bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Audit Quality, Auditing Standards, and Legal Regimes: Implications for International Auditing Standards
Authors: Simunic Dan A. , Ye Minlei , Zhang Ping
Published: October 2015

We summarize the analyses detailed in two papers on the relation between audit quality, auditing standards, and legal regimes. We show that optimal auditing standards for a country are a complex function of the legal system in that country. We then discuss the implications for the adoption of international auditing standards.
The Landscape of the Dehesa in the Sierra Morena of Jaén (Spain) – the Transition from Traditional to New Land Uses
Authors: Cabrera Antonia Paniza
Published: October 2015

This paper tracks the evolution of the area covered by the dehesa in Sierra Morena from the mid 20th century to the present day, in an attempt to identify those areas in which traditional land uses still hold sway and others in which new land uses are appearing in relation to emerging business activities. These new uses have brought about an important transformation in the landscape of the dehesa, which in some areas is being replaced by other more profitable forms of land use, in particular with olive groves. In many areas where the dehesa still exists, livestock farming has been replaced by hunting, which has led to internal changes in the structure of the dehesa with an increase in scrubland. Another emerging land use is tourism-related activities, which many farmers now use to complement their income from livestock and which help preserve the traditional landscape of the dehesa.
Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury in Nepal
Authors: Shresth D
Published: October 2015

Kathmandu University Medical Journal Vol.12(3) 2014; 161-162
Movement Disability: Situations and Factors Influencing Access to Health Services in the Northeast of Thailand
Authors: Wongkongdech A , Laohasiriwong W
Published: October 2015

Background Persons with movement disability (PWMDs) are the biggest group of persons with disabilities (PWDs) with needs helps especially on health. There has been no evident to show health services accessibility situation of PWMDs in the Northeast of Thailand, the biggest region.Objective This study aimed to explore the current situation of accessibility to health services among PWMDs, and factors influencing such access.Method This cross-sectional study used a multistage stratified random sampling to select 462 subjects from the national registered PWMDs poll to response to a structured questionnaire. This study complies with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki and was approved by the Khon Kaen University Ethics Committee for Human Research prior to the data collection.Result We found that most of PWMDs (66%) had overall health service accessibility at medium level. Factors influencing the access to health services were living in rural area (adj. mean diff.= -24.01; 95 % CI: -45.88 to-2.31; p-value=0.032), high income (adj. mean diff.=0.002; 95 % CI: 0.001 to 0.005; p-value = 0.044), and having offspring or spouse as care givers (adj. mean diff.=40.44; 95% CI: 7.69 to 73.19; p-value=0.044; and adj. mean diff.=48.99; 95%CI: 15.01-82.98; p-value=0.016, respectively). PWMDs who lived in rural areas had better access to health services especially to the sub-district health promoting hospital than those in the urban area.Conclusion Accessibly to health services of PWMDs still limited. Income, care givers and residential areas had influences on their access.Kathmandu University Medical Journal Vol.12(3) 2014; 168-174
A Randomized Trial of Hospital Vs Home Self Administration of Vaginal Misoprostol for Medical Abortion
Authors: Shrestha A , Sedhai LB
Published: October 2015

Background A combination of mifepristone followed after 24 hrs by misoprostol has proved a safe and effective abortifacient for termination of early pregnancy. Home use of misoprostol for medical abortion is still controversial in many countries including ours where women’s literacy rate is low. Particularly in developing countries, this method markedly decreased the hospital visit which would be beneficial to patients and hospital staff.Objective To see whether the home self administration of vaginal misoprostol was equally effective as administered by trained staff in terms of successful termination of early pregnancy. Secondary outcomes were bleeding and pain duration during medical abortion, side effects, reason for termination of pregnancy and women’s acceptability of the procedure.Method One hundred and eighty eight women requesting medical abortion with pregnancy less than 63 days gestation were randomized into two groups either self administration of vaginal misoprostol (800 mcg) at home or hospital administration 24 hours after oral 200 mg mifepristone. Ultrasound was performed after 14 days to confirm complete abortion.Result The overall success rate was similar in two groups: 89.13% on home group Vs 86.9% in hospital group. Eleven out of 18 women (61.1%) having incomplete abortion had successful termination after 2nd dose misoprostol( 400 mcg). None of the women had continued pregnancy. Multigravida had slightly higher risk of failure (R.R: 1.04).Conclusion Home self administration of vaginal misoprostol was safe and effective for early termination of medical abortion and was acceptable. Use of extra dose of misoprostol has advantage of higher completion rate of abortion.Kathmandu University Medical Journal Vol.12(3) 2014; 185-189
Clinical Profile of Patients with Recurrent Seizure in Tertiary Care Hospital in Nepal
Authors: Kafle DR , Oli KK
Published: October 2015

