bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Manufacturing Process Evaluation Under Uncertainty: A Hierarchical Bayesian Network Approach
Authors: Nannapaneni Saideep , Mahadevan Sankaran
Published: December 2016

This paper proposes a Hierarchical Bayesian Network (HBN) approach to estimate the uncertainty in performance prediction of manufacturing processes by aggregating the uncertainty arising from multiple models at multiple levels. A HBN is an extension of a Bayesian network (BN) for modeling hierarchical or multi-level systems where each node may represent a lower-level BN. The BNs at different levels can be constructed either using physics-based models or available data or by a hybrid approach through a combination of physics-based models and data. An improved BN learning algorithm is presented where the topology is learnt using an existing algorithm but different parametric and non-parametric models are fit to represent the conditional probabilities. Data for model calibration may be available at multiple levels such as at the unit process level or line level or sometimes at the factory level. Using all the data for calibration can be computationally expensive; therefore, a multi-level segmented approach for model calibration is developed. The injection molding process is used to demonstrate the proposed methodologies for uncertainty prediction in its energy consumption.
Nonlinear Phase-Based Oscillator to Generate and Assist Periodic Motions
Authors: De la Fuente Juan , Sugar Thomas G. , Redkar Sangram , Bates Andrew R.
Published: December 2016

Oscillatory behavior is important for tasks such as walking and running. We are developing methods to add energy to enhance or vary the oscillatory behavior based on the system’s phase angle. We define a nonlinear oscillator using a forcing function based on the sine and cosine of the system’s phase angle that can modulate the amplitude and frequency of oscillation. The stability of the system is proved using the Poincaré-Bendixson criterion. Linear and rotational mechanical systems are simulated using our phase controller. The method is implemented and tested to control a pendulum. Lastly, we propose how to assist hip motion during walking using the phase-based forcing function.
Design and Mobility Analysis of Large Deployable Mechanisms Based on Plane-Symmetric Bricard Linkage
Authors: Qi Xiaozhi , Li Bing , Miao Zhihuai , Huang Hailin
Published: December 2016

In this paper, a class of large deployable mechanisms constructed by plane-symmetric Bricard linkage is presented. The plane-symmetric Bricard linkage is a closed-loop over-constrained spatial mechanism composed of six hinge-jointed bars, which has one plane of symmetry during its deployment process. The kinematic analysis of the linkage is presented from the perspectives of geometric conditions, closure equations and degree of freedom. The results illustrates that the linkage has one degree of freedom, and it can be deployed from the folded configuration to one rectangle plane. Therefore, the plane-symmetric Bricard linkage can be used to construct lager deployable mechanism as basic deployable unit. Four plane-symmetric Bricard linkages can be assembled to a quadrangular module by sharing the vertical bars of adjacent units. The module is a multi-loop deployable mechanism and has one degree of freedom by the mobility analysis. Large deployable mast, deployable plane truss and deployable ring are built by a plurality of plane-symmetric Bricard linkages. The computer-aided design models for typical examples are built to illustrate their feasibility and validate the analysis and design methods.
Fast Variational Design Based on a Master Model Generated From Part Model Series
Authors: Zheng Qiqiang , Zhang Shuting , Gao Shuming , Wang Chao
Published: December 2016

Variational design is an efficient method for product design; statistics indicates that about 70% of product design is attributed to variational design. It is of vital importance for enterprises to achieve a complex new product through variational design while reusing the previous part model series, which can mostly improve their capability and efficiency of product design and development. Therefore, this paper puts forward an efficient variational design method based on a master model which is automatically generated from a part model series. Using the method, the designers can easily and efficiently create a new part from the master model only through feature selection and parameter modification. In this way, the work of the designers can be greatly alleviated and the design time can be greatly reduced. Experimental results show that the proposed method is effective.
A Fully Compliant Force Balanced Oscillator
Authors: Weeke Sybren L. , Tolou Nima , Semon Guy , Herder Just L.
Published: December 2016

Usage of compliant micro mechanical oscillators has increased in recent years, due to their reliable performance despite the growing demand for miniaturization. However, ambient vibrations affect the momentum of the oscillator, causing inaccuracy, malfunction or even failure of these devices. herefore, this paper presents a compliant force balanced mechanism comprising at least a prismatic joint, thereby creating the opportunity for usage of prismatic oscillators in translational accelerating environments. The proposed mechanism entails the symmetric displacement of two coplanar prismatic joints along non-collinear axes via a shape optimized linkage system. Rigid-body replacement with shape optimized X-bob, Q-LITF and LITF joints yielded a harmonic (R>0.999), low frequency (f = 27 Hz) single piece force balanced micro mechanical oscillator (∅35 mm). Experimental evaluation of large scale prototypes showed a limited ratio of the center of mass compared to the stroke of the device (≈0.01) and proper decoupling of the mechanism from the base, as the oscillating frequency of the balanced devices during ambient disturbances was unaffected, whereas unbalanced devices had frequency deviations up to 1.6%. Moreover, the balanced device reduced the resultant inertial forces transmitted to the base by 95%.
Improving Novelty and Quality During Introductory Mechanical Design Competitions
Authors: Faas Daniela , Gong Shuya
Published: December 2016

