bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extreme Value Metamodeling for System Reliability With Time-Dependent Functions
Authors: Zhu Zhifu , Du Xiaoping
Published: January 2016

The reliability of a system is usually measured by the probability that the system performs its intended function in a given period of time. Estimating such reliability is a challenging task when the probability of failure is rare and the responses are nonlinear and time variant. The evaluation of the system reliability defined in a period of time requires the extreme values of the responses in the predefined period of time during which the system is supposed to function. This work builds surrogate models for the extreme values of responses with the Kriging method. For the sake of computational efficiency, the method creates Kriging models with high accuracy only in the region that has high contributions to the system failure; training points of random variables and time are sampled simultaneously so that their interactions could be considered automatically. The example of a mechanism system shows the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Approximate Analytical Solution for Laminar Flow Over a Backward Step
Authors: Venkataraman P.
Published: January 2016

Analytical solution of Navier-Stokes equations are extremely difficult and rare. It is one of the unsolved Clay Millennium problems in mathematics. Many solutions that exist are examples of degenerate cases where the nonlinearity is controlled. In this paper we explore the application of Bézier functions to solve the two-dimensional laminar fluid flow over a backward step. The Bézier functions provide a mesh free alternative to domain discretization methods that are currently used to solve such problems. The Navier-Stokes equation are handled directly without transformation and the setup is direct, simple, and involves minimizing the error in the residuals of the differential equations along with the error on the boundary conditions over the domain. The solutions for the velocity and pressure are available in polynomial form. They are single continuous functions over the entire domain. The procedure employs a combination of symbolic and numeric calculation in MATLAB. Two problems are explored. The first is the flow in a 2D channel to illustrate the technique. The second is the flow over the backward step. The solutions are compared to the corresponding finite element solutions from COMSOL Multiphysics software.
Economic and Environmental Impacts of Energy Efficiency Investment on Local Manufacturers
Authors: Choi Jun-Ki , Hallinan Kevin , Kissock Kelly , Brecha Robert
Published: January 2016

The main goal of this study is to estimate the community-wide economic and environmental impacts of energy efficiency investment on the local manufacturing using data with different granularity. A systematic framework is developed by using multiple scale/layer of data. Result shows that a $14M investment in HVAC upgrade to reduce energy and cost in the economy of the Montgomery County, Ohio can result in a total local economic impact of $22M, stemming from the $14.5M coming from direct impact, $2.8M coming from indirect impact, and $4.7M coming from induced impacts. Job creation over the investment period yields a total of 106 jobs. Analysis provides insight into the most important types of economic effects to the local industries. From an environmental perspective, short term economy-wide carbon dioxide emissions increase because of the increased community-wide economic activities spurred by the production from local manufacturers and installation of energy efficiency measures, however the resulting energy savings provide continuous carbon dioxide reduction for various target savings.
An Add-On Device to Perform Dexterous Grasping Tasks With a Haptic Feedback System
Authors: Leon Jean-Claude , Dupeux Thomas , Chardonnet Jean-Rémy , Perret Jérôme
Published: January 2016

Achieving grasping tasks in real time with haptic feedback may require the control of a large number of degrees of freedom (DOFs) to model hand and finger movements. This is mandatory to grasp objects with dexterity.

Here, a new device called HaptiHand is proposed that can be added to a haptic feedback arm and provide the user with enough DOFs so that he/she can intuitively and dexterously grasp an object, modify the virtual hand configuration and number of fingers with respect to the object while manipulating the object. Furthermore, this device is non-invasive and enables the user to apply forces on the fingers of the virtual hand. The HaptiHand lies inside the user’s hand so that the user can apply and release pressure on it in a natural manner that is transferred to the virtual hand using metaphors.

The focus is placed on the description of the technology and structure of the HaptiHand to justify the choices and explain the behavior of the HaptiHand during object grasping and releasing tasks. This is combined with a short description of the models used.
Estimation of CO2 Emissions Considering the Decisions of Multiple Drivers Within Car-Following Models
Authors: Chaduvula Siva Chaitanya , Kriegel Tyler , Panchal Jitesh H.
Published: January 2016

