bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Innovations for Clutching and Shifting in Formula-Style Drivetrains
Authors: Pokharel Pranaya , Rowland Jacob , Snyder Trevor , Gonzalez Luis 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
This project’s objective was to design an automated electronic clutching and mechanical shifting system for a formula-style car which is a part of the ergonomics and drivetrain sub-systems. The Formula Society of Automotive Engineers (FSAE) at Midwestern State University (MSU) approved this project to be part of the design and manufacturing of their first-generation vehicle. The shifter and clutch designs meet the requirement for the Senior Design project. Past designs by various teams have demonstrated a variety of methods of clutch actuation and gear shifting. A popular design amongst most teams is paddle shifting and direct clutch actuation. The design calls for electric push buttons on the backside of the steering wheel that allows the driver to manipulate the solenoids needed to manually cycle through the gears. The current study proposes a semi-automatic clutching system together with a mechanical gear shifting system.
Initial brainstorming led to the idea to combine the clutch with the gas pedal. The concept is that if the pedal is pushed down to a certain angle it will release the clutch, allowing the gears engagement. Meaning when the pedal is not depressed the clutch remains engaged disconnecting the drivetrain. The proposed clutching system utilizes a rotary position sensor, a servo motor, and a communication system between the two. The major idea is to integrate the sensor on the gas pedal so that it senses the position of the pedal. The output from the sensor is communicated by the use of a logic unit to a servo motor attached to the clutching lever of the engine. As the gas pedal is pressed the sensor sends a signal to the servo motor to actuate the clutch accordingly, removing the need for a separate clutch pedal. The Arduino is utilized to relay the signal from the position sensor to the servo motor. The gear shifting mechanism is mechanically operated using a shifter that is connected to a solid rod that actuates the gear selector on the engine. The rod selected is an all thread rod wrapped in Nylon, and the shifting lever is a simple pivot type. This system is completely designed and is implemented in the SAE vehicle. Successful implementation demonstrated the usefulness of the system over traditional clutching and shifting systems. Two major advantages of this system are the elimination of a clutch pedal and the longevity of the gearbox. The steps included a significant amount of brainstorming and taking some important decisions together with the instructor.
The team also gained significant experience to employ engineering solutions in an organized manner. As per the author’s knowledge, the proposed design is a novel concept for use in FSAE cars. During the process, the students entirely came up with this idea themselves. Successful completion showed that the students learned to innovate new designs and concepts for a part of a formula-type vehicle using the gained engineering knowledge.
Self-Powered Wireless Sensor for Risk Assessment: Characterization and Implementation
Authors: Aldawood Ghufran , Bardaweel Hamzeh 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
This article introduces an electromagnetic vibration energy harvester and sensor assembly that is interfaced with a monitoring app for risk assessment of dynamic structures. The stand-alone energy harvester subassembly is used to power an amplitude modulated (AM) radio transmitter and microcontroller circuitry that can wirelessly transmit vibration sensor data using a sensor subassembly. The dual-mass moving magnets of the electromagnetic energy harvester and sensor assembly incorporate a directed magnet by a diaphragm-like moving FR4 spring. The transmitted sensor values are streamed into a PC where signal processing of the data takes place. The designed app can identify the vibration frequency of the sensor with high precision with an error as low as 0.1%. The total energy consumed to transmit a sensor value is approximately 0.9 μJ at an operating voltage of 3 V and minimum operable acceleration of 0.7g [m/s2].
A Hierarchical Approach for the Verification and Validation of Tolerance Analysis Models
Authors: Schaechtl Paul , Schleich Benjamin , Wartzack Sandro 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
Established tolerance analysis methods are capable of predicting the effects of geometrical part variations on the quality of products and hence virtually assuring their functionality. However, assumptions and simplifications are often made, which can lead to decisive uncertainties. To omit a significant effect of these uncertainties on the overall model and on the obtained results, both a virtual assessment of the model as well as an experimental validation are necessary. The current state of the art still lacks suitable methods and metrics to reliably evaluate the results of tolerance analyses. In addition, an approach is needed to investigate and evaluate the effects of uncertainties within the analysis model on the overall model. The aim of this contribution is therefore to derive statements about the suitability and significance of methods and metrics of verification and validation for evaluating simulation models and their feasibility in the context of tolerance analysis. First, general methods and metrics for the evaluation of simulation results are presented. Subsequently, the most promising ones are customized in an unifying approach. The statistical tolerance analysis of a 3-D-printed non-assembly mechanism in motion serves as an explanatory example for highlighting the procedure and the current challenges and constraints. Finally, the findings are critically discussed and as a result, statements about the further need for action are presented.
