includes mobility study, inverse kinematic model, Jacobian matrix, singularity analysis and workspace calculation are conducted. Then, a CAD model is presented showing the optimum design features and detailed mechanics. Finally, finite element analysis is carried out for the device optimization.
The Role of Mereotopology and SWRL Rules to Represent Joint Topology Information for Design Collaboration
Authors: Kim Kyoung-Yun , Yang Hyungjeong
Published: July 2009

This paper discusses the role of mereotopology and SWRL (Semantic Web Rule Language) to represent joint topology. Within the physical structure of engineered products, joints are inevitable because of the limitations of component geometries and the required engineering properties. While joints themselves may have similar geometrical configurations, the physical implications of the selected joining processes vary significantly. Mereotopology provides a formal region-based theory for parts and associated concepts. The mereotopologically defined joints topologies are implemented in SWRL (Semantic Web Rule Languages) to overcome the lack of universality of semantic definitions. The paper also presents the conversion rules to translate the mereotopological joint definitions to SWRL rules. These rules can be reasoned for software agents to understand the different joint topologies. This contribution is illustrated by using a real fixture assembly. Also, the remaining challenges to realize a semantic assembly joint design environment are discussed in this paper.
Evolutionary Multi-Agent Systems: An Adaptive Approach to Optimization in Dynamic Environments
Authors: Hanna Lindsay , Cagan Jonathan
Published: July 2009

This paper explores the ability of a team of autonomous software agents to be effective in unknown and changing optimization environments by evolving to use the most successful algorithms at the points in the optimization process where they will be the most effective. We present the core framework and methodology which has potential applications in layout, scheduling, manufacturing, and other engineering design areas. The communal agent team organizational structure employed allows cooperation of agents through the products of their work and creates an ever changing set of individual solutions for the agents to work on. In addition, the organizational structure allows the framework to be adaptive to changes in the design space that occur during the optimization process — making our approach extremely flexible to the kinds of dynamic environments encountered in engineering design problems. An evolutionary approach is used, but evolution occurs at the strategic, rather than solution level — where the strategies of agents in the team (the decisions for picking, altering, and inserting a solution) evolve over time. As an application of this approach, individual solutions are tours in the familiar combinatorial optimization problem of the traveling salesman. With a constantly changing set of these tours, the team, each agent running a different solution strategy, must evolve to apply the solution strategies which are most useful given the set at any point in the process. As a team, the evolutionary agents produce better solutions than any individual algorithm. We discuss the extensions to our preliminary work that will make our framework highly useful to the design and optimization community.
A Numerical Model for Thermoelastic Damping in Micromechanical Resonators Made From Anisotropic Materials
Authors: Xu Yang , Hao Zhili
Published: July 2009

This paper presents a numerical model for thermoelastic damping (TED) in micromechanical resonators made from anisotropic materials, such as single crystal silicon. It is built upon a thermal-energy method, in which TED is interpreted as the generation of thermal energy per cycle of vibration and consequently the mathematical expression for TED is derived from the linear thermoelastic governing equations for anisotropic media. This numerical model consists of two sequential numerical simulations: elastic vibrations and transient heat conduction, and is developed in the ANSYS/Multiphysics, giving rise to the numerical value for the derived expression for TED and further the quality factor related to TED (QTED) in a micromechanical resonator with any complex structural geometry. Through comparison with experimental data in the literature, the validity of the presented numerical model is demonstrated.
A Virtual Factory Planning and Estimation System for Engineering and Education
Authors: Yao Albert W. L. , Hsieh Sheng-Jen
Published: July 2009

Virtual manufacturing (VM) is an emerging concept in which real manufacturing operations are simulated using computer models. In this study, we developed a virtual flexible manufacturing system (V-FMS) using virtual reality (VR) technology at National Kaohsiung First University of Science and Technology (NKFUST), Taiwan. Technologies employed include EON Studio virtual reality software, Visual Basic (VB) programming, scheduling and production management methods, and numerical control (NC) interpretation. This integrated system provides operating simulation, factory planning, scheduling, and performance estimation functions. It can also serve as a safe, relevant, and cost-effective tool for education and training.
High Yield Assembly of Compliant MEMS Snap Fasteners
Authors: Murthy Rakesh , Das Aditya N. , Popa Dan O.
Published: July 2009