This study explores whether changing design objectives during introductory mechanical engineering courses would improve design novelty and quality when these courses offer a competition element. Design fixation can occur when students are presented with the same design objective because the institutionalized “best” solutions are transferred from semester to semester and student to student. Design competitions are a popular way to teach the design and construction components, often with a focus on robotics. Some competitions are newly designed and rebuilt every single semester, requiring advanced planning and often high budgets. Others reuse a similar competition from year to year without any changes to the design objectives. This paper tries to answer whether or not students are building more novel designs when the competition changes from semester to semester. In this study, robots from four different configurations for a design-and-build activity were analyzed. The unchanged design prompt and 3 semesters of different design prompts were included in the study. The evaluations of the robots were based on the performance of the robots, the type and quality of the designs, and the relationship between the design competition and the robots. Results from this study suggest that changing design objectives (i.e. challenges found in a robotic competition) allows for a wider variation in the designs. While the average novelty did not change, students were no longer limited to and fixated on a very small range of designs.
Geometrically Nonlinear Transient Response of Laminated Plates With Nonlinear Viscoelastic Restraints
Authors: Yang Shao-Chong , Yang Qing-Sheng
Published: December 2016

In this work, geometrically nonlinear transient response of laminated plates with nonlinear viscoelastic restraints is investigated by a numerical method, in the computational platform - MSC.Nastran. The variable constraining forces as functions of dynamic displacements and velocities are added to the right-hand side of equation of motion as additional applied loads. These loads are represented by an independent set of functions that satisfy the various constraint conditions for specific cases. The nonlinear equations are solved by using the load increments scheme in conjunction with Newton-Raphson iteration. The time history of transverse displacement at a typical point is given through a series of transient analysis. Then the comparisons of the responses for different parameters of the Kelvin-Voigt model and boundary conditions are made. The numerical results show that the present method is validated to be effective for treating geometrically nonlinear transient problems with nonlinear viscoelastic restraints.
Customizing Experience: How Can We Develop It?
Authors: Fukuda Shuichi
Published: December 2016

This paper points out that we are now moving into the age of self-actualization, which Maslow proposed as the highest needs of humans. Therefore, we have to consider how we can engage our customers in our engineering. Just as web technology moved from Web 1.0 to Web 2.0, we have to consider moving from Engineering 1.0 to Engineering 2.0. Although User Experience opened our eyes to the importance of the value of processes, we should not look at our customers just as product users. They are not passive users, but they are very active and would like to externalize their intrinsic motivations. That is why they are called customers. If we develop a new industry framework which allows interchanges of modules/parts across products and industries, we can customize their experience and they can feel the joy of self-determination, self-growth, achievement and fulfillment, just as we do when we play with Lego.
Kinematics Analysis of a Snake Robot Module Using Screw Theory
Authors: Xiao Qing , Cao Zhengcai , Dai Jian S.
Published: December 2016

A natural snake can navigate lots of diverse environments owing to their extreme agility and hyper-redundancy. However, earlier snake robot designs are inadequate to imitate the living snake locomotion comprehensively, since the deficiency of mobility in each single module. The application of parallel mechanism in snake robot can provide considerable dexterity and support-ability to overcome the aforementioned drawback. This paper presents a bionic parallel module for snake robot inspired by the anatomy of biological snake. To generate four distinct gaits of living snake, three motion screws of the mechanism are obtained via mobility analysis. Further, a kinematic model of this mechanism is investigated by reciprocal screw and Lie algebra aimed to evaluate the kinematic performance in an efficient and accurate scheme, which facilitates real-time motion control. Finally, a numerical result using this method is supplied, and its effectiveness is corroborated by kinematic simulation of ADAMS.
Review of Brake-by-Wire System Used in Modern Passenger Car
Authors: Yu Liangyao , Liu Xiaohui , Xie Zejin , Chen Yi
Published: December 2016

As an important component in brake systems, the Brake-by-Wire system has attracted great attention recently with the development of emerging energy vehicle and modern passenger cars. The main feature of the Brake-by-Wire system, in contrast to the conventional braking system, is the elimination of the dependence of the vacuum booster on engine vacuum through decoupling of the brake pedal and the brake actuator. The influences from road surface to the driver’s brake feeling can also be eliminated by employment of a brake pedal simulator. The Brake-by-Wire system can greatly improve the automotive safety performance of modern passenger cars, including response time, control capability and stability. As much as the system shows great promise, drawbacks should be addressed as well. For example, design theories on system structure, reliable control strategies, high energy consumption, the modeling of global Brake-by-Wire non-linear dynamic system, poor working conditions and high maintenance costs are major concerns.

