bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The High Strain-Rate Impact Energy-Absorption Characteristics of Graphene Using Molecular Dynamics (MD) Simulations
Authors: Aluko Olanrewaju , Geddam Rakesh
Published: January 2025

This study employed molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to explore the nanoscale behaviors of 2D monolayer graphene experiencing high strain impact tests, because there has been a limited understanding of the complex phenomena that accompany the impact energy absorption of graphene. Specifically, we assessed its atomistic and complex deformation and damage mechanisms, as well as its energy-absorbing capacity as a change in kinetic energy (KE) before and after impact using high velocity impact ranging from 1 to 10 km/s. We designed two super-hard and abrasive rigid projectiles, namely cubic boron nitride and diamond, to probe the influence of the material composition of the projectile on the impact response of graphene. In addition, the size effect of the graphene sheet was investigated. This simulation provided the ability to measure the kinetic energy profile of the projectile during the period of impact, which cannot be easily measured in an experiment. The results showed that the size of graphene does not adversely affect its impact response. However, the material composition of the projectile is influential on the impact resistance of graphene. The analysis provided a deeper understanding of the energy-absorbing capacity and the associated complex deformation and damage mechanisms of graphene, which are crucial to the facilitation of its future applications for impact protection devices in the military and transportation industries.
Potential Safety Hazards Associated With Li-Ion Battery Thermal Runaway Vent Gas Heat Transfer in Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Qatramez Ala’ E. , Kurzawski Andrew , Hewson John , Meehan Michael , Foti Daniel , Headley Alexander J.
Published: January 2025

This study focuses on assessing the safety hazards associated with Lithium-ion battery vent gas in energy storage systems by convective heating due to direct impingement. Heat fluxes and convection heat transfer coefficients of vent gas at the module top surface were estimated. This analysis was carried out by CFD and thermal runaway model simulations. Four cases of two gap heights between the cells and walls of their module (H) and two vent gas jet velocities (vJet) were investigated. vJet values used in the simulations were based on venting predictions for failing 5 Ah and 10 Ah cells, and the two gap heights were selected based on estimates from a deployed system. The simulations results show that the vent gas could play a vital role in module-to-module thermal runaway propagation by pre-heating the cells in adjacent modules. Multiple sequential failures are needed to initiate a thermal runaway in the cell directly exposed to the vent gas jet. The analysis shows that vent gas jet temperature has a significant effect on the number of failures needed to raise the exposed cell surface temperature to a dangerous level.
Blast-Resistant Insulated Laminated Glass Windows
Authors: Elbelbisi Ahmed , Salim Hani , Newberry Michael , Weaver Mark , Elemam Hesham
Published: January 2025

Insulating laminated glass (IGU) windows are widely used in building envelopes to enhance safety and mitigate hazards during blast events. However, there has been limited research conducted to study the response of IGUs under blast loads. Therefore, this study aims to experimentally and numerically investigate the response of IGUs under blast loads. Field tests were conducted on three panels with varying sizes, thicknesses, and configurations. A Finite Element Model was developed using Ansys LS-DYNA software to simulate the dynamic response of the IGU panels. The numerical modeling was validated based on the experimental work. Through comprehensive field tests and numerical modeling, this research seeks to enhance our understanding of the behavior of blast-resistant IGU windows, thereby contributing to the advancement of building safety and structural integrity in the face of explosive threats.
Synergizing Industry 4.0 Technology With Additive Manufacturing to Enhance Quality Assurance and Enable Additive Manufacturing As a Service Industry
Authors: Bhandarkar Vivek V. , Das Broteen , Tandon Puneet
Published: January 2025

The widespread adoption of additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, highlights the importance of maintaining stringent quality standards in 3D-printed parts. This work introduces an innovative approach integrating Industry 4.0 with AM, focusing on harnessing the Internet of Things (IoT) for feedback control to swiftly detect defects. Operating within the framework of AM as a service (AMaaS), the system efficiently manages multiple 3D printers to meet client demands. Utilizing Raspberry Pi (RPi) and advanced Python socket modules, a user-friendly graphical interface (GUI) enriched with live video streams enhances user interaction. Clients can securely upload STL files over the Internet, accessing the system via robust authentication mechanisms. Live video feeds from RPi high-quality (HQ) cameras offer real-time insights into the printing process, while a deep learning (DL)-based convolutional neural network (CNN) model accurately detects warpage defects. Trained on images captured by RPi cameras, the CNN model’s performance metrics are systematically explored. This research integrates Industry 4.0 principles with 3D printing, advancing AMaaS with proactive quality control and live monitoring, showcasing innovative DL-based defect detection. The framework contributes to smart AM practices, promising widespread applicability across industries.
Strain Rate Material Response of Laminated Glass Interlayer Polymers
Authors: Elemam Hesham , Elkilani Ahmed , Elbelbisi Ahmed , Elsisi Alaa , Bowman Andrew , Salim Hani
Published: January 2025