Heterogeneous assembly at the microscale has recently emerged as a viable pathway to constructing 3-dimensional microrobots and other miniaturized devices. In contrast to self-assembly, this method is directed and deterministic, and is based on serial or parallel microassembly. Whereas at the meso and macro scales, automation is often undertaken after, and often benchmarked against manual assembly, we demonstrate that deterministic automation at the MEMS scale can be completed with higher yields through the use of engineered compliance and precision robotic cells. Snap fasteners have long been used as a way to exploit the inherent stability of local minima of the deformation energy caused by interference during part mating. In this paper we assume that the building blocks are 2 1/2 -dimensional, as is the case with lithographically microfabricated MEMS parts. The assembly of the snap fasteners is done using μ3, a multi-robot microassembly station with unique characteristics located at our ARRI’s Texas Microfactory lab. Experiments are performed to demonstrate that fast and reliable assemblies can be expected if the microparts and the robotic cell satisfy a so-called “High Yield Assembly Condition” (H.Y.A.C.). Important design trade-offs for assembly and performance of microsnap fasteners are discussed and experimentally evaluated.
Stitching Technology Using Hybrid Actuators in Nano Imprint
Authors: Chen Cheng-Hung , Yen Jia-Yush , Chen Lien-Sheng , Chang Shuo-Hung
Published: July 2009

With advancements in nanotechnology and the continuing reduction of the minimum feature size in integrated-circuit technologies, there is a need for next-generation lithography (NGL) tools. The direct transfer of grating structures stitched from interference lithography to a mold for nano imprinting offers a low-cost alternative for printing sub-100nm features with great potential accuracy, high resolution, and reductivity. This research presents dual stage laser-interferometer equipment to meet these requirements. In moving forward to the stitching of a small interference area, the most important issue is alignment. If the period of this interference fringe can be guaranteed, the stage can be moved in chronological alignment with the period. This paper also presents SEM results of stitching of a 600nm periodic structure.
Novel Linearly Tunable MEMS Capacitors With Flexible Moving Electrodes
Authors: Shavezipur Mohammad , Hashemi Seyed Mohammad , Khajepour Amir
Published: July 2009

In conventional MEMS parallel-plate capacitor designs, the moving electrode is commonly modeled as a rigid plate with flexible boundary conditions provided by a set of supporting beams. Such a capacitor generates limited tuning ratio up to 1.5 and its capacitance-voltage response is nonlinear. This paper presents novel designs where the moving electrodes are fixed-edge flexible plates. The plate displacement is selectively limited by a set of rigid steps, located between two electrodes, to generate a smooth and linear response and high tunability. Three different step heights are considered in the design and the linearity of the C-V curve is maximized by modifying the geometry of the plate, and changing the location and order of steps. Since the analytical solution for coupled electrostatic-structural physics in this case does not exist, ANSYS® FEM simulation is performed to obtain the C-V curves and optimize the design. Two designs with different electrode shapes, rectangular and circular, are developed. For rectangular-plate capacitors, tunabilities ranging from 120% to 140% and high linearity are achieved. Circular-plate designs, on the other hand, generate lower tunabilities and an extremely linear region in C-V curves. Design methodology introduced in this research is not limited to proposed geometries and can be extended to different topologies to obtain a combination of high tunability and linearity.
Factors Affecting Viewpoint Shifts When Evaluating Shape Aesthetics: Towards Extracting Customer’s Latent Needs of Emotional Quality
Authors: Yanagisawa Hideyoshi , Murakami Tamotsu
Published: July 2009