Decisions made by the drivers on the road have a significant impact on the traffic, as well as on their vehicular emissions. Simple decisions such as accelerating at a yellow traffic signal can alter the dynamics of traffic flow and engine operating points. Especially in cities, these decisions, cumulatively, can impact large complex systems like transportation network. For example, these can lead to unstable conditions such as traffic congestion or high concentration of emissions. In order to reduce these impacts, it is necessary to understand the drivers’ decisions, their influence on other vehicles, and the resulting impacts on emissions. This need drives the main objective of this paper, which is, to understand the relationships between the drivers decisions and vehicular CO2 emissions. In this paper, we model the drivers’ decisions by introducing a utility function for each driver in a micro-transportation model. Our hypothesis is that drivers have their own safe distance not only over front headway but also on rear headway. This usually happens when the driver chooses to change from acceleration to deceleration phases. We also propose a non-linear driver model to quantify the risk attitude of a driver based on factors such as age, experience, time of journey and the number of occupants. The Full Velocity Difference Method (FVDM) represents the traffic characteristics including speed, position, and vehicle acceleration at a traffic signal better than other car-following models. Hence, FVDM is used in our simulations. Numerical simulations show that a risk prone person results in a greater fuel consumption compared to the risk averse person. Simulation results also show that decisions made by a lead vehicle can be influenced by the follower vehicles properties such as speed and position and vice versa. The results show how driver decisions can alter the vehicular CO2 emissions. The proposed model is a step towards developing a decision support tool, which can help drivers in reducing CO2 emissions.
Reconfiguration Analysis of a 2-DOF 3-4R Parallel Manipulator With Planar Base and Platform
Authors: Kong Xianwen , Yu Jingjun , Li Duanling
Published: January 2016

This paper deals with a 2-DOF 3-4R parallel manipulator (PM) with planar base and platform — a novel PM with multiple operation mode (or disassembly-free reconfigurable PM) with minimum number of actuated joints. At first, a set of constraint equations of the 3-4R PM is derived with the orientation of the moving platform represented using a Euler parameter quaternion (also Euler-Rodrigues quaternion) and then solved using the algebraic geometry method. It is found that this 3-4R PM has six 2-DOF operation modes, including the two expected spherical translation mode and sphere-on-sphere rolling mode when the PM was synthesized. The motion characteristics of the moving platform are obtained using the kinematic interpretation of Euler parameter quaternions with certain number of constant zero components, which was presented in a recent paper by the first author of this paper, instead of the eigenspace based approach in the literature. The transition configurations, which are constraint singular configurations, among different operation modes are also presented. This work provides a solid foundation to the development and control of the 2-DOF 3-4R parallel manipulator (PM) with both 2-DOF spherical translation mode and 2-DOF sphere-on-sphere rolling mode.
Novel Configurations for Hybrid Transmissions Using a Simple Planetary Gear Train
Authors: Ngo Huu-Tich , Yan Hong-Sen
Published: January 2016

This paper presents a design approach to systematically synthesize feasible configurations for series-parallel and parallel hybrid transmissions subject to design constraints and required operation modes using a simple planetary gear train (PGT). The configuration synthesis process includes two main steps: 1) assign inputs and output powers to the PGT subject to power constraints by the power arrangement process; and 2) assign clutches and brakes to the obtained systems subject to desired operation modes by the clutch arrangement process. By applying the proposed design approach, nine clutchless and 31 clutched configurations for series-parallel and parallel hybrid systems are synthesized, respectively. For each type of the hybrid systems, we analyzed kinematic and power flow of a new configuration to demonstrate the feasibility of the synthesized systems. The design approach can be used to systematically synthesize future hybrid transmissions with different mechanisms, design constraints, and desired operation modes.
Mechanical Design and Evaluation of a Novel Knee-Ankle-Foot Robot for Rehabilitation
Authors: Chen Gong , Guo Zhao , Yu Haoyong
Published: January 2016

This paper presents the mechanical design and evaluation of a knee-ankle-foot robot, which is compact, modular, and portable for stroke patients to carry out overground gait training at outpatient and home settings. The robot is driven by a novel series elastic actuator (SEA) for safe human-robot interaction. The SEA employs one soft translational spring in series with a stiff torsion spring to achieve high intrinsic compliance and the capacity of providing peak force. The robotic joint mechanism and the selection of the actuator springs are optimized based on gait biomechanics to achieve portability and capability. The robot demonstrated stable and accuracy force control in experiments conducted on healthy subjects with overground walking. Major leg muscles of the subjects showed reduced level of activations (Electromyography, EMG) while maintaining normal gait patterns with robotic assistances, indicating the robot’s capability of providing effective gait assistance.
Planar Linkage Synthesis for Function Generation Using Poles and Rotation Angles
Authors: Zimmerman Ronald A.
Published: January 2016

Function Generation is a long standing linkage design problem. It is possible to design a planar four bar linkage whose input and output links will pass through seven coordinated positions. This paper discloses the first graphical solution to this problem. The approach is to consider the constraints imposed by the target positions on the linkage through the poles and rotation angles. This approach enables the designer to explore the range of possible solutions when fewer than seven positions are specified by dragging a fixed or moving pivot in the plane. The selection of free choices is made at the end of the process and the complete mechanism is visible when the choices are made. The constraints only need to be made once which eliminates the repetitive construction required by previous methods to consider multiple pivot locations. Since it is so easy to consider multiple pivot locations and the solution mechanism is visible, the required design time is greatly reduced. A corresponding analytical solution is also developed and solved based on the same constraints. This is a new analytical solution and is defined by a system of 20 nonlinear equations with 20 unknowns.
CFD Analysis of 3D Flow for 1.4 MW Francis Turbine and Model Turbine Manufacturing
Authors: Ayli Ulku Ece , Kaplan Alper , Cetinturk Huseyin , Kavurmaci Berat , Demirel Gizem , Celebioglu Kutay , Aradag Selin
Published: January 2016