Investigating the Design of a Soft Robot for Finger Rehabilitation
Authors: Glasgo Nina , Soohoo Mitchell , Han Yen-Lin 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
US National Health Interview Survey in 2018 found that 61 million adults aged 18 and over have disabilities. Physical rehabilitation is often prescribed to people with disabilities during their recovery process to regain their mobility. There are several rehabilitation robots available on the market. Some are made with rigid, stiff materials with limited flexibility and may be uncomfortable for patients to wear for an extended amount of time. Some recently developed rehabilitation robots are made with flexible materials like those found in living organisms, which are characterized as “soft robots”. Soft robots are generally made with polymers and actuated by pressurized gas inside of the polymer structure and potentially will be more comfortable to wear. Unlike most other soft robots with external tubes and pipes for fluid flows, in this paper, we are proposing a soft robot is actuated by heat. Our soft robot is designed by sealing a phase changing material (PCM) inside of several chambers made by polymer structure. When heat is applied, the PCM begins to change phase and the pressure inside the sealed chambers increases and expand the polymer structure to create a movement of the soft robot. In this study, we focus on constructing simulation models using ANSYS Fluent to examine the parameters relevant to our intended design. We also present a prototype to be tested in the future work.
Evaluation of a Cryogenic Air Supply As a Breathable Air Source for a Confined Space
Authors: Yan Lincan , Yantek Dave S. , DeGennaro Cory R. , Srednicki Justin R. , Yonkey Jeffrey A. , Lambie Brandin , Carr Jacob 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
A breathable air source is required for confined space such as an underground refuge alternative (RA) when it is occupied. To minimize the risk of suffocating, federal regulation requires that mechanisms be provided and procedures be included so that, within the refuge alternative, the oxygen concentration is maintained at levels between 18.5% and 23% for 96 hours. The regulation also requires that, during use of the RA, the concentration of carbon dioxide should not exceed 1%, and the concentration of carbon monoxide should not exceed 25 ppm.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) evaluated the cryogenic air supply’s ability to provide breathable air for a refuge alternative. A propane smoker was used to simulate human breathing by burning propane gas which will consume O2 and generate CO2 and H2O. The rate of propane burned at the smoker was controlled to represent the O2 consumption rate for the breathing of a certain number of people. Two 96-hour tests were conducted in a sealed shipping container, which was used as a surrogate for a refuge alternative. While burning propane gas to simulate human oxygen consumption, cryogenic air was provided to the shipping container to determine if the cryogenic air supply will keep the O2 level above 18.5% and CO2 level below 1% inside the shipping container as required by the federal regulations pertaining to refuge alternatives. Both 96-hour tests simulated the breathing of 21 persons. The first test used the oxygen consumption rate (1.32 cu ft of pure oxygen per hour per person) specified in federal regulations, while the second test used the oxygen consumption rate specified by [1] (0.67 cu ft of pure oxygen per hour per person).
The test data shows that during both 96-hour tests, the oxygen level was maintained within a 21%–23% range, and the CO2 level was maintained below 1% (0.2%–0.45%). The information in this paper could be useful when applying a cryogenic air supply as a breathable air source for an underground refuge alternative or other confined space.
Coupling Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics With Finite Element Method to Simulate Residual Stresses From Friction Stir Processing
Authors: Balusu Kranthi , Li Lei , Choi Kyoo Sil , Soulami Ayoub 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
Friction stir processing (FSP) is a solid-state material processing technique that locally modifies the microstructure but also induces undesirable residual stresses. A robust numerical model for the FSP can help in mitigating these residual stresses. Heat source models within a finite element method (FEM) framework suffer from inaccuracies. In contrast, smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) model that explicitly captures the material flow near the tool and the associated heat generation is accurate. However, the computational expense of SPH simulations can be prohibitive. In this work, we propose a coupled SPH-FEM framework. SPH is used to accurately model the heat generation near the tool, which is then inserted into the FEM model as a heat source. To verify this proposed coupling approach, a test case is set up with typical FSP conditions, and it is modeled in both SPH and SPH-FEM. The temperature profiles were compared after the simulations had reached steady-state temperatures. The similarity of the temperature profiles from SPH-FEM and SPH validated the proposed coupling approach. This proposed approach achieves the accuracy of the SPH method while potentially retaining the low computational expense of FEM.
