bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of Water Droplet Impact on the Flow Characteristics in Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma Actuation
Authors: Ahumada Lazo Jorge , Lelikov Petr , Sarwar MD Sohaib Bin , Liu Yang 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma actuation has been widely recognized as an effective active flow control method on aircraft or wind turbines due to its unique advantage of rapid momentum transport through an induced airflow by the acceleration of ionized gas during plasma discharge. Applications include lift augmentation on wing sections, manipulation of turbulent boundary layers, and leading-edge separation flow control, among others. However, airplane or wind turbine surfaces where DBD plasma actuators are installed are consistently exposed to humid environments or droplet clouds. Under these conditions, water droplets can impact the plasma actuators and interact with the plasma discharge. In this paper, the dynamic processes of water droplets impacting on the plasma discharge region of a surface DBD actuator were studied. A series of thermal-flow diagnostic methods, including High-speed imaging, infrared thermal imaging, and Schlieren visualization, were utilized to characterize the dynamics of droplet impacting and interacting with a surface DBD plasma discharge. It is found that the droplet initially acts as an extended electrode, it then migrates in the direction of induced flow and promotes the formation of high-intensity plasma streamers. It is also revealed that there is a significant increase in the angle (from ∼ 14° to ∼ 44°) of the induced airflow within the first 30 ms after droplet impact. The dominating airflow structures were characterized using high-speed imaging. The changes in flow direction and momentum flow rate found in this study are expected to fundamentally alter the performance of DBD actuators.
Enhancing Undergraduate Engineering Design Education Through Team-Based Learning Activities
Authors: Yihun Yimesker , Lamei Lena 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This research involved two activities to enhance teamwork in team-oriented projects: Fair Game (FG) and a prototype-based mini classroom project (MCPBP). During FG, teams worked together to solve problems related to the lectures over a span of two weeks. Subsequently, each student was individually evaluated, with the option to select either their own scores or those of their teammates for each problem, adding an element of risk. In MCPBP, students in a team designed and prototyped mechanisms within a single classroom session. The study used quantitative and qualitative methods, analyzing performance data and feedback to explore the correlation between self-efficacy, individual performance, and teamwork effectiveness. It also examined variations based on age, race, and first-generation status. The research identified strengths and areas for improvement in teamwork effectiveness, offering recommendations for improvement. Analysis of Teamwork Effectiveness (TE) showed students’ better performance in the ‘communicational’ and ‘relational’ aspects than in ‘organizational’ aspects. Students excelled in TE and individual task performance (ITP), although improvements were needed in General Academic Self-efficacy (GASE). TE was a more significant indicator of ITP than GASE. The study highlighted the need for better time management, commitment, planning, and goal setting to improve the ‘organizational’ component of TE.
Microstructure and Morphology Analysis of DC-Magnetron Sputtered TiAlSi Thin Coatings on Glass, T42 High Speed Steel, and AISI 01 Tool Steel Substrates
Authors: Wambua Job M. , Mwema Fredrick M. , Zoppi Guillaume , Woo Wai-Lok , Akinlabi Esther T. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This study investigates the properties of the base coating, TiAlSi, which is often used in reactive sputtering for surface protection of conventional tool materials for machining operations. The TiAlSi thin film coatings were deposited on glass, T42 High-Speed Steel (HSS), and AISI 01 Tool Steel (TS). TiAlSi thin films are deposited by Direct Current (DC) Magnetron Sputtering (DCMS) using a custom-made Ti52Al16Si10 wt.% target using a range of substrate temperatures (23–400 °C) and deposition times (40–190 minutes). The thickness of the thin films significantly reduces from about 252 nm to 122 nm with an increase in the substrate temperature from 23 °C to 400 °C, respectively. The topographic and microstructural analyses show large and flattened particles of TiAlSi thin films on coatings deposited for longer periods (at 150 and 190 minutes) and a reduction in the physical grain sizes with increased substrate temperature, hence the reduced coating thickness. High-temperature deposition of TiAlSi coatings on HSS and TS leads to the development of troughs, hillocks, and craters as the major forms of defects, which ultimately increase the roughness values of the thin films. Analysis of the crystal structure of the as-deposited TiAlSi coatings shows the amorphous nature of the coatings with no observable peaks. These findings allow for the precise tailoring of the deposition parameters of TiAlSi thin films as base coatings for Ti-based thin films for surface protection of cutting tools.