There are three main issues when trying to capture the customer’s need for a product’s emotional quality such as its aesthetics. The first is that customers have difficulty externalizing their emotional needs even if they have a clear mental image of those needs. The second is that people have different sensitivities when perceiving emotional qualities. The third is that customers have a latent sensitivity of which they are unaware. Evoking such latent sensitivity is effective when extracting the customer’s potential needs. Latent sensitivity may be evoked by shifting a fixed viewpoint for evaluating an emotional quality [1]. In this paper, we focus on the third issue, which has not been dealt with in conventional studies. The authors address the question of how to provide information that can shift the customer’s fixed viewpoint and evoke his/her latent sensitivities on a product’s emotional quality. To determine what factors are involved in such information, we conduct an experiment in which the subjects exchange and mutually evaluate their shape solutions for an emotional image and the associated viewpoints. Because people have different sensitivities, customers have different viewpoints and images toward an emotional design concept as expressed by a subjective word. We assume that different viewpoints and images may contain information that can evoke the latent sensitivity of a customer. To help the subjects to externalize their images for a given emotional concept, which is the first issue, we developed an interactive shape generation system in which the customer as non-designer can easily shape his/her image. The system generates design samples, which the user synthesizes using genetic operation. From the experiment, we observed different types of subjects and different patterns of effective viewpoints that can shift one’s fixed viewpoint.
Automatically Generating Form Concepts According to Consumer Preference: A Shape Grammar Implementation With Software Agents
Authors: Orsborn Seth , Cagan Jonathan
Published: July 2009

In new product development, quickly generating many concepts that a potential consumer prefers is a challenge. This paper presents the inaugural application of software agents implementing a shape grammar to generate product designs according to a utility function that represents consumer preference. The method is composed of three sub-processes: a shape grammar interpreter, an agent interpreter, and a utility investigator. These work together to explore the design space and can constrain product form designs according to a utility function that represents consumer design preference.
The Rotatability of Stephenson II Six-Bar Mechanisms
Authors: Guo Xiao-Ning , Chu Jin-Kui
Published: July 2009

For a Stephenson II Six-Bar mechanism, because the rotatability of its input link is different corresponding to its different circuit and the input link even oscillate with respect to the frame through an angle more than 360°, the problem of whether a crank exist in this type of mechanisms is still pending. Based on the model established for circuit analysis of Stephenson six-bar chains, this paper presents a method of detecting the existence of a crank in this type of mechanisms. The result has significant value for linkages synthesis.
On the Number of Specialized Mechanisms
Authors: Hung Chih-Ching , Yan Hong-Sen
Published: July 2009

This work presents a systematic procedure for completely generating the number of non-isomorphic specialized mechanisms from kinematic chains subject to design constraints for planar mechanisms. By assigning the specific types of members and joints in the available atlas of candidate kinematic chains, the atlas of specialized mechanisms are obtained. Furthermore, based on the combinatorial mathematics, the number of specialized mechanisms are counted and verified from the mathematical expressions. A motorcross suspension mechanism and the interior mechanism of Zhang Heng’s seismoscope are used as examples to illustrate this procedure.
Model Validation and Error Modeling to Support Sequential Sampling
Authors: Lin Yao , Luo Dong , Bailey Trevor , Khire Ritesh , Wang Jiachuan , Simpson Timothy W.
Published: July 2009

Several model validation and prediction error modeling techniques are studied and compared in this paper to help establish stopping criteria and identify critical regions in the design space in a sequential sampling framework. This study leads to the proposal of a two-phase sequential sampling and meta-modeling strategy, which is realized by the support of a multi-dimensional data visualization tool. These techniques have been successfully applied in the development and setup of a system-level parametric tool to support Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning design. Maintaining the same level of accuracy, we observe a savings of 6–30 times the simulation effort needed for current practice. The benefits and drawbacks of the method are discussed, and opportunities are identified for future improvement.
Modularization Method for Adaptable Products
Authors: Arts Lieke , Chmarra Magdalena K. , Tomiyama Tetsuo
Published: July 2009

Adaptable products are gaining interests. Those products are able to adapt themselves to new environments, new states or new user defined tasks. There is not yet a standard design methodology for designing those products. This paper focuses on making large complex products (e.g. printers) more adaptable. Large-scale complex systems need to have modular architecture to some extent in order for engineers to be able to clearly comprehend the product. Therefore, a method to cluster components of an adaptable system is developed based on Design Structure Matrix (DSM) which stores information about connections between components. For each scenario or action plan to perform adaptability, the importance of component interconnections is rated in a separate DSM structure. By combining the original DSM with the adaptability DSM the engineers can group components. Finally, an example of a coffee maker is illustrated.
On Engineering Meanings and Representations of Technical Functions
Authors: Vermaas Pieter E.
Published: July 2009

