bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Mixed-Finite Element Method Based Formulation for the Static Bending Analysis of Eringen’s Strain-Driven Timoshenko Nanobeams
Authors: Khanra Gaurab , Krishna I. R. Praveen , P. Raveendranath 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This study uses the Mixed Finite Element Method (MFEM) to analyze the static bending of nanobeams modeled according to Timoshenko beam kinematics. Formulations are suggested based on Eringen’s strain-driven, differential nonlocal constitutive model. Variously configured nanobeams are examined under point/concentrated and Uniformly Distributed Loads (UDL). The computed results of the derived quantities (bending moments, shear forces) and fundamental quantities (deflections, section-rotations) are compared with those of the conventional Finite Element Method (FEM). In comparison to FEM, the superior performance of MFEM, as demonstrated by it’s consistent ability to capture size effects regardless of the applied load type and nanobeam boundary conditions, is exhibited.
Vortical Separated Flow Over and Behind a Medium-Duty Box Truck
Authors: Molki Majid , Andrew Miracle Emaikwu 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The aerodynamic performance of medium-duty box trucks significantly impacts fuel economy and environmental sustainability. However, research on their aerodynamics has been limited compared to heavier trucks. This study uses computational fluid dynamics simulations to investigate the complex flow field and its influence on lift and drag forces for a simplified box truck model. This investigation indicates rolling vortices over the roof and the wake region dominate the flow, influencing lift and drag forces. Cargo bay size influences flow over the truck. Smaller heights create an upward lift force, potentially impacting tire traction. Flatbed configurations generate a low-pressure wake, further diminishing traction. Drag coefficients compared with the literature show values fall within the established range for objects with wake regions, validating the numerical approach. This study highlights the intricate aerodynamics of medium-duty box trucks and the impact of cargo bay geometry. By optimizing shapes and reducing flow separation, we can pave the way for more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly medium-duty trucks.
Proof of Concept For a Liquid Gyroscope
Authors: Diesen Jarle , Haugstad Kristoffer , Gjøringbø Johannes , Vea Emanuel , Impelluso Thomas , Rykkje Thorstein Ravneberg 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The long-term goal of this work is to demonstrate the power of a new method in machine dynamics that engages students and inspires innovation. The short-term objective is to exploit Lorentz force effects to create a liquid gyroscope to assess orientation. This is a transdisciplinary educational project at the intersection of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, design, and manufacturing to create the prototype. The project used Galinstan, a liquid metal alloy consisting of gallium, indium, and tin, to create the liquid metal gyroscope. When exposed to a magnetic field and an electrical current, Galinstan displays unique behavior, resulting in the formation of vortex-like patterns. This study aims to investigate the potential of utilizing this phenomenon for gyroscopic applications. This project is student conceived, initiated, and conducted based on inspiration from the Moving Frame Method (MFM) in Dynamics. The MFM is a new approach to machine dynamics that simplifies the discipline, by leveraging Lie Group Theory and Algebra (distilled to the simplicity of matrices), Cartan’s sense of moving reference frames and a compact notation. First, this paper briefly summarizes the MFM and how it stimulates student learning in an era of disengagement. Then this paper launches into a description of the concept, design, and construction of the liquid gyroscope. This paper discusses the difficulties of achieving precise control, stability, and practicality such as turbulence in the liquid corrosion and magnitude of the magnets. The project recognizes the need to understand fluid dynamics, chemistry mechanics, as well as electro mechanics to overcome these challenges and advance the concept of a liquid metal gyroscope. This current investigation is exploratory and provides insight into the potential applications and practical experience within the field.
Analysis of an Offshore Personnel Transfer System
Authors: Rykkje Thorstein R. , Hamrah Suliman , Myklebost Sondre , Impelluso Thomas 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Offshore Personnel Transfer Systems (OPTS) facilitate safe and efficient personnel transfer between offshore installations and marine vessels. These systems integrate state-of-the-art engineering principles and advanced materials to ensure reliability and optimal performance in formidable conditions. Through intricate movements and precise positioning, OPTS enable optimal access during personnel transfer operations and prove indispensable in navigating unpredictable weather conditions. While material considerations play a role in their design, this paper focuses on the dynamic design strategies employed in the construction of OPTS. Within this study, the Moving Frame Method (MFM) emerges as an optimal framework for analysis. Rooted in the foundational principles of Lie Group Theory and Cartan’s notion of moving reference frames, the MFM provides an efficient means of analyzing single and multi-body dynamics. By harnessing the capabilities of the Special Euclidean Group for analysis and simulation, this paper illustrates how the MFM serves as a catalyst for advanced research. Furthermore, recent extensions, notably the development of a kinematic transfer variable, improve the algorithm for the MFM. Complementing this analytical approach, the integration of WebGL for 3D simulations offers a visually immersive experience, fostering a comprehensive understanding of system behavior and performance dynamics. This project (revisiting legacy software with modern mathematics) serves as a pivotal step towards the seamless integration of smart technologies within OPTS. Through the incorporation of real-time monitoring, sensor feedback, automated control systems, and a real-time physics model, the next phase of OPTS promises unparalleled levels of operational efficiency and safety by the creation of a digital twin.