Enhancing Material Property Prediction in High Entropy Alloys Through Machine Learning
Authors: Osuna Oscar , Adibi Sara 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The intricate nature of novel materials, particularly non-equiatomic High Entropy Alloys (HEAs), presents significant challenges in material design. Leveraging Machine Learning (ML) techniques, particularly Support Vector Machine (SVM) models, offers a promising solution to these challenges. This study explores the application of ML in predicting the material properties of HEAs, focusing on comparing different ML models and methodologies. Through systematic analysis, SVM models demonstrate superior performance in predicting material properties, with notable differences in the predictability of Young’s modulus and yield strength. This research underscores the efficacy of ML techniques in advancing material property prediction in HEAs, offering valuable insights into the design and optimization of these complex materials.
Performance Enhancement of Thermoelectric Generators Integrated With Advanced Metamaterials Design for Waste Heat Recovery
Authors: Tang Ya , Huang Bowen , Li Yan 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Thermoelectric generation, particularly through solid-state thermoelectric generators (TEGs), is a viable clean energy solution that can convert low-grade heat directly into electricity using a temperature gradient. However, the thermal gradient in traditional TEGs tends to decrease over time, often retaining only 20–30% of its peak value after stabilization. Although adding a passive heat sink to TEGs can alleviate the rapid decrease in thermal gradient, it is imperative to explore more robust and efficient solutions to sustain optimal performance over extended periods. In this study, various metamaterial designs — including square, triangular, re-entrant, hexagonal honeycomb, and irregular design — are implemented in the passive heat sink. Their corresponding thermoelectric performance is evaluated using a finite element model. It is found that introducing the honeycomb metamaterial design concept into the heat sink can effectively prevent thermal gradient loss in TEGs. Specifically, compared to TEGs with a conventional heat sink, the output power can be increased by 9.25–18.28%. Additionally, increasing the unit cell number of triangular and re-entrant metamaterial from 4 × 4 × 4 to 7 × 7 × 7 can further enhance the output power by 10.07–11.82%. Implementation of metamaterials in heat sinks can push the limits of conventional thermal management, unlocking new levels of efficiency and performance.
Osmosis
Authors: Howlett Larry D. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This paper presents an improved model for the phenomenon of osmosis. It extends the excellent work introduced by J.H. van’t Hoff more than 130 years ago. The van’t Hoff model was a major improvement to the previous 100 years of research and experiments and has served as a solid place holder to support the tremendous advances that we have seen in many fields. Osmosis is a fluid flow phenomenon important to biological, water purification, and other problem areas. Osmotic flow occurs from a pure substance through a membrane into a solution. Flow stops when osmotic pressure is applied to the solution. The proposed model is an attempt to model a micro-scale process with macro-scale variables. The model introduces vapor pressure as the driving force for osmotic flow through a membrane. It is supported by experimental data. Although osmosis is the focus of this paper, it also opens a forgotten but important view of our educational system. The study of science is a continuing process.
Innovative Y-Shaped Stent Fabrication: A Leap Forward in Bifurcation Lesion Treatment
Authors: Gharaie Saleh , Zolfagharian Ali , Amiri Moghadam Amir Ali 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This study introduces a novel method for fabricating Y-shaped stents from Nitinol sheets, aimed at addressing clinical needs more effectively than current braided designs. Stents play a crucial role in treating narrowed blood vessels, but conventional methods often result in high bending resistance and increased risk of in-stent restenosis (ISR). The proposed method allows for precise control over the stent’s flexibility and mesh density, overcoming the limitations of braiding techniques. A complex Y-shaped stent design was developed and subjected to extensive mechanical testing, including tensile, bending, and crush resistance tests, and finite element analysis (FEA). The results demonstrated that the developed stent exhibited superior flexibility, lower bending resistance, and high structural integrity under various load conditions. The stent’s performance was benchmarked against a commercially available Y-shaped stent, showing comparable or improved mechanical properties. This innovative approach enhances the mechanical performance of Y-shaped stents and also opens new possibilities for design customization, potentially improving clinical outcomes and reducing complications associated with stent implantation.
