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Articles 1 - 30 of 47
Full-Text Articles in Mechanical Engineering
Structuring Emperical Methods For Reuse And Efficiency In Product Development Processes, Marshall Edwin Bare
Structuring Emperical Methods For Reuse And Efficiency In Product Development Processes, Marshall Edwin Bare
Theses and Dissertations
Product development requires that engineers have the ability to predict product performance. When product performance involves complex physics and natural phenomena, mathematical models are often insufficient to provide accurate predictions. Engineering companies compensate for this deficiency by testing prototypes to obtain empirical data that can be used in place of predictive models. The purpose of this work is to provide techniques and methods for efficient use of empirical methods in product development processes. Empirical methods involve the design and creation of prototype hardware and the testing of that hardware in controlled environments. Empirical methods represent a complete product development sub-cycle …
The Piezoresistive Effect In Microflexures, Gary K. Johns
The Piezoresistive Effect In Microflexures, Gary K. Johns
Theses and Dissertations
The objective of this research is to present a new model for predicting the piezoresistive effect in microflexures experiencing bending stresses. A linear model describing piezoresistivity exists for members in pure tension and compression. Extensions of this model to more complex loading conditions do not match experimental results. An accurate model of piezoresistivity in complex loading conditions would expand the design possibilities of piezoresistive devices. A new model to predict piezoresistive effects in tension, compression, and more complex loading conditions is proposed. The focus of this research is to verify a unidirectional form of this proposed model for microflexures in …
Branch Detonation Of A Pulse Detonation Engine With Flash Vaporized Jp-8, John David Slack
Branch Detonation Of A Pulse Detonation Engine With Flash Vaporized Jp-8, John David Slack
Theses and Dissertations
Pulse Detonation Engines (PDE) operating on liquid hydrocarbon fuels are limited to operating frequencies of 35 Hz due to long ignition times from a low energy ignition sources. This study shows ignition time of JP-8 can be nearly eliminated by igniting a thrust tube using a secondary detonation. A counter flow heat exchanger attached to a thrust tube utilized waste heat from the detonation process to heat JP-8 to supercritical conditions. The fuel flash vaporized when injected into the air stream of the engine. A detonation was produced by a spark in a 5 cm diameter, 1.37 m long tube. …
A Dynamic Workflow Framework For Mass Customization Using Web Service And Autonomous Agent Technologies, Daniel J. Karpowitz
A Dynamic Workflow Framework For Mass Customization Using Web Service And Autonomous Agent Technologies, Daniel J. Karpowitz
Theses and Dissertations
Custom software development and maintenance is one of the key expenses associated with developing automated systems for mass customization. This paper presents a method for reducing the risk associated with this expense by developing a flexible environment for determining and executing dynamic workflow paths. Strategies for developing an autonomous agent-based framework and for identifying and creating web services for specific process tasks are presented. The proposed methods are outlined in two different case studies to illustrate the approach for both a generic process with complex workflow paths and a more specific sequential engineering process.
A Torque Based Power Input Model For Friction Stir Welding, Jefferson W. Pew
A Torque Based Power Input Model For Friction Stir Welding, Jefferson W. Pew
Theses and Dissertations
For decades models have been developed for predicting the size of the weld nugget and heat affected zones in fusion welded structures. The basis for these models is the welding heat input, which is fairly well understood for most arc welding processes. However, this traditional approach is not as straightforward for Friction Stir Welding (FSW). To date, there is no definitive relationship to quantify the heat input for FSW. An important step to establish a heat input model is to identify how FSW process parameters affect weld power. This study details the relationship between FSW process parameters and torque for …
Large 3-D Deflection And Force Analysis Of Lateral Torsional Buckled Beams, Robert Parley Chase
Large 3-D Deflection And Force Analysis Of Lateral Torsional Buckled Beams, Robert Parley Chase
Theses and Dissertations
This thesis presents research on the force and deflection behavior of beams with rectangular cross-sections undergoing lateral torsional buckling. The large 3-D deflection path of buckling beam tips was closely approximated by circular arcs in two planes. A new chain algorithm element was created from pseudo-rigid-body segments and used in a chain calculation that accurately predicted the force deflection relationship of beams with large 3-D deflections.