A Computational Fluid Dynamics Model for Investigation of Material Flow in a Perfusion Bioreactor Toward Optimal Biomedical Design of Cell-Laden Scaffolds for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Rollins Hannah , Salary Roozbeh “Ross” 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In tissue engineering, once a scaffold has completed mechanical property testing, it must then undergo biological characterization which determines if the scaffold is capable of supporting cell viability. To perform biological tests, cells must be seeded onto a scaffold with the help of bioreactors, the four main types being: (i) rotating wall, (ii) spinner flask, (iii) compression, and (iv) perfusion bioreactor. In perfusion bioreactors, a consistent flow of material is introduced (using a pump) into the inlet of the bioreactor chamber where multiple scaffolds of a disc geometry are located. However, the intrinsic, complex interaction between the scaffolds and material flow as it goes through the bioreactor chamber affects the viability of the seeded stem cells. Therefore, there is a need to identify consequential fluid dynamics phenomena governing the material flow in a perfusion bioreactor.
In this study, using a CFD model, the effects of critical scaffold parameters (such as the number of scaffolds, scaffold diameter, scaffold thickness, and number of pores) on the main flow properties (i.e., flow pressure, wall shear stress, and streamline velocity) influential in cell proliferation and bone development will be investigated. It was observed that increasing the number of pores, in addition to decreasing the pore diameter had an adverse effect on the maximum forces occurring on the scaffold. In addition, changing the overall scaffold diameter did not appear to have as much as an effect as the other parameters. Furthermore, it was observed that a decrease in porosity would lead to an increase in wall shear stress and consequently in cell death. Overall, the outcomes of this study pave the way for optimal design, fabrication, and preparation of cell-laden bone scaffolds for treatment of bone fractures in clinical settings.
Mounting System Nonlinearities in Planar Dynamics of Motorcycles: An Analytical Study
Authors: Kaul Sudhir 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Engine mounting systems are not commonly used in motorcycle powertrains. However, some motorcycle manufacturers design engine mounting systems to mitigate shaking forces, or to isolate the frame from torque recoil, or to enhance vibration isolation at idling. Most of the passive engine mounting systems are inherently nonlinear due to material properties, damping, design parameters, etc. This paper examines the influence of some of the nonlinearities of an engine mounting system on the planar (in-plane) dynamics of a motorcycle. While the primary aim of an engine mounting system is to enhance ride comfort, some of the nonlinearities associated with the system can influence handling in a motorcycle due to the coupled dynamics of the rear unsprung mass and the swing arm. The specific nonlinearities investigated in this study are limited to stiffness and damping characteristics of the engine mounting system, and the statistical linearization method has been used to derive the corresponding equivalent linear models. The equivalent linear models are seen to successfully represent nonlinearities such as varying levels of progressive increase in effective stiffness and different forms of damping such as quadratic damping of the mounting system. For analytical purposes, road surface irregularity is used as the main excitation input while the motorcycle is traveling in a straight line at a constant velocity. Acceleration spectrum of the sprung mass is seen to be directly influenced by varying levels of stiffness and damping nonlinearities of the engine mounting system while the spectrum of the two unsprung masses does not exhibit any significant influence. Overall, it is observed that the nonlinear models provide an analytical insight that can be useful during the early stages of development of the mounting system of a motorcycle while making critical design decisions. Even though the nonlinearities investigated in this study are limited to stiffness and damping characteristics of the mounting system, the models presented in the paper can also be used to examine other nonlinearities that may be critical for the analysis of planar dynamics.
