Acoustics, Dynamics, and Controls Commons^™

In Situ Process Monitoring And Machine Learning Based Modeling Of Defects And Anomalies In Wire-Arc Additive Manufacturing, Eduardo Miramontes

Masters Theses

Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) has made great strides in recent years however, there remain numerous persistent challenges still hindering more widespread adoption. Defects in the parts produced degrade their mechanical performance. Inconsistency in the geometry of the weld beads or undesirable anomalies such as waviness, or humps can lead to loss of geometric accuracy and in extreme cases, when anomalies propagate to subsequent layers, build failure. Such defects can be mitigated by a controls framework, which would require a model that maps undesirable outcomes to information about the process that can be obtained in real time. This thesis explores …

Intelligent Traffic Control With Connected And Automated Vehicles, Yang Shi

Doctoral Dissertations

The recent advancements in communication technology, transportation infrastructure, computational techniques, and artificial intelligence are driving a revolution in future transportation systems. Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAVs) are attracting a lot of attention due to their potential to reduce traffic accidents, ease congestion, and improve traffic efficiency. This study focuses on addressing the challenges in controlling future CAV-enabled transportation systems. The aim is to develop a framework for the control of CAV-based traffic systems to improve roadway safety, travel efficiency, and energy efficiency. The study proposes new methods for vehicle speed control and traffic signal control at signalized intersections and corridors …

Upscaling And Development Of Linear Array Focused Laser Differential Interferometry For Simultaneous 1d Velocimetry And Spectral Profiling In High-Speed Flows, Kirk Davenport

Masters Theses

In this research a new configuration of linear array-focused laser differential interferometry (LA-FLDI) is described. This measurement expands on previous implementations of LA-FLDI through the use of an additional Wollaston prism. This additional prism expands the typical single LA-FLDI column into two columns of FLDI point pairs. The additional column of probed locations allows for increased spatial sampling of frequency spectra as well as the addition of simultaneous wall normal velocimetry measurements. The new configuration is used to measure the velocity profile and frequency content across a Mach 2 turbulent boundary layer at six wall normal locations simultaneously. Features of …

Semi-Autonomous Golf Cart, Daniel T. Garza, Richard S. Emeott, Matthew E. May, Valerie A. Cherry, Brooke Davidson

Chancellor’s Honors Program Projects

No abstract provided.

Parametric Instability And Vibration Suppression Of Planetary Gear Transmissions Supported On Boundary Struts, Peng Guan

Doctoral Dissertations

This dissertation explores the effects of discrete boundary strut properties on stability and vibration of the planetary gear transmission (PGT) driveline systems. Also, a robust output feedback control law is developed to actively control the PGT system vibrations. To better obtain boundary strut properties, a light-weight boundary strut design was developed for two popular boundary strut configurations by considering yield stress, buckling, and local buckling constraints. To facilitate analysis and development of the active control law, a comprehensive analytical PGT driveline system with elastic ring model, including gyroscopic effect and rotating-frame damping, is developed. The equation of motion of the …

Dynamic Monitoring And Life Prediction Of Internal Strain-Gage Balances, David Leon Yoder

Masters Theses

Wind tunnel test customers continue to push the limits by producing air vehicle designs that produce high aerodynamic loads at the desired test conditions. These loads are a combination of steady aerodynamic, unsteady aerodynamic, and inertial forces. A methodology to monitor the health of a wind tunnel strain-gage balance has been developed. The objective of this methodology is to define the stress limits of the balance and monitor these limits so the balance can be safely tested without failure of the balance. A balance failure could result in costly damage to the wind tunnel model, support system, and the wind …

Lattice Boltzmann Methods For Wind Energy Analysis, Stephen Lloyd Wood

Doctoral Dissertations

An estimate of the United States wind potential conducted in 2011 found that the energy available at an altitude of 80 meters is approximately triple the wind energy available 50 meters above ground. In 2012, 43% of all new electricity generation installed in the U.S. (13.1 GW) came from wind power. The majority of this power, 79%, comes from large utility scale turbines that are being manufactured at unprecedented sizes. Existing wind plants operate with a capacity factor of only approximately 30%. Measurements have shown that the turbulent wake of a turbine persists for many rotor diameters, inducing increased vibration …

Inter-Droplet Membranes For Mechanical Sensing Applications, Nima Tamaddoni Jahromi

Doctoral Dissertations

This dissertation combines self-assembly phenomena of amphiphilic molecules with soft materials to create and characterize mechanoelectrical transducers and sensors whose sensing elements are thin-film bioinspired membranes comprised of phospholipids or amphiphilic polymers. We show that the structures of these amphiphilic molecules tune the mechanical and electrical properties of these membranes. We show that these properties affect the mechanoelectrical sensing characteristic and range of operation of these membrane transducers. In the experiments, we construct and characterize a membrane-based hair cell embodiment that enables the membrane to be responsive to mechanical perturbations of the hair. The resulting oscillations of membranes formed between …

