bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Indoor Environment on Engineering Students’ Inhibition Control Ability
Authors: Mobaraki-Omoumi Mehri , Ahad Md Tanvir , Kittur Javeed , Siddique Zahed 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Inhibition control is one of the executive functions identified as the process by which goals influence prepotent response tendency. Most of the engineering courses include problem solving activities, and it has been proven that cognitive inhibition abilities improve students’ performance. So, understanding the factors that can enhance interference control skills is highly valuable in education.
The Stroop task was designed to investigate interference control by evaluating how incongruent conditions can increase response time (RT), called the Stroop effect. In this study, we investigate the impact of indoor temperature (20° C, 24.40° C, and 26° C) on interference control ability using Event-Related Potential (ERP) studies. Ten engineering students from the University of Oklahoma performed Stroop/reverse Stroop tasks using Neurobs’ Presentation (Neurobehavioral Systems, Inc., Albany, CA). The ERP components related to the Stroop effect and the anatomical location of the topographic scalp maps were evaluated.
The prefrontal network is active during the process, with one exception. N100-N200 components with higher amplitudes are related to the selective attention observed in this study in all three thermal conditions. The statistical analysis showed a significant impact of the thermal condition on response time in the incongruent condition presented by the Stroop test and general incongruent condition.
Design and Fabrication of Human Head and Neck Model for Concussion and TBI Experiment
Authors: Honarmandi Peyman , Reina Caitlin , Capiccioni George 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Concussions in athletes can occur from slight bumps, blows, and jolts to the head. Helmets are used to protect the athlete’s head, often tested on artificial head forms. An artificial test dummy was created to accurately model the contents and mechanical properties of a 95th percentile male head. An artificial skull was created to mimic that of the human head with a center of gravity and motions of the brain to accurately simulate that of the human head. An artificial brain and cerebrospinal fluid were used that had similar properties to the contents of the head. A neck was manufactured to accurately model human extension and flexion. An angular accelerometer was placed in a compartment inside the brain in order to read the values needed to detect a concussion to determine efficacy of helmets. The behaviors of these materials were analyzed through SolidWorks simulations and were verified through experimentation. The accelerometers read the values needed to detect a concussion with success which allowed for efficient testing of potential headgear. The model was able to sustain 109 Gs on the skull and 190 Gs on the brain, which meets the standard of 100G acceleration for a concussion.
Optimizing a Manufacturing Pick-And-Place Operation on a Robotic Arm Using a Digital Twin
Authors: Perry LaShaundra , Guerra-Zubiaga David A. , Richards Gershom , Abidoye Cecil , Hantouli Fadi 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Industry 4.0 is the ongoing evolution of manufacturing, characterized by implementing new technologies and methods to increase adaptability and efficiency. To realize the potential of Industry 4.0, integrating technological concepts is essential. This research combines process simulation, automation, and existing manufacturing infrastructure to develop a digital twin (DT) and implement it to drive visibility and innovation. This research seeks to optimize a live production system by developing a simulation to model a pick-and-place operation, creating a DT to reflect the real-world system environment. The simulation will allow for modifications to the process or system to better understand the impacts of changes to the operation.
The provided definition of a DT outlines a clear set of criteria that must be met for a virtual model to be considered a DT. According to this definition, the creation of a virtual, kinematic replica of a physical model is essential. Connecting this kinematic model to the physical model results in the automation of the kinematic model and the creation of a DT. The discussion also identifies potential opportunities for improving the performance of a physical robot cell through the use of statistical analysis and machine learning algorithms.
Parametric Optimization of Degradation Reduction of PEM Fuel Cell for Hydrogen Fuel Cell Heavy-Duty Truck
Authors: Nguyen Huu Linh , Kim Younghyeon , Han Jaesu , Yu Sangseok 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
A proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) of heavy-duty truck is operated in very harsh conditions, but it requires more longevity than a passenger vehicle. The current durability strategy for vehicular fuel cells is geared towards passenger vehicles, hence this study employs response surface analysis to develop a durability strategy for heavy-duty fuel cell trucks. The study uses a physics-based model to predict the degradation of PEMFC under truck operation mode. The model is validated using experimental data from a 20-cell PEMFC stack, which is operated for 2000 hours under the world harmonized vehicle cycle (WHVC) mode. The study employs a response surface method (RSM) to select the power output and degradation rate as object functions. Results indicated that as the operating temperature increases, the power output increases, but the degradation is accelerated. By contrast, increasing gas inlet temperature decreases power output and degradation rate. Higher relative humidity at the cathode and anode leads to increase fuel cell and lower voltage degradation. Therefore, the optimal operating conditions for the fuel cell to minimize voltage degradation are high levels of humidity, moderate cell temperatures, and moderate gas inlet temperatures. The study suggests that the optimal operating conditions are anode and cathode relative humidity of 100%, a fuel cell temperature of 61°C, and a gas inlet temperature of 57°C.