In this paper I consider the relations between the different meanings and representations of the concept of technical function that are in use in engineering design methodology. I focus on two representation schemes — the verb-noun and the operation-on-flows representations — and analyse whether representations of technical functions created with the one scheme can be transposed into representations of the same functions with the other scheme. I argue that the answer depends on the particular meaning of function that one adopts. When functions of technical systems refer to behaviours of those systems, then the two representations can be reciprocally transposed following the rule that the verbs in the verb-noun representations correspond to the operations in the operation-on-flows representations, and the nouns to the (main) flows. When, however, technical functions refer to the purposes for which systems are designed, it can be argued that these representations cannot be transposed using this rule. The reason for this result is that operation-on-flows combinations, where the flows are flows through technical systems, are, in general, not suited to represent purposive technical functions of the systems. In a subsidiary and more explorative discussion I focus on the transposition of verb-noun representations of purposive functions into operation-on-flows representations of behavioural functions in design methodologies such as the Functional Basis account of Robert Stone and Kristin Wood.
A Risk-Informed Decision Making Methodology for Evaluating Failure Impact of Early System Designs
Authors: Kurtoglu Tolga , Tumer Irem Y.
Published: July 2009

In this paper, we introduce a new risk-informed decision-making methodology for use during early design of complex systems. The proposed approach is based on the notion that a failure happens when a functional element in the system does not perform its intended task. Accordingly, risk is defined depending on the role of functionality in accomplishing designed tasks. A simulation-based failure analysis tool is used to analyze functional failures and their impact on overall system functionality. The analysis results are then integrated into a decision-making framework that relates the impact of functional failures and their propagation to decision making in order to guide system level design decisions. With the help of the proposed methodology, a multitude of failure scenarios can be quickly analyzed to determine the effects of decisions on overall system risk. Using this decision-making approach, design teams can systematically explore risks and vulnerabilities during early, functional stage of system development prior to the selection of specific components. Application of the presented method to a reservoir system design demonstrates these capabilities.
A Retrospective on Twenty Years of the Design Theory and Methodology Conference
Authors: Stroble Jacquelyn K. , Nagel Robert L. , Poppa Kerry R. , Bohm Matt R. , Stone Robert B.
Published: July 2009

Since its birth from the Design Automation Conference (DAC) and the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AAAI) twenty years ago, the Design Theory and Methodology (DTM) Conference has accepted 769 papers for presentation in a total of 179 tracks. Papers have covered advances in design theory and methods as well as design education, decision making, product development, collaborative endeavors, case studies, information processing, computational methods and industrial applications. Through the years tracks have evolved to better define existing research topics and branched to spawn new areas of interest. This paper presents a retrospective of the past twenty years of the DTM conference including a look at the evolution of tracks, those researchers who have contributed and predictions for the upcoming twenty years.
Disassembling System of Large Scaled Structure Considering Safety, Environmental Impact, and Economic Efficiency
Authors: Koga Tsuyoshi , Matsubara Motoyuki , Aoyama Kazuhiro
Published: July 2009

When a ship finished its lifetime, its hull is scrapped and recycled. Presently, the ships are scrapped mainly on the less-developed countries. The ship recycling in developing countries often comprises hazardous and environmentally damaging processes, and has developed into a serious problem from the viewpoint of realizing an international resource recycling society. It is predicted that over the next few years, disassembly of substandard ships that do not fulfill safety guidelines, such as single-hull tankers, will increase rapidly. Hence, economical, safe and environment-friendly ship disassembly processes are strongly desired. This paper proposes a planning method for the safe, economical, and environment-friendly ship disassembling process. The planning method derives an optimal disassembly process by considering safety, cost, and environmental impact. In order to develop this disassembling system, this paper addresses (1) a model of the scrapped ship, the facility, the field, and (2) a disassembling process models considering the hull, factory, and operations and (3) a planning method of disassembling process to achieve both of the safety and environmental cost. Based on the models and methods, a evaluation function that considers safety, disassembling cost, and environmental impact is proposed. An example of a disassembling process planning on an actual ship-hull structure is shown in this paper. A best planning result contains less unstable state of hull block, includes a lot of parallel tasks, and utilizes the best performances of equipments of the factory. The proposed system can provide not only safety information during disassembly to developing countries but also an economical disassembly equipment assignment plan to developed countries.
Kinetics of Biomass and Waste During Pyrolysis and Steam Gasification
Authors: Sangtongam K. , Gupta A. K.
Published: July 2009

