bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wet Etching of Si Micro-Arrays: Experimental and Theoretical Shapes
Authors: Leblois Therese G. , Tellier C.R.
Published: March 2009

In this paper emphasis is placed on the wet micromachining of silicon micro-arrays
constituted by very small holes. Microfabrication of various Silicon plates is performed in a KOH
etchant maintained at constant temperature. Limitations due to the process are given. A self
elaborated simulator is used to predict etching shapes of several micro holes. A comparison
between experiments and simulation is presented.
Non-Volatile Memory Devices Based on Diphenyl Bithiophenes
Authors: Canesi Eleonora Valeria , Bertarelli Chiara , Bianco Andrea , Caironi M. , Dassa Giovanni , Natali D. , Rottigni A. , Sampietro M. , Zerbi Giuseppe
Published: March 2009

Non volatile memory devices have been developed using diphenyl bithiophene
derivatives (DPBT) as active layer. The devices, developed with a two terminal vertical structure
where the spin cast organic layer is sandwiched between two electrodes, behave as bistable
conductance switching memory cells; the modification of the electrodes material and of the organic
layer composition introduces significant changes in the electrical behaviour, that give some
indications on the molecular origin of the electrical bistability. These data are enriched by in-situ
spectroscopic experiments.
Production of 3Y-PSZ Powders by Co-Precipitation and Milling
Authors: Furlani Erika , Aneggi Eleonora , Maschio Stefano
Published: March 2009

The present research compares properties and behaviour of co-precipitated 3Y-PSZ
powders submitted, after co-precipitation, to different milling treatments. The characteristics of the
different products were evaluated by measurement of particle size distribution, thermogravimetric
analysis, X-ray diffraction, specific surface area and scanning electron microscopy analysis. It has
been demonstrated that 1h of attrition milling enables the production of powders with micrometric
particles: the dispersing liquid used on milling has little influence. Crystallization of the amorphous
powder is achieved after 1h of high energetic milling, without any thermal treatment.
Magnetic Temperature Transducers Made from Copper Based Soft Ferrite
Authors: Miclea Cornel , Tanasoiu Constantin , Miclea Corneliu Florin , Spanulescu I. , Cioangher M. , Miclea C.T.
Published: March 2009

Soft ferrites in the CuZnTi system, having the chemical composition Cu1-x-yZnxTiyFe2O4
with 0.5£x£0.7 and 0.00£y£0.05 were investigated as a function of composition, sintering
temperature and cooling speed, in order to obtain materials with different Curie temperatures,
between 30 and 180 oC and very high change rate of permeability with temperature around their
Curie points. Such materials are well suited to use as high sensitive magnetic temperature sensors
and transducers for temperature control. Zn and Ti additions to copper ferrite change the Curie
temperature in a controllable manner, thus being possible to produce ferrite material with a fine
control of the Curie point at any desired temperature. Most important was the behavior of magnetic
permeability with temperature around the Curie point, where it may change with about 60 %/oC by a
proper choice of the cooling speed of samples from the sintering temperature to room temperature.
This makes such materials extremely attractive as magnetic temperature sensors of high sensitivity.
Two applications of such materials as temperature sensors, namely an ultrathermostat and an on-off
switch type relay were designed. Their functionality and performances are presented and discussed.
Ionic Polymeric Conductor Nano Composites (IPCNCs) as Distributed Nanosensors and Nanoactuators
Authors: Shahinpoor Mohsen
Published: March 2009

This article covers advances made in connection with Ionic Polymeric-Conductor Nano Composites
(IPCNCs) as distributed biomimetic nanosensors, nanoactuators, nanorobots and artificial muscles.
A review of the fundamental properties and characteristics of IPCNCs will first be presented. This
summary will include descriptions of the basic materials' molecular structure and subsequent
procedure to manufacture the basic material for chemical plating and electroactivation. Further
described are chemical molecular plating technologies to make IPCNCs, nanotechnologies of
manufacturing and trapping of nanoparticles, SEM, TEM, SPM and AFM characterization of
IPMNCs, biomimetic sensing and actuation characterization techniques, electrical characterization
and equivalent circuit modeling of IPCNCs as electronic materials.
A phenomenological model of the underlying sensing and actuation mechanisms is also presented
based on linear irreversible thermodynamics with two driving forces, an electric field and a solvent
pressure gradient and two fluxes, electric current density and the ionic+solvent flux. The
presentation concludes with a number of videos and some live demos.
Static and Dynamic Electro-Response of a Triblock Polymer Gel
Authors: Leitão T. , Picken S.J. , Mendes E.
Published: March 2009

Dielectric elastomers, a class of electroactive polymers, are specially promising due to
their proven high actuation strain and energy density. Their electromechanical response is described
by the Maxwell stress, where the level of strain reached depends mostly on the dielectric constant,
elastic modulus and applied electric field. Since a decrease in modulus can enhance the elastomer
response, swelling in appropriate solvents, transforming them into gels may enhance actuation.
Tri-block copolymer gels offer a large range of possibilities since the mechanical properties and
electroactive behaviour of these physically crosslinked materials can be adjusted by varying the
polymer concentration, morphology and molecular weigh between crosslinks. In this work efforts
were undertaken in reducing the elastic modulus by selective swelling of the elastomer midblocks
with an organic oil. Strain responses to static and dynamic electrical stimuli were considered and, in
particular, the effect of the frequency on the mechanical efficiency was investigated in detail. A
simple theoretical model describing the frequency response was formulated.
Realization of Photochromic-Polymeric Films for Optical Applications
Authors: Bianco Andrea , Bertarelli Chiara , Dassa Giovanni , Toso Giorgio , Zerbi Giuseppe
Published: March 2009