A Three-Stage Progressive Feedrate Planning Method for Five-Axis CNC Machining Under Complex Constraints
Authors: Wang Shu , Zhang Hui 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
For sculptured surface machining, compared with three-axis machining, the tool in five-axis machining can cut in a variety of postures, which leads to greater potential for high-speed and high-precision machining. However, due to the introduction of the rotational axes, the relationship between the toolpath in the workpiece coordinate system and the motion of drive axes in the machine coordinate system is nonlinear. In this way, nonlinear constraints will inevitably be introduced in the five-axis feedrate planning, which brings difficulties for solving the time-optimal feedrate profile. For this issue, this paper proposes a three-stage progressive feedrate planning method for five-axis toolpath, which can rapidly achieve the approximation of the optimal feedrate profile while satisfying complex constraint conditions. In Stage I, independent-point feedrate planning is carried out to constrain chord error, tangential velocity and drive-axis velocity. In Stage II, by bidirectional scanning and curve fitting of discrete points of feedrate, tangential acceleration and drive-axis acceleration constraints are satisfied and the feedrate profile is smoothed. In Stage III, constraints on tangential jerk and drive-axis jerk are further introduced and the feedrate curve is linearly optimized for all the constraints. The effectiveness of the proposed feedrate planning method is validated using the toolpath for five-axis machining of a twisted impeller blade, where the interpolation point sequence obtained based on the planned feedrate can basically satisfy the aforementioned constraint conditions.
The Modified Cognitive Reliability and Error Analysis in Aviation
Authors: Zhang Xiaodan , Yan Shengyuan , Liu Xin , Song Jian , Ahmed Waqas 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Human error is an important factor in aviation. The cognitive reliability and error analysis (CREAM) calculates human error in aviation. The paper calculates the more accurate human error probability (HEP) for airplane takeoff using a modified CREAM. The traditional approach lacks the importance of common performance conditions (CPCs) weights in aircraft operation processes. The modified CREAM uses HTA (Hierarchical Task Analysis) to decompose the airplane takeoff tasks. The modified CREAM takes the important weights of original CPCs considering the working situation of pilots in the cockpit, and uses two methods to achieve the important weight more accurately. The one method is the D-Entropy to get the important weight of CPCs, the other gets the important weight of CPCs using cloud models. To verify the proposed method sensitivity, the modified CREAM changes any CPCs into positive and negative changes respectively. When the CPCs are in positive changes, the results of HEP are effective. When the CPCs are in negative changes, the results of HEP are passive. The modified CREAM can provide references for aircraft operational reliability analysis, and it calculates the HEP more accurately in aviation.
Development of a Low-Cost Stiffness Measurement Device for Human Achilles Tendon
Authors: Salman Muhammad , Butler Carolyn , Shah Iti , Salman Fatima 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The stiffness of the Achilles tendon is crucial for improving athletic performance, preventing injuries, and aiding rehabilitation. The ability to efficiently store and transfer energy during activities like running and jumping relies on the optimal stiffness of this tendon. Any deviation from this optimal range can increase the risk of injuries such as tendinopathy or ruptures. Current imaging techniques, such as MRI and ultrasound, mainly focus on assessing structural changes and overlooking the important elastic properties necessary for proper function. This study introduces Surface Elastography (SURF-E), which uses an accelerometer as a cost-effective, portable, and non-invasive way to measure Achilles tendon stiffness. The SURF-E method aims to improve the diagnosis and prediction of tendon injuries, help in evaluating the risk of injuries, and enhance rehabilitation outcomes. By involving both undergraduate and graduate students in the design of experiments and analysis of data, this research encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and enhances educational development. SURF-E provides a practical tool to speed up recovery, reduce the risk of reinjury, and cut down healthcare costs related to Achilles tendon injuries. This study highlights the potential of SURF-E in giving clinicians a dependable method to assess tendon stiffness, customize treatment plans for individual patients, and monitor progress during therapy, ultimately contributing to improved healthcare results.