High temperature pyrolysis and steam gasification of paper and yellow pine woodchips have been investigated in a batch type flow reactor at defined temperatures in the range of 700°C to 900°C and known molar ratio of steam to feedstock. The initial weight loss of the material during both pyrolysis and gasification was found to be similar thus revealing that material initially undergoes pyrolysis. The weight loss increased with increase in gasification temperature and retention time during both pyrolysis and gasification. The char yield decreased with increase in reaction time due to thermal decomposition of the material and the progress in char reactions during the gasification process. The yield of char decreased with increase in the reaction temperature from low temperature of 700°C to high temperature of 900°C at any residence time in the reactor. The weight remaining from the gasification of paper was lower than that from woodchips initially but at longer residence times the paper showed higher weight remaining than woodchips because of higher mineral matter and fixed carbon in paper than woodchips. The presence of higher volatile matters in paper was easily released from structure when compared with the volatile matters of woodchips at low temperatures. The Arrhenius’s plots obtained from the weight loss data of the sample during gasification at different temperatures was used to obtain the activation energy. The activation energy for steam gasification of woodchips and paper were found to be 117.2 and 69.6 kJ/mol, respectively while the pre-frequency factor for woodchips and paper were found to be 10,029 and 3.2 s−1, respectively. The specific rate for steam gasification of woodchips and paper was compared by the Arrhenius plot. The results showed higher specific steam gasification rate of woodchips than paper at all the temperatures examined. It is conjectured that higher porosity of wood chips favors faster reaction rate because of the increased surface area for devolatilization and reaction. The biomass and wastes are good source of renewable fuels to produce hydrogen or liquid fuels using controlled steam gasification for minimum char and residue by utilizing the most desirable conditions favorable for gasification. The kinetics data assists in the modeling and simulation to provide aid in the development design tools for practical implementation.
Product Family Architecture Reasoning
Authors: Siddique Zahed , Adupala Rajeshwar Reddy
Published: July 2009

Specifying the product platform and family architecture to support product varieties can be a challenging task for companies. Especially when various viewpoints have to be considered which include product variety, materials, manufacturing complexity, assembly complexity, average component count commonality, assembly sequence and late point differentiation. Consequently there is a need for reasoning to balance multiple viewpoints in the case of product families for the development of good architecture. In this paper we present a product family architecture design approach that can be applied to develop efficient product family architectures for a given set of product functions, while considering multiple viewpoints. In order to identify the efficient product family architecture(s) a three phase approach is presented: (1) Generating a set of feasible module architectures of options for each product function; (2) Combining the feasible module architectures and evaluating the product family architectures to identify candidate product family architectures with high evaluation scores; and (3) Improving the selected product family architecture. The product family architecture design approach is demonstrated using a coffeemaker product family.
Designing Embodiment Design Processes Using a Value-of-Information-Based Approach With Applications for Integrated Product and Materials Design
Authors: Messer M. , Panchal J. H. , Allen J. K. , Mistree F. , Krishnamurthy V. , Klein B. , Yoder P. D.
Published: July 2009

Designers are continuously challenged to manage complexity in embodiment design processes (EDPs), in the context of integrated product and materials design. In order to manage complexity in design processes, a systematic strategy to embodiment design process generation and selection is presented in this paper. The strategy is based on a value-of-information-based Process Performance Indicator (PPI). The approach is particularly well-suited for integrated product and materials design, and all other scenarios where knowledge of a truthful, i.e., perfect, design process and bounds of error are not available in the entire design space. The proposed strategy is applied to designing embodiment design processes for photonic crystal waveguides in the context of a next-generation optoelectronic communication system. In this paper, it is shown that the proposed strategy based on the Process Performance Indicator is useful for evaluating the performance of embodiment design processes particularly when accuracy of the prediction or the associated error bounds are not known.
Evolutive Design of Car Silhouettes
Authors: Yannou Bernard , Dihlmann Markus , Awedikian Roy
Published: July 2009