Defining A Model For Tool Consumption Rate On Asphalt Reclamation Machines, Matthew H. Taylor
Defining A Model For Tool Consumption Rate On Asphalt Reclamation Machines, Matthew H. Taylor
Theses and Dissertations
Asphalt and concrete reclamation machines are used to cut roadways when a repair is required. The performance of these machines can affect the quality of road repairs, and cost/profitability for both contractors and governments. We believe that several performance characteristics in reclamation machines are governed by the placement and pattern of cutting picks on the cutter head. Previous studies, focused on mining and excavation applications, have shown strong correlation between placement and wear. The following study employs a screening experiment (observational study) to find significant contributors to tool wear, in applications of asphalt milling or reclamation. We have found that …
Methods And Metrics For Human Control Of Multi-Robot Teams, Jeffrey D. Anderson
Methods And Metrics For Human Control Of Multi-Robot Teams, Jeffrey D. Anderson
Theses and Dissertations
Human-controlled robots are utilized in many situations and such use is becoming widespread. This thesis details research that allows a single human to interact with a team of robots performing tasks that require cooperation. The research provides insight into effective interaction design methods and appropriate interface techniques. The use of team-level autonomy is shown to decrease human workload while simultaneously improving individual robot efficiency and robot-team cooperation. An indoor human-robot interaction testbed was developed at the BYU MAGICC Lab to facilitate experimentation. The testbed consists of eight robots equipped with wireless modems, a field on which the robots move, an …
Characterization Of Black Liquor Sprays For Application To Entrained-Flow Processes, Andrew John Mackrory
Characterization Of Black Liquor Sprays For Application To Entrained-Flow Processes, Andrew John Mackrory
Theses and Dissertations
In this work the differences between and characteristics of water and high solids, heated black liquor sprays from air-assist atomizers are examined. Sprays were imaged with a high speed camera and the images analyzed with computer code to produce droplet size data and macroscopic spray characteristics such as mass distribution. Fluid flow rates were measured to allow relevant dimensionless groups for the spray to be calculated. A 1000 degree C tubular furnace was placed around the spray to determine the effect of industrially relevant temperatures on the droplet formation process, relative to room-temperature conditions. It was found that high solids …
Active Minimization Of Acoustic Energy Density To Attenuate Radiated Noise From A Diesel Generator, Andrew J. Boone
Active Minimization Of Acoustic Energy Density To Attenuate Radiated Noise From A Diesel Generator, Andrew J. Boone
Theses and Dissertations
The focus of this thesis was to use active noise control (ANC) to globally minimize the tonal and broadband noise radiating from a diesel generator enclosure. The major goal of this research was to show that minimizing the noise within the enclosure can lead to an overall sound pressure level (SPL) reduction of radiated noise. The target levels for overall SPL reduction were at least 2 dBA. The control algorithms used in this research were based on a filtered-x LMS adaptive algorithm, which minimizes energy density (ED). Both feedforward and feedback control approaches were investigated. The noise spectrum produced by …
An Evaluation Of Attributes And Competencies For Manufacturing Engineering Technology Graduates, Loni S. Williamson
An Evaluation Of Attributes And Competencies For Manufacturing Engineering Technology Graduates, Loni S. Williamson
Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this study is to determine the required attributes and competencies required for a graduate from a manufacturing engineering technology baccalaureate program. A document called “Competencies of Manufacturing Engineering Technology Graduates” was compiled in October 2004. This document lists twelve attributes thought to be important for MET graduates: Leadership, Professionalism, Creativity and Problem Solving, Management, Materials, Processes, Quality, Systems, Design, Communication, Safety and Environmental Issues, and Global Awareness. Under each attribute is a list of five to seven competencies creating a total of seventy-three competencies for graduates of an MET baccalaureate program. This list of attributes and competencies …
Agglomeration Of Bed Particles In Low-Temperature Black Liquor Gasification, Mark A. Woodruff
Agglomeration Of Bed Particles In Low-Temperature Black Liquor Gasification, Mark A. Woodruff
Theses and Dissertations
The increasing concern for emissions and pollutants from power generation plants has increased the desire for and the study of biomass fuels. Biomass combustion produces less carbon monoxide as well as other greenhouse gases. Black liquor is a byproduct from the Kraft process in making paper. Black liquor can be gasified and used as a fuel in recovery boilers and fluidized bed steam reformers. Recovery boilers have a low efficiency and are used today because of their reliability. Steam reformers have a much higher efficiency but they are a relatively new science and are not as reliable. One of the …