Background Epilepsy is a common and diverse disorder with many different causes. Outcomes are varied with 60—70% of newly diagnosed people rapidly entering remission after starting treatment and 20—30% developing a drug-resistant epilepsy with consequent clinical and psychosocial distress. About one third of patients with a first unprovoked seizure will have further seizures within five years, and about three quarters of those with two or three unprovoked seizures have further seizures within four years.Objective The aim of the study was to find out those factors which were associated with recurrence of seizure in Nepalese population.Method It is a Descriptive Cross-sectional study which was conducted in Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital from January 2013 to January 2014.Result A total of 150 patients participated in the study. Neuroimaging was normal in 65(43.3%) patients. 48(32%) patients had neurocystercosis in their brain imaging, neuroinfection in 12(8%) of cases, cerebral infarction in 12(8%), Cerebral atrophy in 5(3.3%) patients, brain tumor in 4(2.7%), Mesial temporal sclerosis in 2(1.3%), tuberous sclerosis in 1(0.7%) and hypoxic brain injury in 1 (0.7%) patient. 14(9.3%) patients reported having a family history of epilepsy in first degree relative. There was statistically significant association between higher number of seizures before starting medication and increased frequency of seizure after starting medication (p<0.001).Conclusion Most of the patients with recurrent seizure had identifiable cause. Neurocysticercosis was the most common cause. Higher number of seizure before starting medication was associated with increased frequency of seizure after starting medication.Kathmandu University Medical Journal Vol.12(3) 2014; 202-206
Leiomyoma of Broad Ligament Mimicking Ovarian Malignancy– Report of a Unique Case
Authors: Mallick D , Saha M , Chakrabarti S , Chakraborty J
Published: October 2015

Tumors of the broad ligament are uncommon. Leiomyoma, which is the commonest female genital neoplasm, is also the most common solid tumor of the broad ligament. Leiomyomas affect 30% of all women of reproductive age but the incidence of broad-ligament leiomyoma is <1%. These benign tumors are usually asymptomatic. A case is being described where a 52 year old presented with gradual abdominal swelling which was clinically and radiologically diagnosed as ovarian malignancy. On abdominal and bimanual palpation a soft cystic mass was noted in the right pelvic region. CA 125 was mildly raised. CEA, CA 19.9 levels were within normal limit. The radiological diagnosis was ovarian cyst with possibility of malignant changes. Staging laparotomy and histopathological examination of the resected specimen revealed a right sided broad ligament leiomyoma with cystic changes. The degenerative changes in the leiomyoma lead to the clinical and radiological diagnostic confusion. Thus, though uncommon, broad ligament leiomyoma should be considered during evaluation of adnexal masses for optimal patient management. The above description of leiomyoma in the broad ligament is a highly unique case and thus deserves appropriate attention.Kathmandu University Medical Journal Vol.12(3) 2014; 219-221
IMPACT OF AGRO-ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS ON SOIL EROSION PROCESSES AND SOIL PROPERTIES ON HILLY LANDSCAPE IN WESTERN LITHUANIA
Authors: JARAŠIŪNAS Gintaras , KINDERIENĖ Irena
Published: October 2015

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of different land use systems on soil erosion rates, surface evolution processes and physico-chemical properties on a moraine hilly topography in Lithuania. The soil of the experimental site is Bathihypogleyi – Eutric Albeluvisols (abe–gld–w) whose texture is a sandy loam. After a 27-year use of different land conservation systems, three critical slope segments (slightly eroded, active erosion and accumulation) were formed. Soil physical properties of the soil texture and particle sizes distribution were examined. Chemical properties analysed for were soil ph, available phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (N). We estimated the variation in thickness of the soil Ap horizon and soil physico-chemical properties prone to a sustained erosion process. During the study period (2010–2012) water erosion occurred under the grain– grass and grass–grain crop rotations, at rates of 1.38 and 0.11 m3 ha–1 yr–1, respectively. Soil exhumed due to erosion from elevated positions accumulated in the slope bottom. As a result, topographic transfiguration of hills and changes in soil properties occurred. However, the accumulation segments of slopes had significantly higher silt/clay ratios and SOC content. In the active erosion segments a lighter soil texture and lower soil ph were recorded. Only long-term grassland completely stopped soil erosion effects; therefore geomorphologic change and degradation of hills was estimated there as minimal.
Influencing organisational culture by means of employee remuneration
Authors: Stachová Katarína , Stacho Zdenko , Bartáková Gabriela
Published: October 2015

The aim of this paper is to particularly define the possibilities of influencing organisational culture by means of employee remuneration. The paper will present the results of research conducted over 2010–2012. The respondent group included 340 organisations operating in the Slovak Republic. The research showed that even though 98% of the interviewed organisations realise the importance and meaning of dealing with the creation and maintenance of organisational culture, only 21–43% have defined an organisational culture strategy in writing within the organisation´s strategy.
Factors that influence the success of small and medium enterprises in ICT: a case study from the Czech Republic
Authors: Krejcí Martin , Strielkowski Wadim , Čabelková Inna
Published: October 2015