Laminated glass (LG) systems are commonly used to enhance the blast and ballistic resistance of building window systems. However, there is still an incomplete understanding of glass shards and their interface with the polymeric interlayer. This paper aims to experimentally investigate the quasi-static and high strain rate responses of uncured and cured polymeric interlayers tested between 21 and 32 °C. The study evaluates the responses of different interlayer mayerials under strain rates of 0.033, 2, and 20 to 50 1/s. The material response is found to be significantly impacted by the strain rate, with behavior in some cases transitioning from viscoelastic characteristics to a combined linear elastic-non-elastic response. The test results offer valuable insights for assessing alternative methods to model these various materials under blast loading conditions.
Intention-Predicted Motion Planning of an Assistive Bionic Joint Knee Brace for Knee Rehabilitation
Authors: Duong Kiet , Swaminathan Sidharth , Agrawal Rishit , Zaidi Syed , Viswanathan Vimal , Jin Li , Jiang Lin
Published: January 2025

With 30 million people in the U.S. experiencing difficulties in performing a basic, yet crucial, function as walking, there is a call for a more user-oriented alternative that can alleviate this debilitating condition. As briefly mentioned, medical procedures and treatment for this condition are typically very expensive. Surgical procedures come with a slew of physical and emotional tolls, not to mention the risks. On the other hand, many of the current mechanical or biomechanical alternatives encompass a dimensionally complex lower limb exoskeleton system that lacks adaptive features. With the ABJ prototype, the fluidic muscle systems have the potential to outperform current traditional exoskeleton systems in terms of imitating the user’s natural gait. Additionally, with a closed-loop adaptive control system, the prototype also offers movement compensation capabilities that are immensely useful for rehabilitation in patients’ battle against KOA.
Design and Optimization of Micro-Perforated Panel (MPP) Sound Absorbers for Mitigating Pickleball Noise at Oblique Incidence
Authors: Ray Subhrodeep , Liu Haijun
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the efficacy of micro-perforated panels (MPPs) in reducing noise pollution in pickleball court environments, a concern growing in tandem with the sport’s popularity. Specifically, the research evaluates the performance of MPPs arranged in parallel configurations, aimed at mitigating the broad spectrum of noise frequencies generated during pickleball activities, including the problematic pop sound characteristics of the sport. Utilizing COMSOL Multiphysics for simulations, this study provides insights into the acoustic performance of MPP absorbers under various conditions, with a particular focus on oblique sound incidences — common in open and semi-open sports facilities. The simulations help confirm the theoretical and empirical models, suggesting that MPP absorbers can maintain effective sound absorption across different incident angles. The findings propose a significant advancement in the architectural design of sports facilities, offering a scalable and aesthetically pleasing noise control solution that does not compromise the aesthetic or functional aspects of the environment. This research not only underscores the versatility and efficiency of MPP absorbers in real-world applications but also sets the stage for further innovations in materials and designs for environmental noise control in sports settings.
Off-Design Behavior of a Regulated ORC-Based System for Exhaust Heat Recovery on Ice
Authors: Fatigati Fabio , Di Bartolomeo Marco , Di Battista Davide , Carapellucci Roberto
Published: January 2025

Transportation sector is living a transition era, where conventional powertrain based on Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) is gradually replaced by hybrid and electric ones. However, in vehicles used for people and freight mobility, the ICEs will still play a crucial role, since they represent actually over the 95% of the powertrains. In this device, the efficiency target is gradually increasing, in order to meet the worldwide emissions reduction goals.

Hence, among the different opportunities, waste heat recovery on the exhaust gas of an engine is one of the most promising ones, with a high technological readiness and also high potential. In this paper, an ORC (Organic Rankine Cycle) based unit has been considered as exhaust heat recovery system. The ORC system, equipped with volumetric machines, has been developed, tested and represented by a numerical model, so experimentally validated. The model can consider all the different aspects on a real small ORC system. In particular, the relations between the main operating quantities such as maximum plant pressure and working fluid mass flow rate are caught by the model. Hence, exploiting the linear relation found between these two parameters given by the hydraulic plant permeability, a regulating strategy was developed. This is based on pump and expander revolution speed regulation and allows to widen the operating range of the ORC unit. In order to assess the feasibility of the proposed strategy, it was implemented through a dedicated and novel subroutine in the ORC-based unit model. In this way, the benefits related to the ORC control are detected under severe off-design operating condition, i.e. exhaust mass flow rate and temperature, related to the specific ICE operating point.
Selective and Sensitive Determination of Dopamine in a Novel Gear-Shaped Screen-Printed Electrode Modified With G-PANI Ink
Authors: Sarkar Pritu Parna , Tabassum Ridma , Jalal Ahmed Hasnain , Ashraf Ali , Islam Nazmul
Published: January 2025