In Vivo Mechanics Of Cam-Post Engagement In Fixed And Mobile Bearing Tka And Vibroarthrography Of The Knee Joint, Sumesh M. Zingde

Doctoral Dissertations

The objective of this dissertation was to determine the mechanics of the cam-post mechanism for subjects implanted with a Rotating Platform (RP) PS TKA, Fixed Bearing (FB) PS TKA or FB Bi-Cruciate Stabilized (BCS) TKA. Additionally, a secondary goal of this dissertation was to investigate the feasibility of vibroarthrography in correlating in-vivo vibrations with features exhibited in native, arthritic and implanted knees. In-vivo, 3D kinematics were determined for subjects implanted with nine knees with a RP-PS TKA, five knees with a FB-PS TKA, and 10 knees with a FB-BCS TKA, while performing a deep knee bend. Distance between the cam-post …

Phase Dynamics Of Locset Control Methodology, Brendan Neschke

Masters Theses

Single-mode fiber amplifiers produce diffraction-limited beams very efficiently. Maximum beam intensity requires that an array of these amplifiers have their beams coherently combined at the target. Optical path differences and noise adversely affect beam quality. An existing closed loop phase control methodology, called the locking of optical coherence by single-detector electronic-frequency tagging (LOCSET), corrects phase errors in real time by electronically detecting path length differences and sending signals to lithium niobate phase adjusters. Broadening the line-width using “jitter” of the input signal can increase the output power of an individual amplifier by suppressing nonlinearity. The system dynamics of LOCSET are …

Increasing Efficiency Of Thermal Desalination, Jarrod A. Edwards, Mackinzie Washington, Chan Jung, Ben Garrison

Chancellor’s Honors Program Projects

No abstract provided.

Kinesthetic Haptics Sensing And Discovery With Bilateral Teleoperation Systems, Tian Qiu

Doctoral Dissertations

In the mechanical engineering field of robotics, bilateral teleoperation is a classic but still increasing research topic. In bilateral teleoperation, a human operator moves the master manipulator, and a slave manipulator is controlled to follow the motion of the master in a remote, potentially hostile environment. This dissertation focuses on kinesthetic perception analysis in teleoperation systems. Design of the controllers of the systems is studied as the influential factor of this issue. The controllers that can provide different force tracking capability are compared using the same experimental protocol. A 6 DOF teleoperation system is configured as the system testbed. An …

Multidimensional Compressible Framework For Modeling Biglobal Stability In Rocket Motors, Michel Henry Akiki

Doctoral Dissertations

Rocket motor stability analysis has historically been focused on two fundamental theories: the acoustic and the hydrodynamic. While the acoustic part examines the system at resonant states, the hydrodynamic component focuses on the fluid-wall interactions and the vortex shedding mechanisms which are responsible for exciting the system. Traditionally, the two concepts are studied independently and their results are then superposed for a more complete solution. In this study, we analyze the problem from a hydrodynamic standpoint and extend it to include compressibility. This is realized by reducing the linearized Navier-Stokes and energy equations to their biglobal form assuming a two-dimensional …

Vibration Based Damage Identification Of Time-Varying Dynamical Systems, Jie Zhao

Doctoral Dissertations

This thesis develops and explores two new kinds of vibration-based damage identification methodologies suitable for dynamical systems with periodically time-varying coefficients; 1) a Floquet based method (Methodology I) and, 2) a Sideband Frequency Response Function (FRF) method (Methodology II). One important class of dynamical systems where periodic time-varying parametric terms naturally arise is rotordynamic systems. For the case of a flexible shaft-rotor system with multiple open cracks, this thesis explores a new Least Squares damage identification approach based on Floquet theory with iterative eigenvector estimate updating. It is found that this method is able to detect the location and severity …

Passive Control Architectures For Collaborative Virtual Haptic Interaction And Bilateral Teleoperation Over Unreliable Packet-Switched Digital Network, Ke Huang

Doctoral Dissertations

This PhD dissertation consists of two major parts: collaborative haptic interaction (CHI) and bilateral teleoperation over the Internet. For the CHI, we propose a novel hybrid peer-to-peer (P2P) architecture including the shared virtual environment (SVE) simulation, coupling between the haptic device and VE, and P2P synchronization control among all VE copies. This framework guarantees the interaction stability for all users with general unreliable packet-switched communication network which is the most challenging problem for CHI control framework design. This is achieved by enforcing our novel \emph{passivity condition} which fully considers time-varying non-uniform communication delays, random packet loss/swapping/duplication for each communication channel. …