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) occupy a large niche in the information and technology sector (ICT) and play an important role in the functioning on any state’s economy. This paper focuses on a specific local market and uses the Czech Republic as a case study in order to establish the success factors crucial for achieving economic success. It aims at determining those factors with the help of econometric success rate models based on the own data collected via the means of questionnaire survey among ICT enterprise. Our results show that the earnings-employee ratio, average revenues and the investment in own R&D play the most important role in the success of Czech SMEs in question. Both, financial and non-financial indicators perform significantly in the predictions of success.
Evaluation of Potential Wind Energy Sites in the Province of Essaouira in Morocco
Authors: Mohammed Daoudi , Elmostapha Elkhouzai , Mohammed Zakkari
Published: October 2015

This study has a main object to assess the wind potential of the site JBEL HDID to Essaouira. First, we give a brief overview on the current status of wind energy in the world and in Morocco. Initial lines of reflection lead us to develop a methodology for developing a wind farm. The implementation of this methodology will allow us to model the wind in three sites from the region, using data from the wind of the three masts from 10m installed on the region and data from nearby sites. Secondly, Measurements are taken over a one year cycle. Then they are compared with the data winds of a meteorological station chosen for the quality of his correlation with measurements registered during the year, and for which it is possible to back in time as long a period as possible, thus, we'll know by statistical formulas the measures of this year that will be representative of all years in this area.

Finally, a comparison between the wind turbines from different manufacturers with various configurations, to make a preliminary design of the park and calculates electrical energy that can be produced by it.
Application of a Discrete-time Markov Chain Simulation in Insurance
Authors: Fernandez-Morales Antonio
Published: October 2015

This paper describes the application of an online interactive simulator of discrete-time Markov chains to an automobile insurance model. Based on the D3.js library, an interactive visual animation depicts the dynamics of individual policyholders in a bonus-malus system of automobile insurance. A survey was conducted among MSc students who used the simulator to obtain a preliminary assessment of the perceived usefulness in several dimensions of their learning process. The main findings indicate that flexible access via different devices was the most valued feature of this resource. In addition, the possibility of experimenting and simulating by means of controlling the main parameter of the model was also found to be particularly useful.
Creating the Context for Exploiting Linked Open Data in Multidimensional Academic Ranking
Authors: Triperina Evangelia , Sgouropoulou Cleo , Xydas Ioannis , Terraz Olivier , Miaoulis Georgios
Published: October 2015

Academia is a complex socio-technical system with multiple aspects and constituents that involve various stakeholders. In order to address stakeholders’ needs and to assist the institutional accountability, this complexity should be considered during the development of academic services. We have designed a dynamic multidimensional ranking approach, easily modifiable to address user requirements, so as to assess and compare the university performance with a clear view to the support of effective institutional strategic planning and policy making. Our approach comprises the following components: the AcademIS ontology to model the academic domain and its multiple dimensions, the AcademIS Information System to manage and display the academic information, published in Linked Open Data format and the visual-aided Multiple Criteria Decision Making component, to evaluate and rank the performance of the academic units. The data are aggregated from several sources, in different formats, LODified by our system, and presented to the user by the interface to ultimately assist the decision making process.
Determination of the Diameter of a Cylinder to Insertion in a Low-Speed Wind Tunnel Based on EFD and CFD
Authors: de Vasconcellos Guilherme L.F. , de Queiroz Matheus D. , Ledo Luiz F.R. , Hanriot Sérgio de M. , Maia Cristiana Brasil
Published: October 2015

The objective of this study was to determine the ideal diameter of a circular cylinder for insertion into the test section of a small wind tunnel, so that there was no flow blockage and influence of the developing wind tunnel boundary layer in the flow around the cylinder. The approaches used were the experimental fluid dynamics (EFD) by the use of Pitot tube and hot wire anemometer (HWA) and the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, performed with ANSYS CFX software. For this, it was first determined the boundary layer thickness along the test section without the cylinder, through computer simulations. Based on this information, several simulations were performed with cylinders of different diameters to quantify their influence on the rotational flow. From the four studied cylinder diameters, it was found that only the one with 30 mm did not cause bending of the streamlines at the intersection with the boundary layer developing in the tunnel. Moreover, this was the minimum diameter of the cylinder so that the tests with Pitot probe could be used without disturbances caused by its dimensions in the flow to be characterized. After analyzing these results, the cylinder of 30 mm was built and the experimental tests were performed, validating the numerical results.
Numerical Analysis of Pressure Swirl Atomizer
Authors: Kahraman Mehmet , Komurgoz Guven , Ozkol Ibrahim
Published: October 2015

Atomization quality of liquids has a great importance on the performance of combustion engines. In this study the internal flow phenome of pressure swirl atomizer is investigated by using numerical method. The design of swirl atomizer is performed based on the requested atomizer characteristics which are sauter mean diamer (SMD), spray cone angle and break up length. Prediction and understanding of liquid film dynamics in the atomizer inside are the fundamental ways to explore atomizer performance. The purpose of this study is to estimate the air core size and film thickness in pressure swirl atomizer by setting single phase numeric computations. This article concludes that the CFD validated swirl atomizer design can be achieved with the lower computational cost using stream function methodology.
Effect of Link Tolerance and Joint Clearance on End-Effector Positioning of the 3-PSP Manipulator Using Taguchi Method
Authors: Sheikhha Fattah Hanafi , Akbarzadeh Alireza
Published: October 2015