Ballistic Response of a Multilayer Target Containing Large Material Variations
Authors: Luckett DeBorah C. , Bowman Andrew 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Polymers are widely used engineering materials that can provide exceptional toughness, high energy absorption, and complex dynamic behaviors that produce intricate structure-property relationships. While considering these factors, the goal of this research is to investigate the ballistic response both experimentally and numerically when stacking soft and hard materials, such as a polystyrene-polyisobutylene-polystyrene star block copolymer (PS-PIB-PS), high density polyethylene (HDPE), and a steel backing plate, respectively. Together, 12-in. × 12-in. targets of each polymer are combined with a thin 12-in. × 12-in. steel metal backing plate to form a multilayer polymer/steel target. Within this multilayer target, both PS-PIB-PS (also known as SIBSTAR) and HDPE had a thickness of 1-in. while the steel plate had a thickness of 0.06-in., making the total dimensions of the multilayer target 12-in. × 12-in. × 2.06-in. Ballistics tests were conducted on the multilayer target utilizing a spherical steel projectile in the speed range of 415–518 m/s. The ballistic limit of the individual and multilayer targets was captured, and the examination of kinetic energy dissipation and deformation failure modes under impact was performed. Finite element (FE) simulations were conducted with the Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian 3D (ALE3D) software to model the ballistic response and capture the extreme deformation observed in the multilayer target during testing. Results show that the FE model can successfully capture the ballistic response of the individual components and multilayer targets with high accuracy. The multilayer target exhibits qualities of both HDPE and SIBSTAR and provides an overall better ballistic response compared to the individual components.
New Shear Ram Development via Digital Toolkit and Multiple Objective Optimization Process
Authors: Wang Yaou , Clancy Terry , Pettibone Nate , Givens Matthew , Nault Chris , Zhang Haitao 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
A blowout preventer (BOP) stack serves as a safety valve system in the drilling process in the oil and gas industry. A ram BOP plays the key role as the last safety guard in the BOP stack. Recently, to meet the operator demands for improved ram capabilities as heavier tubulars are used with deeper wells, a new shear ram was needed. The development process used a new digital design optimization method, which replaced the traditional trial-and-error method. The new method combines finite element analysis-based 3D visualization simulations, automation toolkit method, and a multi-objective optimization method. This process can be much more efficient in achieving the desired design faster and satisfies more rigorous criteria. In one such case, the achieved new ram design successfully passed qualification verification and resulted in providing a key delivery to operators with shorter development time.
Development of 3D Damage Mechanics-Based Model for Predicting Fiber Orientation-Influenced Crack Propagation in Unidirectional Lamina
Authors: Kumar Pawan , Meena Anil , Mulay Shantanu S. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This study develops and validates a three-dimensional continuum damage mechanics (CDM) model to predict crack paths in a lamina, focusing on the influence of fiber orientation on crack propagation. Utilizing 3D Hashin’s failure theory and a stiffness degradation law based on equivalent strain and stress concepts, the model assesses damage onset and progression, respectively. The key contribution is providing a clear approach for orthotropic material 3D patch tests, addressing constitutive responses and specific failure modes, an area lacking in current literature. These patch tests, executed in ABAQUS with a user material subroutine (VUMAT), were verified by varying fiber orientations in unidirectional laminae. Results show model responses within a 2% margin of error, with consistent crack propagation along the fiber-matrix interface for different orientations. The numerical results are validated against available experimental results, accurately predicting crack paths influenced by fiber orientation. This framework will be applied to study machining-induced failures in 3D laminates.