An Interactive Genetic Algorithm system is proposed for designing a car silhouette while involving the style designer in the evaluation process of a population of individuals. This IGA is based on the principle of an indirect encoding of a closed curve genotype using a primary Fourier decomposition. A crossing over operator is proposed for mixing the parents’ genes by a random weighted average into a new child’s genotype. A perceived similarity index between two genotypes is built to check that our IGA is able to converge toward a target individual starting from the genes of an initial population.
Engineering and Industrial Design: An Integrated Interdisciplinary Design Theory
Authors: Brezing Alexander N. , Lo¨wer Manuel
Published: July 2009

It is generally accepted that superior products result from a balanced consideration of both “technology” and “aesthetic design”. Nonetheless, the gap between the two professions of the “design engineer” and the “industrial designer” has not been bridged since their origination in the course of industrialization [7]. One possible approach to enhance the collaboration of both disciplines is to teach the basics of the respective other’s. In Germany, the main work following this approach of trying to prepare engineers for design collaborations is the VDI guideline 2424 (“The Industrial Design Process”) [21], which was worked out and released in three parts from 1984 to 1988 by a group of engineering design researchers and industrial designers. As no accepted industrial design theory could be identified at that time, the authors of the guideline tried to apply some of engineering design methodology’s proven methods taken from the VDI guideline 2221 [19] that seemed to fit to industrial design. That approach ultimately failed, as the authors of the guideline had to conclude themselves in the opening remarks of its last part [21]. Even if the guideline is still officially in use for the lack of a replacement, it is hardly used in engineering education. Since then however, accepted theoretical approaches have been produced by industrial design research that allow for the definition of an interdisciplinary theory on product development. This paper introduces these approaches and arranges them together with models of engineering design methodology to serve as a basis for a design theory that explains both domains’ competences and responsibilities. A function-oriented product model is set up that illustrates existing interdependencies by classifying a technical product/project according to the relative importance of its technical function (engineering’s competence) on the one hand and its semiotic functions (industrial design’s competence) on the other. The realization of industrial design’s competence as signification and the organization of its devices according to the model of semiotic functions explain existing organizational problems of interdisciplinary design practice. It is demonstrated why industrial design cannot proceed according a purely technical design process such as the one defined in the VDI guideline 2221 and what implications that has on interdisciplinary design projects.
An Evo-Devo Framework for Computational Design Synthesis Based on a Regulation Process
Authors: Yang Sen , Tseng Mitchell M. , Schaefer Dirk , Fathianathan Meryvn
Published: July 2009

Evolutionary design synthesis has been used in solving many engineering design problems due to the reliability, robustness and domain-independence of evolutionary algorithms. However, little has been done to explore the role of design knowledge in evolutionary design synthesis. In this paper, inspired by recent advances in evolutionary developmental biology (Evo-Devo), we propose an Evo-Devo framework for computational design synthesis that utilizes design knowledge to guide an evolutionary search processes. The framework embodies a new regulation process to derive feasible phenotypes from the synthesis of genotypes and design knowledge. A multi-agent system (MAS) is implemented to perform the regulation needed to enforce the constraint satisfaction of phenotypes. The practical applicability of the Evo-Devo framework is validated through a meal design problem to be solved as a case study. The results indicate that the Evo-Devo framework and its regulation process outperform traditional processes in terms of effectiveness, efficiency and reliability in searching a constrained design space. The proposed framework and the MAS-based implementation of the regulation process can be applied to improve the performance of evolutionary design synthesis in different domains and tasks in general.
Bio-Assays Using Bio-Functionalized Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Hong Chin-Yih , Horng Herng-Er , Yang Hong-Chang , Yang Shieh-Yueh
Published: July 2009