Performance Of Algebraic Multigrid For Parallelized Finite Element Dns/Les Solvers, Gregory James Larson
Performance Of Algebraic Multigrid For Parallelized Finite Element Dns/Les Solvers, Gregory James Larson
Theses and Dissertations
The implementation of a hybrid spectral/finite-element discretization on the unsteady, incompressible, Navier-Stokes equations with a semi-implicit time-stepping method, an explicit treatment of the advective terms, and an implicit treatment of the pressure and viscous terms leads to an algorithm capable of calculating 3D flows over complex 2D geometries. This also results in multiple Fourier mode linear systems which must be solved at every timestep, which naturally leads to two parallelization approaches: Fourier space partitioning, where each processor individually and simultaneously solves a linear system, and physical space partitioning, where all processors collectively solve each linear system, sequentially advancing through Fourier …
Numerical Simulation Of Plasma-Based Actuator Vortex Control Of A Turbulent Cylinder Wake, Nathan Keith Mcmullin
Numerical Simulation Of Plasma-Based Actuator Vortex Control Of A Turbulent Cylinder Wake, Nathan Keith Mcmullin
Theses and Dissertations
A numerical study has been performed to investigate the mechanics of the turbulent wake of a circular cylinder that is controlled by a plasma actuator. The numerical investigation implements a straightforward moving wall boundary condition to model the actuator's effects on the flow. Validations of the moving wall for this simulation are set forth with the understanding that the moving wall can model the plasma actuator bulk flow effects at a distance downstream and not in a region near or on the plasma actuator. The moving wall boundary condition is then applied to a circular cylinder at a Reynolds number …
Design And Fabrication Of Rotationally Tristable Compliant Mechanisms, Tyler M. Pendleton
Design And Fabrication Of Rotationally Tristable Compliant Mechanisms, Tyler M. Pendleton
Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this research is to develop the tools necessary to create tristable compliant mechanisms; the work presents the creation of models and concepts for design and a demonstration of the feasibility of the designs through the fabrication of tristable compliant mechanism prototypes on the macro scale. Prior methods to achieve tristable mechanisms rely on detents, friction, or power input; disadvantages to these methods include a high number of parts, the necessity for lubrication, and wear. A compliant tristable mechanism accomplishes tristability through strain energy storage. These mechanisms would be preferable because of increased performance and cost savings due …
Design And Numerical Simulation Of Two Dimensional Ultra Compact Combustor Model Sections For Experimental Observation Of Cavity-Vane Flow Interactions, David S. Moenter
Design And Numerical Simulation Of Two Dimensional Ultra Compact Combustor Model Sections For Experimental Observation Of Cavity-Vane Flow Interactions, David S. Moenter
Theses and Dissertations
An improved computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model was developed for numerical simulation of the Ultra Compact Combustor (UCC) concept to enhance turbulent flow characterization of the circumferentially traveling, centrifugal-force enhanced combustion, cavity flow into the engine main flow passage via a radial cavity in the turbine axial guide vanes. The CFD model uses a dense grid on a 60° periodic, axisymmetric combustor section, with the RNG κ-ε turbulence model to resolve turbulent flow details. An overall analysis and performance evaluation of the experimentally tested UCC configuration and an axially shortened cavity baseline configuration was conducted at various experimentally documented operating …
Design Of Piezoresistive Mems Force And Displacement Sensors, Tyler Lane Waterfall
Design Of Piezoresistive Mems Force And Displacement Sensors, Tyler Lane Waterfall
Theses and Dissertations
MEMS (MicroElectroMechanical Systems) sensors are used in acceleration, flow, pressure and force sensing applications on the micro and macro levels. Much research has focused on improving sensor precision, range, reliability, and ease of manufacture and operation. One exciting possibility for improving the capability of micro sensors lies in exploiting the piezoresistive properties of silicon, the material of choice in many MEMS fabrication processes. Piezoresistivity—the change of electrical resistance due to an applied strain—is a valuable material property of silicon due to its potential for high signal output and on-chip and feedback-control possibilities. However, successful design of piezoresistive micro sensors requires …
Recovering Grain Boundary Inclination Parameters Through Oblique Double-Sectioning, Eric Richards Homer
Recovering Grain Boundary Inclination Parameters Through Oblique Double-Sectioning, Eric Richards Homer
Theses and Dissertations
A method for the retrieval of grain boundary inclination parameters of the grain boundary character distribution by oblique double-sectioning is proposed. The method, which is similar to the recovery of the orientation distributions from sets of incomplete pole-figures, is described along with a framework for implementation. The method directly measures grain boundary inclinations in a manner similar to serial sectioning while statistically sampling the microstructure comparably to stereological methods. Computer simulations of the method were used to confirm the mathematical framework. Additional simulations, where the grain boundary normal distributions were recovered by both oblique double-sectioning and stereological methods, showed that …
