Evolutionary Trajectory Of Ai And Robotics Integration,
2026
Institutes of Science and Development, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; School of Public Policy and Management, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
Evolutionary Trajectory Of Ai And Robotics Integration, Jiannan Zhu, Jianfeng Guo, Siyao Liu, Qi Cao
Bulletin of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Chinese Version)
The convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics is a cornerstone for the intelligent transformation of the physical world. This study conducts a systematic analysis of over 230,000 publications from the Web of Science and WIPO databases between 1982 and 2025 to dissect the evolutionary trajectory of AI and robotics integration since the 20th century. The findings identify four distinct developmental stages—independent exploration, functional coupling, primary intelligence, and intelligent symbiosis—while delineating the key technological breakthroughs and paradigm characteristics of each phase. Furthermore, seven core research thrusts are distilled, including motion planning and autonomous decision-making and perception & environmental understanding. An …
Sensitivity Study Regarding Abs Formulation On Hybrid Rocket Performance,
2026
Utah State University
Sensitivity Study Regarding Abs Formulation On Hybrid Rocket Performance, Ava T. Wilkey, Ryan J. Thibaudeau, Stephen A. Whitmore
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Student Publications and Presentations
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) has emerged as a widely adopted solid fuel for hybrid rocket propulsion due to its compatibility with fused deposition modeling and favorable regression characteristics. As a terpolymer, however, ABS monomer mass fractions vary across commercial sources, introducing thermochemical variability that is rarely accounted for in propulsion modeling. This study presents a sensitivity analysis examining how compositional variability among ten commercially available ABS feedstock propagates into hybrid rocket performance predictions. Each source was characterized using bomb calorimetry and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy to derive source-specific constituent mass fractions and enthalpies of formation, which were supplied to NASA’s Chemical …
Selfish Herd: Emergence Of Distributed Sensing,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Selfish Herd: Emergence Of Distributed Sensing, Timothy Mascal
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
The problem of multi-agent swarm formation control seeks decision frameworks that exhibit desirable emergent behavior, including distributed sensing and communication, while remaining resilient to environmental noise. Previous work has demonstrated that the Selfish Herd Model is not only resilient to simulated sensor noise but performs better in its presence. This work further investigates the emergent behaviors of the Selfish Herd Model, particularly distributed sensing, by investigating whether the swarm achieves global stability equivalent to that observed in previous work utilizing global knowledge. A parameter variation study was performed across varying agent visual range and maximum neighbor count inputs to simulate …
Agar-Natural Polymer Composites For Packaging Applications,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Agar-Natural Polymer Composites For Packaging Applications, Alaa Alnatsheh
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
Global plastic production reached 359 million metric tons in 2018, with packaging accounting for about 31% of total use and expected to continue increasing toward 2060. Recycling remains limited, with approximately 66% of recyclable packaging in the United States not being recycled. These challenges have increased interest in biodegradable materials derived from renewable sources. Agar, a polysaccharide extracted from red seaweed, has strong film-forming ability but shows limitations such as low mechanical strength and high water sensitivity. This study investigates agar-based bioplastic films using three formulation approaches: agar-starch (binary), agar-starch-chitosan (ternary), and agar with nanocellulose (nano-enhanced). Films were prepared using …
The Regeneratively Cooled Engine Development (R.E.D.) Project,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
The Regeneratively Cooled Engine Development (R.E.D.) Project, Joseph Traverso, Sharjeel Malik, Ford Catlin
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
The Experimental Rocket Propulsion Lab (ERPL) is a student-run organization dedicated to designing, building, and testing experimental rocket engines. With ERPL transitioning toward flight vehicles, developing engines with longer burn times is critical to future club success. One limitation to burn time is an engine’s ability to withstand extreme combustion temperatures, typically in excess of 5000 F. ERPL engines have found success with passive cooling techniques such as ablative, heatsink, and film cooling, but these techniques aren’t suitable for extended burn times. Therefore, ERPL has created the Regeneratively cooled Engine Development (R.E.D) project, with the objective to design, analyze, and …
Innovative Controls For Combustible Particulate Dust In Industrial Refineries,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Innovative Controls For Combustible Particulate Dust In Industrial Refineries, Sadie Dickman
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
This project entails an extensive analysis of the occupational combustible dust hazard that exists in industrial refineries, including food processing, manufacturing, and metalworking facilities. Based on prior accidents like the 2008 Imperial Sugar and 2017 Didion Milling explosions, combustible dust causes fire and explosion risks that can result in damages, injuries, and fatalities. Through comparison of OSHA regulations, NFPA standards, and accident data, a lack of effective standards regarding training, audits, ventilation, fire prevention, and adequate housekeeping measures were highlighted to be an existing safety gap. The purpose of this study is to propose administrative controls to mandate companies to …
Project Chimaera: Development Of A Tessellated Tetrahedral Truss Structure For Adaptive Multi-Regime Morphing Wing Technology,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Project Chimaera: Development Of A Tessellated Tetrahedral Truss Structure For Adaptive Multi-Regime Morphing Wing Technology, Evan Meyer, Eric Rodarte, Maximo Failla, Joshua Shuster, Jackson G. Schuler
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
