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Acoustic Design Optimization With Isogeometric Analysis And Differential Evolution, Garrett W. Dodgen

Mechanical Engineering Theses

The objective of this study is to utilize shape optimization to enhance the performance of devices relying on acoustic wave propagation. Particularly, the shape of a horn speaker and an acoustic energy harvester were optimized to enhance their performance at targeted frequencies. High order Isogeometric Analysis (IGA) was performed to estimate the acoustic pressure with minimum geometry and pollution errors [1]. The analysis platform was then combined with Differential Evolution (DE) to optimize the geometry of the horn speaker and energy harvester at a given frequency. These cases effectively demonstrate two applications of Isogeomtric shape optimization for devices relying on …

A Transient Thermal And Structural Analysis Of Fuel In The Annular Core Research Reactor, Elliott Pelfrey

Mechanical Engineering ETDs

The health of a nuclear reactor’s fuel is essential to the operational longevity of the reactor. The health of the fuel in the Annular Core Research Reactor (ACRR) is a topic of increased interest due to both a proposed new facility that would include the ACRR and the recent resurfacing of contradictory reports regarding thermal stresses in its fuel pellets. Unlike other reactor fuels, which are widely used and well-characterized, the fuel in the ACRR is unique. The ACRR’s fuel elements consist of UO­₂-BeO fuel pellets, fluted niobium refractory liners, and stainless-steel cladding. The purpose of this thesis …

Investigation Of Design, Manufacture, Analysis, And Test Of A Composite Connecting Rod Under Compression, Thomas Juhl Rohrbach

Master's Theses

Composite materials hold great potential for the replacement of traditional materials in machines utilized on a daily basis. One such example is within an engine block assembly where massive components inherently reduce the efficiency of the system they constitute. By replacing metal elements such as connecting rods, cylinder caps, or a crank shaft with composite alternatives, a significant increase in performance may be achieved with respect to mechanical strength, thermal stability, and durability, while also reducing mass. Exploration of this technology applied to a connecting rod geometry was investigated through a combination of process development, manufacturing, numerical analysis and testing. …

Crack Pattern Simulation Of Pressurized Borosilicate Glass Tube Under Pellet Impact Using Ale Method, Omkar Bhumkar

Dissertations, Master's Theses and Master's Reports

Transformer bushings are a common target for sniper attacks to cause power failure in large areas. Given the size, internal pressure and brittle nature of transformer bushing, pellet impact causes damage to surrounding components due to broken bushing pieces. To mitigate this, a project was initiated by United States Burau of Reclaimation to develop a safety mechanism. Finite Element Analysis is proposed to optimize and reduce cost of the design.

A simplified Finite Element model is created which consists of 0.22 caliber lead pellet impacting Pyrex 7740 borosilicate glass tube. Previous studies on the effect of the mesh pattern, size …

Testing Of A Human Powered Vehicle, Bailey Conard, Marlee Reynolds

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The University of Akron’s Human Powered Vehicle Team designed a high performing, fully functioning vehicle that is safe, efficient, and practical for the 2018-2019 season. These objectives were the main priorities when it came to the initial stages of designing the vehicle. In addition, the vehicle was designed in accordance with the ASME 2019 Human Powered Vehicle Challenge guidelines to satisfy all the rules and requirements. Additional priorities have been created to teach practical engineering skills and techniques to the students participating in the project through different points in the production process including research, vehicle design, manufacturing, and testing.

The …