The peculiar property of reversible change of the refractive index (Δn) of photochromic systems, is
suitably exploited to realize volume phase holographic gratings (VPHGs), which are finding
applications in optics and in spectroscopic instrumentations. A large modulation of the refractive
index between the two photochromic states and a relatively thick layer of good optical quality are
the fundamental requirements for the materials to achieve a good diffraction efficiency.
A backbone diarylethene polymer which combines good processing properties with a proper
photochromic sensitivity is synthesised and studied. The large Δn between the two isomer states
(i.e. Δn=0.03 measured at 1500 nm and the value is even higher at shorter wavelengths,
approaching 0.1 near the visible) and the high transparency in the near infrared range make it a
promising substrate for the realization of efficient VPHGs. First prototype of VPHGs based on
photochromic diarylethene polymer films has been written by transferring the pattern of lines from
a master and its functionality is shown.
Developing Single-Mode Tellurite Glass Holey Fiber for Infrared Nonlinear Applications
Authors: Feng Xian , Flanagan Joanne C. , Frampton Ken E. , Petropoulos Periklis , White Nicholas M. , Price Jonathan H.V. , Loh Wei H. , Rutt Harvey N. , Richardson David J.
Published: March 2009

We review our progress in developing single-mode tellurite glass holey fiber for infrared
nonlinear applications. Tellurite glass preforms with complex holey structure were fabricated by
using glass extrusion technique. The fabrication of single-mode tellurite holey fibers with the
effective mode area ranging from 2.6-3000mm2 and the effective nonlinearity γ ranging from 0.23-
280W-1km-1 were demonstrated. By controlling the microstructured features in the holey cladding,
the dispersion profile and the zero dispersion wavelength of this type of single-material optical fiber
were tailored within a broad range. Broadband supercontinuum spectra from 0.9 to 2.5mm were
generated from the fabricated fibers by using femtosecond laser. Attenuations due to the impurities,
such as transition metal ions, rare-earth ions and hydroxyl groups, were also investigated in the bulk
tellurite glass and fiber from visible to mid-infrared regimes.
Fabrication and Characterization of Silica Opals
Authors: Armellini Cristina , Chiappini Andrea , Chiasera A. , Ferrari Maurizio , Jestin Yoann , Moser Enrico , Retoux Richard , Speranza Giorgio , Minati L. , Nunzi Conti Gualtiero , Berneschi Simone , Cacciari Ilaria , Pelli Stefano , Righini G.C.
Published: March 2009

We present the details of the sol-gel processing used to realize inverse silica opal, where
the silica was activated with 0.3 mol% of Er3+ ions. The template (direct opal) was obtained
assembling polystyrene spheres of the dimensions of 260 nm by means of a vertical deposition
technique. The Er3+-activated silica inverse opal was obtained infiltrating, into the void of the
template, the silica sol doped with Er3+ ions and subsequently removing the polystyrene spheres by
means of calcinations. Scanning electron microscope showed that the inverse opals possess an fcc
structure with a air hollow of about 210 nm. A photonic band gap in the visible range was observed
from reflectance measurements. Spectroscopic properties of Er3+activated silica inverse opal were
investigated by photoluminescence spectroscopy. A bandwidth of 21 nm was measured for the 4I13/2
→ 4I15/2 transition of Er3+ ions upon excitation at 514.5 nm. The luminescence decay curve of the
4I13/2 metastable state of the Er3+ ions presents a lifetime τ = 16.8 ± 0.1 ms giving a very high
quantum efficiency of the fabricated system. Core-shell Er3+-activated silica spheres, where the core
is the silica sphere and the shell is an Er2O3-SiO2 coating is proposed as a possible route for opal
fabrication. For core-shell system a quantum efficiency of about 70% was estimated.
(Sm1-x,Cax)MnO3 Ceramics with Tunable Emissivity
Authors: Laffez Patrick , Napierala Cecile , Ammar R. , Ta Phuoc V. , Zaghrioui Mustapha
Published: March 2009

The reversible charge ordering transition of (Sm1-x,Cax)MnO3 is associated with strong changes in
electrical, magnetic and infrared properties. In this work, normal spectral emissivity is calculated
from infrared reflectance of bulk polished ceramics, measured by Fourier Transform Infrared
Spectroscopy (FTIR). Emissivity versus temperature shows a sharp transition at the charge ordering
transition. By comparing the apparent temperature of the sample with the absolute temperature, we
show that (Sm1-x,Cax)MnO3 is a good candidate for infrared furtivity around room temperature.
Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors and Sensor Arrays
Authors: Bartelt Hartmut
Published: March 2009

