Digital Commons Network^™

Development Of A Basilar Membrane-Inspired Mechanical Spectrum Analyzer Using Metastructures For Enhanced Frequency Selectivity, Shantanu H. Chavan, Vijaya Venkata Narasimha Sriram Malladi

Michigan Tech Publications

This study introduces a mechanical spectrum analyzer (MSA) inspired by the tonotopic organization of the basilar membrane (BM), designed to achieve two critical features. First, it replicates the traveling-wave behavior of the BM, characterized by energy dissipation without reflections at the boundaries. Second, it enables the physical encoding of the wave energy into distinct spectral components. Moving beyond the conventional focus on metamaterial design, this research investigates wave propagation behavior and energy dissipation within metastructures, with particular attention to how individual unit cells absorb energy. To achieve these objectives, a metastructural design methodology is employed. Experimental characterization of metastructure samples …

System Dynamics For Manufacturing: Supply Chain Simulation Of Hemp-Reinforced Polymer Composite Manufacturing For Sustainability, Gurinder Kaur, Ronald Kander

School of Design and Engineering Papers

Supply chain management (SCM) involves complexities and uncertainties in the flow of goods and services from raw materials to end users. Inaccurate estimation of raw materials, labor, or equipment can lead to financial losses and environmental impacts. This study explores the application of system dynamics modeling (SDM) in manufacturing hemp-reinforced polymer composites (HRPC) to optimize resource usage. Using SDM software STELLA^® (Version 3.7.3), selected for its affordability and features, the research demonstrates how system dynamics (SD) can enhance sustainability by minimizing materials, labor, and equipment, reducing energy consumption. A literature review identified a gap in existing research, as we …

Influence Of Process Parameter And Build Rate Variations On Defect Formation In Laser Powder Bed Fusion Ss316l, Tasrif Ul Anwar, Patrick Merighe, Rahul Reddy Kancharla, Boopathy Kombaiah, Nadia Kouraytem

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Student Publications and Presentations

Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) is an additive manufacturing process that has gained interest for its material fabrication due to multiple advantages, such as the ability to print parts with small feature sizes, good mechanical properties, reduced material waste, etc. However, variations in the key process parameters in LPBF may result in the instantiation of porosity defects and variation in build rate. Particularly, volumetric energy density (VED) is a variable that encapsulates a number of those parameters and represents the amount of energy input from the laser source to the feedstock. VED has been traditionally used to inform the quality …

An Adversarial Transformer For Anomalous Lamb Wave Pattern Detection, Jiawei Guo, Sen Zhang, Nikta Amiri, Lingyu Yu, Yi Wang

Faculty Publications

Lamb waves are widely used for defect detection in structural health monitoring, and various methods are developed for Lamb wave data analysis. This paper presents an unsupervised Adversarial Transformer model for anomalous Lamb wave pattern detection by analyzing the spatiotemporal images generated by a hybrid PZT-scanning laser Doppler vibrometer (SLDV). The model includes the global attention and the local attention mechanisms, and both are trained adversarially. Given the different natures between the normal and anomalous wave patterns, global attention allows accurate reconstruction of normal wave data but is less capable of reproducing anomalous data and, hence, can be used …

Long-Range Inertia Prediction Considering Contemporary Evolution Of Power Grid Networks, Peter M. Makolo

Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology (TJET)

Reduced network inertia due to high penetration levels of non-synchronous generators in modern power systems is becoming a pressing issue. As a result, very quick inertial responses are observed after contingency events in networks. Due to quick inertial responses, there is a practically very limited time interval for control actions in real-time. Thus, system operators need to understand the prior inertia values to plan, control, and operate the network securely. Long-range forecasting of the network's inertia values, in contrast to short-range forecasting techniques, can pinpoint when the network is most likely to be vulnerable in a reasonable time ahead. Thus, …

Direct Graphene Growth On Low-Alloy And Mild Steel Surfaces Controlled By Carbon Solubility And Surface Microstructural Transformations During Chemical Vapor Deposition, Kaleb Hood, Nam Nguyen, Sebastian Lara, Adan Velasquez, Samuel Olson, Yi Xia, Jun Jiao