Parametric Instability Investigation And Stability Based Design For Transmission Systems Containing Face-Gear Drives, Meng Peng

Doctoral Dissertations

The objective of this dissertation is to provide a novel design methodology for face-gear transmissions based on system stability - a dynamics viewpoint. The structural dynamics models of transverse and torsional vibrations are developed for face-gear drives with spur pinions to investigate the parametric instability behavior in great depth. The unique face-gear meshing kinematics and the fluctuation of mesh stiffness due to a nonunity contact-ratio are considered in these models. Since the system is periodically timevarying, Floquet theory is utilized to solve the Mathieu-Hill system equations and determine the system stability numerically. To avoid complex numerical computations, Treglod’s approximation is …

Nonlinear Vibration Control And Limit-Cycle Analysis Of Rotor/Autobalancer Systems Equipped With Hydrodynamic And Active Magnetic Bearing Supports, Daeyi Jung

Doctoral Dissertations

In recent years, there has been much interest in the use of automatic balancing devices (ABDs) in rotating machinery. Autobalancers consists of several freely moving eccentric balancing masses mounted on the rotor, which, at certain operating speeds, act to cancel rotor imbalance. This “automatic balancing” phenomena occurs as a result of nonlinear dynamic interactions between the balancer and rotor wherein the balancer masses naturally synchronize with the rotor with appropriate phase to cancel the imbalance. However, due to inherent nonlinearity of the autobalancer, the potential for other undesirable non-synchronous limit-cycle behavior exists. In such situations, the balancer masses do not …

Reduced Leak Calibration Uncertainties By The Outgassing Quantification Method, Philip Mason Carper

Masters Theses

Standard leaks are used throughout industry for various applications, such as gas transfer, calibration of mass spectrometers, and calibration of leak detectors. The ability to provide a controlled delivery of gases at relatively low flow rates makes standard leaks a popular choice for calibration standards. This ability also allows for precise quantities of gas to accumulate over time. The accumulation of gas from standard leaks is used as a “transfer standard” for making in-process adjustments to measurement instrumentation. With the advent of tighter quality control constraints, the quantification and control of leak rates is becoming an increasingly important matter, placing …

Dynamics, Electromyography And Vibroarthrography As Non-Invasive Diagnostic Tools: Investigation Of The Patellofemoral Joint, Filip Leszko

Doctoral Dissertations

The knee joint plays an essential role in the human musculoskeletal system. It has evolved to withstand extreme loading conditions, while providing almost frictionless joint movement. However, its performance may be disrupted by disease, anatomical deformities, soft tissue imbalance or injury. Knee disorders are often puzzling, and accurate diagnosis may be challenging. Current evaluation approach is usually limited to a detailed interview with the patient, careful physical examination and radiographic imaging. The X-ray screening may reveal bone degeneration, but does not carry sufficient information of the soft tissue conditions. More advanced imaging tools such as MRI or CT are available, …

The Biglobal Instability Of The Bidirectional Vortex, Joshua Will Batterson

Doctoral Dissertations

State of the art research in hydrodynamic stability analysis has moved from classic one-dimensional methods such as the local nonparallel approach and the parabolized stability equations to two-dimensional, biglobal, methods. The paradigm shift toward two dimensional techniques with the ability to accommodate fully three-dimensional base flows is a necessary step toward modeling complex, multidimensional flowfields in modern propulsive applications. Here, we employ a two-dimensional spatial waveform with sinusoidal temporal dependence to reduce the three-dimensional linearized Navier-Stokes equations to their biglobal form. Addressing hydrodynamic stability in this way circumvents the restrictive parallel-flow assumption and admits boundary conditions in the streamwise direction. …

Haptic Tele-Operation Of Wheeled Mobile Robot And Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Over The Internet, Zhiyuan Zuo

Masters Theses

Teleoperation of ground/aerial vehicle extends operator's ability (e.g. expertise, strength, mobility) into the remote environment, and haptic feedback enhances the human operator's perception of the slave environment. In my thesis, two cases are studied: wheeled mobile robot (MWR) haptic tele-driving over the Internet and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) haptic teleoperation over the Internet.
We propose novel control frameworks for both dynamic WMR and kinematic WMR in various tele-driving modes, and for a "mixed" UAV with translational dynamics and attitude kinematics.
The recently proposed passive set-position modulation (PSPM) framework is extended to guarantee the passivity and/or stability of the closed-loop system …

Continuously Variable Rotorcraft Propulsion System: Modelling And Simulation, Naveen Kumar Vallabhaneni

Masters Theses

This study explores the variable speed operation and shift response of a prototype of a two speed single path CVT rotorcraft driveline system. Here a Comprehensive Variable Speed Rotorcraft Propulsion system Modeling (CVSRPM) tool is developed and utilized to simulate the drive system dynamics in steady forward speed condition. This investigation attempts to build upon previous variable speed rotorcraft propulsion studies by:

1) Including fully nonlinear first principles based transient gas-turbine engine model

2) Including shaft flexibility

3) Incorporating a basic flight dynamics model to account for interactions with the flight control system.