The use of parallel manipulators in industrial is growing. Among key advantages of parallel manipulators versus their serial counterparts, is their improved end-effector positioning accuracy than open-loop mechanism. However, undesirable dimensional tolerance and joint clearance can decrease the positioning accuracy of the end-effector. In this article, Taguchi method is applied to a 3-PSP parallel manipulator to determine how dimensional tolerance and joint clearance affects the accuracy of its end effector. Because of random nature of dimensional tolerance, it is assumed that actual value of all kinematic parameters are normally distributed. Taguchi method is then used and effect of tolerance on accuracy for each of the manipulator kinematics parameters is obtained. Finally, a tolerance set resulting in best accuracy is predicted by the Taguchi method. This tolerance is verified with a new set of experiment.
Investigation of Phase Change Material as a Potential Replacement of EGR Cooler
Authors: Bhaskar Sandesh , Katib Waqar Ahmed , Senthilkumar D.
Published: October 2015

Phase Change Materials (PCM) are used widely in passive heat storage system due to their high heat retention capacities. In the present work an attempt is made to use the PCM as an effective replacement to conventional EGR cooler. The prime advantages of using PCM as an alternative to the traditionally used EGR coolers are that, the pumping operation will no longer be a continuous process hence the power consumed by pumps would drastically reduce, so does the load on the engine and secondly there would be significant reduction in the weight of the system which would ultimately boost the fuel economy of the vehicle. The PCM candidate chosen for study is a Salt blend (59%KF+29%LiF+12%NaF). The chosen specimen's thermal performance is computed based on the duration for which the refrigerant pump remains idle. Using numerical simulation the melting period of PCM(Salt Blend) is computed and the simulation is verified by already established numerical and experimental results for a different material, Rubitherm (RT-42).
A New Iterative Identification and Control Method of Closed-Loop Power System Based on Ambient Signals
Authors: Yu Miao , Lu Chao
Published: October 2015

Identification and control are important problems of power system based on ambient signals. In order to avoid the model error influence of the controller design, a new iterative identification and control method is proposed in this paper. This method can solve model set and controller design of closed-loop power system. First, an uncertain model of power system is established. Then, according to the stability margin of power system, stability theorem is put forward. And then controller design method and the whole algorithm procedure are given. Simulation results show the effective performance of the proposed method based on the four-machine-two-region system.
Optimal Control Procedure Application for Dynamic Response of Adaptive Aircraft Wings Modeled as Thin-Walled Composite Beams
Authors: Yildiz Kaan , Eken Seher , Kaya Metin Orhan
Published: October 2015

In this study we investigated the dynamical behavior of aircraft wings and using piezoelectric actuation we implemented active vibration control. The aircraft wing is modeled as a thin-walled composite beam having a cross section of diamond shaped. The dynamic response of the beam under varying proportional and velocity feedback gain parameters is obtained and shown to be enhanced with optimal control procedure, minimizing the control effort and response.
Real-Time 2D Surface Profile Mapping of Biological Tissue with Force Feedback in Robot-Assisted Minimally Invasive Surgery
Authors: Hassan Beiglou Ali Reza , Dargahi Javad
Published: October 2015

It has been more than 20 years that robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery (RMIS) has brought remarkable accuracy and dexterity for surgeons along with the decreasing trauma for the patients. In this paper a novel method of the tissue’s surface profile mapping is proposed. The tissue surface profile plays an important role for material identification during RMIS. It is shown how by integrating the force feedback into robot controller the surface profile of the tissue can be obtained with force feedback scanning. The experiment setup includes a 5 degree of freedoms (DOFs) robot which is equipped with a strain-gauge ball caster as the force feedback. Robot joint encoders signals and the captured force signal of the strain-gauge are transferred to developed surface transformation algorithm (STA). The real-time geometrical transformation process is triggered with force signal to identify contact points between the ball caster and the artificial tissue. The 2D surface profile of tissue will be mapped based on these contact points. Real-time capability of the proposed system is evaluated experimentally for the artifical tissues in a designed test rig.
Development of a Tool Changer for a Reconfigurable Machine Tool
Authors: McLaren Ian , Gorlach I.
Published: October 2015

Automated tool changing of CNC machines reduces the cycle time of operations as most processes require a number of different tools to complete a task. The machine can be pre-loaded with the required tools and programmed to automatically retrieve the tools as required. CNC machines will often run unattended or work too quickly for manual intervention, so it is important that safety features and checks are built in to prevent damage. The purpose of this research project was to modify a tool changing system for a reconfigurable machine tool (RMT), which was previously developed in the Department of Mechatronics. The RMT is capable of performing milling, drilling and electric discharge machining (EDM). In this research, the automated tool changer (ATC) was developed and successfully integrated into the RMT, and interfaced with the machine controller. The redesigned ATC is able to provide fast, reliable and safe tool changing for a variety of tools.
The Development of Flight Test Real-Time Trajectory Measurement System
Authors: He Hong Li
Published: October 2015