Now-a-days electrochemical sensors are used to detect various analytes in bodily fluids. The electrodes of these sensors can be modified with various designs and particles. In our paper, we developed a novel gear-shaped electrode. The cyclic voltammetry (CV) analysis shows that the novel design has improved active surface area by 57% than without gear design. This novel design was fabricated as a screen-printed electrode using laser processing. Moreover, the novel shaped sensor was modified with polyaniline (G-PANI) ink to enhance the performance of the sensor. The physiochemical properties of the developed sensor were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy. The modified electrode was used to detect dopamine (DA). Dopamine is an important catecholamines neurotransmitter which is known as “happy hormone”. It regulates various important body functions. But an abnormal range of dopamine in bodily fluid may lead to various diseases i.e., Parkinson disease, Alzheimer’s disease etc. This sensor can detect dopamine within the linear range of 0.1–10 μM, with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.73μM (R2 = 0.98). Cyclic voltammetry was used to evaluate the performance of the sensor, in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) buffer with ferricyanide as the redox probe. The gear-shaped design has shown good repeatability and reproducibility. It has also shown a good selectivity in a ternary mixture of Uric Acid (UA) and Dopamine.
On Verification and Validation of Next Generation High-Pressure High-Temperature Fatigue Resistant Offshore Connector
Authors: Bansal Gaurav , Shenoy Mahesh , Ananthakrishnan Singaravelan , Marasamy Suresh , Esenyyazov Hemra
Published: January 2025

To satisfy growing world demand, the energy industry constantly seeks efficient and safe methods to produce oil and gas from new reserves. Exploration is being driven towards High-Pressure, High-Temperature HPHT wells which are characterized by hydrocarbons at greater than 15000 PSI (100 MPa) pressure and 350°F (180°C) temperature. These harsh conditions necessitate development of innovative tools to ensure safe and efficient operations.

While the tools and technologies developed for offshore operations vary across original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), the industry is converging on standardized acceptance criteria. Rigorous verification and validation, adhering to established ASME and API standards, are crucial for any new technology before being introduced in the field to ensure safe and efficient operations.

SLB OneSubsea developed a new family of 20000 PSI (138 MPa) rated tools for servicing deepwater fields in the US Gulf of Mexico. A key component of these modular tools is a novel 20,000 PSI (138 MPa) fatigue resistant threaded connector capable of withstanding environmental loads while deployed underwater. These loads are exacerbated by non-uniform thread geometry making fatigue an important mode of failure that needs to be well understood in addition to tension, bending, pressure, and sealing capabilities.

One such innovation was the 20000 PSI fatigue resistant turnbuckle connector. The connector simplifies assembly by functioning like a union — eliminating the need to rotate entire strings. The design underwent comprehensive verification through numerical simulations followed by rigorous testing of prototypes.
Protection of Electrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Parts Against Increasing Random Vibrational Requirements in Space
Authors: Martin Alexander
Published: January 2025

The increasing size and complexity of Space Launch Vehicles (SLVs) have led to higher random vibration requirements for spacecraft instruments and electronic components. This paper examines the protection of vibration-sensitive electrical, electronic, and electromechanical (EEE) parts on the Interstellar Mapping Acceleration Probe (IMAP) mission from acceleration loads experienced by SpaceX’s Falcon 9 LV. A finite element model of the Power Distribution Unit (PDU) is presented, revealing acceleration responses of critical EEE parts exceeding vendor test levels. Through modeling, simulation, and hardware correlation, a notched test profile is derived to attenuate component responses while meeting specific requirements. The resulting Protoflight test profile for the flight PDU demonstrated no mechanical or electrical anomalies during testing. This research provides insights into detecting and mitigating high acceleration responses in EEE parts for future space missions utilizing larger SLVs or operating in high random vibration environments.
Heat Transfer Labs in the Context of Practice - Making It Real
Authors: Fleischmann Shirley
Published: January 2025

Heat Transfer is an extremely practical topic and is often a required course in a mechanical engineering curriculum. However, many students find it to be difficult, primarily due to the complexity of the mathematical modeling involved and the challenge of connecting these models to real-world applications. To many students, the Heat Transfer course seems more like an applied mathematics course. Over the years, and particularly post-COVID, students have had difficulty in visualizing many mathematical concepts, making it especially difficult to connect these concepts practical applications. This paper describes an approach to the lab that begins with shared experiences and then deliberately builds the underlying understanding and skills needed to help students connect their “real-world” observations to mathematical expressions in what many students see as an unrelated “virtual world” of analysis. This approach has been developed over more than 30 years teaching both heat transfer lectures and labs in an engineering program that strongly values a “hands-on” approach to engineering education. Careful timing in presenting ideas is crucial, along with an understanding of how students learn and mentally process concepts. While a full semester of weekly lab experiences has been developed and successfully implemented, this paper will focus on a specific lab project: heat load analysis of a building. The project will be described within the context of the supporting experiments.
Medical Device Validation: State of the Art and Benefits of X-In-The-Loop Framework Implementation
Authors: Grau Raphael , Ens Pia , Bause Katharina , Düser Tobias
Published: January 2025