This paper aims to provide a timely and comprehensive review on the state-of-the-art Brake-by-Wire system used in modern passenger cars. Variety of major components are compared in order to get a more reliable and lower energy consumption system, which includes actuators, pedal simulators and backup brake systems. Researches on control strategies as well as future research direction of Brake-by-Wire system are also discussed.
Simulation-Based Study of Impact Energy Absorption in American Football Helmet
Authors: Ahmadisoleymani Seyed Saeed , Yang James , Schmit Andrew , Rasty Jahan
Published: December 2016

Concussion injury limits the American football player’s career life and causes several long term problems. In order to limit its severity and frequency, various helmets have been designed to protect player’s head. This absorbency is mainly achieved by the padding system inside the helmet which includes energy absorbing and comfort foams and inflatable air surrounding the foams. In a recent study an experiment was performed on a Riddell Youth Revolution Speed helmet to analyze the effect of the head size on capability of the helmet in attenuating the impacts. It was found that headform size would affect the helmet performance. In the current study, a three dimensional finite element (FE) model has been developed based on the above mentioned experiment. The purpose of this study is to develop and validate the FE model based on the experimental results, regarding the effect of headform size on performance of the helmet.
Integrating Model-Based Design and Physical Design Evaluation for Improved Design Education
Authors: Deshmukh Anand P. , Mitchell Marlon E. , Allison James T.
Published: December 2016

This article presents the development, deployment, and assessment of a hands-on curriculum module for a senior-level course in component design at the Industrial and Enterprise Systems Engineering department at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. In this course students learn how to design engineering systems using gears, bearings, springs, steel structures, and other components. The course has traditionally included a semester group project where students apply their component design knowledge to a realistic design application, helping to further solidify and integrate their design knowledge. In recent years the project has centered on the design of a trailing arm automotive suspension system with components that interact in complicated ways. Students are expected to follow a rigorous engineering design process and support their design decisions with thorough engineering analysis. Until recently this project was limited to virtual analyses and design solutions; the connection between these design solutions and physical realization was an obvious gap in the project experience. This project was revised to incorporate a targeted hands-on curriculum module, which was introduced in fall 2014. Objectives of this module include helping students gain experience with the ‘media’ of engineering design, and to help students connect analytical and simulation-based studies with the corresponding physical system. The implemented module is a two-part activity in which students design a suspension system using model-based design techniques (in Matlab), followed by physical testing and further analysis using a specially built physically reconfigurable suspension testbed. This testbed allows students to test unique designs rapidly, observe real-time dynamic system performance, and to analyze the difference between simulated and physical test results. Through this activity we gauge students’ attitudes towards traditional theoretical and paper-based design activities versus the hands-on module. We also work to answer the question: “to what extent does a project-based curriculum module influence student experiences and conceptual understanding of engineering design?” through systematic student surveys designed around this new hands-on curriculum module.
Abstracting Failure Case Database Information for Detecting Failure Mode
Authors: Iino Kenji , Nakao Masayuki
Published: December 2016

Industrial accidents continue to happen despite rapid technological advancement and they are often caused by triggers similar to those of past accidents. If we turn our eyes to the world, especially to the emerging industrial players, we hear news about accidents caused by phenomena that have already caused similar accidents elsewhere.

Industries, as they emerge and grow over hundreds of years, learn their lessons throughout their histories and build rules, regulations, and common knowledge to avoid accidents. Each industry is probably well aware of accidents that took place in its own country, especially when the accident led to enforcement of a new law. Nevertheless, we hardly have any knowledge of accidents in foreign countries unless they were of huge sizes.

Japan had a national project of building a database of knowledge and lessons learned from past accidents. Failure Knowledge Database (FKDB) went on the Web in 2005. As of today it still attracts a large number of readers with its over 1,600 failure cases. Our research is targeted at making use of this FKDB by abstracting the knowledge, especially what triggered the accidents, and comparing the knowledge with functional and structural elements used in new designs.