Analysis of Hydrodynamic Loading on Shark Species to Inform Design of Low Drag Satellite Telemetry Tags
Authors: Aduviri Brooke , Hansen Bianca , Wettstein Cassandra , Piacenza Susan , Piacenza Joseph , Lomonaco Pedro 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Sharks are pivotal apex predators in marine ecosystems and migrate up to thousands of miles throughout their lifetimes. Shark movement is studied using satellite tracking tags, which are typically attached to the dorsal fin. Tags either send a signal when the dorsal fin breaches or detach from the shark and float to surface to communicate with the satellite (Fig.1). While spatiotemporally resolved movement data is valuable to studying shark ecology and conservation, satellite tags impose hydrodynamic loading which produces a drag force on the shark, potentially influencing their behavior, leading to incorrect movement analysis. Since tags change the streamlined body shape of animals, they may influence swimming patterns, especially at high speeds since drag increases with velocity. In this study, we used existing 3D digital models of three shark species — the Great Hammerhead, Blacktip Reef, and Caribbean Reef — to assess the effects and influence future tag design. This paper explores flume testing at the OSU O.H. Hinsdale Wave Lab to improve CFD validation. A cart apparatus was glided across the flume at controlled velocities to simulate average cruising speeds of each shark species at angles of attack of 0°, 12°, and −12° degrees for neutral, rising, and diving movement patterns, respectively. We compared the output drag and lift coefficients to coefficients generated using CFD simulations in STAR-CCM+. Across the three species and angles of attack, the mean percent error was 47.3% ±34.1% standard deviation (SD) for the drag coefficient and 97.8% ±69.0% SD for the lift coefficient. Future work incorporates attaching scaled satellite tag models to shark models to compare to untagged data with the intent of informing subsequent tag designs.
A Robot Motion Planning Approach Based on Adaptive Multi-Tree Sampling
Authors: Feng Bohan , Jiang Xinting , Bi Youyi 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Efficient motion planning methods are essential to ensure industrial robots to work properly and safely. Although sampling-based planning algorithms are viable ones, they often struggle to adapt to highly constrained and complex environments. This paper introduces a new robot motion planning approach for such environments, utilizing a multi rapidly-exploring random trees exploration structure. The approach combines the fast exploration property of RRT-based methods with the global exploration property of multi-tree structures. In the subtree generation, an information gain-based method is used to analyze the sampled information from multiple trees to compute the potential information gain at various subtree generation locations. By selecting the locations with higher information gain, our method can effectively improve the exploration quality of the environment. Furthermore, an adaptive local subtree planning method is developed, which relies on local structure information and dynamically updates the sampling distribution to maximize the possibility of forming feasible trajectories in narrow passages. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is tested in 2D, 4D, and 6D environments, along with a complex material picking scenario. These experiments demonstrate that the proposed approach surpasses the performance of other algorithms, particularly in those highly constrained and complex environments. Our study contributes to the development of advanced and highly-adaptive motion planning methods for robots in complex environments.
Improving Facility Energy Efficiency Through Energy Cost Analysis
Authors: Guo Qi , Courville Adam , Liu Qiu 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
This paper presents a comprehensive procedure for conducting an electricity cost analysis to promote energy savings, reduce operational costs, and improve sustainability for facilities. By analyzing utility bills, the majority of a facility’s electricity costs in the US can be broken down into energy charge, demand charge, power factor charge, and service charge, each of which is explained in detail. These findings contribute to the field of facility energy analysis by providing novel insights into the breakdown of complex energy charge items into their constituent parts. The case study of a university in Louisiana with an annual electricity cost of approximately $1.7 million is presented. The energy and demand consumption, as well as the corresponding cost, were calculated and plotted. The potential energy-saving opportunities are discussed. The paper’s framework can serve as a roadmap for facilities to optimize their energy consumption, reduce costs, and minimize their carbon footprint. By conducting an electricity cost analysis and following the suggested guidelines, facilities can enhance their sustainability and financial well-being.
Research on Optimization of Sampling Feature Points for On-Machine Measurement of Integral Impeller Blade Profile
Authors: Song Weishu , Li Bingran , Ye Peiqing , Chen Weihua 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
During the machining process of the integral impeller, on-machine measurement can be used to measure the profile of the blade surface before precision machining, evaluate the distribution of allowances, guide the adjustment and optimization of the precision machining tool path NC program, and improve the machining accuracy of the blade surface. To improve measurement efficiency, it is necessary to optimize the sampling algorithm for the feature points of the blade surface, to reflect the most geometric features of the blade surface with the minimum number of measurement points as much as possible. This study proposes an optimization strategy for on-machine measurement feature point sampling of blade profile based on an actual produced integral impeller. By analyzing the structural characteristics of the blade surface and using the B-spline approximation approach, the measurement section line extraction that meets the fitting accuracy threshold requirements was achieved. The sampling function was reconstructed to achieve adaptive adjustment of curvature chord height, and the maximum allowable step size was introduced, achieve adaptive extraction of measurement feature points under multiple constraints. A reliability evaluation process for on-machine measurement systems has also been proposed, which has been applied in practical production lines to verify whether the accuracy of the on-machine measurement system itself meets the requirements.