In the healthcare industry, safety and efficacy of medical devices is crucial for the protection of patients and practitioners. Medical device development is a complex process dominated by different guidelines and regulatory demands. A systematic and continuous verification and validation is central to the development process, as it provides a structured approach to ensure that medical devices comply with regulatory requirements and fulfill their intended use. There is a great need for methodological support in medical technology product development. In co-operation Getinge AB a framework for the verification and validation of blood temperature control devices at an early stage of development is being drafted and compared with frameworks identified through a systematic literature review. This paper outlines the need for and key aspects of a general validation framework and introduces the X-in-the-loop (XiL) approach known from the automotive industry as a possible framework to be applied and adapted to the medical engineering sector. It recognizes the strengths of IPEK -XiL for system of systems development and validation and transfers these to the equally complex cyber-physical or single hardware/software medical device domain. With the transfer of the XiL framework to medical engineering a focus on applicability and credibility compliments the iterative development process in the highly regulated marked, thereby encouraging medical device innovation.
Computer Numerical Control Integration Into the Undergraduate Mechanical Engineering Curriculum
Authors: Ochoa Roman , Stewart Trae , Santiago Gabriella , Stanton Matthew , Clumpner Brandon , Hoyer Brodie , Nowicki Margaret
Published: January 2025

Current instruction of manufacturing processes at the United States Military Academy utilizes manual knee mills for milling instruction. However, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Milling Machines are standard to modern industry and have the potential to modernize the undergraduate engineering curriculum. The objective of the study is to determine the benefits and limitations of using a small and affordable CNC machine, the HAAS Desktop Mill, to integrate instruction of CNC machining into an undergraduate level manufacturing course. It was determined that it is possible to use this machine to effectively teach CNC milling on a limited range of materials. This paper outlines the process of adapting current curriculum to include comprehensive CNC machining instruction, from Computer Aided Design (CAD) modeling to the final CNC manufacturing steps. Additionally, the paper discusses material and time considerations inherent to the integration of the new machines into existing projects. The study aims to create a scalable model that could be applied in other undergraduate level programs, enhancing students’ familiarity with industry-standard technology and processes.
Vibrational Response of Boron Nitride Nanofiller in Epoxy Nanocomposites- An Experimental Study
Authors: Rodriguez Luis Rafael Miranda , Tendolkar Shalaka , Wilson Kyra , Yung Crystal , Klimentos Spiro , Norris Andrew , Singer Jonathan P. , Pelegri Assimina A.
Published: January 2025

The vibrational response of epoxy-A is evaluated as a function of a mixture of boron nitride nanotubes and hexagonal boron nitride (BNNT/h-BN) concentration and aging. This study pursues neat resin and resin with BNNT/h-BN of different concentrations 0.1/0.24 and 0.5/1.21 wt.%. Cantilever beam specimens are excited in agreement with ASTM E756-05 from low 100 Hz to 500 Hz frequencies by an automated electromagnetic shaker using a sine frequency input from a waveform generator. From this testing, the second and third resonant modes of the materials are obtained and analyzed using contactless laser position sensors. This analysis obtains the output over input in the form of compliance, and material properties such as the loss factor and Young’s modulus are also obtained. The results show that the epoxy-A resin has remarkable properties for strength and dampening. The addition of nanofiller at the 0.1/0.24 concentration presented several reductions of properties due to its propensity to produce voids and a lack of interconnectivity of constrained regions. Despite this, the 0.1/0.24 concentration could still preserve the material during aging and continued testing. The nanofiller concentration of 0.5/1.21 increased Young’s modulus in the sample and, after aging, showed an increase in both the loss factor and Young’s modulus, which is a remarkable finding. It is theorized that the increase in BNNT allowed a synergistic effect in BNNT/h-BN interactions with the polymer, and the slightly hydrophilic properties of h-BN assisted in enhancing the interconnection between filler and matrix. This is further evidenced by the distinct reduction of bubble content in the 0.5/1.21 mix.
Experimental Investigations of Wind Shear From Passing Vehicles
Authors: Begum Assma , Rahai Hamid , Moffit Ryan , Bonifacio Jeremy
Published: January 2025

Experimental investigations and field tests of wind shear from passing a vehicle have been performed. The goal of the investigation was to experimentally assess wind energy potential from passing vehicles on freeways and highways for electric power generation. The experiments were performed in an open-circuit low-speed wind tunnel at a free-stream mean velocity of 23 m/s. Five PVC Pipes of 6 cm OD and 90 cm long were placed on a flat plate platform adjacent to the wind-blowing domain in the streamwise direction at 2D from each other. The pipes simulate the columns under a freeway overpass. A scaled Ahmad body with dimensions of 17.36 cm height, 15.67 cm width, and 52.7 cm length was used as the vehicle. The spanwise distance between the Ahmad body and the pipes was 0.75 w where w is the width of the vehicle. The middle pipe was used as a reference pipe for circumferential and vertical pressure measurements. The streamwise locations of the vehicle were according to our previous transient numerical simulations as the vehicle approached and passed the columns at 0.1–0.5 sec.