Inclusion of Manufacturability Considerations on Design Optimization of a Composite Rotor Blade
Authors: Wall Emily S. , Haehnel Robert B. , Sharma Gehendra S. , Dalton Larry , McCall Tonya G. , Dettwiller Ian , Huberty Wayne 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The optimization of rotor blade aerodynamic and structural design is pivotal for enhancing overall rotorcraft performance in terms of, e.g., reduced power requirements and energy consumption, and increased range and cargo capacity. Use of composite blades are increasing attractive owing to improved fatigue characteristic, reparability, etc., however, not all proposed composite structure designs are practical to manufacture. This research effort explores the intricate relationship between composite blade design and manufacturability, the potential utility of optimization software (e.g., iVABS) to improve the overall manufacturability of a given structural design. Integrated VABS (iVABS) is a software tool developed to aid in the design optimization of composite slender structures. Design parameters can be defined in iVABS to control various aspects of the internal structure such as spar web spacing, web curvature, number of plies, fiber orientation, and materials, many of which have a direct effect on the overall manufacturability of the blade. The team delves into the critical aspects of manufacturability that directly influence the manufacturing process. The overarching goal is to establish rules that will guide a manufacturability assessment that can be integrated into the initial design phase, guiding iVABS towards creating rotor blade designs that not only meet stress, strain and aerodynamic requirements, but are also inherently more manufacturable. The integration of manufacturability considerations into the optimization process, as demonstrated by these efforts, represents a proactive approach to ensuring that optimal structural designs align with the capabilities and constraints of the given manufacturability processes, thereby streamlining the manufacturing process. The research includes the consideration of the manufacturability constraints that could be applied to the identified design parameters and demonstrates how this can be applied via a case study showing both the iVABS design results and the manufacturability score — produced by an expert system designed from the rules — for both designs. This work proposes a foundation for a more holistic approach to rotor blade development, where design optimization tools, like iVABS, can be used by experienced engineers to reduce design cycle times, foster innovative, and yield manufacturable designs. The findings presented here show the importance of considering manufacturability alongside structural optimization for more efficient and practical rotor blade development.
Optimizing Control Systems: A Comparative Analysis of 77 Multi-Objective Evolutionary Algorithms
Authors: AbuKwaik Mohammad , Sardahi Yousef , Alshorman Ahmad M. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Multi-objective optimization is integral to control systems, particularly in engineering, where multiple objectives must be concurrently satisfied. This study pioneers a comprehensive comparison of 77 evolutionary algorithms for optimizing a second-order system under a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller. We emphasize the challenges of balancing conflicting metrics like peak time and percentage overshoot and how PID controller tuning is crucial in achieving this balance. To assess the algorithms’ performance, we utilize four different performance metrics, which encompass Generational Distance (GD), Spacing, Spread, and computation time. The optimization results are analyzed using two methods. Firstly, after 1 million iterations, outcomes are visually represented through discrete charts for each algorithm, detailing their performance metrics. The Multiple single objective Pareto sampling II (MSOPSII) algorithm demonstrates the most effective distribution of the solution set and maintains uniformity well. The Indicator-Based Evolutionary Algorithm (IBEA) excels in the Spacing Metric, while the Speed-constrained Multi-objective Particle Swarm Optimization (SMPSO) algorithm exhibits superior convergence. Secondly, algorithms with optimal performance are evaluated by considering multiple metrics simultaneously. The theta-Dominance-based Evolutionary Algorithm (tDEA) leads in combined convergence and spread, Multi-Tasking Constrained Multi-objective Optimization (MTCMO) stands out for convergence and spacing, and MSOPSII and IBEA perform best in spread and spacing. Across all three metrics, MOEA/D with Adaptive Weight Adjustment (MOEADAWA) emerges as the top performer. These outcomes not only advance our understanding of algorithmic efficiency in multi-objective scenarios but also provide valuable insights for the application of these algorithms in practical control system challenges. This research fills a critical gap in existing literature, offering an in-depth evaluation of a wide range of algorithms in the context of control systems.
Design Space of a Tactical, Air-Launched Balloon
Authors: Bellocchio Andrew , Brininger Adler , Phillips Garrett , Sharp David , Sheridan Magnus 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Small, air-launched balloons may be rapidly deployed from aircraft to deliver payloads over inaccessible areas. These balloons are economical and attritable, providing an alternative to today’s drones, satellites, and crewed aircraft. This effort explored the conceptual design of air-launched balloons from a Chinook helicopter. Upon air drop and opening of a parachute, helium inflates the balloon. After inflation, the balloon and payload detach from the parachute to ascend to an operating altitude. A zero-pressure balloon vented to the atmosphere maintains neutral buoyancy at the target altitude for several days. Feasibility was evaluated by investigating inflation time against descent time. A non-linear differential equation of motion and its numerical solution created a flight profile for payloads between 5–30 kg to demonstrate feasibility. Models for helium’s inflation rate of isentropic, chocked flow and buoyancy force were experimentally validated and incorporated. Available time of descent from 10,000 feet was between 650 to 770 seconds with system mass between 246 to 370 kg and a balloon radius of 2.7 to 3.7 meters. The air-launch concept was proven feasible; however, a few technical challenges were discovered such as managing the inflation force to prevent balloon tearing, separating the balloon from the parachute, and packing.