Design Record Graph (DRG) is a graphical representation of the designer’s intension starting from the left with the product functional requirement which iteratively divides into sub-functions to reach a set of functional elements (FE). Each FE maps to a structural element (SE). Then the SEs iteratively combine to form assemblies and finally the product at the right end. A failure starts from one of the FE-SE pairs and propagates the DRG in both left and right directions to reach the two ends. The propagation leaves a trace of how the point of failure led to disabling the product.

For each failure case in FKDB, we identified the origin of failure, the FE-SE pair that started the accident. An FE is abstracted by a verb phrase and a set of noun phrases, and similarly an SE with some noun phrases. By limiting the phrases to use, similar concepts are described by the same abstracted phrases.

A new design has a number of FE-SE pairs and their propagations in the DRG to reach the two ends. The designer can then compare all propagations in the design, without the knowledge if any of them are dangerous, with those in FKDB that are known to have led to accidents.

We developed quantitative operators to evaluate the similarity between two traces. Our results offer a way of warning the designer about possible flaws in a new design similar with causes of past accidents that the designer has no idea about. Our method of preventing design failure can apply to other fields for novice planners in avoiding failure while still in the planning stage. We can further develop the use of knowledge into overseas countries by mapping the limited number of verb and noun phrases into foreign language.
Bifurcation Tree of Period-1 Motion to Chaos in a Pendulum With Periodic Excitation
Authors: Guo Yu , Luo Albert C. J.
Published: December 2016

In this paper, the bifurcation trees of period-1 motions to chaos are presented in a periodically driven pendulum. Discrete implicit maps are obtained through a mid-time scheme. Using these discrete maps, mapping structures are developed to describe different types of motions. Analytical bifurcation trees of periodic motions to chaos are obtained through the nonlinear algebraic equations of such implicit maps. Eigenvalue analysis is carried out for stability and bifurcation analysis of the periodic motions. Finally, numerical simulation results of various periodic motions are illustrated in verification to the analytical prediction. Harmonic amplitude characteristics are also be presented.
Kinematic-Mapping Based Solution to Various Mixed-Exact-and-Approximated Problem in Planar Motion Synthesis
Authors: Zhao Ping , Li Xiangyun , Zi Bin , Ge Q. J.
Published: December 2016

The design of mechanisms that lead a rigid-body through a set of prescribed discrete poses is usually referred to as “motion synthesis”. In practical motion synthesis cases, aside of realizing a set of given poses, various types of geometric constraint conditions could also require to be satisfied, e.g. defining the coordinates of the center/circle points of dyad linkages, setting the ground line/coupler line for four-bar linkages, realization of additional task positions, etc. Some of these constraint conditions require to be realized exactly while others might allow approximation. To solve this mixed-exact-and-approximated problem, this paper proposed a kinematic-mapping-based approach, which builds on the previous work of the realization of an arbitrary number of approximated poses as well as up to four exact poses. We now have found that the aforementioned various types of constraint conditions could be converted to each other through a general linear constraint equation. Thus, those “approximated conditions” could be uniformly converted to several prescribed discrete poses so as to be formulated as a general approximated motion synthesis problem, which is actually a general quadratic surface fitting problem in kinematic-mapping space, while up to four “exact conditions” could be imposed as linear constraint equations to this surface fitting system such that they could be exactly realized. Through null-space analysis technique, both type and dimensions of the resulting optimal dyad linkages could be determined by the solution of this surface-fitting problem with constraints. These optimal dyads could then be implemented as different types of four-bar linkages or parallel manipulators.
Design and Analysis of a Sliding Panel Shape Morphing Mechanism System
Authors: Yu Aaron , Xi Fengfeng (Jeff)
Published: December 2016

A sliding panel shape morphing mechanism system is proposed. The said system is constructed by a number of segmented rigid panels that are allowed to slide relative to each other during shape morphing. In this paper, a method is presented for the design and analysis of the said system using a hexapod as a general-purpose driving system with six degrees-of-freedom. First, it is shown that a proper passive linkage system is required to connect a set of sliding panels to the base and moving platform of the hexapod. Each panel is made of a telescopic pair in the longitudinal direction and connected transversally with two adjacent panels through slots. Second, after modeling the entire system and formulating the constraints among the sliding panels, a search method is presented to determine the solutions that all the sliding panels can move without interference under a given hexapod motion. Further studies are also carried out to examine different shapes of the base and moving platform as well as different number of panels that can approximate a real application system, such as a morphing wing.
On the Stability of Permanent Rotations of a Chain of Two Lagrange Gyrostats in a Central Gravitational Field
Authors: Chebanov Dmitriy , Salas Jose A.
Published: December 2016