Field tests were performed using a moving scaled Ahmad body. The vehicle speed was measured by a hand-held speed gun with an accuracy of 0.44 m/sec. and was approximately 22 miles/hr (10 m/sec.). Wind measurements were made at 0.75W adjacent to a vertical wall with static and total pressure taps. Results verified the corresponding wind tunnel results and showed a maximum transient wind of 10 m/sec. from passing of the vehicle. These results were in agreement with our previous simulation results [12, 13] where a wind speed equivalent to the vehicle’s speed was obtained up to 0.5w from the vehicle in the spanwise direction and from the vehicle’s bottom to near the top of the vehicle in the vertical direction.
Unlocking the Potential of Oscillating Water Columns: A Design Exploration for Improved Efficiency
Authors: Rodriguez-Alava Luis , Barzola-Monteses Julio , Ordoñez-Saca Brayan , Santana-Villamar Jordy , Espinoza-Andaluz Mayken
Published: January 2025

Over time, efforts to harness and access renewable energy have progressed significantly. One notable application in this area is the use of ocean resources. Specifically, this paper highlights wave energy converters (WEC), devices designed to capture energy from wave oscillations. The focus is on the Oscillating Water Column (OWC) configuration, a coastal infrastructure like a breakwater with a wave capture chamber that confines wave motion. This configuration aims to mimic the operation of a cylinder-piston system, facilitating bidirectional air movement to generate electricity via a turbine, thereby converting mechanical energy from the rotor into electrical power via a generator. Subsequent research will explore parameters to improve the design and efficiency of OWCs. It includes design variables such as frequency analysis, the impact of ocean wavelengths on shorelines, and their effect on chamber inclination, dimensions, wall thickness ratio, and skirt draft, which is essential for optimal oscillating water mass in the chamber. In addition, the optimal cross-sectional geometry of the chamber is explored, with a U-shape being advocated under certain conditions. Finally, despite its limitations, the Wells turbine is evaluated as a superior choice for its functionality and application, and an optimal configuration is advocated to maximize efficiency and electrical output.
Digital Twin-Enabled Real-Time Ultrasonic Assessment for Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Pozhanka Mariya , Stidham Brayden , Zagrai Andrei
Published: January 2025

The proposed DT prototype is underpinned by an approach that dynamically adjusts printing process parameters based on real-time monitoring of the material’s elastic properties. The main goal of this development is to prevent possible defects and to ensure that the desired material properties are achieved throughout the printing process. Parameters including nozzle temperature, layer thickness, and print speed are identified as key factors in controlling the elastic properties of the material. The digital twin utilizes data obtained from sound velocity measurements using ultrasonic (UT) transducers placed under the printer’s build plate. These measurements serve as critical metrics for evaluating the elastic properties of the printed material. The fundamental database for digital twin functionality is created by collecting and analyzing sound speed measurements on PLA samples that are printed using various combinations of printing process parameters. By analyzing the measurement results, a response surface is created that relates the elastic properties of the material to the printing process parameters. Utilizing the data on sound speed within the material and the printing process parameters, the DT offers insights into the elastic properties of the printed part. This enables the adjustment of the printing process to obtain desirable properties and avoid the possible formation of defects. The integration of a digital twin that includes a print response surface is expected to significantly improve control over the outcome of the printing process. This comprehensive approach demonstrates great potential in controlling additive manufacturing to achieve and validate desired material properties.
Manufacture and In-Vitro Test of Thin and Flexible Polycarbonate Urethane for Use as a Knee Implant
Authors: Ramos Gonzalez Maria , O’Toole Brendan
Published: January 2025

Millions of people suffer from pain and limiting mobility with the onset of knee osteoarthritis (OA), which can afflict people at any age. Surgical interventions, such as total knee replacements (TKRs), offer a “cure” to knee OA by completely removing the knee joint and replacing it with metal and plastic implants. The surgical procedure is invasive and may result in a painful and slow recovery process. As traditional TKRs erode with prolonged use, plastic and metal wear particles may result in periprosthetic osteolysis, requiring another invasive surgical procedure to remove the particles. Polycarbonate urethanes (PCUs) have shown tremendous potential in applications involving long-term friction and wear. One potential application of PCUs is as a material intended for knee implants, specifically to mitigate the debilitating erosion of articular cartilage and bone prevalent in knee OA. ChronoFlex®, an FDA approved PCU, is already used for various human implants, but it has not been applied as a load bearing implant. This study focused on manufacturing ChronoFlex® samples for potential use as a knee implant material. To validate ChronoFlex® as a potential PCU for use as a knee implant material, thin-film rectangular samples 0.25 mm thick were mounted on a custom-built knee simulator’s femoral component to be cyclically worn against an ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) polyethylene (PE) tibial component.