Project Chimaera: Physical Assembly of tessellated tetrahedral wing for Multi-Regime Flight. Modern Aircrafts lose aerodynamic efficiency because they are primarily made utilizing fixed wings which are designed for a single optimal flight condition. This forces an aircraft’s performance to become compromised across various speed maneuvers and flight regimes. Project Chimaera addresses this limitation through the development of a morphing wing capable of dynamically changing its geometry extensively during flight to allow an aircraft to travel between subsonic, supersonic, and hypersonic speeds. Whereas traditional wings rely on wing flaps and other flight controls; Project Chimaera addresses the limitation of flight controls …
Turbine Aerodynamics And Performance Characterization,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Turbine Aerodynamics And Performance Characterization, Anuranan Bharadwaj, Kalkamanali Satvaldy, Vincent Shi
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
This research presents an integrated study combining computational modeling and experimental validation to enhance the design and performance characterization of small-scale turbine systems. The theoretical component focuses on developing an object-oriented Python code for the preliminary design and performance prediction of radial turbines, capable of generating velocity triangles, thermodynamic properties, and geometric parameters from user-defined inputs. The tool employs Whitfield-based correlations and fundamental gas-dynamic relations to estimate exit flow parameters, work ratio, and efficiency, offering flexibility for expansion into geometry export and CAD integration. Complementing the computational model, the experimental component aims to improve the aerodynamic testing capabilities of the …
Terramechanics-Based Comparison Of Dem And Crm For Lunar Surface Applications,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Terramechanics-Based Comparison Of Dem And Crm For Lunar Surface Applications, Nicolas Bonasoro
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
Understanding how lunar regolith interacts with robotic systems is important for safe surface operations because uncertain terrain conditions can affect rover traversability and lunar lander stability. This work applies terramechanics to two space robotics applications: in-situ cone penetration testing (CPT) for terrain assessment and lunar lander touchdown analysis for evaluating sinkage, force response, and stability. The study compares the Discrete Element Method (DEM), which resolves particle-scale interactions and captures detailed regolith behavior, with the Continuum Representation Method (CRM), which models soil response more efficiently and supports rigid CAD components such as lander footpads, legs, and body geometries. Current CPT results …
Experimental Manufacturing Optimization Of 3d-Printed Ducted Fans,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Experimental Manufacturing Optimization Of 3d-Printed Ducted Fans, Stanlie Cerda-Cruz
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
This study aims to assess the efficiency gains, feasibility, and practicality of 3D printing fan and ducts with pre and post processing techniques. With the rapid expansion of MAV use; labs, students, hobbyists, can benefit from manufacturing Electric Ducted Fans (EDFs), both fans and ducts, in-house rather than purchasing traditional propellers. There are several advantages of utilizing EDFs, as they can minimize wing tip vortices, reduce wake contraction, and induce a duct lip Coanda effect which all lead to an increased system efficiency. However, EDF implementation in MAV's remain largely unexplored due to the difficulty of development and the production …
Additive Manufacturing Of Metals: Mechanical Properties And Their Implications,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Additive Manufacturing Of Metals: Mechanical Properties And Their Implications, Sean Chih
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
Additive manufacturing of metals is a relatively new and groundbreaking approach to manufacturing high-performance components. However, variability in mechanical properties from the process creates a barrier before this manufacturing technique can be widely applied. Understanding when and where to use this manufacturing is also important to create components with efficiency and without harmful defects. The objective of this research is to evaluate the effects of build orientation, printing parameters, internal defects, thermal history, and residual stresses, post-processing heat treatments, and fatigue behavior on additively manufactured components. Literature-based research is conducted on commonly used metals for additive manufacturing, such as stainless …
Reimagining Wind Based Sea Travel With Vertical Axis Wind Turbines,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Reimagining Wind Based Sea Travel With Vertical Axis Wind Turbines, Julian Goins
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
In the realm of Nautical vehicles, aside from the occasional outliers like rarely used coal steamboats, experimental solar powered ships, or the military grade nuclear vessels, the vast majority of ships run off diesel-powered engines. The unsustainability of such methods will need to be addressed for the security of our planet’s future due to the limited and destructive nature of fossil fuels, much like it already is in many other fields. To that end, this project gains inspiration from the past and looks toward harnessing the power of the wind. In recent times, most sail boats are equipped with some …
Greenwall Use For Air Repair And Depollution (G.U.A.R.D.),
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Greenwall Use For Air Repair And Depollution (G.U.A.R.D.), Sophia Elwood, Sophia Piro, Maura Barrada, Kathrine Lopez, Wendi Goffer
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
Creating habitable indoor environments for long-duration space missions and extraterrestrial habitats requires reliable, sustainable air quality improvement. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s ACE Lab provides a unique opportunity to investigate plant-based purification in a controlled environment while addressing campus air quality concerns linked to a high-traffic airport and exposure to jet fuel particulate matter and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This collaborative project between Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering researchers and the Botanical Society evaluates whether a green wall can improve indoor air quality as a scalable model for future closed-loop habitats. In the study's first phase, student researchers documented ACE Lab dimensions to …
A Feedback Loop Control To Automate Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Based Additive Manufacturing,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