Through exploring the interactions between the various …

Effect Of Unsteady Combustion On The Stability Of Rocket Engines, Tina Morina Rice

Doctoral Dissertations

Combustion instability is a problem that has plagued the development of rocket-propelled devices since their conception. It is characterized by the occurrence of high-frequency nonlinear gas oscillations inside the combustion chamber. This phenomenon degrades system performance and can result in damage to both structure and instrumentation.

The goal of this dissertation is to clarify the role of unsteady combustion in the combustor instability problem by providing the first quantified estimates of its effect upon the stability of liquid rocket engines. The combination of this research with a new system energy balance method, accounting for all dynamic interactions within a system, …

Solar Decathlon Controls, James Mitchel Routh, Travis Lathrop, Colby Jarrett, Zach Cross

Chancellor’s Honors Program Projects

No abstract provided.

Resonance Testing For Fault Detection Of Steam Generator Heat Transfer Tubing Walls, Michael C. Shannon, John Howington, Jesus Sanchez, Colin Sandidge, Jeremy Townsend, Keith Welsh

Chancellor’s Honors Program Projects

No abstract provided.

Method For Determination Of Complex Moduli Associated With Viscoelastic Material, Russell Scott Garner

Masters Theses

The aerospace industry is utilizing low cost miniature inertial measurement units (IMUs) that employ Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) technology in an effort to reduce size, weight, and cost of systems. A drawback of these MEMS devices is they are sensitive to vibration, shock and acoustic environments, which limits the usefulness of such devices in the severe environments imposed by many aerospace applications. In an effort to reduce the vibration, shock and acoustic environments experienced by these MEMS devices, the desire to develop passive damping treatments to structural components used to mount these devices. The damping treatments can be applied at …

Elastic And Magnetic Properties Of Tb6fe(Sb,Bi)2 Using Resonant Ultrasound Spectroscopy., David Michael Mccarthy

Masters Theses

Tb6FeSb2 and Tb6FeBi2 are novel rare earth compounds with little prior research. These compounds show high and variable curie temperatures for rare-earth compounds. This has lead to a literature review which includes the discussion of: elasticity, resonance, and magnetism. This review is used to discuss the theory and methodology which can relate these various properties to each other. Furthermore, synthesis, x-ray analysis, and RUS sample preparation of Tb6FeSb2 and Tb6FeBi2 were completed.

Resonant Ultrasound Spectroscopy (RUS) elastic studies were taken for Tb6FeSb2 and Tb6FeBi2 as a function temperature from 5-300K, in various magnetic fields ranging from 0-9T. Tb6FeSb2’s and Tb6FeBi2’s …

Robust-Adaptive Magnetic Bearing Control Of Flexible Matrix Composite Rotorcraft Driveline, Hans August Desmidt, Kon-Well Wang, Edward Smith

Faculty Publications and Other Works -- Mechanical, Aerospace and Biomedical Engineering

Recent studies demonstrate that a key advantage of Flexible Matrix Composite (FMC) shaft technology is the ability to accommodate misalignments without need for segmenting or flexible couplings as required by conventional alloy and graphite/epoxy composite shafts. While this is indeed a very promising technology for rotorcraft driveshafts, the high damping loss-factor and thermal stiffness and damping sensitivities of the urethane matrix, makes FMC shafting more prone to self-heating and whirl instabilities. Furthermore, the relatively low bending stiffness and critical speeds of FMC shafts makes imbalance vibration a significant challenge to supercritical operation. To address these issues and advance the state-of-the-art, …

Intrustive Probe Measurements In A High-Temperature Mach Two Flow, Sonya Renee Nelson

Masters Theses

To acquire heat transfer measurements of a high temperature Mach two flow a water-cooled calorimeter was placed in the flow and the water temperature rise was used to calculate the heat transfer rate and the recovery temperature of the gas. In addition, a graphite rod with a stainless steel tube at its core was used to measure the total pressure of the flow. This pressure probe was swept through the flow for two test runs to acquire a stagnation pressure profile of the gas flow. All results were compared to NASA CEA computer simulation code results. The heat transfer and …