Fiber Bragg gratings have found widespread application in sensor systems, e. g. for
temperature, strain or refractive index measurements. The concept of fiber Bragg gratings allows
also in a simple way the realisation of arrays of such sensors. The development of such optical fiber
sensor systems often requires special fibers and grating structures which may go beyond more
conventional Bragg grating structures in typical communication fibers. Concerning fibers there is,
for example., a need of achieving fiber gratings in small diameter fibers and fiber tapers as well as
in microstructured fibers. Special fiber grating structures are of interest e.g. in the visible
wavelength range, which requires smaller spatial structures compared to more conventional gratings
in the near infrared wavelength region. Examples for such modern developments in fiber Bragg
grating technology for sensor applications will be presented and discussed.
Characterization of Brightness of ZnS Electroluminescent Device with Dielectric Materials of SOG or TEOS
Authors: Park Sung Min , Kim Mun Ja , Park Sang Hyun , Kim Jin Young , Yoo Ji Beom
Published: March 2009

Spin on glass (SOG) and Tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) as a dielectric material were
applied for inorganic powder type electroluminescent (EL) device. The spin coating method was
used for the SOG layer or TEOS layer formation and phosphor layer formation. The phosphor layer
was composed of ZnS:Cu,Cl powders and organic binder. The brightness of powder EL has been
measured.
The Smart Bridge of the Future
Authors: Culshaw B.
Published: March 2009

The concept that the civil engineering infrastructure may be streamlined through the use of Smart
technology has been mooted for well over a decade. The thought is particularly appealing for large
artifacts such as major buildings and bridges. The infrequent but extremely dramatic catastrophic
failures particularly of major bridge structures inevitably reignite the debate. This paper endeavours to
present a critique of the Smart Bridge both from a technical and socioeconomic perspective. Whilst the
basic sensing technology is undoubtedly available there do remain significant areas for necessary
improvement, notably in sensor location and damage identification. Additionally the link between the
socioeconomic and political domains and the technologists has only recently attracted serious attention.
The conclusion is that the tantalising prospect of the Smart Bridge whilst attractive, continues to need
substantial technical development and a more effective interface into the economic and planning
communities.
Nanostructured Sol-Gel Coatings for Optical Applications
Authors: Raboin Lorraine , Matheron Muriel , Gacoin Thierry , Boilot Jean Pierre
Published: March 2009

Well-ordered organosilicate mesoporous coatings with the 3D-hexagonal symmetry are prepared
by the sol-gel technique. These films contain high amounts of hydrophobic methyl groups at the
pore surface and do not absorb moisture making possible their use as low-index layers in
interferential antireflective devices. Besides, these films also appear as good hosts for
photochromic dyes leading to coatings for optical switching devices. Methyl groups and
mesoporosity offer optimized environments for photochromic dyes dispersed by multiimpregnation
technique.
Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors - Advancements and Industrial Applications
Authors: Iadicicco Agostino , Cutolo Antonello , Cusano Andrea
Published: March 2009

Over the last few years, optical fiber sensors have seen increased acceptance and
widespread use for a variety of applications ranging from structural sensing and health monitoring
of composites and structures in civil and aeronautic areas; to pressure and temperature sensors for
oil and gas reservoir monitoring to name just a few. Among them Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) based
sensors have become widely known and popular within and out the photonics community and seen
a rise in their utilization and commercial growth. Given the capability of FBGs to measure a multitude
of parameters such as strain, temperature, pressure, chemical and bio-logical agents and many
others coupled with their flexibility of design to be used as single point or multi-point sensing
arrays and their relative low cost, make them ideal devices to be adopted for a multitude of different
sensing applications and implemented in different fields and industries. This work first focuses on
some recent experiences in the use of FBGs for opto-acoustic sensors and railway monitoring and
then reviews the advances in the area of FBGs evanescent wave sensors as valuable technological
platforms for chemical and biological applications.
Proton-Induced Multiple Changes of the Absorption and Fluorescence Spectra of Amino-Aza-Oligo(Phenylenevinylene)s
Authors: Schmitt Volker , Glang Stefan , Preis Jasmin , Detert Heiner
Published: March 2009

Fluorescent dyes with a high sensitivity of their optical spectra towards changes of the
environment were prepared via aldol condensation or Horner olefinations. The main chromophore
is a quadrupolar N-substituted 1,4-distyrylbenzene which allows protonation and complexation at
various positions resulting in a series of different and significant changes of the optical spectra. The
sensitivity of the absorption and emission spectra on solvent polarity, acid, and cations is reported.
Origin of the Difference in Phase Transition Behavior between TwoType of All-Organic Radical Liquid Crystals
Authors: Uchida Yoshiaki , Tamura Rui , Ikuma Naohiko , Shimono Satoshi , Takahashi Hiroki , Yamauchi Jun
Published: March 2009