Hydroenergy is one of the most useful renewable energy sources. Hydropower is a vital source as it is clean, sustainable and cost effective. Francis type hydroturbines are applicable to a wide range of head and flow rate values. Spiral case, stay vane, guide vane, runner and draft tube are the basic components of a Francis turbine. In this paper, CFD based 3D numerical simulations of steady turbulent flow in a Francis turbine for an actual power plant, BUSKI HES in Turkey, is presented.
Exploring the Design Set Points of Refining Operation in Ladle for Cost Effective Desulfurization and Inclusion Removal
Authors: Shukla Rishabh , Anapagaddi Ravikiran , Singh Amarendra K. , Panchal Jitesh H. , Allen Janet K. , Mistree Farrokh
Published: January 2016

This paper is motivated by a need identified by steel makers, namely, the need to produce steel products with new and often more stringent set of specifications and enhanced performances (such as fatigue life and corrosion behavior) using existing equipment cost-effectively.

Manufacturing a steel product involves series of unit operations, each having a significant bearing on the properties of the end product. This paper focuses on studying the effect of one such unit operation, namely, ladle refining. The performance like corrosion behavior and fatigue life and properties of advanced high strength steel are greatly influenced by its cleanliness and by maintaining composition within specified bounds. Cleanliness of steel is assessed in terms of the count and nature of inclusions present and the levels of tramp elements such as sulfur, phosphorus and total oxygen present in the liquid steel. The desired composition is maintained with respect to alloying elements (Ni, Cr, Mn, etc.) that are added to impart certain properties to the steel. The ladle furnace is one of the key unit operations for carrying out deoxidation and desulfurization to maintain the levels of oxygen and sulfur within a tolerable limit. Deoxidation reaction during refining lead to formation of a number of which are deleterious in nature and should be removed. The effectiveness of the ladle operation is thus influenced by conflicting goals such as inclusion removal efficiency, desulfurization and the cost of refining.

George Box is reputed to have observed that all models are wrong and some are useful. In keeping with George Box’s observation we suggest that our challenge is to determine the set points for the ladle unit operation using computational models that at best capture the essence of reality but not reality itself. Therefore, the need is to find solutions that are relatively insensitive to the inherent uncertainties embodied in the computational model while satisficing the conflicting goals.

In this paper we present a method for visualizing and exploring the solution space using the compromise Decision Support Problem (cDSP) as a decision model. We illustrate the efficacy of our method, for use by steel producers, by determining the set points for a ladle, in an industrial setting.
Multi-Material Topology Optimization for Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Mirzendehdel Amir M. , Suresh Krishnan
Published: January 2016

Additive manufacturing (AM) and topology optimization strongly complement each other in that the complex and optimal designs created through the latter can directly be fabricated through AM, leading to reduced design and fabrication time.

As AM expands into multi-material fabrication, there is a natural need for efficient multi-material topology optimization methods, where one must simultaneously optimize the topology, and the distribution of various materials within the topology.

In this paper we generalize the single-material Pareto tracing method of topology optimization to multiple materials, and discuss its implementation using assembly-free finite element analysis, and first-order element-sensitivity. The effectiveness of the algorithm is demonstrated through illustrative examples.
A Multimodal Virtual Environment Based on Haptic Interfaces for Upper-Limb Rehabilitation
Authors: Romagnoli Caterina , Bordegoni Monica , Ferrise Francesco
Published: January 2016

The interest of people working in rehabilitation towards the possibilities offered by Virtual Reality (VR) technologies is growing in years. Through VR technologies, rehabilitation can become more engaging with respect to traditional methods, since exercises can be performed in different simulated scenarios. They can be adapted on the basis of patient’s requests, and can be easily modified to have growing difficulties, according to the rehabilitation progresses. Furthermore results can be collected and monitored, even remotely, if necessary. The paper describes the development and testing of a set of exercises in a multimodal VR environment for upper limb rehabilitation. The VR environment includes technologies addressing three senses: vision, hearing and touch. The patient is asked to grab and move a number of objects in an ecologically valid environment, which corresponds to a household scenario. While s/he performs the exercises, object trajectories are recorded in order to be analyzed later on. The development as well as a preliminary testing activity are reported in the paper.
Dynamic Analysis of a Planar Mechanism With Variable Topology
Authors: Malak Peter W. , Voglewede Philip A.
Published: January 2016