In this paper we study the problem of the motion of a two-gyrostat chain about a fixed point in a central gravitational field. We assume that the mass distribution of each gyrostat is analogous to the one of a Lagrange top, the gyrostatic moment of each gyrostat is constant relative to its carrier, and the center of a spherical joint connecting the gyrostats belongs to their dynamic symmetry axes. We establish and analyze sufficient conditions for stability of the chain’s permanent rotations about a vertical axis. Our findings extend corresponding results in the dynamics of a single gyrostat to a case of the two-gyrostat chain as well as generalize some of the known properties of permanent rotations in the many-body dynamics.
Spray-Formed Hybrid-Field Electric Motor
Authors: Hosek Martin , Krishnasamy Jayaraman , Sah Sripati , Bashaw Taylor
Published: December 2016

A new class of electric motors with hybrid-field topology is introduced. Departing from conventional radial- or axial-field designs, the motors feature three-dimensional magnetic flux paths, which are enabled by an advanced isotropic soft magnetic material produced by a unique additive-manufacturing process based on spray forming. The motors provide considerably higher power output (40% higher power density) and improved energy efficiency (up to 15% lower losses) compared to the state of the art. A prototype spray-formed hybrid-field motor has been designed and constructed, and the size, power and efficiency benefits have been demonstrated.
A MATLAB Code for Integrated Additive Manufacturing and Level-Set Based Topology Optimization
Authors: Vogiatzis Panagiotis , Chen Shikui , Zhou Chi
Published: December 2016

Since topology optimization has become an important part of the design procedure, various optimization methods have been developed through the years. One of the promising options is the use of level-set based topology optimization method. In this method, the design is the zero level of a one higher dimension level-set function Φ. The benefit of this alternative method is that the final design is characterized by its clear boundaries. This advantage is based on the fact that post-processing work is not needed on the final design and it can be directly sent to the manufacturing line. The designers, in order to visualize their innovative results, often build prototypes using 3D printers, given that the designs may have complicated features. Furthermore, cost permitting, 3D printing can also be considered for mass customization. Either way, the result of the optimization has to be translated to a file that 3D printers can recognize. In this paper, the authors have developed a MATLAB code that can be integrated in the topology optimization procedure and convert the design to an STL file (STereoLithography), which is the de facto format for 3D printing.
Positioning Control of a Flexible Slewing Structure by Applying Sliding Mode Control
Authors: Janzen Frederic Conrad , Tusset Angelo Marcelo , Balthazar Jose Manoel
Published: December 2016

This work presents the angular positioning control of a flexible beam like structure connected to the shaft of a DC (Direct Current) motor. The coupling between the flexible structure and the DC motor is considered as not ideal being that the structure model considers three vibration modes. A non-linearity known as death zone is included in the DC motor model. To control the angular position a Sliding mode controller is proposed and the influence of the control gains is analyzed numerically.

Numerical simulations will be presented to demonstrate the application of the sliding modes technic in order to control the positioning of the flexible link by controlling the DC motor armor current.
Design and Analysis of a Miniature Modular Inchworm Robot
Authors: Saab Wael , Kumar Anil , Ben-Tzvi Pinhas
Published: December 2016

This paper presents the design and analysis of a bioinspired miniature modular Inchworm robot. Inchworm robots play crucial roles in surveillance, exploration and search and rescue operations where maneuvering in confined spaces is required. Rectilinear gaits have been demonstrated with favorable results in terms of stability and small size due to the absence of wheels and tracks; however, exhibit slow speeds. The proposed mechanism utilizes undulatory rectilinear gait motion through linear expansion/contraction of modules and anisotropic friction skin to produce pure linear motion. The use of anisotropic friction skin results in a simple, low cost, miniature mechanical structure. Friction analysis of the anisotropic material is performed and the system is modeled to derive its equations of motion. Modeling and simulation results are validated through experiments performed with an integrated prototype. Results indicate that the robot can achieves an average forward velocity of 11 mm/s on various surfaces.
Design and Analysis of a Discrete Modular Serpentine Robotic Tail for Improved Performance of Mobile Robots
Authors: Saab Wael , Ben-Tzvi Pinhas
Published: December 2016

This paper presents the design and analysis of a novel Discrete Modular Serpentine Tail for mobile legged robotic systems. These systems often require an inertial appendage to generate forces and moments to provide a means of improved performance in terms of stabilization, maneuvering and dynamic self-righting in addition to enhancing manipulation capabilities. The majority of existing tail designs consist of planar pendulums that limit improved performance to specific planes due to limited articulation. The proposed system consists of a modular two degree of freedom, spatial mechanism constructed from rigid segments actuated by cable tension and displacements whose curvatures are dependent on a multi-diameter pulley. Modules can be interconnected in series to achieve multiple spatial curvatures; thus, can bring about multi-planar improved performance and enhanced manipulation capabilities to the overall robotic system. First, the detailed design is presented after which the forward kinematics of the mechanism is derived to analyze both the kinematic coupling between the segments and the influence between the ratio of segment lengths and pulley diameters. The equations of motion are derived and modified due to cable tension driving segments and are used to determine torque requirements of the system to aid the design process for motor selection. Multi-objective optimal kinematic synthesis is then formulated and presented as a case study for synthesizing physical dimensions of the mechanism to achieve the best fit of user defined tail curvatures.
On-Board Analysis of Degradation Mechanisms of Lithium-Ion Battery Using Differential Voltage Analysis
Authors: Hu Chao , Hong Mingyi , Li Yifei , Jeong Ha-Lim
Published: December 2016