Mechanical and Materials Engineering Faculty Publications and Presentations

This study demonstrates for the first time, graphene grown directly on the iron-rich surfaces of bulk 8620 low-alloy and 1018 mild steel by chemical vapor deposition, a key step toward developing thin graphene coatings with strong graphene-steel bonding. Low growth temperatures of 660 °C–680 °C, were used to manipulate the steel's carbon solubility, confining carbon diffusion and microstructural transformations to the surface regions, with the bulk relatively unchanged. For 1018, a growth temperature of 680 °C resulted in a multilayer graphene coating with 80 % coverage. The alloying elements in 8620 improved graphene formation by influencing the surface microstructure transformations …

Identifying The Effect Of Architecture Morphology On Wind Fields And Pm2.5 Dispersion At The Urban Block Scale Via A Combined Scheme, Bin Guo, Lu Li, Xiaowei Zhu, Zheng Wang, Miaoyi Chen, Lin Pei, Tengyue Guo

Mechanical and Materials Engineering Faculty Publications and Presentations

This study explores the potential of architecture morphology to mitigate PM2.5 pollution through enhanced urban ventilation. Despite the recognized influence of building designs on wind and air pollution distribution at the urban block scale, specific mechanisms remain poorly understood. To address this gap, we have developed an integrative approach combining in-situ observations, Geographic Information System (GIS), Remote Sensing (RS), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and statistical modeling. Here, CFD simulates the flow field and PM2.5 dispersion, using in-situ observations for turbulence model selection. GIS quantify architecture morphology parameters to establish accurate CFD boundary conditions, ensuring simulations reflect real-world conditions and precise …

Advancing Prosthetic Technology: 3d-Printed Robotic Arm With Micro Linear Actuators, Vu Tran, Nathan Reed, Mahdi Yazdanpour

Posters-at-the-Capitol

The increasing demand for affordable and accessible prosthetic solutions has driven innovation in the field of robotics. In this project, we present the design and development of a 3D-printed robotic prosthetic arm aimed at addressing the challenges faced by individuals with upper limb amputations. Our prosthetic arm utilizes five micro linear actuators to achieve precise and naturalistic movement. The design of the prosthetic arm prioritizes affordability and accessibility, with a focus on leveraging 3D printing technology to reduce manufacturing costs and enable customization. The use of micro linear actuators offers advantages in terms of compactness, lightweight construction, and efficient power …

Effects Of Processing Parameters On Kerf Cutting Quality Following Abrasive Waterjet Slotting Of Ti-6al-4v/Cfrp/Al7075 Stacks, Abeer Eisa, Abdulaziz Elshinawi, Mohamed Fattouh

Journal of Engineering Research

Abrasive water jet machining (AWJM) presents a viable substitute to traditional machining methods for cutting straight kerfs in Ti-6Al-4V/CFRP/Al7075 composite stacks. This study investigated the influences of various process settings, namely the hydraulic pressure (P), traverse speed (V), and stand-off distance (SOD) on kerf characteristics, including the kerf geometry (W_k), taper angle (θ_K), roughness (R_a), and the material removal (MRR). The metal plates, including Ti-6Al-4V and Al7075, exhibited a positive taper angle, whereas the CFRP composite plate revealed a negative taper angle across …

Effect Of Dual-Fuelled Cng And Gasoline On Spark Ignition Engine Performance And Emissions Behaviors At Different Loads, Medhat Elkelawy Prof. Dr, Eng., M.M. Bassuoni Prof. Dr., Hagar Alm-Eldin Bastawissi, Saied I. Haiba Eng.

Journal of Engineering Research

Engine emissions are one of numerous factors that have detrimentally affected the environment, such as global warming, which is the result of growing exhaust gases, practically carbon dioxide (CO2). These emissions have substantially influenced researchers to develop strategic initiatives to minimize the carbon contents of fuels. The purpose of this research is to investigate the characteristics of internal combustion (SI) engines fueled by gasoline and compressed natural gas (CNG) blends. The experiments are performed using a HONDA 4-stroke, single-cylinder, and air-cooled SI engine. Five CNG concentrations are evaluated, the concentrations range from 0.5 to 2.5 L/min with a 0.5 L/min …

Evaluating Energy Efficiency And Thermal Performance In Egypt’S Social Housing: Climate-Responsive Design And Material Impact In Hot Desert Environments, Ahmed M. Hanafi, Mohamed A. Moawed, Osama E. Abdullatif