There is a demand for mechanisms with variable topology (MVTs) that can perform multiple tasks with the least amount of actuators. These devices have the ability to provide numerous motion profiles within one device. In this paper, a specific planar MVT was dynamically analyzed. This mechanism functions as a RRRP mechanism (i.e., slider-crank) in one configuration and as a RRRR mechanism (i.e., crank-crank) in the other. The kinematics and kinetics of the RRRP and RRRR configurations were analyzed with a Lagrangian approach. The resulting equations were coded both in equation form and in Matlab SimMechanics then compared. A method for transitioning between configurations was also developed. These equations could be used to develop an applicable controller and principles for synthesizing future MVTs.
Ontology-Based Executable Design Decision Template Representation and Reuse
Authors: Ming Zhenjun , Yan Yan , Wang Guoxin , Panchal Jitesh , Goh Chung Hyun , Allen Janet K. , Mistree Farrokh
Published: January 2016

The Decision Support Problem (DSP) construct is anchored in the notion that design is fundamentally a decision making process. Key is the concept of two types of decisions (namely, selection and compromise) and that any complex design can be represented through modelling a network of compromise and selection decisions. In a computational environment the DSPs are modeled as decision templates. In this paper, modular, executable, reusable decision templates are proposed as a means to effect design and to archive design-related knowledge on a computer. In the context of the compromise Decision Support Problem (cDSP) we address two questions:

1. What are the salient features for facilitating the reuse of design decision templates?

2. What are the salient features that facilitate maintaining model consistency when reusing design decision templates?

Here, the first question is answered by the identification of reuse patterns in which specific modifications of the existing cDSP templates are made to adapt to new design requirements, and the second question is answered by developing an ontology-based cDSP template representation method in which a rule-based reasoning mechanism is used for consistency checking. Effectiveness of the ontology-based cDSP representation and reuse is demonstrated for the redesign of a pressure vessel.
Low-Cost Label-Free Bio-Detection System Using Double-Sided Grating Waveguide Couplers
Authors: Ku Yi-Fan , Li Hsun-Yuan , Lin Yu-Chung , Hsieh Wen-Hsin , Chang Guo-En
Published: January 2016

Low-cost label-free bio-sensing systems have long been desired to enable rapid, sensitive, quantitative, and high-throughput biosensing for bio-medical and chemical applications. Here we present an optical bio-detection system consists of injection-molded biosensors based on double-sided grating waveguide couplers and an optical intensity-based detection platform for low-cost, real-time, and label-free biosensing. The biosensors were fabricated combining injection-molding and sputtering techniques, providing unique advantages of low-cost and reduced production time. A simple and cost-effective optical intensity-based detection system employing a low-cost light emitting diode and a simple photodetector is also developed to perform label-free biosensing. We demonstrate that a high refractive index resolution of 6.43 × 10−5 RIU is achieved with this compact bio-sensing system, showing great promises for low-cost, real-time, label-free detection in bio-medical and chemical applications.
Assembly-Free Buckling Analysis for Topology Optimization
Authors: Bian Xiang , Yadav Praveen , Suresh Krishnan
Published: January 2016

Linear buckling analysis entails the solution of a generalized eigenvalue problem. Popular methods for solving such problems tend to be memory-hungry, and therefore slow for large degrees of freedom.

The main contribution of this paper is a low-memory assembly-free linear buckling analysis method. In particular, we employ the classic inverse iteration, in conjunction with an assembly-free deflated linear solver. The resulting implementation is simple, fast and particularly well suited for parallelization. The proposed method is used here to solve large scale 3D topology optimization problems subject to buckling constraints, where buckling problems must be solved repeatedly.
Towards Assembly-Free Methods for Additive Manufacturing Simulation
Authors: Krishnakumar Anirudh , Suresh Krishnan , Chandrasekar Aaditya
Published: January 2016

There is significant interest today in the finite element simulation of various Additive Manufacturing (AM) processes. AM simulation is time-dependent, inherently non-linear, and involves multiple physics. In addition, repeated meshing and insertion of new elements during material deposition can pose significant implementation challenges.

Currently, AM simulation is handled either through a ‘quiet’ approach or an ‘inactive’ approach. In the quiet approach, all finite elements within the workspace are assembled into the global stiffness matrix, and the elements yet to be deposited are assigned ‘void’ material properties. In the inactive approach, only the elements that have been deposited are assembled into the global stiffness matrix. The advantages and disadvantages of the two methods are well documented.