According to the feature of test requirement existed inthe flight test and measuring equipments in plane track, the flight test trajectory measurement system is builtand anomaly recognition of flight test trajectory measurement is studied intensively. For the requirement of implementation guide and monitor treatment, the data processing software of flight test real-time trajectory measurement system is designed and programmed. Algorithm model construction and implementation process are also presented in this paper. In addition,real-time measurement and guidance andmonitoring processingare realized through the program. The system has been applied to realtime monitoring of flight test,which has obtain the very good application effect.
Experimental Study on Material Removal Capability with Vibration-Assisted WEDM
Authors: Radhakrishnan P. , Vijayaraghavan L. , Ramesh Babu N.
Published: October 2015

Wire Electrical Discharge Machining (WEDM) is a thermal process that involves melting and vaporisation of work material by a wire electrode in order to obtain the required size. The present work covers a study to improve the material removal rate (MRR) and to machining required slot size by varying frequency lateral vibration of wire while WEDM machining on AISI H13. The machining experiments were conducted by means of two electrode wire materials such as brass and zinc coated wires. The experiments mainly focused on surface integrity aspects like surface/sub surface microstructure, kerf width and surface roughness modification of surfaces machined with Wire Electrical Discharge Machining. The experimental results present the machinability of work material with WEDM process with varying frequency of vibration of wire electrode materials.
Preparation of Pb(II)-Imprinted-Carboxymethyl Chitosan-Pectin-BADGE Film as Sorbent for Pb(II) Ion
Authors: Hastuti Budi , Mudasir  , Siswanta Dwi , Triyono
Published: October 2015

Cross-linked metal-imprinted Carboxymethyl Chitosan-Pectin (CMC-Pec) were prepared from CMC and pectin, using Pb (II) ion as a template and Bisphenol A diglycidil ether (BADGE) as the cross-linking agent. The film was prepared in order to obtain a selective adsorbent for Pb (II) ion. The film was characterized using infrared (IR) spectroscopy. The result showed that the active group of the Pb (II)-imprinted CMC-Pec-BADGE film was hydroxyl group (-OH) and carboxylic (-COOH) as indicated by IR peaks at the wave number 3300-3600 cm-1and 1600-1800 cm-1, respectively. The Pb (II) adsorption capacity of the Pb (II)-imprinted CMC-Pec-BADGE film was 12.18 mg/g. The film showed a selective adsorption for Pb (II) metal ions compared to the adsorption of Zn (II) and Cu (II) in mole ratio of 1: 1: 1.
Further Analysis on Silver Ions Migration
Authors: Gong Xin , Duan Chao
Published: October 2015

Silver ions migration can cause short circuit between two conductors with different voltage, and it is the main cause of many catastrophic failures in components. Since silver glue is widely used to adhere chips in the components for its low cost, being able to coated automatically and high thermal conductivity. Research on the mechanisms of silver migration is quite important for taking measures to prevent Ag-migration caused failures. In previous studies four factors has been presented which induce a silver ions migration, they are silver material, electric field, humidity, and contamination, but will it be inevitable when the above factors exist? In another word, what should we do to prevent the migration? In this paper, we confirm that the above four factors are necessary rather than sufficient for silver migration and present a new influence factor on silver migration through a failure analysis case, which gives an important guidance for the reliability design, evaluation and analysis of a component.
The Spontaneous Growth of Pb Whisker from the Pb60Sn40 Solder Layer on the Au Coating
Authors: Wang Zhi Bin , Zhang Yan Wei , Zhang Wei , Chen Yan , Gong Xin , Meng Meng
Published: October 2015

In a recent failure analysis case of relay, the pure Pb whisker growth is found on the Pb60Sn40 solder layer on the Au coating of the spring leaf. The content analysis by the EDX shows that the Pb whisker grows from the Pb grain, which is surrounded by the AuSn intermetallic compound. It is thought that the elastic force of the spring leaf and the compressive stress from the intermetallic compound contributes to the Pb whisker growth, and the later factor is confirmed by the FIB (focused ion beam) result. Besides, the statistics result shows that the longer Pb whisker corresponds to the thicker Au coating, which could be explained by the effect of Au: forming AuSn intermetallic compound and Pb rich area. This work enriches our understandings on the metal whisker growth and consequently potential failure mode of SnPb solder.
Comparative Evaluation of Efficiency of Metal-Cutting Tool by Method of Pendulum Scribing
Authors: Mokritskii Boris Y. , Pustovalov Dmitriy A. , Vereschaka Alexey Anatolevich
Published: October 2015

Method of pendulum scribing was investigated in terms of the possibilities of using this method as a simple-to-use way with a relatively low cost for rapid evaluation of tool material properties. It has been established that by using this method the conditions of loading of the tool material are closest to the real conditions in which the tool operates. Was revealed the relationship between the maximum width and length of the track pendulum scribing and physico-mechanical properties of tool materials. Application of the proposed methodology allows passing to predicting the performance properties of the tool, such as tool life under the specified conditions.
Additive Manufacturing for Aerospace Application
Authors: Chu Ming Qiang , Wang Lei , Ding Hong Yu , Sun Zhong Gang
Published: October 2015