Reliability of lithium-ion (Li-ion) rechargeable batteries has been recognized as of high importance from a broad range of stakeholders, including manufacturers of battery-powered devices, regulatory agencies, researchers and the general public. Failures of Li-ion batteries could result in enormous economic losses and catastrophic events. To enable early identification and resolution of reliability issues and proactive prevention of failures, it is important to be able to diagnose, in a quantitative manner, degradation mechanisms of individual battery cells while the cells are in operation. This paper proposes a methodological framework for on-board quantitative analysis of degradation mechanisms of Li-ion battery using differential voltage analysis. In the framework, the task of on-board degradation analysis is decomposed into two phases: 1) offline high precision characterization of half-cell differential voltage (dV/dQ) behavior, which collects high precision voltage (V) and capacity (Q) data from positive and negative electrode half-cells; and 2) online (on-board) quantitative analysis of degradation mechanisms, which adopts recursive Bayesian filtering to online estimate degradation parameters based on measurement of full-cell dV/dQ curve. These degradation parameters quantify the degrees of degradation from the mechanisms. Simulation results obtained from LiCoO2/graphite Li-ion cells verify the effectiveness of the proposed framework in online estimation of the degradation parameters.
Design Roadmapping: A Framework and Case Study of Planning Development of High-Tech Products in Silicon Valley
Authors: Kim Euiyoung , Chung Jaewoo , Beckman Sara , Agogino Alice M.
Published: December 2016

We propose a framework for Design Roadmapping that parallels existing product roadmapping and technology roadmapping processes. It leverages three needs we have observed in organizations as they use existing roadmapping processes: (1) to focus on development of customer and user experiences, not just on features; (2) to increase engagement of designers early in the planning process; and (3) to provide a means for rapidly responding to changes in the environment. Design Roadmapping is an attempt to reconcile differences that arise when customer/user needs are not considered simultaneously with technology choices. The proposed Design Roadmapping process assists project prioritization and selection. The process aggregates design experience elements along a timeline that associates key user needs with the products, services and/or systems the organization wishes to deliver. To illustrate the Design Roadmapping process, we conducted a case study in which we applied the Design Roadmapping process to projects undertaken by a large corporation’s innovation lab located in research centers in San Francisco and Mountain View, California, in partnership with corporate stakeholders located in Asia. The five-step Design Roadmapping procedure is provided along with detailed information. The decisions from the Design Roadmapping process have been incorporated into the company’s commercial plans. Key findings in this corporate case study bolster the positive impact of the Design Roadmapping in moving strategic thinking from a technology/feature-driven process to one that is design/experience-driven. It shows how firms might weigh choices between user needs, design principles and technological innovation.
Gear Fault Detection With the Energy Operator and its Variants
Authors: Mayo Elise , Liang Ming , Baddour Natalie
Published: December 2016

Vibration analysis is currently the most efficient, non-invasive way to monitor the condition of the gears. Faults in gears can be of two distinct types, distributed or local. Many fault detection methods are effective for one type of fault or the other but not both. Also, many methods have the inconvenience that they are not simple and/or require initial information about the state of gear. In this paper, several methods are proposed with the objective of finding a filter-free, simple and efficient method for the detection of both types of faults. The calculus enhanced energy operator (CEEO), previously designed for fault detection in bearings, is proposed here for the first time on gears. Two new methods, the EO123 and EO23, based on the original energy operator are also proposed and evaluated. All the proposed methods are filter free, computationally simple and can handle a certain level of noise and interference. With the exception of low rotational frequencies of the gears, it is demonstrated via simulated and experimentally obtained signals that the CEEO method can handle noise better than the other proposed methods and that the EO23 method can handle interference better than the others. Different conditions determine the effectiveness of the methods.
A Goal Oriented, Sequential Process Design of a Multi-Stage Hot Rod Rolling System
Authors: Nellippallil Anand Balu , Song Kevin N. , Goh Chung-Hyun , Zagade Pramod , Gautham B. P. , Allen Janet K. , Mistree Farrokh
Published: December 2016

The steel manufacturing process is characterized by the requirement of expeditious development of high quality products at low cost through effective and judicious use of available resources. Identifying solutions that meet the conflicting commercially imperative goals of such process chains is hard using traditional search techniques. The complexity embedded in such a problem increases due to the presence of large number of design variables, constraints and bounds, conflicting goals and the complex sequential relationships of the different stages of manufacturing. A classic example of such a manufacturing problem is the design of a rolling system for manufacturing a steel rod. This is a sequential process in which information flows from first rolling stage/pass to last rolling pass and the decisions made at first pass influence the decisions that are made at the later passes.