We have synthesized two types of all-organic radical liquid crystalline (LC) compounds,
trans-2-alkoxyphenyl-5-[4-(4-alkoxybenzenecarbonyloxy)phenyl]-2,5-dimethylpyrrolidine-1-oxy
(1) and 4-alkoxyphenyl trans-4-[5-(4-alkoxyphenyl)-2,5-dimethylpyrrolidine-1-oxy-2-yl]benzoate
(2) and have fully characterized their LC properties. Although the only difference in the molecular
structure between 1 and 2 is the orientation of a binding group connecting the core portion and one
side-chain (-OCO- and -COO- for 1 and 2), the racemic or enantiomerically enriched 2 showed an
SmA phase, or SmA* and TGBA* phases, which were not observed for 1, besides N and SmC, or N*
and SmC* phases, respectively. Here we discuss the origin of these differences on the basis of their
crystal structures determined by X-ray crystallographic analysis.
Thermo-Optical Properties of Nd0.3Sm0.7NiO3 Ceramic
Authors: Napierala Cecile , Edely Mathieu , Laffez Patrick , Sauques Laurent
Published: March 2009

Nd0.3Sm0.7NiO3 ceramic has been synthesised using a sol-gel method and annealing at oxygen
pressure. Nd0.3Sm0.7NiO3 exhibits a reversible metal insulator phase transition which is, in the
infrared range, responsible of a thermal-optical contrast. Samples are structurally characterized by
X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis. The Nd0.3Sm0.7NiO3 thermal – optical contrast is
characterized in the mid-infrared range, using reflectance and thermal-optical measurements.
Low Dimensional Composite Nanomaterials: Theory and Applications
Authors: Quandt Alexander , Ferrari Maurizio
Published: March 2009

Nanosized electronic systems are characterized by ballistic transport properties, which
implies that the wave character of the electron plays a dominant role in such systems. We
summarize some of the basic theoretical concepts involved, and point out various analogies
between scalar electronic waves and electromagnetic vector waves. Those analogies should allow
for a direct transfer of key technological concepts from optics or photonics to nanoelectronics. As
an example, we discuss the concept of electronic metamaterials, and suggest a possible realization
of nanometer sized electronic devices, based on novel low-dimensional carbon and boron
nanomaterials.
Quantum-Dot/Dendrimer Based Functional Nanotubes for Sensitive Detection of DNA Hybridization
Authors: Feng Chuan Liang , Yu Ya Ming , Zhong Xin Hua , Steinhart Martin , Majoral Jean P. , Knoll Wolfgang
Published: March 2009

A highly sensitive method for detecting oligonucleotide targets has been developed using
quantum dot (QD) functionalized nanotubes (NTs) that contain a cascade energy band-gap
architecture. Their assembly with different types of QDs by the layer-by-layer (LBL) allowed for
the formation of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) structures in the NTs resulting in
an enhanced fluorescence emission from dye labeled oligonucleotide targets captured by probe
DNA through hybridization. This approach results in a significant enhancement of detection of dye
labeled oligonucleotide targets. The promising increase in detection sensitivity allows for low
detection limits by tuning the QD emission, adding other types of QDs, or adjusting the distance
between all photoactive compounds in the NTs. Hence, the strategy used here to produce new
hybrid materials may pave a way for broadening application of NTs in the field of biochemical
materials, e.g. sensitive biosensors.
Negative Refraction in Photonic Crystals
Authors: Baba Toshi , Matsumoto T. , Asatsuma T.
Published: March 2009

Light focusing characteristics of a negative refractive lens fabricated out of a
silicon-on-insulator photonic crystal (PC) slab are investigated theoretically and
experimentally. It focuses in the near infrared, but the focal spot is degraded by a lens
aberration. To reduce the aberration, we designed a composite PC that gives rise to a
narrower focal spot. In addition, two unique functions of this lens are demonstrated:
refocusing outside of the PC and parallel focusing, enabling image transfer and real
image formation, respectively. These results prove the feasibility of an in-plane free
space optical network based on negative refraction.
Mechatronics - The Innovation Request
Authors: Irschik Hans , Krommer Michael , Nader Manfred , Zehetner Christian
Published: March 2009

Smart structures, which are equipped with piezoelectric actuators and sensors, and
which involve automatic control, represent an important branch of Mechatronics. This paper gives
a review over own research on smart structures, which has been performed during the last decade
based on the principles of analogy and interdisciplinarity. The latter principles form a research
strategy, which seems to be perfectly suited in order to answer the innovation request in
Mechatronics, namely to decrease the time-lag between consecutive steps in the scientific
development, and to keep fundamental and applied research in close co-operation. We start our
report with a short excursion into the history of engineering sciences, in order to demonstrate this
time-lag, where we use the history of elastic and piezoelastic plates as an example, and we
discuss the notions of analogy and interdisciplinarity as means to systematically decrease the timelag.
In our own work, we particularly have used an eigenstrain analogy as guideline. In the light of
this analogy, various own works in the following fields are reviewed: Accurate electromechanically
modeling; dynamic shape control by piezoelectric actuation and sensing; extension of dynamic
shape control to closed loop control and active noise cancellation.
Experimental Investigation of Non-Linear Behaviour of PZT Piezoceramics at Low Temperatures
Authors: Nicolai Michael , Uhlig Stefan , Schönecker Andreas , Michaelis Alexander
Published: March 2009

The complex, non-linear, irreversible, hysteretic behaviour of polycrystalline
ferroelectric materials is the result of domain wall motion and correlates with the phase composition
of the ceramic. This paper reports on our investigation of the ferroelectric polarization of PZT
ceramics in dependence of temperature in the range between -175 and 150°C. We compare five
commercial piezoelectric materials used in actuator applications. The obtained data, derived
correlations, and material functions are very helpful for understanding the material properties in
practical applications and give input values for temperature depended numerical hysteretic models
[1].
Control of Vibratory Energy Harvesting Systems with Optimized Passive Networks
Authors: Scruggs Jeff T.
Published: March 2009