Additive manufacturing (AM) offers a potential for time and cost savings, especially for aerospace components made from costly titanium alloys. Owning to advantages such as its ability to form complex component, good surface quality, fine microstructure, excellent property, etc, it is attracting increasing attention. Much work has been done in recent years, including manufacturing facility, processing technology and specification. Here we summarize the development and status of AM technology, the underlying problems and its application perspective on civil aircraft.
Evaluation of the Potential of Fruit Peel Biomass after Conventional and Microwave Drying for Use as Solid Fuel
Authors: Charbel Andrea Teixeira , Trinchero Bernardo Damázio , Morais Diego Dornas , Mesquita Henrique , Birchal Viviane Santos
Published: October 2015

Searching for new sources of energy in order to minimize the dependence on fossil fuels and also to preserve the environmentmeets thenecessityfor finding effective solutions to the problem of waste generated in different production levels.In juice pulp processing industrylarge volumes of waste are produced daily and can contribute, with its burning, for energy production. Once it is necessary the removal of moisture from the residue, this study evaluate the conventional drying and microwave drying of the biomass generated by peels of orange, mango and passion fruit with initial mean moisture content higher than 75%. The experiments were performed in oven at a temperature of 150°C and the average time for an almost complete withdrawal of peels studied was 130min. For drying by microwave with power of 900W, the average time required for the total reduction in moisture was 8.5min. The drying Page model was adjusted by non-linear regression to data obtained with correlation coefficients in all cases greater than 0.955. The higher heating value was rated equal to 16,25kJ/g, 19,62kJ/g, 16,35kJ/g for the peels of orange, mango and passion fruit, respectively. The average energy consumption for the drying process in the oven was 81,25kJ/gevaporated water and 12,07 kJ/gevaporatedwaterin the process by microwave, which indicates that drying using microwave is a very interesting option.
Critical Mach Number for Flow around Circular-Arc Airfoil
Authors: Frolov Vladimir A.
Published: October 2015

An approximate method for the account of compressibility, which was successfully applied earlier for airfoil with subsonic-type edge, was used for airfoil with supersonic-type edge in the present paper. Calculations of the critical Mach number of free-stream flow around circular-arc airfoil are considered. This method allows defining the parameters of a compressible fluid through the flow characteristics of an incompressible fluid. The method to account of compressibility of a flow does not depend on mathematical model of calculation of incompressible flow. Calculations of the velocity field for incompressible flow on the basis of Theory Function of Complex Variable (TFCV) have been accomplished. It has been shown that the value of critical Mach number decreases with increasing the relative thickness of the circular-arc airfoil.
End of Life and Beginning of Life Thermal Analysis of a Micro Satellite
Authors: Turkmenoglu Mustafa
Published: October 2015

Satellites with passive thermal control system use thermal coatings, secondary and first surface mirrors and paints to maintain the temperatures of their electronic equipment within operating temperatures. Satellite coatings are exposed to harsh space environments like ultraviolet radiation (UV) and atomic oxygen (AO) that cause thermal degradation. As nature of the space environment, degradation of the surface paints and coatings cause increase in temperatures of the equipment in time. Thermal designer must consider the thermal degradation of the coatings and paints and optimize the radiator sizes of the satellite at Beginning of Life (BOL) and End of Life (EOL) of the satellite in order to maintain the temperatures of equipment within their safe operation limits. For this analysis, a micro-class satellite using passive thermal control with surface paints and interface conductance within each equipment has been studied. The satellite top surface (+Z) faces the earth and bottom surface (-Z) faces deep space. The lateral sides of the satellite are covered with honeycomb solar panels and top and bottom surfaces are covered with white paint which act as satellite radiator. The satellite orbit has been considered as 700 km Sun-Synchronous Low Earth Orbit. In this analysis BOL and EOL thermo optical properties have been used to predict the satellite temperatures before and after degradation of paints. Thermal analysis have been performed and predicted temperatures obtained by using THERMICA thermal analysis software.
The Application of Stewart Platform in Spacesuit Upper Torso Active Fit Design
Authors: Li Yuan Feng , Zhang Wan Xin
Published: October 2015

Stewart platform is a typical parallel manipulator, which is equipped with rigidity, high positioning accuracy and other advantages. To achieve wonderful fit of the spacesuit upper torso, the Stewart platform is applied in the upper torso fit design, by which the upper torso active fit design method is proposed. The mathematical model and the experimental model are established to study the validly of the fit design method. The results verify that the application of Stewart platform in the fit design of spacesuit upper torso is feasible. The research in this paper provides useful guide for the fit design of the spacesuit in the future
Actuation System Design for a Morphing Aileron
Authors: Amendola G. , Dimino Ignazio , Concilio Antonio , Pecora Rosario , Amoroso Francesco
Published: October 2015