In this paper, we propose a voxel-based, assembly-free framework for AM simulation. This framework presents several advantages including. (1) The workspace is meshed only once at the start of the simulation, (2) addition and deletion of elements is trivial, (3) reduced memory requirement as the global stiffness matrix is never assembled and (4) the underlying linear systems of equations can be solved efficiently through assembly-free methods. We demonstrate the framework here by simulating transient non-linear thermal behaviour of a laser deposition process, with material deposition.
Usability Demonstration of the G.EN.ESI Eco-Design Platform: The Cooker Hood Case Study
Authors: Germani Michele , Mandolini Marco , Marconi Marco , Rossi Marta
Published: January 2016

Due to the increasing pressure of legislations and market, the environmental sustainability is becoming a key competitive factor for companies. In specific markets, as the Northern Europe one, customers are very careful on the quality and sustainability of products, thus companies has to design and manufacture green goods. In this context, there is a strong need of effective design tools and platform which allows to configure products applying the life cycle paradigm and with the “environment on mind”. Currently in the market there are only few examples of products designed taking into account the eco-design concepts. In particular, for mechatronic or energy using products only the use phase is usually considered and all the re-design strategies aim to reduce the energy consumption. This is essentially due to the fact that there is a lack of tools and design platforms, which are easy to use and well integrated with the traditional design tools and with the design processes of companies.

This paper wants to demonstrate the usefulness of a set of interoperable eco-design tools, the G.EN.ESI platform, in supporting the re-design of a mechatronic product. The proposed case study, realized in collaboration with an Italian leading company in the sector of household appliances, focuses on the improvement of a domestic cooker hood with the final objective to obtain a more sustainable product. The in-depth experimentation, for the duration of more than 3 months, involved different stakeholders within the company (designers, environmental expert, etc.), with the aim to validate the G.EN.ESI platform tools in different phases of the re-design process. The case study showed that the use of the platform has supported the company in the identification of the environmental hot-spots and during the product re-design phase, considering the whole life cycle. The re-engineered cooker hood exhibits relevant improvements in the most important environmental and economic indicators (environmental impact, energy efficiency, disassemblability, recyclability, etc.). Also a detailed analysis of the platform usability has been performed in order to measure if the tools completely fulfil the expectations of the final users. Finally, the level of integration within the company processes has been evaluated with a dedicated questionnaire. The results of these last analyses showed that the G.EN.ESI platform is appropriate to support a company to improve the sustainability of their products without the needs to heavily alter the traditional design process.
Uncertainty of Coupler Point Position of Slider Crank Mechanisms
Authors: Yu Zetao , Ting Kwun-Lon , Hsu Kuan-Lun , Wang Jun , Waggoner Wesley
Published: January 2016

In this paper, a novel geometric model for a planar slider-crank mechanism is established to quantify the position uncertainty of a coupler point caused by joint clearances. The clearance of each revolute and prismatic joint is characterized by a short clearance link. The prismatic joint with clearance is modeled as a link with infinite link length and a variable short link. The linkage with joint clearance is thus modeled as one with redundant freedom. The uncertainty is the result of the redundancy and the extremity of the redundancy is determined through Ting’ N-bar rotatability laws.
Dynamic Design Using the Kalman Filter for Flexible Systems With Epistemic Uncertainty
Authors: Keshavarzi Elham , McIntire Matthew , Hoyle Christopher
Published: January 2016

Most engineered systems have to exhibit a high degree of reliability and robustness. They are high in cost and complexity and often incorporate highly sophisticated materials, components, design and other technologies. Therefore, they face uncertainties in categories ranging from technical issues to market changes. This includes a wide range of epistemic uncertainties, such as demand or budget uncertainty; due to increasingly dynamic markets it has become important for systems to cope with these uncertainties. In this paper, a Kalman filter approach is applied to control the design as uncertainties are resolved in a discrete time frame. It is shown how the Kalman filter approach treats the design as a stochastic control problem, in which the design is controlled throughout its lifecycle to compensate for sources of epistemic uncertainty, as the uncertainties are resolved. The proposed method is applicable to flexible systems where changing the design is possible. A design framework is proposed encompassing a set of definitions, metrics, the methodology, and a case study of a spaceborne system.
Performance Evaluation of Cloud-Based High Performance Computing for Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Wu Dazhong , Liu Xi , Hebert Steve , Gentzsch Wolfgang , Terpenny Janis
Published: January 2016

Cloud computing is an innovative computing paradigm that can potentially bridge the gap between increasing computing demands in computer aided engineering (CAE) applications and limited scalability, flexibility, and agility in traditional computing paradigms. In light of the benefits of cloud computing, high performance computing (HPC) in the cloud has the potential to enable users to not only accelerate computationally expensive CAE simulations (e.g., finite element analysis), but also to reduce costs by utilizing on-demand and scalable cloud computing resources. The objective of this research is to evaluate the performance of running a large finite element simulation in a public cloud. Specifically, an experiment is performed to identify individual and interactive effects of several factors (e.g., CPU core count, memory size, solver computational rate, and input/output rate) on run time using statistical methods. Our experimental results have shown that the performance of HPC in the cloud is sufficient for the application of a large finite element analysis, and that run time can be optimized by properly selecting a configuration of CPU, memory, and interconnect.
Toward a Functional Failure Modeling Method of Representing Prognostic Systems During the Early Phases of Design
Authors: Stack Caitlin , Van Bossuyt Douglas L.
Published: January 2016