There has been a growing interest in the generation and storage of power from ambient
vibration using piezoelectric transduction. It is well-known that by connecting a piezoelectric
energy harvester to a power-electronic switching network, proper switching control can yield
favorable energy transduction. It has also been shown that in broadband response, the switching
controller maximizing power flow to storage can be solved as an H2 optimal control problem. For
extremely small-scale applications, however, the background power necessary to keep a controller
online continuously may exceed the average harvested power. In such circumstances, it is necessary
to restrict feedback controllers to a class which can be realized with very little power. This paper
investigates the use of passive networks to impose transducer voltage feedback laws on energy
harvesting systems. Such an implementation requires external power only to gate one mosfet in the
power-electronic drive circuitry at a constant duty cycle. The optimization of the passive network
for optimal power generation is a challenging, nonconvex problem. This paper presents some
preliminary results on a sub-optimal LMI-based design approach for this problem. An example is
given for a stochastically-excited piezoelectric bimorph beam.
Integration of Piezoceramic Modules into Die Castings - Procedure and Functionalities
Authors: Rübner Matthias , Körner Carolin , Singer Robert F.
Published: March 2009

The complete integration of piezoceramic sensor/actuator-modules into metal components using
high pressure die casting is a promising approach for the fabrication of multifunctional structural
elements with enhanced properties. A technique providing stabilization and protection of the
module during the highly dynamic mould filling is presented. Demonstration parts are produced
which are fully capable to detect vibrations. An approach to characterize this sensory functionality
of the adaptronic system is presented.
Control Algorithms for Semi-Active Structural Systems: Do they Really Matter?
Authors: Occhiuzzi Antonio
Published: March 2009

Control algorithms for semi-active structural control system found in the scientific
literature often rely on the choice of several parameters included in the control law. The present
paper shows the preliminary conclusions of a study aiming to explain the weak dependency of the
response reduction associated to semi-active control systems on the particular choice of the control
algorithm adopted, provided that the relevant parameters of any control law be properly tuned.
Response Control Performance Evaluation of MR Damper by Shaking Table Tests and Real-Time Hybrid Tests
Authors: Fujitani Hideo , Sakae Hiroaki , Ito Mai , Hiwatashi Takeshi
Published: March 2009

Magnetorheological damper (MR damper) has been expected to control the response of
civil and building structures in recent years, because of its large force capacity and variable force
characteristics. In this paper, a series of real-time hybrid test was conducted and the results of real
time hybrid tests were compared to those of shaking table tests. To determine the control force of the
MR damper, skyhook control and sliding mode control theory were employed. As the results, the
validity of real-time hybrid test was verified. This paper describes the capability of MR damper to
control the structural response.
A Reliability Assessment Model for MR Damper Components within a Smart Structural Control Scheme
Authors: Hassan Maguid H.M.
Published: March 2009

Smart control devices have gained a wide interest in the seismic research community in
recent years. Such interest is triggered by the fact that these devices are capable of adjusting their
characteristics and/or properties in order to counter act adverse effects. Magneto-Rheological (MR)
dampers have emerged as one of a range of promising smart control devices, being considered for
seismic applications. However, the reliability of such devices, as a component within a smart
structural control scheme, still pause a viable question. In this paper, the reliability of MR dampers,
employed as devices within a smart structural control system, is investigated. An integrated smart
control setup is proposed for that purpose. The system comprises a smart controller, which employs
a single MR damper to improve the seismic response of a single-degree-of-freedom system. The
smart controller, in addition to, a model of the MR damper, is utilized in estimating the damper
resistance force available to the system. On the other hand, an inverse dynamics model is utilized in
evaluating the required damper resistance force necessary to maintain a predefined displacement
pattern. The required and supplied forces are, then, utilized in evaluating the reliability of the MR
damper. This is the first in a series of studies that aim to explore the effect of other smart control
techniques such as, neural networks and neuro fuzzy controllers, on the reliability of MR dampers.
Piezoelectricity Experimentation, Modeling and Simulation: Common Practices and Realistic Considerations
Authors: Benjeddou Ayech
Published: March 2009

This work discusses common practices and realistic considerations for piezoelectricity
experimentation, modeling and simulation. It starts with highlighting some experimental
considerations regarding the initial poling directions when bonding co-localized piezoceramic
patches and their electric connections (or wiring) in order to have non nil current or voltage output.
Next, the most used practical (engineering) modeling approaches, such as the thermal analogy and
the strain induced potential (or field) approaches are discussed. Focus is made on their limitations
and possible new solutions. Then, key features are presented to reach realistic simulations of
piezoelectric free-vibration analyses under open-circuit electric boundary conditions, electrodes
equipotentiality and electromechanical updating. Finally some concluding remarks regarding
commonly chosen validation or/and benchmark examples are given for better modeling practices.
Optimal Placement of MFC Actuators for Vibration Control of Cylindrical Shell Structure
Authors: Sohn Jung Woo , Choi Seung Bok
Published: March 2009