Preliminary Design Study of Biomimetic Multi-Winglets for Tip Vortex Splitting
Authors: Lee Peter C. , Sarigul-Klijn Nesrin 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Biomimetic designs draw inspiration from biological organisms for engineering design. This paper will study a design of multiple-piece winglets based on the wingtip feathers of birds. The biomimetic multi-winglet designs proposed in this work have the potential to improve aerodynamic performance. The hypothesis is that the designs cause splitting of the standard large single tip vortices into multiple, smaller tip vortices. This separation into smaller vortices have the potential to reduce induced effects. The proposed biomimetic multi-piece winglets have the following design parameters: number of winglets, individual winglet dimensions, dihedral angles, angles of attack, and sweep angles. The simulations are performed using a low-order potential flow method on the program OpenVSP, known as Vortex Lattice Method (VLM). These VLM simulations are used to calculate values like lift, total drag, and induced drag of the various designs, which will be tabulated to establish the efficacy of each design parameter. Various combinations of these parameters will also be studied to find the optimal designs. The simulation data will be provided for the preliminary comparative design study, which currently include the effects on the variation of chordwise positions and dihedrals of the winglets.
Efficient Regeneration of the Current Collectors From Degraded Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Al-Shammari Hammad 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Despite existing procedures for recycling and regenerating the anode and cathode active materials of Lithium-ion Batteries (LIBs), achieving efficient reintegration of current collectors, predominantly composed of aluminum and copper foils, into the production of new lithium-ion batteries remains a challenge. This work presents a detailed case study on the direct reuse of current collectors, representing a significant step towards reducing the environmental impact associated with end-of-life Li-ion batteries. Given the high purity and value of aluminum and copper in LIB manufacturing, there is considerable interest in recycling and reusing these materials, particularly within the Electric Vehicle (EV) market. This paper investigates the feasibility of recycling, purifying, and reusing aluminum and copper current collectors in new LIBs. The study involves recycling and purifying current collectors from retired LIBs, followed by their regeneration into fresh LIBs. Initially, shredded LIB cells are separated to isolate components containing aluminum and copper. Various solvents are then explored for ultrasonic cleaning of these components. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the purification process, recycled current collectors are used in the fabrication of new LIBs, and their performance is rigorously evaluated. The findings suggest that current collectors from spent LIBs can indeed be reused in the production of new LIBs. However, there is room for improvement in the purification process to enhance the cycling performance of these new LIBs, highlighting the need for further research and development in this area.
Comparative Analysis of Phase Change Material (PCM) Thermal Energy Storages Under Different Orientations With and Without Metal Foam
Authors: Fareedi Atiq Ur Rehman , Khoso Abdul Qadeer , Khan Hurmat , Buonomo Bernardo , Manca Oronzio , Nardini Sergio 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Energy storage and recovery are of prime importance in thermal energy storage design. To evaluate this phenomenon in phase change materials (PCM) thermal energy storages, a square channel with multiple tubes connected in serial arrangement has been experimentally analyzed for different tilt angles. PCM type RUBITHERM (RT-42) acts as a thermal energy storage medium, and the whole setup is designed in two configurations, i-e, only PCM and PCM with aluminum metal foam. The setup comprises a thermal bath, distilled water, circulation pump, data acquisition system, thermocouples, flow regulating valves and thermal storages under investigation. The study reveals that, the presence of metal foam along with PCM results in an enhanced heat transfer rate (up to 3∼4 times) compared to only PCM case due to the uniform distribution of temperature provided by highly conductive metal foam. The analysis of thermal storage at different tilts suggests that there is no significant improvement in heat transfer rate in PCM embedded metal foam cases with inclination due to enhanced thermal conductivity and uniform temperature distribution. However, for the full PCM case, the heat transfer rate in thermal energy storage is increased up to ∼1.6 times with the increase in inclination due to the presence of buoyancy force.