In this paper, we present a method based on well-established empirical models and response surface models developed through simulation experiments (finite element based) along with the compromise Decision Support Problem (cDSP) construct to support integrated information flow across different stages of a multi-stage hot rod rolling system. The method is goal-oriented because the design decisions are first made based on the end requirements identified for the process at the last rolling pass and these decisions are then passed to rolling passes that precede following the sequential order in an inverse manner to design the entire rolling process chain. We illustrate the efficacy of the method by carrying out the design of a multi-stage rolling system. We formulate the cDSP for the second and fourth pass of a four pass rolling chain. The stages are designed by sequentially passing the design information obtained after exercising the cDSP for the last pass for different scenarios and identifying the best combination of design variables that satisfies the conflicting goals. The cDSP for second pass helps in integrated information flow from fourth to first pass and in meeting specified goals imposed by the fourth and third pass designed. The end goals identified for this problem for fourth pass are minimization of ovality (quality) of rod, maximization of throughput (productivity) and minimization of rolling load (performance and cost). The method can be instantiated for other multi-stage manufacturing processes such as the steel making process chain having several unit operations. In future, we plan to use the method for supporting decision workflow in steel making process by formulating cDSPs for the multiple unit operations involved and linking them as a decision network using coupled cDSPs.
Pressurized Origami Structure for Programmable Negative and Quasi-Zero Stiffness
Authors: Li Suyi , Wang K. W.
Published: December 2016

This research investigates the nonlinear pressure-induced stiffness characteristics of an origami structure associated to its large amplitude folding. Such structure consists of origami tubes that are formed by stacking and connecting Miura-Ori sheets along their crease lines, so that one can apply pressure to achieve autonomous folding and generate stiffness. We show that the stacked origami can exhibit two unique stiffness characteristics due to the nonlinear relationships between the internal pressure and folding deformation, as well as the interactions between pressurized tubes. One characteristic is negative stiffness, and the other is quasi-zero stiffness (QZS). Both of these stiffness characteristics are programmable by tailoring the Miura-Ori crease design, and controllable by adjusting the pressurization. This research would uncover the physical principles behind these stiffness characteristics, provide design guidelines, and discuss the potentials of developing the stacked origami into an adaptive structure with multiple and embedded dynamic functionalities.
Synthesizing Planar Rigid-Body Chains for Morphometric Applications
Authors: Li Bingjue , Murray Andrew P. , Myszka David H. , Subsol Gérard
Published: December 2016

Morphometrics is a quantitative analysis to compare a set of geometric representations of forms, including shape and size. Analysis of shape variation is useful in systematics, evolutionary biology, biostratigraphy, and developmental biology. Distinguished by the data being analyzed, three forms of morphometrics are commonly recognized. Traditional morphometrics measures the lengths, ratios, angles, etc., of patterns of shape variations. Outline-based morphometrics analyzes the outlines of forms using open or closed curves. Landmark-based geometric morphometrics summarizes shapes in terms of the coordinates of anatomical landmarks. The three morphometric methods are able to capture the variation of forms exactly, but require analyzing numerous variables. As an alternative approach to morphometrics, this paper presents a kinematic synthesis methodology of planar rigid-body chains. This methodology approximates the set of profile curves that represent a series of shapes with a single chain comprised of rigid-body links connected by revolute or prismatic joints. The primary advantage of the presented approach is that a modest number of physical parameters describes the shape and size change between a set of curves. Three morphometric problems are investigated by applying the methodology of synthesizing planar rigid-body chains to match the prescribed shapes. The result validates that the presented methodology might be used as an alternative approach to the analysis of morphological forms.
Crowdsourcing the Evaluation of Design Concepts With Empathic Priming
Authors: Pang Michelle A. , Seepersad Carolyn C.
Published: December 2016