In the present paper, active vibration control of cylindrical shell structure is conducted
based on optimized actuator placement. Anisotropic piezoelectric actuator named as Macro Fiber
Composite (MFC) is adopted for vibration control. The governing equations of motions of the
cylindrical shell structure including MFC actuators are derived from Lagrange’s equation. For the
verification of the proposed analytic model, numerical results of modal analysis are compared with
those of experimental test results. Optimal placements of the MFC actuators are determined with
Genetic Algorithm for the effective control performance. Robust controller is then designed to
suppress structural vibration of the proposed smart structure and control performances are evaluated.
Verification of Robustness in Smart Composite Structures
Authors: Kipnis Nira , Tkach Rachel , Shpitzer Eyal , Kipnis Dror
Published: March 2009

In order to implement health monitoring methods in composite material structures
that are being developed and manufactured, a series of preliminary tests was conducted. The aim
was to check the influence of an implemented SMART® layer on a graphite-epoxy structure, its
durability and its ability to detect changes in the structure. A series of preliminary tests was
conducted, in order to check the mechanical and electrical properties of the plate-sensors system
(strength, rigidity, PZT capacitance, response to voltage input). The outcome of these experiments
showed that the SMART Layer® (by Acellent Technology Inc.) increased the graphite-epoxy
plate's flexibility, and the piezo-sensors were found to survive this procedure with no
distinguishable damage. Subsequently, experiments were performed, to detect changes in boundary
conditions imposed on the plate. A visual verification indicating changes in boundary conditions or
the presence of simulated damage was received.
Control of Properties of Composite Structures with the Use of Multi-Functional Materials
Authors: Ostachowicz Wiesław M. , Zak Arkadiusz , Malinowski Pawel , Wandowski Tomasz
Published: March 2009

This work is focused on two major applications of multi–functional materials. In the first
one the use of piezoelectric transducers have been studied in order to monitor the health of
composite plate–like structures. These transducers can act as signal sources and sensors for guided
elastic waves in inspected structures. The excited waves propagating in the material can reflect from
various discontinuities such like: boundaries, notches, cracks and delamination. In the next step the
time responses registered by the sensors, as inputs for a signal processing algorithm, may be
processed to correlate the measured arriving waves with the discontinuities in the structures
enabling one to indicate the location of the discontinuities.
In the second application the use of shape memory alloy (SMA) components integrated with
composite structural elements are investigated. SMA elements in the forms of wires, strips, ribbons,
beams, tubes, etc. can be bonded to, or integrated within, various structural elements in order to
control their mechanical properties, static as well as dynamic behaviour. This can be obtained
thanks to unique effects associated with thermal activation of SMAs leading to significant changes
in SMA material properties, which next can also be applied for control purposes. The use of such
controllable properties of SMA components in active control of static (deflection) and dynamic
(natural frequencies, modes of vibrations, amplitudes of forced vibrations) characteristics of
laminated composite beams–like structures have been demonstrated.
Design and Development of a Green Storage Tank for Thermo-Controlled Water Supply
Authors: Tsai Hung Cheng , Tsai Hung Jung , Hung Fei Kung
Published: March 2009

Water is an essential requirement in everyday life and global demand for clean usable
water is increasing year by year. Therefore, developing and implementing effective water resource
management and conservation strategies is vital. Generally speaking, most individuals (particularly
senior citizens) prefer to use warm water when washing their hands or taking a bath. When hot water
is left standing in the hot water pipe (i.e. the faucet is turned off), it will gradually cool. Consequently,
when the faucet is first turned on, the water is generally allowed to run until it becomes sufficiently
hot. Meanwhile, the original cooler water is simply drained away. Clearly, this approach is wasteful
of both time and water. Therefore, this paper develops a green storage tank to perform a
thermo-controlled water supply function. The tank is positioned between the hot water supply and the
faucet and its operation is controlled by an electro-thermal thin-film heater and a thermo-controlled
valve. When the faucet is turned on, the cooler water in the hot water pipe is directed into the tank.
Once this water enters the tank, it is mixed with hot water stored inside until it acquires the desired
temperature. The warmed water is then supplied to the faucet. When the water flowing through the
hot pipe to the tank is already sufficiently warm for use, the thermo-controlled water supply function
is automatically overridden, and the warm water is delivered directly to the faucet. The proposed
green storage tank not only provides effective water and energy resource savings, but also provides a
more convenient operation.
Some Advances in Energy Recycling Semiactive Vibration Suppression
Authors: Onoda Junjiro
Published: March 2009

This paper summarizes some studies performed by the author's group on energy-recycling
semiactive vibration suppression using piezoelectric transducers embedded in the vibrating structures
and shunted on switched inductive circuits. Basic idea of this method is to suppress the vibration by
controlling the switch in the shunt circuit, which was first introduced by Richard C., et al. This idea
has been upgraded by introducing (1) a multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) control method for
the switches in the shunt circuits, (2) a self-sensing method to estimate the state of structure from the
voltage across the piezoelectric transducer, so that any additional sensors can be neglected, and (3) a
self-powered shunt circuit that performs the semiactive vibration suppression without any power
supply. Several numerical and experimental results showed that the method works well against
transient, sinusoidal, and random multi-modal vibrations and suppresses the vibrations effectively. It
was also shown that the method is very robust, and, with it, the system is always stable. Studies for
various applications of this method are also discussed.
Strain Monitoring of FRP Elements Using an Embedded Fibre Optic Sensor
Authors: Luyckx Geert , Voet Eli , De Waele Wim , van Paepegem Wim , Degrieck Joris , Vlekken J.
Published: March 2009