Biocompatible magnetic nano-particles show great potential in bio-magnetic applications. In this work, the feasibility of magnetically labeled immunoassay using bio-compatible magnetic nanoparticles is investigated. To do this, we study the synthesis technologies for magnetic nano-particles Fe3O4, as well as the coating of various bio-probes onto the magnetic nanoparticles to detect bio-targets, such as proteins, virus, etc. Furthermore, the measurement, magnetoreduction assay, for the amount of bio-targets are developed. The results show such merits as high-sensitivity, high-specificity, high-convenience for magnetoreduction assays using magnetic nanoparticles. The whole assay platform is promisingly applied to food inspection, environment monitoring, and even human diagnosis.
3D Discrete Event Systems: An Efficient Way to Model and Supervise Dynamic Behavior in Virtual Environments
Authors: Roßmann Ju¨rgen , Schluse Michael , Waspe Ralf
Published: July 2009

The combination of Discrete Event Systems with 3D simulation and control technology to set up versatile virtual environments seems to be at the first glance a contradiction in terms because of mixing up two totally different application classes. But here, the newly developed State Oriented Modeling methodology comes into play providing a comprehensive and flexible object oriented framework for the development of complex Discrete Event Systems. State Oriented Modeling establishes a link between these two worlds using object oriented Petri Nets [10] for the discrete part as well as application specific mappings between continuous and discrete state variables realizing so called 3D Discrete Event Systems. Integrated in a versatile 3D simulation system, State Oriented Modeling allows for the efficient realization of a large class of applications within the large field of virtual environments. It provides a comprehensive, easy-to-use but nevertheless efficient framework for behavior modeling in virtual worlds and real-time simulation applications. When modeling virtual production lines for example, State Oriented Modeling provides an easy way for a close-to-reality simulation of automation systems starting with the control of simple actuators or sensors and ending with the supervisory control of the entire virtual factory. In the field of Projective Virtual Reality [4] State Oriented Modeling supervises the user’s work in the virtual environment to derive his “intention” and then generates appropriate command sequences for intelligent automation hardware. This way, even complex automation systems which may be far away or even in space can be controlled — and the user must not be an automation expert. In the field of interactive visualization and training environments State Oriented Modeling simulates a variety of dynamic objects in the virtual world, integrates interaction components like 2D control elements or application specific driver seats into the virtual environment and supervises training sessions to derive performance indicators. And, in addition to this, State Oriented Modeling is the basis for a new multi-agent and discrete event based approach to realize the virtual human.
Introducing Intuitive and Versatile Multi Modal Graphical Programming Means to Enhance Virtual Environments
Authors: Roßmann Ju¨rgen , Schluse Michael , Jung Thomas
Published: July 2009

Usability and versatility are two of the most important issues when using modern 3D simulation systems within the field of automation technology and virtual environments. 3D simulations and virtual worlds proved to be versatile tools to program, supervise and command complex robotic and automation systems. For industrial robots, 3D simulation systems like COSIMIR® introduced the so called Native Language Programming (NLP) concept enabling the automation expert to program each robot using its native programming language. But what about programming other automation components or other dynamic components in virtual environments, what about user friendly, intuitive graphical programming languages, what about easy-to-use worker oriented programming languages? When talking about graphical programming languages to model dynamic behavior, questions like “which graphical modeling languages should be supported?”, “which are the most powerful ones?” and “which one matches the most to my concrete application?” have to be answered. Each graphical programming language has its own advantages and disadvantages, so that the answer to all these questions has to be: Offer a choice of graphical modeling languages to the user and leave the decision to him. The advantage of this strategy is obvious: Instead of learning how to use a concrete modeling language or worrying about programming details, the user can focus on his individual automation task and so quickly build efficient solutions. Therefore this paper extends the NLP approach to graphical programming languages using a new kind of object oriented Petri Nets as an intermediate language. This enables the user to use — at the same time — finite automata like mealy machines or extended automata, activity diagrams as defined in UML 2, flowchart like diagrams (e. g. icon-based programming) and many more to model the dynamics or the behavior of dynamic components.
Passive Periodic Engine Mount
Authors: Zheng Ling , Jung Woojin , Gu Zheng , Baz A.
Published: July 2009