The in-vitro test protocol consisted of 5 thin-film samples axially loaded with a cyclical wear cycle of 0.5 Hz. 1 thin-film sample was only axially loaded as the control specimen. A wear test of 50,000 cycles with wear measurements at 10,000 cycle intervals was defined using ISO 14243 as a testing guideline. The 5 cyclically loaded samples ruptured with a maximum cycle count of 1860. None of the samples showed statistically significant wear. Future tests with increased sample thickness are proposed to mitigate failure of the test samples and enable long-term wear testing. If validated with long-term wear testing, ChronoFlex® would provide an alternative biomaterial for knee implants, possibly eliminating periprosthetic osteolysis as the knee implant wears, prolonging a patient’s need for further revision knee surgeries.
Towards Design and Preliminary Evaluation of an MRI-Conditional Robot for Needle-Based Prostate Interventions – Enabling Needle Bending via a Tendon-Driven Notched Needle
Authors: Padasdao Blayton , Imanaka Rex , Konh Bardia
Published: January 2025

Prostate cancer is the second most prevalent cancer type among men. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. Recently, advancements in needle-based prostate interventions for diagnoses and treatments such as biopsy and brachytherapy have been making large strides. In particular, needle insertions under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guidance have gained significant tractions. MRI provides excellent imaging feedback to track and visualize the needle inside the body that is valuable for accurate needle placement. On the other hand, active needles have shown potential to improve needle guidance along curved trajectories towards target(s). In previous works, we presented a tendon-driven needle to realize bi-directional bending at the needle tip using two internal tendons. This work introduces an MRI-conditional robot for MRI-guided tendon-driven active needle insertions. The robot is designed, fabricated, and assembled with MRI-compatible materials, sensors, and actuators to enable needle insertion and needle bending. Two piezoelectric motors equipped with encoders which were responsible for independently pulling the tendons. A displacement control was applied to realize a desired bending angle at the needle tip with position feedback of an electromagnetic sensor attached at the needle tip. It was shown that the robot and actuators can realize a desired bending angle with an average error and average absolute error of less than 0.5 and 2 degrees, respectively.
Jet Formation Following Droplet Impact on an Inclined Microholed Hydrophilic Substrate
Authors: Nath Tushar , Shondhi Sakib Sadat , Tan Hua , Alam Md Nur E.
Published: January 2025

Given its wide-ranging applications, the dynamics of liquid droplet impact on diverse surfaces has been extensively investigated. While much of the existing research focuses on droplet impacts on horizontal hydrophobic surfaces, it’s worth noting that droplets often collide with inclined or moving surfaces in practical scenarios. Hence it is important to understand the physics related to such oblique impact of the droplet. Our present study focuses on the study of the oblique impacts. A microholed hydrophilic surface has been set at different inclination angles from 0° to 30° with an interval of 5°. Almost constant size droplets have been released through a micropipette tip using a syringe pump. The height of the release of the droplet was varied for every inclination angle to vary the impact velocity of the droplet. We focused on the normal impact velocity component and normal Weber number (WeN) in the study. We have found the time for maximum spread quite independent of the inclination angle for a certain normal Weber number (WeN). It is observed that the normalized maximum spreading dia. of the droplet remains almost constant for certain normal Weber number at different inclination angles and it follows a power law as βm ∼ WeN0.27. Our power law model closely aligns with theoretical models discussed in the literature. The jet velocities at different inclinations have been found to vary linearly with the normal impact velocity and it has been found to increase at higher angles which can be described by the reduction in the effective area of the substrate hole at higher angles. The correlations between pinch-off time and maximum length of the jet before breakup have also been discussed.
A Lithium-Ion Battery Fast Charging Algorithm Based on Electrochemical Model: Experimental Results
Authors: Anwar Sohel , Pramanik Sourav , Amini Ali
Published: January 2025