The evaluation of design concepts is a time consuming and resource intensive process. Crowdsourcing evaluations has been examined in previous work as a means to reduce the need for expert raters, while achieving similar evaluation results. This paper examines the impact of empathically priming novice raters on their evaluation of alternative design concepts. The rating system is based on a pairwise comparison method that requires minimal training of novice raters. In a pilot study the pairwise method for crowdsourcing evaluations is compared with crowdsourced evaluations using non-pairwise rating scales and with the evaluations of expert raters. The primary study incorporates written and empathic priming strategies to determine their impact on novice raters’ evaluation of concepts. Raters are asked to consider several criteria, including novelty, feasibility, clarity (of the concept), usefulness, ease of use, and overall worthiness of further development. Results offer insight into the criteria that are most relevant to novice raters and whether empathic priming has a significant effect on those evaluations.
System Resilience Quantification for Probabilistic Design of Internet-of-Things Architecture
Authors: Wang Yan
Published: December 2016

The objects in the Internet of Things (IoT) form a virtual space of information gathering and sharing through the networks. Designing IoT-compatible products that have the capabilities of data collection, processing, and communication requires open and resilient architecture with flexibility and adapability for dynamically evolving networks. Design for connectivity becomes an important subject in designing such products. To enable a resilience engineering approach for IoT systems design, quantitative measures of resilience are needed for analysis and optimization. In this paper, an approach for probabilistic design of IoT system architecture is proposed, where resilience is quantified with entropy and mutual information associated with the probabilities of detection, prediction, and communication among IoT-compatible products. Information fusion rules and sensitivities are also studied.
An Establishing Method of the Datum Feature Simulator Based on CPVM Model
Authors: Wu Yuguang , Gu Qiqi
Published: December 2016

A general approach to automatically calculate a datum feature simulator (DFS) for a real part model is proposed in this paper. The geometric errors of the real part are represented by the controlling point variation model (CPVM) of the geometric feature, and the geometric deviations are simulated and generated by the Monte Carlo method. The linear feature and planar feature CPVM models are first introduced; these models can simulate all possible size, position, form, and orientation variations. Furthermore, these models are compatible with the ASME/ISO Standards for geometric tolerances. The determining rules of DFS based on the CPVM model are presented, according to the definitions of DFS by ASME standards. The CPVM models for three common datum features, i.e., the planar datum feature, cylindrical datum feature, and prismatic datum feature, are then established, and the algorithms to determine the corresponding DFSs for a different order of datum precedence are developed. An example is given to demonstrate the establishing method.
Model Validation of Dynamic Engineering Models Under Uncertainty
Authors: Wang Zequn , Fu Yan , Yang Ren-Jye , Barbat Saeed , Chen Wei
Published: December 2016

Validating dynamic engineering models is critically important in practical applications by assessing the agreement between simulation results and experimental observations. Though significant progresses have been made, the existing metrics lack the capability of managing uncertainty in both simulations and experiments, which may stem from computer model instability, imperfection in material fabrication and manufacturing process, and variations in experimental conditions. In addition, it is challenging to validate a dynamic model aggregately over both the time domain and a model input space with data at multiple validation sites. To overcome these difficulties, this paper presents an area-based metric to systemically handle uncertainty and validate computational models for dynamic systems over an input space by simultaneously integrating the information from multiple validation sites. To manage the complexity associated with a high-dimensional data space, Eigen analysis is performed for the time series data from simulations at each validation site to extract the important features. A truncated Karhunen-Loève (KL) expansion is then constructed to represent the responses of dynamic systems, resulting in a set of uncorrelated random coefficients with unit variance. With the development of a hierarchical data fusion strategy, probability integral transform is then employed to pool all the resulting random coefficients from multiple validation sites across the input space into a single aggregated metric. The dynamic model is thus validated by calculating the cumulative area difference of the cumulative density functions. The proposed model validation metric for dynamic systems is illustrated with a mathematical example, a supported beam problem with stochastic loads, and real data from the vehicle occupant restraint system.
Application of Robust Design Techniques to Chinese Huqin Musical Instrument Design
Authors: Tate Derrick , Hu Xiaoyi , Li Mengyue , Wang Ruotong
Published: December 2016

This paper presents the results of teaching robust design techniques to industrial design students in the Chinese context. Year 3 students in a Bachelor of Engineering programme at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University in Suzhou, China studied robust design techniques over a one-semester course. As part of the course, the students worked in two groups to apply robust design techniques to traditional Chinese musical instruments: the jinghu and the erhu. The two groups took divergent approaches to the project. One group sought to follow traditional manufacturing processes (craftmaking) for the instruments, and the other applied typical simple prototyping techniques used within industrial design. Through selection of control factors, creation of orthogonal arrays, prototyping, and experimentation, the students were able to characterize the main effects of four control factors on the sound quality of the instruments, loudness or harmonics, and to explore the feasibility of robust design for instrument design.