Current methods of functional failure risk analysis do not facilitate explicit modeling of systems equipped with Prognostics and Health Management (PHM) hardware. As PHM systems continue to grow in application and popularity within major complex systems industries (e.g. aerospace, automotive, civilian nuclear power plants), implementation of PHM modeling within the functional failure modeling methodologies will become useful for the early phases of complex system design and for analysis of existing complex systems. Functional failure modeling methods have been developed in recent years to assess risk in the early phases of complex system design. However, the methods of functional modeling have yet to include an explicit method for analyzing the effects of PHM systems on system failure probabilities. It is common practice within the systems health monitoring industry to design the PHM subsystems during the later stages of system design — typically after most major system architecture decisions have been made. This practice lends itself to the omission of considering PHM effects on the system during the early stages of design. This paper proposes a new method for analyzing PHM subsystems’ contribution to risk reduction in the early stages of complex system design. The Prognostic Systems Variable Configuration Comparison (PSVCC) eight-step method developed here expands upon existing methods of functional failure modeling by explicitly representing PHM subsystems. A generic pressurized water nuclear reactor primary coolant loop system is presented as a case study to illustrate the proposed method. The success of the proposed method promises more accurate modeling of complex systems equipped with PHM subsystems in the early phases of design.
Challenges in Developing a Computational Platform to Integrate Data Analytics With Simulation-Based Optimization
Authors: Li Yunpeng , Roy Utpal
Published: January 2016

The focus of the work presented in this paper is to identify and find possible solutions for major implementation challenges in designing a computational platform for integrating data analytics paradigm with the simulation-based optimization technique to facilitate the modeling of a smart manufacturing system. A simulation model of a manufacturing system generates real-time monitoring data for machine status and these data are then mined by data mining algorithms to discover hidden knowledge that might not be predefined in the simulation model. The new knowledge is then fed into the simulation model such that the model adapts and evolves, and eventually it can predict future status. This procedure involves heterogeneous modeling techniques, information exchange among different tools, as well as model composition and interaction. We extend an early presented “Hypercube” information model that was specifically developed for the purpose of formal representation of smart manufacturing systems, in order to harmonize the information required by the simulation modeling tool and the data analytics tool. A strong emphasis is given to emerging areas of multi-domain and multiscale modeling by means of integration and interoperability between existing modeling tools and technologies. A specific case study related to preventive and predictive maintenance of a typical manufacturing system has been elaborated in the paper as the initial scope and application area in order to illustrate and validate the proposed computational framework.
Integrating Rule-Based Systems and Data Analytics Tools Using Open Standard PMML
Authors: Li Yunpeng , Roy Utpal , Lee Y. Tina , Rachuri Sudarsan
Published: January 2016

Rule-based expert systems such as CLIPS (C Language Integrated Production System) are 1) based on inductive (if-then) rules to elicit domain knowledge and 2) designed to reason new knowledge based on existing knowledge and given inputs. Recently, data mining techniques have been advocated for discovering knowledge from massive historical or real-time sensor data. Combining top-down expert-driven rule models with bottom-up data-driven prediction models facilitates enrichment and improvement of the predefined knowledge in an expert system with data-driven insights. However, combining is possible only if there is a common and formal representation of these models so that they are capable of being exchanged, reused, and orchestrated among different authoring tools. This paper investigates the open standard PMML (Predictive Model Mockup Language) in integrating rule-based expert systems with data analytics tools, so that a decision maker would have access to powerful tools in dealing with both reasoning-intensive tasks and data-intensive tasks. We present a process planning use case in the manufacturing domain, which is originally implemented as a CLIPS-based expert system. Different paradigms in interpreting expert system facts and rules as PMML models (and vice versa), as well as challenges in representing and composing these models, have been explored. They will be discussed in detail.
A Simple Mechanical Model for Simulating Cross-Country Skiing Propulsive Force
Authors: Bruzzo John , Schwab A. L. , Mikkola Aki , Valkeapää Antti , Ohtonen Olli , Linnamo Vesa
Published: January 2016

In this paper, a three-dimensional multibody dynamic model of a cross-country skier is developed and presented where a single propulsion phase is modeled to obtain the kinetic parameters involved in the movement. A professional Olympic-level skier performed the skating technique without poles in a ski tunnel under controlled conditions and on an incline plane. Then, with the use of a force acquisition system attached to the ski bindings and a motion capture system set on site, the leg resultant forces and the movement of specific points of the skier’s lower body were acquired. The data obtained from the motion capture system was used as the prescribed kinematic input data in the multibody model and the measured force was used later as a comparison parameter with the results of the simple model. After simulating the technique, the calculated propulsion forces seem to be in agreement with those measured in the field.
Autonomous Electric Vehicle Sharing System Design
Authors: Kang Namwoo , Feinberg Fred M. , Papalambros Panos Y.
Published: January 2016