A Feedback Loop Control To Automate Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Based Additive Manufacturing, Arineh Shahbazi
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
Currently, nanoparticle annealing based additive manufacturing process requires high temperatures, making them unsuitable for a broad range of applications. By lowering the temperature and developing a process to use Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma (CAPP) for annealing, many more doors are opened to a wide range of materials, films, and environments for space, communication, and microelectronics. CAPP-based additive manufacturing technology is continually evolving, making projects like nanoparticle annealing more feasible. In this work, we designed a CAPP jet printer assembly consisting of a 0.25-inch outer diameter glass tube connected to a 3D printing nozzle. The flow of Argon gas in the …
Automation And Robotics In Timber Construction Prefabrication,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Automation And Robotics In Timber Construction Prefabrication, Jason Grabowski, Anish Mandyam, Samuel Mcaraw, Jacob Jander
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
Robotics and automation have varying degrees of utilization across the construction prefabrication industry. The timber prefabrication industry is uniquely positioned for the implementation of robotics and automation due to the environment being more controlled than most of the construction industry. Current developments are influenced by the evolution of "Construction 4.0/5.0," where the integration of digital technologies and robotics is transforming timber prefabrication from traditional subtractive CNC machining into a highly precise, additive, and collaborative process. The purpose of this project is to conduct a systematic literature review of the state of-the-art and near-future developments of automation and robotics in timber …
Influence Of Infill Geometry On The Vibrational Behavior Of 3d-Printed Cantilever Beams,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Influence Of Infill Geometry On The Vibrational Behavior Of 3d-Printed Cantilever Beams, Owen Maute
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
Vibration and damping are important considerations in many engineering structures, especially as additive manufacturing becomes more widely used in functional mechanical components. This project investigates how the internal structure of 3D-printed parts affects their vibrational behavior. A series of cantilever beams with identical outer dimensions will be designed and manufactured using a 3D printer with PLA filament, since PLA is one of the most commonly used materials in consumer and prototyping-level additive manufacturing. The study will examine five different infill patterns at three different infill densities, producing multiple beam configurations that vary only in their internal geometry. In addition to …
Modeling Seiche Oscillations Using Damped Vibration Differential Equations,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Modeling Seiche Oscillations Using Damped Vibration Differential Equations, Sharjeel Malik, Justin Della
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
Combustion instability in liquid rocket engines is driven by coupling acoustic pressure oscillations and unsteady heat release. To achieve specific desired outcomes, small perturbations can be made to either decay or grow, depending on system dynamics and artificial parameters. Using a linearized eigenvalue framework, where eigenvalues determine growth/decay rates and frequencies, and eigenvectors describe spatial mode shapes and couplings between pressure, velocity, and heat release, a mathematical model can be derived to describe said behavior for a cross-section of the rocket engine. The Rayleigh criterion is used to identify conditions under which energy is added to oscillations, while flame transfer …
Cavitation In Pumps And Propellers: Causes, Effects, Prevention, And Future Trends,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Cavitation In Pumps And Propellers: Causes, Effects, Prevention, And Future Trends, Gillian Negron Burgos, Olivia Wilson
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
In this research, we will explore cavitation in pumps and propellers, including its causes, effects on system performance, prevention methods, and future engineering solutions. Cavitation occurs when the local pressure of a flowing liquid drops below its vapor pressure, forming vapor-filled bubbles that collapse and damage mechanical components. Disciplines such as fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and materials science contribute to understanding and mitigating cavitation in fluid machinery. When vapor bubbles collapse near metal surfaces, they generate localized shock waves that cause pitting, erosion, vibration, and noise. These effects reduce efficiency, increase maintenance requirements, and shorten the lifespan of rotating machinery used …
Mechanical Vibrations And Damping,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Mechanical Vibrations And Damping, Axon Deadrick, Will Standish, Tanay Agarwal
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
Mechanical vibrations occur in many engineering systems and can be described using second-order differential equations. In this project, the motion of vibrating systems is studied using the mass–spring model. The focus is on three types of oscillations: free vibrations, dampened vibrations, and forced oscillations. Free vibration describes how a system moves when it is displaced and then released without any external force. Damped vibration includes effects such as friction or resistance that cause the motion to gradually decrease over time. Forced oscillations occur when an external force acts on the system and continuously drives the motion. This project also examines …
A Differential Equation Approach To Heat Flow In A Thin Rod,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
A Differential Equation Approach To Heat Flow In A Thin Rod, Alexandria Krol, David Cardona, Collin Petrie
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
A Differential Equation Approach to Heat Flow in a Thin Rod examines how differential equations can be used to model and understand heat conduction in a fundamental physical system. Heat transfer in solids is a key concept in physics and engineering, particularly in systems where temperature changes over time. A thin rod provides a useful one-dimensional model for studying how heat moves through a material and how temperature varies along the rod as time passes. The primary objective is to develop a mathematical description of this process using differential equations. The analysis begins with physical principles such as conservation of …