This paper presents a strain monitoring approach for following up FRP elements (in this
case a [90°] CFRP laminate) using an embedded fibre optic sensor. The sensor exists of two fibre
Bragg gratings (FBGs) written in a polarization maintaining fibre (PMF). First, the strain response
of the non-embedded sensor is determined which makes it possible to relate the different bragg peak
shifts with the induced strain field in the core of the optical fibre. Secondly, a transfer coefficient
matrix is presented and calculated using finite element simulations which relates the measured
strain field of the sensor with the adjacent one existing in the structure as if no sensor would be
present.
High Strain Monitoring during Fatigue Loading of Thermoplastic Composites Using Imbedded Draw Tower Fibre Bragg Grating Sensors
Authors: Voet Eli , Luyckx Geert , De Baere Ives , Degrieck Joris , Vlekken J. , Jacobs E. , Bartelt Hartmut
Published: March 2009

This paper presents the experimental study of fibre Bragg grating sensors for measuring
strain inside composite laminates during fatigue loading. The optical fibres are imbedded inside
thermoplastic CFRP test-coupons which have an ultimate strain of about 1.1%. Tension – tension
fatigue cycling at a rate of 5Hz is been carried out at 314MPa with a maximum strain of 0.51%. At
such extreme strain levels the use of high strength sensors becomes inevitable. Neither the sensor
nor the composite test-coupons showed any significant degradation even after more than 500000
cycles. Fibre optic Bragg grating sensors are known to be very accurate strain sensors but one
should be very careful interpreting their response once they are imbedded inside composite
materials. In this study high strength fibre Bragg grating sensors with coating are imbedded in
composite test coupons and a pretty good correlation was found between the strain measurements of
an electrical extensometer and the imbedded sensor during the complete cycling. The high strength
sensor show to be very feasible for extreme and long term strain measurements.
Advanced Ultrasonic Structural Monitoring of Waveguides
Authors: Cammarata M. , Dutta D. , Sohn Hoon , Rizzo P. , Harries Kent A.
Published: March 2009

Ultrasonic Guided Waves (UGWs) are a useful tool in those structural health monitoring
applications that can benefit from built-in transduction, moderately large inspection ranges and high
sensitivity to small flaws. This paper describes two methods, based on linear and nonlinear
acoustics for structural damage detection based on UGWs. The linear method combine the
advantages of UGW inspection with the outcomes of the Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) that is
used for extracting defect-sensitive features that can be combined to perform a multivariate
diagnosis of damage. In particular, the DWT is exploited to generate a set of relevant wavelet
coefficients to construct a uni-dimensional or multi-dimensional damage index that, in turn is fed to
an outlier algorithm to detect anomalous structural states. The nonlinear acoustics method exploits
the circumstance that a cracked medium exhibits high acoustic nonlinearity which is manifested as
harmonics in the power spectrum of the received signal. Experimental results also indicate that the
harmonic components increase non-linearly in magnitude with increasing amplitude of the input
signal. The proposed nonlinear technique identifies the presence of cracks by looking at the
harmonics and their nonlinear relationship to the input amplitude. The general framework presented
in this paper is applied to the detection of fatigue cracks in an I-shaped steel beam. The probing
hardware consists of Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT) materials used for both ultrasound generation
and detection at chosen frequency. The effectiveness of the proposed methods for the structural
diagnosis of defects that are small compared to the waveguide cross-sectional area is discussed.
Damage Detection in Beam-Like Structures Using Deflections Obtained by Modal Flexibility Matrices
Authors: Koo Ki Young , Lee Jong Jae , Yun Chung Bang , Kim Jeong Tae
Published: March 2009

In bridge structures, damage may induce an additional deflection which may naturally
contain essential information about the damage. However, inverse mapping from the
damage-induced deflection to the actual damage location and severity is generally complex,
particularly for statically indeterminate systems. In this paper, a new load concept, called the
positive-bending-inspection-load (PBIL) is proposed to construct a simple inverse mapping from the
damage-induced deflection to the actual damage location. A PBIL for an inspection region is defined
as a load or a system of load which guarantees bending moment to be positive in the inspection region.
From the theoretical investigations, it was proven that the damage-induced chord-wise deflection
(DI-CD) has the maximum value with the abrupt change in its slope at the damage location under a
PBIL. Hence, a novel damage localization method is proposed based on the DI-CD under a PBIL.
Experimental verification study was also carried out on a two-span continuous steel box-girder model
with a steel box-girder. It was found that the proposed method clearly identified the damage existence
and damage location for small damage cases with narrow cuts at the bottom flange.
Development of a Structural Health Monitoring Benchmark Problem for High-Rise Slender Structures
Authors: Xia Yong , Ni Yi Qing , Ko Jan Ming , Chen Hua Bin
Published: March 2009