Design, Development, Analysis, and Preliminary Testing of a Compliant Knee for Bipedal Robots
Authors: Talley Connor , Tetrault Anthony , Woods Parker , Allah Majazz , Jones Nathan , Wilson Catherine , Tekes Coskun , Tekes Ayse 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
There is still an ongoing effort in the design and development of legged robots in the field of robotics. Bipedal robots can imitate the walking gait cycle, hopping, and jumping type locomotion. To accomplish the gait cycle, the four phases of the gait cycle as double support phase, the pre-swing phase, the single support phase, and the post-swing phase should be successfully alternated in a sequence. Compliant mechanisms have been utilized in biomimetic designs due to their inherent properties such as bending of their flexible members rather than joints when forced and their ability to be manufactured as a single piece. This work presents the design of a single-piece robotic knee consisting of upper and lower legs which are combined using a compliant rolling contact hinge to allow for vertical motion in the foot. The hip of the robot houses two stepper motors to actuate the legs, additional two stepper motors for the swing of the hip, and 4 propeller kits arranged in a standard quadcopter orientation to balance the robot. MATLAB Simscape model of the robot is created for rapid motion analysis.
Design and Development of Remote Operated and Soft Biomimetic Amphibious Mud Skipper
Authors: Juarez Rafael , Cho Sungchan , Tran Kevin , Lupercio Ulysses , Schwenck Lucas , Talley Connor , Tekes Ayse 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
In this study, an amphibious, remotely operated, soft biomimetic locomotive mechanism that can reliably travel over rough terrain and swim in water is presented. The design of this mechanism is inspired by the mudskipper and consists of two soft fins, two compliant arms, a central body, and a compliant tail, utilized to travel on both land and water surfaces. The parts of the biomimetic robot are 3D printed using thermoplastic polyurethane and polylactic acid to sustain its contact with the ground in a unique way. The robot utilizes four servo motors to consistently move two compliant arms and soft fins to overcome obstacles. While the fins swipe back and forth across the fluid surface to generate movement, the tail is utilized in a vertical swiping motion to propel the robot through the water and assist in turning. The mechanism is remotely operated by a Bluetooth controller and powered by onboard batteries. All the electronics are encased in a waterproof housing so that the robot can swim in water without the hazard of shorting. Additionally, the MATLAB Simscape model of the robot is created to optimize the link lengths and analyze the locomotion behavior.
Leveraging Virtual Laboratory Modules for Digital Engagement and Active Learning in Mechanical Engineering
Authors: Uysalel Can , Jain Anshal , Ghazinejad Maziar 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Ongoing advancements in pedagogical technologies have prompted engineering educators to embrace digital platforms and interactive models. In this paper, we present a study of how incorporating engineering virtual laboratory modules can provide a valuable tool to bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and practical applications, enhancing students’ physical understanding of engineering topics. To address this issue, we are putting forth virtual laboratory modules that visualize the mechanical behavior of engineering materials. These modules include but are not limited to tensile test, Rockwell hardness measurement, and Vickers microhardness test. To provide a learner-centered environment, we utilize Python programming to create an interactive interface that enables users to select the engineering material and the type of tests. We employed Python programming to develop a student-oriented interface replicating a real lab environment, further enhancing the experiential learning process. Utilizing virtual learning modules in engineering education can significantly improve students’ engineering intuition and enhance their proficiency in characterizing and selecting engineering materials for various technical applications. Preliminary results indicate that virtual laboratories can supplement physical laboratories effectively due to their low costs, easy replication, and meeting substantial student demand. The virtual environment also enables students to view experiments repeatedly and at their own pace outside of the classroom. Integration of virtual learning modules can significantly improve the accessibility of advanced educational laboratories and setups, which may be unattainable for under-resourced facilities and student communities. When combined with hands-on experience in physical laboratory modules, our approach enhances the interaction between learners and instructors, fostering an experiential learning environment.