Journal of Engineering Research

As Egypt's urban areas expand rapidly, the demand for energy-efficient, affordable housing in extreme hot desert climates has become increasingly urgent. This study investigates the energy efficiency and thermal performance of Egypt’s Social Housing Project, with a focus on residential building in New Aswan City, where summer temperatures frequently exceed 45°C. Employing a validated energy model, this research simulates annual energy consumption for the building, which comprises 24 residential units, each approximately 86 m². The model integrates realistic occupancy schedules, region-specific weather data, and common household behavior patterns to closely reflect actual energy usage. Findings indicate a high alignment between …

Heavy Metals Pollution In Roadside Ecosystems, Lilian Matafu

Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology (TJET)

Heavy metals refer to metallic elements that are characterized by having a relatively high density and they are toxic or poisonous even at low concentration. They are environmental pollutant owing to toxicity and longevity in atmosphere and ability to accumulate in living things via bioaccumulation. They tend to enter in different system such as food chain. Analyses of water, soil sediment and the surrounding growing plants (Cynodon dactylon and Cyperus species) for selected heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Zn and Cu) were conducted on a roadside pond located at Boko MSB, Dar es Salaam. Pond water, soil sediments and plant samples …

Assessment Of Wind Speed Characteristics And Available Wind Power Potential For Electricity Generation In Tanzania, Mwingereza John Kumwenda

Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology (TJET)

The energy demand and its associated crises are attracting significant attention due to population increase and economic growth especially in developing countries. Fossil fuel-based energy source stand as a prominent anthropogenic resource but they are accompanied with increased carbon emissions and heightened environmental concerns. Renewable energy sources such as wind energy can offers a lot of potential for sustainable growth in the energy sector of developing nations like Tanzania. Thus, this work investigated wind speed characteristics and available wind power potential in six selected regions in Tanzania with different topographical features for future electricity generation. The data of the wind …

Design And Implementation Of Secured Hybrid Gateway Node For Securing Iot - Enabled Distribution Automation, Ally Bitebo

Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology (TJET)

The integration of smart grid and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of services provided by traditional electrical grids. This combination has enabled the introduction of new services, such as demand response, automatic meter reading, and IoT-enabled Distribution Automation (IoT-DA), which incorporates sensors, actuators, intelligent electrical devices (IEDs), and information and communication technologies to monitor and control the grid. However, this integration also introduces network security risks, including Denial of Service (DoS) attacks, false data injection, and masquerading attacks, such as system node impersonation that can transmit incorrect readings, trigger false alarms, and …

Effects Of Thermal Shock Protection Methods On Pressure Measurements In A Rapid Compression Machine, Myeji Materego

Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology (TJET)

The study investigates the impact of thermal shock protection methods on pressure measurements in Rapid Compression Machines (RCMs). It focuses on the performance of various pressure transducers, specifically 601A, 701A, 6061B, and 7005, under atmospheric initial conditions. The research emphasizes the importance of mounting techniques and coatings, revealing their significant effects on pressure trace accuracy. Special mounting adaptors for the pressure transducers were designed and manufactured, this enabled simultaneous measurements for all transducers to be made in a single compression stroke. Instantaneous pressure within combustion chamber was measured when air was compressed in RCM from initial pressure and temperatures of …

Effects Of Technical Debt On Software Interoperability, Leonard Peter Binamungu

Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology (TJET)

Technical debt (TD) refers to sub-optimal development decisions that make the software costly to maintain and evolve. Examples of TD include structural complexity, violation of coding styles, and code complexity. Existing research has investigated the nature, causes and indicators of TD, as well as tools and strategies for managing TD. However, although TD could hinder the ability of a software system to be interoperable with others, existing literature has limited evidence on how TD affects systems interoperability. This limits the ability of software engineering teams to manage TD in ways that do not hinder systems interoperability. To fill this void, …

Performance Optimization Of Bi2te3 Thermoelectric Generator System Under Low Operating Heat Fluxes, Abd El-Moneim A. Harb, Khairy Elsayed, Ahmed S.T. Osman, Ahmed Abdo

Journal of Engineering Research

It is essential to boost thermoelectric generator performance because recent studies have revealed lower efficiency. Its leg dimensions and the thickness of the copper strip could be changed to achieve this. With its innovative approach of establishing the P-N legs' optimal dimensions while considering all interactions at lower operational heat fluxes, the present research aims to be fruitful for common applications. A comprehensive TEG model was created, utilizing a single objective optimization method. Key performance parameters, including voltage, hot side temperature, output power, and conversion efficiency, were evaluated through simulations and compared to conventional TEG systems. The findings showed that …