Car-sharing services promise “green” transportation systems. Two vehicle technologies offer marketable, sustainable sharing: Autonomous vehicles eliminate customer requirements for car pick-up and return, and battery electric vehicles entail zero-emissions. Designing an Autonomous Electric Vehicle (AEV) fleet must account for the relationships among fleet operations, charging station operations, electric powertrain performance, and consumer demand. This paper presents a system design optimization framework integrating four sub-system problems: Fleet size and assignment schedule; number and locations of charging stations; vehicle powertrain requirements; and service fees. A case study for an autonomous fleet operating in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is used to examine AEV sharing system profitability and feasibility for a variety of market scenarios.
Study of Occupant Safety and Airbag Deployment Time
Authors: Yang Steven , Lardner Kristian , El-Gindy Moustafa
Published: January 2016

This paper presents the use of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software in recreating a full frontal barrier impact test with a 50th percentile male hybrid III dummy to investigate various passenger vehicle airbag deployment times for the development of an airbag trigger sensor. Results for the physical full frontal barrier impact test where prepared by MGA Research Corporation with a 2007 Toyota Yaris. Using a nonlinear transient dynamic FEA software, a virtual full frontal barrier impact test was created to reproduce the physical results and trends experienced in the physical crash test found in a report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) 5677. The results of the simulation were compared to the results of the physical crash which produced similar trends, but not the same values. The simulation was then used in testing different passenger vehicle airbag deployment times to see its results on specific occupant injury criteria’s; Head Injury Criterion (HIC), Chest Compression Criterion (CC). Four different vehicle speeds where used; 20 km/h, 40 km/h, 56 km/h, and 90 km/h in conjunction with a range of +/− 6 milliseconds in the airbag deployment timing. Results of the airbag deployment timing showed that trends of faster airbag deployment times resulted in lower values for HIC and CC. Following these trends, suggestions for airbag deployment trigger distances were developed to aid in creation of an advanced airbag deployment sensor or crash sensor. While the simulation has yet to be validated, the trends may be assessed and actual values may differ.
Towards Crack Trajectory Identification via the Direct Strain Imaging Method
Authors: Iliopoulos Athanasios , Michopoulos John G.
Published: January 2016

In this paper we present an investigation on the feasibility of exploiting the Direct Strain Imaging (DSI) method for the purpose of tracking propagating discontinuities on the surface of a deformable body under mechanical load. The proposed approach is based on a strain compatibility functional that does not require any assumptions about the continuity conditions of the underlying medium. The proposed approach is based on the recently introduced Direct Strain Imaging method that is used to identify with high accuracy the full fields of strain tensor components that are required to define the strain compatibility functional. We performed synthetic numerical experiments based on the exercising the eXtended Finite Element Method solution for simulating a propagating crack of a particular problem in order to assess the feasibility and potential of the proposed approach. We demonstrated that indeed our DSI-based approach can achieve a very accurate determination of the crack trajectory even under noisy conditions.
Towards Identification of Lower Scale Composite Material Properties From Higher Scale Experimental Data via Inverse Analysis of Coupled Multiscale Models
Authors: Komninelli Foteini , Iliopoulos Athanasios , Michopoulos John G.
Published: January 2016

In the present paper we demonstrate the application of a multiscale inverse methodology for identifying material properties of the constituents of a selected composite material with long fibers embedded in a polymer matrix by utilizing macro-scale experimental data. Taking advantage of a computational homogenization technique for periodic microstructures, the proposed optimization methodology allows, for the determination of a considerable number of the elastic properties of the composite material at the micro-scale of the constituents and their interface zone. Our approach describes the theoretical development and numerical implementation of a multi-scale modeling chain of the composite, extending from the periodic microstructure represented by a suitable unit cell and subjected to appropriate periodic boundary conditions at the micro scale, to the composite lamina at the meso-scale, to the laminated, multi-axially loaded material at the macro-scale. By applying the proposed methodology, we have been able to accurately calculate several fiber, matrix properties by utilizing properly generated synthetic data of the macro-scale behavior of the composite laminate. Furthermore, in an effort to explore the potential of our method for identifying quantities that manifest only after manufacturing including damage quantities at the micro-scale, we have initiated an effort to explore the capability of determining fiber-matrix interfacial properties and have demonstrated initial success.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Problem Formulation and Ideation Skills Learned Throughout an Engineering Design Course
Authors: Dinar Mahmoud , Park Yong-Seok , Shah Jami J.
Published: January 2016