Lithium-Ion batteries have become the principal battery technology for EVs to date. However, one of the principal factors limiting the widespread usage of the EVs is the length of charging times for the lithium-ion battery packs. The appropriate charging algorithm is critical to shorten the battery charging times while keeping the battery safe. In our earlier work, we proposed a novel optimal strategy for charging the lithium-ion battery based on electrochemical battery model using A performance index that aimed at achieving a faster charging rate while maintaining safe limits for various battery parameters. A more realistic model, based on battery electro-chemistry has been used for the design of the optimal charging algorithm as opposed to the conventional equivalent circuit models. Simulation results showed that the proposed optimal charging algorithm is capable of shortening the charging time of a lithium-ion cell by as much as 30% when compared with the standard constant current charging. Here we present the results from a number of experiments using Lithium-Ion cylindrical cells that were charged using the proposed algorithm and compared the charging times with the standard constant current-constant voltage (CC-CV) charging algorithms. A Maccor Series 4300 battery testing system was used to carry out the experiments. The experimental results showed that the proposed algorithm offered shorter charging times by up to 16% when compared to the CC-CV charging algorithms under the same battery initial conditions such as SOC and temperature of the cells.
Development of a Microfluidic Device for Larval Zebrafish Culture to Understand the Connection Between Microbiome and Neurological Disease
Authors: Nath Tushar , Tan Hua , Coffin Allison , Rudman Seth
Published: January 2025

Small multicellular model organisms such as zebrafish (Danio rerio) have significantly advanced modern biomedical research methodologies. The substantial genetic and physiological similarities of zebrafish to other animals in the Chordata phylum, including humans, and a fast generation time, makes them an excellent model system for many biomedical studies. Despite progress using zebrafish as a model organism, challenges persist in precisely manipulating the aquatic environment of zebrafish embryos or larvae under different conditions. In recent decades, microfluidic technologies have revolutionized experimental setups by offering precise control over fluid dynamics and material exchange in the fluid systems. These advancements have paved the way for the development of microfluidic fish-on-a-chip (FOC) devices tailored for embryonic and larval zebrafish studies. This study focuses on the fabrication of a novel FOC device designed for culturing zebrafish larvae to investigate the influence of the microbiome on neurodegenerative conditions, hearing loss, and neuropsychiatric disorders. Our device enables controlled manipulations of the microbiome in the fish larva, including precise probiotic treatments, essential for quantitative understanding of the impact of microbiomes on host physiology and disease. Fabrication of the device involved soft lithography with a replica molding technique, resulting in a structure composed of a flat glass substrate and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) fluidic channels. The device comprises 24 culturing chambers with separate inlet and outlet channels to minimize cross-contamination among chambers, integrating bacterial culture systems for precise dosing within each chamber. Design specifications were realized using SolidWorks CAD software, with the Delrin mold produced through computerized numerical control (CNC) machining. The PDMS replica was bonded to the glass substrate using oxygen plasma treatment to ensure a leak-proof assembly. Optimal device integrity was achieved through meticulous parameter adjustments during plasma treatment. The device dimensions were checked against the design for validating the accuracy of the fabrication process. Variation of experimental flowrate through the device with change in the hydrostatic pressure in the liquid reservoir was compared against analytical solutions to validate device performance. Also, the initial growth rate of embryos in selected chambers of the device were compared against the controls.
Optimized Cutting Ball Design for a Subsea Valve
Authors: Shenoy Mahesh , Bansal Gaurav , Abnave Vivek , Esenyyazov Hemra
Published: January 2025

Subsea valves are an integral part of the in-riser landing strings that are used for test and cleanup operations from floating rigs. The ball valve is used as a controlled barrier to secure the well, by containing wellbore fluid flow at the subsea blowout preventer (BOP). The ball valve needs to provide cutting capability while still maintaining the sealing integrity even when intervention media such as wireline, slickline or coiled tubing reside across the valve.

In the past, incorporating the shear and seal mechanism using a floating ball valve was especially difficult in the limited available radial space around the tubing inside the riser. Alternative solutions such as using a separate cutter module for the shearing function have not always been feasible due to the length constraints imposed by the BOP spaceout. Therefore, the ball design needs to be optimal to cut the largest size of tubing, while still ensuring that the seals and associated interfaces are not compromised.

This paper focuses on the development of a cutting ball that can shear different wireline, slickline, and coiled tubing media, while maintaining the seal integrity. The sealing functionality is heavily governed by the localized damage characteristics of the cutting edges. This is a function of the intrinsic material properties of the cutting surfaces and the intervention media sheared. Other factors such as geometry and cutting efficiency also play an important role. The paper provides a solution by using a combination of experiments and computational simulations to quantify the influence of these parameters on the cutting efficiency and design an optimal shear and seal valve. Parameters that are most relevant to cutting and sealing functionalities were characterized to design an optimal valve mechanism with improved reliability and performance.
Enhancing Sound Absorption of Curvature Damped Membrane With Heterogenous Microperforated Panel
Authors: Kumar Raja , Mohanty Amiya Ranjan
Published: January 2025