Passive Frequency Tuning Using Liquid Distributed Load
Authors: Adhikari Rahul , Karimi Vahid , Jackson Nathan 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Creating self-sustaining wireless sensor networks to power the Internet of Things requires universal energy harvesting systems. MEMS energy harvesters are in particular demand as they can be batch fabricated to meet the large supply demands. However, currently silicon MEMS kinetic energy harvesters are fabricated with a narrow bandwidth of 1–2 Hz, so each application requires a custom designed device which limits the advantages of batch fabrication. This paper investigates the development of a passive tuning MEMS vibration energy harvesting method that is based on distributing the load to various locations along the proof mass using a liquid load. A 3D printed proof mass with an array of cavities was developed, where each cavity could be filled with liquid to alter the resonant frequency as desired. Cavities were filled with silicone oil to validate the concept. The results illustrate tuning of the frequency with a resolution of &lt; 1 Hz and a range of approximately 50 Hz. This method represents a passive tuning method as no power is required and the tuning can be accomplished during manufacturing so that one single universal energy harvester could be made and then tuned to meet the end user’s frequency specification.
A Comparative Study on Conductive Polyimide Composite Thin Films Containing Indium-Tin-Oxide and Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Guler Zeynel , Jackson Nathan 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Polyimides (PI) have been broadly utilized in thin film processes and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), because they have relatively high thermal and mechanical stability, high glass transition temperature and biocompatibility. This paper investigates the development of 0–3 flexible PI composite thin films containing electrically conducting silver (Ag) or indium-tin-oxide (ITO) nanoparticles via spin coating. Photodefinable PI was used in order to pattern the films without requiring a complex etching process. Resolution and conductivity of the films were analyzed with varying concentration of nanoparticles. A 10 wt% Ag-PI film demonstrated a conductivity value of 7.1 S/m, while ITO-PI films had a slightly lower conductivity of 3.7 S/m with the same wt%. Conductivity of 5 wt% was 4.2 S/m and 2.3 S/m for Ag-PI and ITO-PI samples. The resolution decreased with increasing wt% and ITO demonstrated better resolution than Ag due to transmission of UV light.
Thermal Performance of Dovetail Fins Under Dehumidifying Operating Conditions: Analytical and Numerical Solutions
Authors: Saiboonchan Pornphiphat , Pashah Sulaman 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Extended surfaces or fins enhance the heat transfer rate between a solid and surrounding fluid. The first scenario is thermal management by dissipating heat from a hot surface. The application sizes range from heat loss through a car radiator to the thermal management of electronic appliances through extended surface heat sinks. The second category is heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) applications. The purpose of refrigeration and air conditioning equipment is to cool the atmospheric air by passing it over an extended surface (or fin) at a temperature lower than the passing air. Moreover, if the fin surface temperature is below the dew point temperature of incoming moist air, then the condensation of water vapor occurs on the fin surface. Therefore, heat and mass transfer co-occur over the fin surface. The application is commonly termed a “wet fin.” Enhanced fin geometries (such as wavy, louver, slit, and convex louver) exist. However, simple fin geometries are adopted due to low manufacturing and maintenance costs. The most common fins are longitudinal (or plane) fins, annular (or radial) fins, and spines (or pin fins). A dovetail fin (i.e., variable thickness longitudinal fin) can enhance the performance of a double pipe heat exchanger due to its higher surface area than the rectangular profile fin. Literature shows that the performance of a dovetail fin has been studied for heat loss (or dry operating conditions) only, and no closed-form solution is available for air conditioning (i.e., wet fin) applications. The analysis of a wet fin is more challenging than the dry fin analysis because of the additional consideration of mass transfer due to vapor condensation from the moist air. The thermal performance of an extended surface is commonly described through a dimensionless parameter called fin efficiency. The current work presents a closed-form solution for a dovetail fin’s thermal efficiency and temperature profile that accounts for the combined heat and mass transfer under dehumidification operating conditions. The developed solution is a general case that covers rectangular, tapered, and triangular fins. The solution is validated through available closed-form rectangular and triangular fins solutions. Comparison of results with a two-dimensional finite element numerical solution provided a dovetail fin’s limit of a one-dimensional solution. Preliminary results show that the dovetail fin has higher thermal efficiency than the rectangular and triangular fins.
Nonlinear Dynamics Simulation of R-RTR Planar Mechanism
Authors: Yousuf Louay S. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The planar R-RTR mechanism with two moving links and guide is considered at different speeds. The R-RTR mechanism is consisted from driver link, slider, ground, and rocker link. The external moment is applied on the rocker link which is a function of angular velocity. The level of chaos is investigated using correlation dimension based on the value of time delay at different speeds for the driver link. Time delay is calculated using the algorithm of average mutual information of the dynamic tool. The motor torque is simulated at different speeds for the driver link in the presence of the inertia torque expression using SolidWorks program. Time delay, decorrelation time, and ‘bad’ predict time are used in the calculation of correlation dimension value with the aid of MatLab code. Moreover the chaos is detected using Fast Fourier Transform using power spectrum and autocorrelation analyses. The motor torque of the driver link against time is used in the calculation of time delay, correlation dimension, and Fast Fourier Transform (FFT). The higher value of correlation dimension, the higher level of chaotic complexity in the dynamic system.