Conventional syllabi of engineering design courses either do not pay enough attention to conceptual design skills, or they lack an objective assessment of those skills to show students’ progress. During a semester-long course of advanced engineering product design, we assigned three major design projects to twenty five students. For each project we asked them to formulate the problems in the Problem Formulator web-based testbed. In addition, we collected sketches for all three design problems, feasibility analyses for the last two, and a working prototype for the final project. We report the students’ problem formulation and ideation in terms of a set of nine problem formulation characteristics and ASU’s ideation effectiveness metrics respectively. We discuss the limitations that the choice of the design problems caused, and how the progress of a class of students during a semester-long design course resulted in a convergence in sets of metrics that we have defined to characterize problem formulation and ideation. We also review the results of students of a similar course which we reported last year in order to find common trends.
Design and Topology Optimization of Lattice Structures Using Deformable Implicit Surfaces for Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Arisoy Erhan Batuhan , Musuvathy Suraj , Mirabella Lucia , Slavin Edward
Published: January 2016

Additive manufacturing (AM) enables creation of objects with complex internal lattice structures for functional, aesthetic, structural and fabrication considerations. Several approaches for lattice generation and optimization, and their implementations in commercial systems exist. However, these commercial systems are typically independent from a CAD system, and therefore introduces workflow complexities for product lifecycle management. In this paper, we present a unified computer-aided framework for design, computer-aided engineering analysis (CAE) of solids with lattice structures, and freeform topology optimization within the CAD system that enables a seamless workflow. The proposed framework takes as input a solid CAD model and enables rapid generation of different lattice structures as repeated arrangements of lattice template shapes that replace input solid volume. Generated internal patterns are further optimized through freeform modifications to improve structural characteristics of the input model. Lattice modeling and optimization is performed using discrete implicit surface representations for the ease in representing complex topologies and performing modeling and freeform deformation operations. The output of the proposed framework is a polygonal represenatation of the lattified model ready for 3D printing. We have implemented our framework as a plugin to the Siemens PLM NX software system and examples are demonstrated for typical products in aerospace, medical and automotive industries.
Stochastic Optimization of the Repair Shops Location Problem Using Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Sharafi Masoud , Afshari Hamid , ElMekkawy Tarek Y. , Sleptchenko Andrei V. , Peng Qingjin
Published: January 2016

The optimization of facility location decisions is critical for the success of a supply chain in a market since it can contribute to long-term performance of the supply chain. In the last two decades, the number of research in this field has been growing to address more realistic problems such as incorporating uncertainties in repair time and demand. In this paper, a particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO) is employed to locate repair shops in a stochastic environment. The problem aim is to decide about the location and the capacity of local repair shops as well as identifying the capacity of central repair shop to minimize total expected cost. It is assumed that customers select the closest local repair shop. In the local repair shops, services are available to repair customer’s broken items and a number of spare parts are stored to supply customers’ needs. Additionally, each repair shop is allowed to open some servers, depending on the number of customers, to serve its customers. If a stock-out happens, a customer should wait until the part is repaired in that shop. When a local repair shop is unable to repair a part, the part is sent to the central repair shop to be repaired. The central repair shop follows similar strategy for spare part inventory. The contribution of this paper is to employ a meta-heuristic solution approach based on particle swarm optimization for locating repair shops problem. In order to evaluate the performance of the employed solutions approach, its result is compared to other methods and differences are highlighted.
Impact of Gasoline and Natural Gas Prices on Capacity Planning for Automakers and Electricity Generators Under GHG Emission Constraints
Authors: Chen Boxiao , Chao Xiuli , Fu Yan , Strumolo Margaret , Tamor Michael A.
Published: January 2016

Both automakers and electricity generators are facing increasingly more stringent greenhouse gas (GHG) emission targets. With the introduction of plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles, the transportation and electricity generation sectors become connected. This provides an opportunity for both sectors to work jointly to achieve cost efficient reduction of CO2 emissions. Due to the low cost and low carbon content of natural gas (NG), NG enabled vehicles are drawing increasing attention. With GHG targets rapidly decreasing, how to judiciously choose among plug-in hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, NG-enabled vehicles, and gasoline vehicles to save societal cost is worth serious consideration. On the other hand, gasoline and NG prices play an important role in this decision-making process. In order to estimate the impact of gasoline and NG prices and quantify the benefit of the collaboration between automakers and electricity generators, an optimization model is developed to evaluate the total societal cost and CO2 emissions for both sectors. Various scenario analyses are conducted to understand the cost and capacity planning differences when gasoline and NG prices vary while the two sectors can work jointly or independently to meet the CO2 emission constraints. These results help us understand the impact of gasoline and NG prices in achieving GHG reduction targets for the two major sectors of CO2 emissions in the United States.