In the field of European and International morphing structures projects, the CRIAQ MD0-505 enables collaboration among Italian and Canadian research centers and industries paying particular attention to the development of innovative design in the area of adaptive technologies. The main project goals involve the design of a wing trailing edge device capable to improve aerodynamic efficiency in all the flight envelope leading to fuel consumption reduction with positive impact on aircraft weight. This paper deals with the design and modeling of a novel actuation system of a full scale morphing aileron for a regional aircraft wing. The proposed aileron architecture is characterized by segmented adaptive ribs. Each rib is composed of two movable blocks connected by means of rotational hinges in which are housed bearings and bushing in a finger-like mechanism. Rib actuation is guaranteed by an actuation system composed of a dedicated kinematic chain derived from a quick-return mechanism. In order to achieve the aileron target shapes, the system is driven by a set of servo-rotary electro mechanical actuators that permit a highly integrated design which lay the groundwork for the technological transition from the torque shaft to the distributed actuation architecture.
Numerical Investigation of Surface Curvature Effects on Aerofoil Aerodynamic Performance
Authors: Shen Xiang , Korakianitis Theodosios , Avital Eldad
Published: October 2015

The prescribed surface curvature distribution blade design (CIRCLE) method optimises aerofoils and blades by controlling curvature continuity and slope of curvature distribution along their surfaces. The symmetrical NACA0012 exhibits a surface curvature discontinuity at the leading edge point, and the non-symmetrical E387 exhibits slope-of-curvature discontinuities in the surface. The CIRCLE method is applied to both aerofoils to remove both surface curvature and slope-of-curvature discontinuities. Computational fluid dynamics analyses are used to investigate the curvature effects on aerodynamic performance of the original and modified aerofoils. These results are compared with experimental data obtained from tests on the original aerofoil geometry. The computed aerodynamic advantages of the modified aerofoil are analysed in different operating conditions. The leading edge singularity of NACA0012 is removed and it is shown that the surface curvature discontinuity affects the aerodynamic performance near the stalling angle of attack. The discontinuous slope-of-curvature distribution of E387 influences the size of the laminar separation bubble at lower Reynolds numbers, and it affects the inherent profile of the aerofoil at higher Reynolds numbers. It is concluded that the surface curvature distribution of aerofoils has a significant effect on aerofoil aerodynamic performance, which can be improved by redesigning the surface curvature distribution of the original aerofoil geometry.
Drogue System Reliability Analysis Using Weibull Analysis
Authors: McAndrew Ian R. , Navarro Elena , Godsey Orin , Usaf Brig.Gen.
Published: October 2015

Refueling aircraft in-flight is a complex procedure at any time and has its concerns that have not fully been addressed, these are compounded if we consider remote piloting. Long term the need will exist to refuel unmanned vehicles if they are to carry out extensive applications; these complexities of in-flight refueling increases due to time delays and visual challenges between the actual remote aircraft and operators. This paper addresses the reliability of a drogue used in refueling and what can be learnt for future designs and usage. In particular what we can interpret from remote pilots andin-situpilots.
Continuous Improvements Analysis in Energy Efficiency of Steering Power Systems to Light Vehicles
Authors: Silva José Antônio , Nacif Gláucio C. Laun , Cabezas-Goméz Luben
Published: October 2015

This study analyses the energy consumption of a vehicle steering system and evaluates potential earnings in using more efficient systems. The energy consumption of the steering system to provide assistance can be until 3% of the vehicle total energy consumption. The technology evolution of the steering system provides a significant reduction in energy consumption. Three types of steering systems were evaluated: Hydraulic Power System, Electro-Hydraulic Power System and Electrical Power System, respectively, considering the consumption and the energy efficiency of their components. Some evaluations of the energy consumed by system components were performed using data from the available sources in the literature and other evaluations were performed via experimental tests on a bench test. A comparative study was set to determine the differences between steering systems regarding the energy consumption and energy efficiency. Consumption analysis of steering system were extended to evaluate the impact in the final vehicle consumption. The Electrical Power System can increase the efficiency in fuel use during operation in the vehicle.
Dexterity Measure for a 2-DOF Revolute Spherical Serial Manipulator
Authors: Uthong Piti , Sangveraphunsiri Viboon
Published: October 2015

This paper is to explore the measure of isotropy applied to a 2-DOF revolute spherical serial manipulator. A revolute spherical serial manipulator means that the directions of rotation of the manipulator are intersecting. This manipulator arm will be used for carrying microscope camera as part of the 2-hand master-slave operation with force reflection system for miniature task operation in order to enhance view of vision. The data of the dexterity measure are collected from the computer simulation based on invert kinematics and Jacobian of the manipulator. The results revealed that the design solution of the manipulator has high measure of isotropy for prescribe paths. This result is to confirm that the manipulator can move with in the design workspace smoothly.
On the Impact Force Reduction of a VGT-Robot-Structure with a Variable Compliant and Damped Hydropneumatic Actuator
Authors: Rost Sven , Weber Julian , Schreiber Frank , Schumacher Walter
Published: October 2015

This paper presents a danger analysis for a new octahedron-shaped variable-geometry-truss robot structure under collision with a human head. To lower the danger of collision, design modifications featuring a decoupling of the robot’s moved mass with variable passive compliance and damping will be introduced and a possible implementation in the robots drives is shown. The paper closes in presenting the impact force reduction potential of the resulting hydropneumatic actuator.
Development of 1:1 and 2:1 Channel Ratio Bipolar Plates (BPPs) for PEMFC
Authors: Sainan Khairul Imran , Arsyad Naqiuddin , Salleh Mohd Ezzuan , Mohamad Firdaus
Published: October 2015

Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) is a device that generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction of oxygen air and hydrogen fuel. Thetransportofoxidantand fuel through the bipolarplatesis a significant factor affecting the cell performance. Currently, present work concentrates highly on flow field layout and channels design configurations. In this paper, the development two flow field layouts are discussed with different inlet/outlet channel ratio. Serpentine-paralleldesignisusedasthe base layout. The flow fields have inlet/outlet channel ratio of 1:1 and multiple inlet 2:1 configurations. Graphite is used as theplate material.Theanodeflowchannelis 2 mmx 1.2 mmx 2 mm meanwhile the cathode channel is 2 mm x 0.5 mm x 2 mm fora xbxwrespectively.Theactiveareais 25 cm2 with 5 cmx 5 cm dimensions. The fields were fabricated by Roland EGX-360 Desktop Engraver machine that involved drilling and profiling process. The fuel cell assembly process is explained in detail. The gasketmaterialis made from two materials which are Polyimide and Silicon. A series of pre-conditioning experiments were carried out in both fuel cells for confident purposes.
Neural Network Trajectory Tracking Control of Compliant Parallel Robot
Authors: Tian Hao , Yu Yue Qing
Published: October 2015

Trajectory tracking control of compliant parallel robot is presented. According to the characteristics of compliant joint, the system model is derived and the dynamic equation is obtained based on the Lagrange method. Radial Basis Function (RBF) neural network control is designed to globally approximate the model uncertainties. Further, an itemized approximate RBF control method is proposed for higher identify precision. The trajectory tracking abilities of two control strategies are compared through simulation.
Feasibility Study on Online Guiding of Industrial Robot by Experimentally Created Force/Torque Map for Peg-in-Hole Assembling
Authors: Abdullah Mustafa Waad , Roth Hubert , Weyrich Michael , Wahrburg Jürgen , Oleiwi Bashra Kadhim
Published: October 2015

The experiment carried in this paper aims to study the feasibility of controlling an industrial robot to carry Peg-in-Hole assembling task using what called a Force/Torque Map. This type of control is based on real-time F/T sensor data during contact between the peg and the hole. The F/T Map presents the data acquired during previous attempts of the assembly task.
Optimal Motion Planning Approach for Mobile Robot Navigation Problem
Authors: Oleiwi Bashra Kadhim , Roth Hubert , Kazem Bahaa I.
Published: October 2015

In this study, modified genetic algorithm (MGA) and A* search method (A*) is proposed for optimal motion planning of mobile robots. MGA utilizes the classical search and modified A* to establish a sub-optimal collision-free path as initial solution in simple and complex static environment. The enhancements for the proposed approach are presented in initialization stage and enhanced operators. Five objective functions are used to minimize traveling length, time, smoothness, security and trajectory and to reduce the energy consumption for mobile robots by using Cubic Spline interpolation curve fitting for optimal planned path. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the proposed approach performance by taking into consideration the effect of changing the number of iteration (it) and the size of population (pop) on its performance index. The simulation results show the effectiveness of proposed approach in governing the robot’s movements successfully from start to goal point after avoiding all obstacles its way in all tested environment. In addition, the results indicate that the proposed approach can find the optimal solution efficiently in a single run. This approach has been carried out by GUI using a popular engineering programming language, MATLAB.
A Nonlinear Friction Model for an Electromechanical Actuator Valve
Authors: Horváth Zsolt
Published: October 2015

In this work we have extended a basic linear model of the Electromechanical Throttle Valve to a nonlinear friction model, which captures the most important friction phenomenon of interest for fault detection. In our examination we have implemented the Tustin’s friction model. This nonlinear friction model has only 4 parameters but describes the friction phenomenon of the Stribeck effect also it includes both the Stick and Slip regimes. To the validation of the actuator model and examination of the friction models we have performed experiments using the experimental setup of NI LabVIEW CompactRIO. The friction phenomenon as hysteresis, stick-slip and Stribeck effects, are an interest for fault detection of the Actuator Valve. The experimental results have shown, that Tustin’s model provides a good approach for modeling of the friction behaviour of the Electromechanical Throttle Valve.
Effect of Flow Characteristics on the Operation of a Solenoid Switching Control Valve
Authors: Han Cheol Heui , Ma Sang Jin , Chung Myung Jin
Published: October 2015

Effect of the compressible flow characteristics inside a high-speed electromagnetic valve on the operation of the valve is investigated using a numerical simulation. The numerical simulation solves Navier-Stokes equations and heat transfer equations by coupling, and the compressible flow phenomena inside the valves are studied focusing on the shock structures. . Fluid-structure interaction is considered using freely moving grid deformations. The flow patterns of subsonic acceleration, choked flow, supersonic expansion, and a strong curved shock were observed inside the valve during on/off operations. The subsonic flow acceleration affected the operation characteristics of the valve.