Improved State Estimation For Miniature Air Vehicles, Andrew Mark Eldredge
Improved State Estimation For Miniature Air Vehicles, Andrew Mark Eldredge
Theses and Dissertations
Research in Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAV's) continues to push the limitations of size and weight. As technical advances have made UAV's smaller and less expensive, they have become more flexible and extensive in their roles. To continue using smaller and less expensive components while retaining and even enhancing performance requires more sophisticated processing of sensor data in order for the UAV to accurately determine its state and thereby allow the use of feedback in controlling the aircraft automatically. This work presents a three-stage state-estimation scheme for the class of UAV's know as Miniature Air Vehicles (MAV's). The first stage estimates …
Modeling And Validation Of Tension-Element Based Mechanisms For Golf Ball-Club Impact, Aaron Robison
Modeling And Validation Of Tension-Element Based Mechanisms For Golf Ball-Club Impact, Aaron Robison
Theses and Dissertations
Previous work has systematically and numerically demonstrated feasibility and performance benefits of the tension-element concept in golf club heads; however, higher fidelity models needed to be created and validated for this concept. There is a need for more accurate models for this concept to further investigate its performance benefits. Performance is measured in terms of impact efficiency of the ball and head and is referred to as coefficient of restitution (COR). COR is affected by the dynamic effective face stiffness and mass properties of the club. This thesis creates and validates high-fidelity, non-linear, dynamic finite element models for the tension-element …
Modeling The Mechanical Effects Of Liquid Mediated Adhesion Between The Human Vocal Folds, Gifford Zach Decker
Modeling The Mechanical Effects Of Liquid Mediated Adhesion Between The Human Vocal Folds, Gifford Zach Decker
Theses and Dissertations
The vocal folds are a complex self-oscillating biological system. In the current research, an equation was developed to model viscous adhesion forces that occur when the collision of the vocal folds results in the formation of a liquid bridge. The adhesion equation was validated using experimental data, and simplified to a one-dimensional approximation with an included correction factor that adjusted the predicted pressure in situations where the one-dimensional approximation was invalid. A non-oscillating vocal fold model with a modeled liquid bridge was used to study stress resulting from viscous adhesion. The vertical normal stress magnitude ranged from about 80 to …
Contractor Variability In Construction Of Cement Treated Base Layers, Maile Anne Rogers
Contractor Variability In Construction Of Cement Treated Base Layers, Maile Anne Rogers
Theses and Dissertations
The primary purposes of this research were to identify construction factors most correlated to specific mechanical properties of cement-treated base (CTB) layers and to determine which construction factors exhibit comparatively high variability within individual construction sections of the two pavement reconstruction projects included in this study. In addition, differences between construction sections tested in this research were evaluated. The research focused on the construction of CTB layers in two pavement reconstruction projects in northern Utah, one along Interstate 84 (I-84) near Morgan and one along U.S. Highway 91 (US-91) near Richmond. The significant predictor variables associated with California bearing ratio …
A Solution For Commodity Field Hauling With Self-Unloading Semi-Trailers, Lee Pagens Wilkerson
A Solution For Commodity Field Hauling With Self-Unloading Semi-Trailers, Lee Pagens Wilkerson
Theses and Dissertations
Commodity hauling of bulk goods is a growing enterprise that has expanded from hauling agricultural products to hauling many other bulk products. Commodity trailers are used to haul agricultural products from storage facilities to processing plants. These trailers are designed for highway use but are frequently required to work in field conditions as well. In many cases this environment overstresses these trailers and results in permanent irreparable damage. In addition to the structural problems of these trailers, the current systems for unloading the bulk produce from these trailers have serious inadequacies. While functional, the currently used chain and non-chain driven …
Design Of A Linear Ultrasonic Piezoelectric Motor, Scott L. Sharp
Design Of A Linear Ultrasonic Piezoelectric Motor, Scott L. Sharp
Theses and Dissertations
A new geometrically unique ultrasonic motor (USM) was designed using finite element modeling (FEM). A USM operates by vibrating a drive tip in an elliptical motion while it is in periodic contact with a driven surface. Piezoelectric elements are used to create the elliptical motions and are driven near a resonant frequency to create the needed displacements for the motor to operate. An idea for a motor frame was conceived that consisted of an arch, a center ground, and two piezoelectric elements connected to the center ground. End caps were added between the frame and the piezoelectric elements to reduce …