Integrating a membrane layer atop microperforated panels (MPP) prevents dust accumulation within the pores, thus preserving their acoustic performance. The induced tension and curvature-induced damping of the membrane on the fixed rim affect the sound absorption. The sound absorption caused by the MPP mostly results from thermal and viscous losses occurring in an array of micrometer-sized holes. The objective of this study is to develop a multilayer sound absorber with a damped membrane coupled with a heterogenous microperforated panel using the two-point impedance with a graph theory-based approach. Further, the effect of the influencing parameters of the membrane, i.e., tension, surface density, damping coefficient of the membrane, and hole diameter, thickness, and perforation porosity of the MPP, is studied. The parametric studies showed how to select the design for a particular frequency to target. The findings demonstrated that including the membrane significantly improved the acoustic characteristics. The presence of air cavities between the membrane and MPP, as well as between MPP and the rigid wall, determines the extent to which the sound absorption peak is shifted.
Evaluating the Aerodynamics of a Rooftop Greenhouse
Authors: van Ginkel Cailin , Kruger Sunita , Pretorius Leon
Published: January 2025

In this article the aerodynamics of a rooftop greenhouse is evaluated using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). This entails using a scale model and wind tunnel tests, as well as understanding the effects of design changes of the rooftop greenhouse on the aerodynamics. A wind tunnel test was conducted using a reduced scale model based on the full-scale rooftop greenhouse. Using these experimental results, a numerical model was developed in Star-CCM+ and the flow around the rooftop greenhouse was simulated. Once the numerical model results were found to be in good comparison to the experimental results, the greenhouse was redesigned to improve the aerodynamics. A numerical model was developed for the redesigned greenhouse and simulated again using CFD. The results indicated a reduction in the high-pressure points that were seen in the original model and less circulating patterns occurred which reduces the damage potential on the greenhouse due to wind flow. This article therefore provides insight into the design of a greenhouse to withstand high pressure from the wind on top of the roof of a building thus being more aerodynamically efficient.
Improving Contouring Accuracy of CNC Systems by Improved RNN Prediction and Pre-Compensation
Authors: Song Jiamu , Li Bingran , Ye Peiqing
Published: January 2025

Contour motion control is a crucial factor in ensuring the profile precision of workpieces during CNC machining. Existing methods heavily rely on accurate contour error prediction and effective compensation algorithms. This paper employs an improved Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) to predict the contour error and proposes a contour error pre-compensation algorithm considering vibration suppression of machine tools.

Initially, an improved RNN is proposed to construct an input-output mapping model for single-axis servo feed systems, which is grounded in the examination of the primary factors influencing tracking error, the construction of the dataset, and the network structure. The model predicts the expected motion positions of each feed axis, and the predicted trajectory contour error is then obtained via the Newton numerical method.

On the basis of the accurate prediction of trajectory contour error, an FIR filter is suggested to smooth the motion trajectory after mirror compensation of the contour error. This overall trajectory smoothing method reduces high-frequency noise in the compensated trajectory and decreases the vibration during processing while ensuring contour accuracy.

Finally, validation experiments were performed on a multi-axis CNC experimental platform. The proposed method achieved an average tracking error prediction deviation of less than 3μm for each axis of the test trajectory. The root mean square value of the compensated trajectory contouring error was reduced by half, and the maximum value was effectively suppressed. Compared to traditional compensation methods, the proposed pre-compensation method effectively suppressed the vibration caused by the compensated trajectory, while sacrificing some contouring accuracy.
Extended Reality and Motion Capture for Ergonomics in Industrial Contexts
Authors: Lanzoni Daniel , Nava Marco , Vitali Andrea , Regazzoni Daniele , Rizzi Caterina
Published: January 2025

In recent years, operator ergonomics has been playing an important role, driven by workplace regulations and worker safety in manufacturing settings characterized by physical demands and injury risks. Traditional ergonomic evaluation methods rely mainly on observation and manual measurements, which are subjective, reactive, and sometimes challenging to perform. Technologies, such as virtual reality devices and motion capture systems, offer opportunities to streamline data collection and enhance objectivity. Moreover, Industry 4.0 introduced digital twins, facilitating ergonomic evaluations in virtual environments.

This paper presents a framework that integrates Virtual Reality technologies and motion capture analysis to support ergonomists in evaluating operators’ working conditions in manufacturing settings. The operator wears a head mounted display to simulate working tasks in a virtual replica of the real plant. An inertial motion capture system is employed to automate data gathering and processing for an objective evaluation of the operator’s postural condition. A Virtual Wall system is exploited by the ergonomist for the evaluation of the tasks using the motion captured data.

A case study has been considered to test the functionality of the platform. A tester repeats a sequence of tasks both in real and virtual scenarios in order to compare the results. Ergonomics is evaluated through three standard indexes (i.e., RULA, REBA, OWAS), resulting in a strong correlation between data acquired interacting with physical and virtual environments.