Passive Ankle-Foot Orthoses: A Novel Approach for Passive Support of Plantar and Dorsiflexion Based on an Innovative Mechanism and Closed-Loop Logic
Authors: Steck Patrick , Scherb David , Miehling Jörg , Wartzack Sandro 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The shifting demographics worldwide signal a looming challenge: an increasingly aging population. Along with this demographic shift comes an increase in age-related health issues, with neurological conditions like strokes being especially prominent. Patients who suffering on such diseases often have a so-called plantar and dorsal weakness, i.e. a reduction in lifting and lowering the foot during gait. An established treatment method is the use of so-called ankle foot orthoses (AFO). While active AFOs offer dynamic support through external energy sources, passive AFOs are more reliable because of the use of their inherent stiffness and the energy provided by the wearer itself. Despite their potential benefits, current passive AFOs predominantly focus on supporting dorsiflexion. Research into the passively support of plantar flexion is still at the beginning and is now to be significantly expanded by the innovative mechanism presented in this article. The mechanism uses torsion springs that harvest energy during specific gait phases and release it when it comes to a trigger moment during the gait cycles. This energy harvesting and supplying were simulatively tested with multi body simulation. The simulations of the mechanism showed support of the ankle moment by 58% (79 Nm) for a test subject with 50% muscle weakening (50 N m) and an average gait speed of 1.4 m s−1.
Assessment of Sense of Belonging and Systems Thinking Skills In Introduction to Mechanical Engineering Courses at Three Academic Institutions
Authors: Muci-Küchler Karim , Pottmeyer Laura , Bedillion Mark , Birrenkott Cassandra , Melville Michael 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Many mechanical engineering undergraduate programs include a freshman-level introduction to mechanical engineering course that introduces students to the mechanical engineering profession and helps them start developing basic skills such as working with science and engineering units and solving technical problems following a systematic approach. In addition, some programs include additional topics that they feel are of particular importance. To that end, the mechanical engineering undergraduate programs at three universities decided to incorporate basic systems thinking and systems engineering concepts into their introduction to mechanical engineering course. To assess the impact of the introduction to mechanical engineering course on student’s sense of belonging in mechanical engineering and on their perceived self-efficacy in systems thinking skills, a survey was applied as a pre- and post-assessment during two consecutive semesters in all the sections of the course at the three universities. This paper provides general information about the introduction to mechanical engineering course at each of the three universities, the common instructional materials used at the three universities to teach systems thinking and systems engineering concepts, and the survey instrument used. Finally, the survey results and the corresponding analysis are presented demonstrating the student improvement in both their self-efficacy with systems thinking skills and their sense of belonging in mechanical engineering.
Monitoring Mining Dump Truck Operations Using Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Dewangan Nagesh , Mohanty Amiya Ranjan 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Mining dump trucks are heavy-duty equipment often used for tasks such as material transportation. Coal production at mining sites relies heavily on the effective utilization of dump trucks, specifically designed to carry out a range of tasks crucial for the mining industry. Therefore, monitoring dump truck operations plays an important role in maximizing the overall production of any coal mine. Moreover, the complexity of operations performed by dump trucks necessitates effective monitoring and detection using suitable tools. This study focuses on enhancing monitoring tasks by leveraging image classification algorithms specifically trained to identify operations related to dump trucks. A deep learning-based monitoring approach was developed for monitoring areas, such as identifying transportation-related operations in open-cast coal mines carried out by dump trucks. The study employed vibration signal and its Power Spectral Density images classification to identify dump truck operations. Various established architectures of Convolutional Neural Network were implemented in the approach, and their performances were systematically evaluated. The study has investigated AlexNet, DenseNet121, EfficientNetV2, InceptionResNetV2, ResNet50, and Xception for dump truck operation monitoring. Moreover, the study explored the effectiveness of the models through a case study of vibration measurements from two dump trucks.
A New Planar Overconstrained Mechanism Generated by Merging Two Symmetric Watt’s Six-Bar Linkages That Perform Gear-Like Motion
Authors: Chan Cody Leeheng 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This paper explores the synthesis of a planar overconstrained mechanism potentially for a folding hinge application. Inspired by a folding hinge patent from a phone company, the author analyzes the linkage and discovers a special mechanism generated by merging two symmetric Watt’s six-bar linkages. The synthesis method involves finding a Watt’s six-bar linkage with gear-like input-output motion. The differential evolution optimization algorithm is used to determine the dimensions of the linkage that satisfy the synchronized motion. Numerical results demonstrate the successful synthesis of the overconstrained mechanism with extremely low error, validating its performance. The CAD model and prototyping further confirm its functionality. This paper makes three significant contributions: Firstly, it synthesizes a Watt’s six-bar linkage that performs approximate gear-like motion for the first time. Secondly, it introduces a novel planar overconstrained mechanism and presents a methodology for its synthesis. Lastly, it proposes a potential design for synthesizing and implementing overconstrained mechanisms in foldable phone hinges, meeting requirements for compactness and durability.