Development Of A Variational Part Model Using In-Process Dimensional Measurement Error, Shane A. Carlson
Development Of A Variational Part Model Using In-Process Dimensional Measurement Error, Shane A. Carlson
Theses and Dissertations
To improve the geometric accuracy of CNC machined parts, dynamic machining errors due to on-line disturbances (tool deflection, tool wear, heat deformation, etc.) should be accounted for in some manner. Unless these on-line disturbances are properly handled, it is obvious that a high degree of geometric accuracy is difficult to achieve. Many attempts have been made to compensate for these on-line disturbances such as the development of engineering models; however, the models are not adequate enough for reflecting the real phenomenon and are dependent on continuous process monitoring using a variety of sensors. Closed-loop process control is a scheme for …
Compliant Mechanism Suspensions, Timothy Melvin Allred
Compliant Mechanism Suspensions, Timothy Melvin Allred
Theses and Dissertations
This thesis has explored the use of compliant mechanisms in vehicle suspension systems, specifically where a compliant mechanism acts as part of the wheel locating mechanism and as the energy storage element. A compliant mechanism has the potential of reducing part count, joints, and manufacturing and assembly costs of a suspension system. Fatigue failure has been found to be a limiting design constraint which competes with space and weight constraints. Controlling wheel motion in response to control forces has also been shown to be an important functional requirement for a compliant suspension system. Vehicle applications that are best suited for …
Ignition Delay Of Oxygenated Fuel Droplets: Development Of A 1 Second Drop Tower And Initial 1-G Test Results, Matthew Hammill
Ignition Delay Of Oxygenated Fuel Droplets: Development Of A 1 Second Drop Tower And Initial 1-G Test Results, Matthew Hammill
Theses and Dissertations
United States' dependency on petroleum fuels, much of it imported, has remained at the same level even as alternative fuels become more readily available to the consumer market. One alternative to petroleum based fuel is biodiesel. Biodiesel has been shown to have lower carbon monoxide, hydrocarbon, and particulate matter emissions than standard fuels, but show an increase in the formation of nitrous oxide gases. It has been theorized that several of the physical properties, which are governed by the chemical makeup of the fuel, have an adverse affect on NOx production. But until that time when a thorough chemical …
Development Of A Strain Energy Storage Mechanism Using Tension Elements To Enhance Golf Club Performance, Marc A. Whitezell
Development Of A Strain Energy Storage Mechanism Using Tension Elements To Enhance Golf Club Performance, Marc A. Whitezell
Theses and Dissertations
The development of current golf club designs has followed an evolutionary process starting with the original wooden heads of a hundred years ago, to the thin-walled, hollow body titanium heads of today. Current designs utilize what has become known as the trampoline effect to increase the efficiency of the ball-club impact, which has a number of limiting factors that restrict clubhead performance. These limitations provided the motivation for this research to explore new mechanisms by which the efficiency of the ball club impact could be increased. In particular this research focuses on the development of compliant mechanisms to increase club …
Numerical Investigation Of Cavity-Vane Interactions Within The Ultra Compact Combustor, Jonathan F. Anisko
Numerical Investigation Of Cavity-Vane Interactions Within The Ultra Compact Combustor, Jonathan F. Anisko
Theses and Dissertations
A numerical analysis and design optimization of the Ultra Compact Combustor (UCC) has been conducted. The UCC is a combustor designed to incorporate high-g loadings to increase flame propagation speed while reducing flame length, thereby helping to significantly reduce the size of a combustor. A commercial CFD package with a k-Ⲉ turbulence model has been used to develop design rules for the construction of future UCCs. There have been several versions of UCC that have been designed, built and tested by AFRL/PRTC. Since real experimental tests are expensive and construction time is prohibitive to test many different design configurations, CFD …
The Storage Of Parametric Data In Product Lifecycle Management Systems, Jonathan Gary Lund
The Storage Of Parametric Data In Product Lifecycle Management Systems, Jonathan Gary Lund
Theses and Dissertations
Product development companies are continually seeking methods to increase efficiency while maintaining quality. Distributed development is also more important than ever before as industries globalize. These forces have driven firms to adopt formal data management practices that allow groups and individuals to work from singular, centralized data source that are secure, reliable, and support collaboration. This thesis proposes a methodology to leverage globalized infrastructures for the efficient storage of product variations. The methodology is proved through a working prototype using the market leader in Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems, Teamcenter Engineering. First, paradigms are set forth for the storage of …