A Systematic Literature Review of Passive Energy Consumption Optimisation Strategies in Buildings and Their Selection Criteria
Authors: Balali Amirhossein , Yunusa-Kaltungo Akilu , Edwards Rodger 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
Buildings are essential to the development and sustainability of any society, due to the criticality of their residential, commercial and educational roles. However, the building sector has also been classified as highly energy-intensive, due to its ever-rising annual energy consumption trends. Buildings’ energy consumption rate is in fact expected to increase further over the coming years, due to current trends of global population growth. It is therefore imperative to deduce and implement strategies that would improve the sustainability of energy within the built environment. Taking advantage of passive energy consumption optimisation strategies is an apt alternative in this case. However, the procedure of selecting the best passive energy consumption optimisation strategy, including selection of the passive strategy itself, selection criteria and selection method, has been a challenge for buildings’ experts. The use of Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA)/Multiple Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) approaches have proven useful for aiding the selection of alternatives based on multiple criteria in numerous studies during recent years. However, there are several techniques within the MCDA/MCDM class of techniques, which make the selection process rather convoluted. Therefore, the overarching aim of the current study is to generate the most prevalent passive energy consumption optimisation strategies for buildings, the criteria for their selections and the corresponding MCDA/MCDM techniques that aided such selections. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and Procedure for Performing Systematic Reviews (PPSR) were used to conduct the current systematic literature review (SLR). The SLR examined research articles that are domiciled within very popular databases such as Compendex, GEOBASE, GeoRef, Inspec, Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus, based on meticulously constructed keywords. It was observed that limited passive strategies, selection criteria and MCDM/MCDA techniques were considered in the investigated articles, making it a serious gap in the body of knowledge, which needs accurate consideration for future studies. For instance, it was observed that most studies focussed on particular passive strategies such as optimisation of insulation thickness and location, natural ventilation envelope, etc., while other strategies such as thermal bridge reduction, enhancing vapour tightness and natural daylighting are underrepresented. The results of the SLR are hereby provided and discussed in the current study.
Effect of Interleaved MWCNTs Buckypaper on the Mechanical Properties of Non-Crimp Carbon Fiber Composites
Authors: Jadhav Vishwas , Kelkar Ajit D. 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
Carbon fiber reinforced with carbon-based nano-fillers is becoming popular for many applications due to its exceptional properties, such as high strength and stiffness. The matrix toughening is another way to improve the interlaminar fracture resistance. Short, micro, and nano-fillers are used for enhancing matrix properties. One of the challenges of using nanomaterials is that they get agglomerated due to the high aspect ratio and strong intermolecular and dipole-dipole interactions. To overcome the agglomeration problem, researchers have used interleaving sheets typically inserted at various locations through the thickness of the laminate. The present work uses 48 layers, symmetrically arranged of Non-Crimp Carbon fibers prepregs which were oven-cured to fabricate the composite laminates, with and without buckypaper at the midplane. Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) buckypapers with 45 gsm were used to fabricate nanoengineered composite laminate. Double cantilever beam (GIC), short beam shear strength, and flexural strength were performed as per ASTM 5528-13, 2344-M16, and 790-15 standards to analyze static and dynamic properties. Buckypaper incorporated laminates showed degraded mechanical properties; to enhance these, the lattice structures formed on the buckypaper and composite laminates were analyzed. The results indicate that the composite laminates fabricated using lattice buckypaper structure had better interlaminar strength than those without lattice grid buckypaper.
High Efficiency Manufacturing With a Smart Carbon Fiber End Effector
Authors: Chun Carrington , Guerra-Zubiaga David A. , Bailey Garrett , Bharadwaj Kathryn 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
Advanced industrial assembly lines often utilize large-scale robotic arms such as the Fanuc S 420-F. Such arms, and their end-effectors, are typically constructed from high-strength steel, which gives the systems superior rigidity at the cost of being very heavy. A new cutting-edge composite material, carbon fiber, offers the strength of steel at a fraction of the weight. To improve energy efficiency, this research project analyzed the feasibility of replacing the steel structure in an end-effector with a carbon-fiber composite, in addition to equipping the end effector with revolutionary ‘Smart’ technologies. Simulations performed in Siemens’ Process Simulate Tecnomatix module helped to inform mechanical energy computations for an arbitrary pick and place task and energy cost estimations were analyzed with the end-effector constructed from both steel and carbon fiber. The projected change in energy consumption for performing the pick and place task was then compared to determine the potential benefit of the carbon fiber substitution. In addition to the advanced material use, this research project also investigated the possibility of implementing ‘Smart’ technologies in the custom end effector design to further improve energy efficiency. The proposed smart technology would utilize machine vision to actively direct vacuum pressure to only the necessary suction cups in a pneumatic gripper array. Possible energy savings associated with the smart end effector design were analyzed. Simulation results for a simple pick and place operation showed that the Smart Carbon Fiber End Effector required only 2.22 Kilojoules of energy, compared to the 3.92 Kilojoules of energy needed for a Passive Steel Framed End Effector. Through creation and simulation with Digital Design Tools, the feasibility of combining advanced new structural materials with integrated intelligence was explored to create a revolutionary new end effector design that could reduce the energy consumption for a pick and place task.