Under the auspices of the Asian-Pacific Network of Centers for Research in Smart
Structures Technology (ANCRiSST) and the International Society for Structural Health Monitoring
of Intelligent Infrastructure (ISHMII), a structural health monitoring benchmark problem for highrise
slender structures is being developed by taking the instrumented Guangzhou New Television
Tower as a test bed. The benchmark problem consists of the following four tasks: (i) output-only
modal identification and finite element model updating, (ii) damage detection using simulated data,
(iii) optimal sensor placement for structural health monitoring, and (iv) damage detection using
field measurement data. This paper will address some key issues related to the development of this
first benchmark problem for high-rise structures. More details of the study can be found in the
website: http://www.cse.polyu.edu.hk/benchmark/index.htm
Multivariate Statistical Analysis for Detection and Identification of Faulty Sensors Using Latent Variable Methods
Authors: Hernandez-Garcia Miguel R. , Masri Sami F.
Published: March 2009

In this paper, three latent variable methods are implemented in a multivariate statistical
analysis scheme for detecting and identifying faults in a multi-sensor network. The proposed
methods are applied to a sensor network monitoring a MDOF dynamical system and the results are
presented, compared and discussed.
Linking the Impact Force History with Residual Mechanical Characteristics and NDI - A Smart Way to Perform SHM in Composites
Authors: Constantin Nicolae , Anghel Viorel , Găvan Mircea , Sorohan Ştefan
Published: March 2009

Structural integrity monitoring (SHM) and evaluation of residual mechanical
performance are highly needed in assessing the post-impact behaviour of composite materials and
structures. The link between impact force history and the damage level was not followed enough in
research studies upon the SHM of composites. The authors put in evidence a clear link in this matter
in a variety of layered composite materials. The link was assessed by evaluating the residual
mechanical performance and by nondestructive inspection (NDI) – ultrasonics and infrared
thermography (IRT) - on the impacted samples. Such a link may prove a very useful and reliable
shortcut for backing the online SHM and condition based maintenance.
Embedding Intelligence for RTM Process Monitoring and Control
Authors: Caponetto R. , Cicala Gianluca , Dongola G. , Filippino F. , Recca G.
Published: March 2009

A technique to control the resin flow front in closed and open mould is described. The technique
consists in embedding linear capacitive sensors to provide the position of the moving flow front.
The embedded capacitor is made with two parallel wires while the resin, between the wires, acts as
a moving dielectric which changes the capacitance values. Therefore the position of the resin is
obtained from the measured capacitance variation. In order to validate the proposed methodology
the sensor has been characterized and the obtained characteristic curve showed a quasi-linear trend.
The shape of the resin front could be modified, if necessary, acting locally with controlled injectors.
Innovations in Smart Materials and Integrated Structural Health Monitoring in the Australian Defence Force
Authors: Ibrahim Matthew E. , Scala Christine M.
Published: March 2009

The Australian Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) has established a
leading-edge program to enable the development and transitioning of innovative Smart Materials
and Structures technology across the spectrum from fundamental science to use in the field. This
program extends and harnesses technology in the area of Smart Materials, Sensors and Systems, in
order to increase safety of Defence aircraft, ships, submarines and vehicles, increase availability,
reduce the cost of asset ownership and operations, and enhance overall military capability. The
program has linkages into broad networks, with strong university and industry relationships, and is
also very relevant to the management of civil infrastructure and other equipment.
We present here an overview of some key research areas within the DSTO Smart Materials and
Structures Initiative, highlighting developments in : (i) Smart Materials, including environmentallyfriendly
coatings that exhibit properties of greater flexibility and durability for aerospace
applications, nano-crystalline coatings that provide increased wear resistance, and Defence
applications for carbon nanotubes; (ii) Smart Sensing, including chemical, structural fatigue, fuel
contamination, environmental degradation, corrosion and its precursors, and overheating and
mechanical wear; and (iii) Smart Systems that employ innovative techniques to acquire and process
data from a range of sensors by harvesting energy from local structures to power microelectronic
circuits.
Dynamic Material Application for Architectural Purposes
Authors: Lelieveld Charlotte , Voorbij Liek
Published: March 2009

In this research the possibilities of the realization of an interactive architecture
with the use of dynamic materials is examined. The reason for the use of dynamic
materials can be found in the urge to implement material innovation technologies in an
architectural context. An inventory of different actuators is made, used for the
deformation of the design concept. Shape memory alloys are the most suitable actuators
for this application, even though a lot of disadvantages are found. Experiments should
point out the possibilities of the application of Shape Memory Alloys.
Tunable Dielectric Resonator Antennas Using Voltage-Controlled Mechanical Deformation
Authors: Mahanfar A. , Menon Carlo , Vaughan R.G. , Carpi Federico , Parameswaran M. , Daheshpour Kambiz
Published: March 2009

We present a new concept for compact, tunable antennas. Traditional approaches have
circuits and switchable elements which can be bulky and lossy. Here we investigate structures
which offer direct tuning through voltage-controlled deformation of the radiating structure itself.
The antenna is a dielectric resonator (DRA), where the antenna impedance and tuning depends on
the shape of the dielectric. The deformation action is through using electro-active polymer (EAP)
for the dielectric. EAPs have promising properties for smart antennas and ongoing developments
are continuing to improve its suitability.