The transmission of automotive engine vibrations to the chassis is isolated using a new class of mounts which rely in their operation on optimally designed and periodically distributed viscoelastic inserts. The proposed mount acts as mechanical filter for impeding the propagation of vibration within specific frequency bands called the ‘Stop Bands’. The spectral width of these bands is enhanced by making the viscoelastic inserts operate in a shear mode rather than compression mode. The theory governing the operation of this class of periodic mounts is presented using the theory of finite elements combined with the transfer matrix approach. The predictions of the performance of the mount are validated against the predictions of the commercial finite element code ANSYS and against experimental results obtained from prototypes of plain and periodic mounts. The obtained results demonstrate the feasibility of the shear mode periodic mount as an effectiveness means for blocking the transmission of vibration over a broad frequency band. Extending the effective width of the operating frequency bands of this class of mount through active control means is the ultimate goal of this study.
Novel Cam Mechanism for Core Sampling of Variable Density Materials
Authors: Allsup Carl B. , Franke Ernest A. , Lyons Thomas E. , Evans Paul T.
Published: July 2009

Project critical mission requirements often drive design decisions and processes. This was the case for National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) funded DEep Phreatic THermal eXplorer (DepthX), an underwater robot designed to autonomously map, navigate, and acquire biological samples. Mission requirements led the authors to develop a novel core sampling mechanism for variable density materials. Preliminary testing was conducted on variable density materials simulating real world specimens to identify the series of motions to acquire an acceptable core and optimize the geometry of the coring tube. A geometric modeling approach with configuration functions was employed to design the overall mechanism and establish the cam profile. The design was tested and evaluated during multiple field expeditions to cenotes (sinkholes) in Mexico. The culmination of the preliminary testing and the selected design methodology resulted in a core sampling mechanism that is compact, has minimal operational torque requirements, and utilizes a single motor to complete a series of complex functions. Future applications are envisioned for space expeditions, underwater exploration, and medical sampling.
The Synergistic Combination of Research, Education, and International Robot Competitions Through the Development of a Humanoid Robot
Authors: Muecke Karl J. , Hong Dennis W.
Published: July 2009

This paper presents our experience of how a graduate research project on humanoid robots was successfully fused together with undergraduate design projects, which also resulted in successful spin-off teams for international robot competitions. The research portion of the project and some of the technical details of the development of the humanoid robot is presented, followed by discussions of the motivation, operation, results, and lessons learned for the organization of the undergraduate senior capstone design projects and the competition, including the roles of the graduate students as mentors. Our approach resulted in not only a successful sponsored research program, but also a number of awards in design competitions, international robot competitions, and best paper awards.
Design and Simulation of a Microfabricated Gas Chromatographic Column
Authors: Pai Rekha S. , Mott David R. , McGill R. Andrew , Stepnowski Jennifer L.
Published: July 2009

This paper describes the development of new micro gas chromatographic column designs intended to optimize the analysis by improving homogeneity of analyte molecules as they progress along the column length. We are particularly interested in applying these approaches for trace analysis of illicit materials such as explosives and other hazardous chemicals. A significant component of this work has been in using computational fluid dynamic (CFD) modeling as a tool to help in optimization of the GC column design.
A Multiscale Design Approach With Random Field Representation of Material Uncertainty
Authors: Yin Xiaolei , Lee Sanghon , Chen Wei , Liu Wing Kam , Horstemeyer M. F.
Published: July 2009

A multiscale design approach is proposed in this paper considering the impacts of product manufacturing process and material on product performance. A framework is established to integrate designs of manufacturing process, material and product based on the information flow across these three domains. Random field is employed to realistically model the uncertainty existing in material microstructure which spatially varies in a product inherited from the manufacturing process. An efficient procedure for uncertainty propagation from the material random field to the end product performance is established. To reduce the dimensionality of random field representation, a reduced order Karhunen-Loeve expansion is used with a discretization scheme applied to finite element meshes. The univariate dimension reduction method and the Gaussian quadrature formula are used to efficiently quantify the uncertainties in product performance in terms of its statistical moments, which are critical information for design under uncertainty. A control arm example is used to demonstrate the proposed approach. The impact of the initial microscale porosity random field produced during a casting process on the product damage is studied and a reliability-based design of the control arm is performed.