Material Characterization of Phase Change Materials for Munitions Safety Applications
Authors: Foltynski Jacek , Franqui Jason , Vasiyschouk Andriy , Mudryy Ruslan , Blecker Kenneth 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
Ammunition packaging is a critical safety component throughout a munitions lifecycle. Packaged munitions are subjected to a series of harmonized Insensitive Munitions (IM) and Final Hazard Classification (FHC) tests that dictate limits on storage and transportation operations. System level IM tests include bullet and fragment impact, fast and slow heating and sympathetic detonations among others. The reaction severity of packaged ammunition to each external stimulus creates the basis for the final hazard classification. Detonations and explosions result in restrictive shipping and storage quantities. Benign reactions result in less restrictive final hazard classifications that allow for improved logistical efficiencies. Significant studies are being conducted to improve insensitivity and hazard classifications of legacy munitions without redesigning the ammunition or energetic material. This work investigates the integration of phase change materials (PCM) into munitions packaging to improve IM reactions during fast and slow heating. Both fast and slow heating are possible occurrences in the military ammunition lifecycle due to vehicle accidents, fuel spills or enemy actions. The materials in question are a solid, wax-like substance that begin to melt at a specific temperature. Once the PCM reaches it latent heat of fusion it acts as a heat sink that can absorb large amounts of energy. This property may help improve cook-off reactions of packaged ammunition that is exposed to an uncontrolled external heat source such as a fuel fire. Limiting and delaying heat transfer to extremely sensitive primary explosives and igniters may allow less sensitive components to burn out and prevent a detonation or explosion. Material testing was conducted to quantify the thermal characteristics of several PCM configurations. A legacy mortar package was selected as the test bed with a focus on the propulsion charge and its ignition train. A numerical model was utilized to identify potential designs for evaluation. Limited free volume created a challenge to fit enough PCM into the required areas needed to achieve the desired result. Full scale heating tests were conducted with an inert munition to collect system thermal data, including interactions of multiple layers of packaging materials. The PCM influenced the thermal response of the legacy packaging system as compared against baseline data. When used in specific locations and quantity for the packaging system in question, the PCM absorbs enough heat energy to show a measurable decrease in munition skin temperature at critical points of interest. The findings show that phase change materials may reduce reaction severity of legacy munitions by influencing heat transfer in designated areas. A robust and economical containment method for PCM is still required for munition applications.
Molecular Dynamics Analysis on the Degradation Mechanism of the Crystallinity and Strength of Grain Boundaries in Heat-Resistant Alloys Under Creep-Fatigue Loading at Elevated Temperature
Authors: Tezuka Shogo , Suzuki Ken 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
In this study, we analyzed the degradation phenomena near grain boundaries that cause brittle intergranular cracking under high-temperature creep loading by molecular dynamics analysis of a bicrystal structure consisting of grains with different orientation. The results show that stress relaxation occurs even under uniaxial stress creep loading with a magnitude of 40% of the yield stress of the bicrystal structure. Furthermore, it was observed that the stress relaxation was accelerated by the combination of grain orientations of the grains constituting the bicrystal structure. This stress relaxation was caused by the activation of atomic diffusion around the grain boundary. In particular, when there is a difference in the elastic moduli of the two crystals forming the bicrystal structure, it was found that diffusion outside the grain boundary is activated. In the crystal with the lower elastic modulus, the diffusion of atoms from the grain boundary to the grain inside was found to occur significantly. Then, it was revealed that the significant decrease in atomic density around the grain boundary reduces the effective strength of the grain boundary and promotes grain boundary cracking due to the decrease in crystallinity around the grain boundary.
Design and Realization of a Double Telescopic Arm End Effector for Multi Format Cell Container Handling Inside of Incubators
Authors: Ameres Valentin , Kostner Ismael , Artmann Lucas , Lueth Tim C. 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
Cell cultivation in life science laboratories is very time consuming due to the increasing amount of required cell lines The process of cell cultivation includes several steps like seeding, renewing cell culture medium, microscopy of cells and checking environmental parameters like temperature, humidity and CO2 content of the ambient air. Control of environmental parameters for optimal growth conditions is achieved by placing cells inside closed incubators. Opening and closing, as well as moving cell containers manually in and out of incubators for microscopy or other tasks can be detrimental to environmental conditions inside the incubator as well as to cell growth in general. In the context of this work, the stem cell proliferation process including cell culture medium change and phase contrast microscopy is automated by an X-Z-portal robot located inside the incubator itself. The portal robot is vertically mounted in front of the incubator shelves. A novel robotic end effector is presented which has two individually controllable telescopic parallel arms mounted on top of a rotating base which enables handling of T75 and microplate cell cultivation containers as well as actuation of push to drain mechanisms and additional modules for cell culture medium change. The proposed end effector concept provides versatility while minimizing footprint and maximizing serviceable incubator shelf space.