Numerical Analysis To Evaluate The Performance Based On Bi2te3 And Sige Thermoelectric Module, Abd El-Moneim A. Harb, Khairy Elsayed, Ahmed S.T. Osman, Ahmed Abdo

Journal of Engineering Research

This paper presents a numerical analysis evaluating the performance of thermoelectric (TE) modules utilizing 𝐵𝑖2𝑇𝑒3 and SiGe materials under both constant heat flux and constant temperature difference conditions. A three-dimensional model of TEG was developed and simulated using ANSYS FLUENT 19-R2. The model's accuracy was validated against existing literature. The study investigated the influence of these materials on power output, conversion efficiency, voltage, and temperature distribution across various operating conditions. The results demonstrate a linear relationship between heat flux/temperature difference and voltage/power output for both materials. The findings provide valuable insights for optimizing high-performance TE modules operating under constant heat …

A Comparative Study Of Cleaning Methods Across Various Dust Types: Optimizing Cleaning Techniques For Dust-Affected Photovoltaic Panels, Ahmed Moustafa, Ahmed Tohami, Hamdy Hassan

Journal of Engineering Research

Solar energy is increasingly crucial for generating electricity and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. However, the efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) panels is substantially affected by dust accumulation. This research aims to enhance the performance and longevity of solar panels by evaluating various eco-friendly cleaning techniques for different dust types: Yellow Sand, Normal Dust, and Mud. The methods tested include low, medium, and high-water flow rates, medium flow rates with a wiper, compressed medium flow, and air blowing. Key performance metrics such as temperature, current, voltage, and power were measured before and after cleaning to assess effectiveness. The results demonstrate that …

Three-Rigid-Link Manipulator Robot Inverse Dynamic Model Using Ann Based On Pid Controller, M.A. El-Gohary, M.S. Elksas, A. E. Banna, S.G. Ahmad

Journal of Engineering Research

This work proposes an inverse dynamics model of a three-rigid -link manipulator robot employing a PID controller based on artificial neural networks. In order to attain precise position, neural network control algorithms are designed to handle nonlinear issues including robot manipulator control and uncertainty compensation. An artificial neural network with two layers that uses feedforward training is trained using the back propagation technique. By just fusing the ANN with other traditional control techniques, the suggested controller gives the network more information on the composition and dynamics of the system. The PID controller generates data that is used to train neural …

Evaluation And Improvement Of A Solar Still With A Pyramidal Shape By Modifying Its Basin Design, Yaf El-Samadony, Ss Elsayed, Mohamed Abd Elnabi, Ahmed Abdo

Journal of Engineering Research

As global demand rises, freshwater shortage is a serious obstacle that calls for sustainable desalination methods. To increase desalination productivity, this paper looks at integrating photovoltaic (PV) panels with a novel pyramid solar still architecture. Two distinct configurations of pyramid solar still absorbers were created, assessed, and contrasted with a conventional pyramid solar still: configuration (1) had a square base pyramid measuring 900 cm2 and a height of 12.5 cm, while configuration (2) had a pyramid base pyramid of 2500 cm2 and a height of 21 cm. The different pyramid proportions, working concepts, and system components were explained. A thorough …

Numerical Investigation Of Temperature Distribution Analysis For A Domestic Refrigerator With Different Duct Shapes, Faisal Elhabashy, A.A. Hawwash, Aly M.A. Soliman, Walid G. Alshaer

Journal of Engineering Research

The domestic refrigerator is one of the most home appliance used and the enhancement in its performance will has a significant effect on energy saving and environment. Preserving food at low and uniform temperatures is especially important to avoid Food spoilage and decreases the microorganisms. The aim of this study is to investigate numerically a different duct shapes to achieve an efficient cooling in the refrigerator and keep the temperature at the required range, using software called SIMULIA. The numerical model was developed to simulate the refrigeration system accurately, porous media and heat balance techniques were combined to the conservation …

A Non-Standard Finite Difference Approach For Optimizing The Thermal Behaviour Of Photovoltaic Panel With Hybrid Cooling Techniques, E.F. El-Gazar, A.A Hawwash, Hamdy Hassan, Shinsuke Mori, Ayman Refat Abd Elbar

Journal of Engineering Research

A finite difference model is developed to simulate the thermal behaviour of the PV system with an innovative cooling system. The proposed cooling system combines an aluminium heat spreader (AHS) with phase change material (PCM) placed at the backside of the solar panel. The new non-standard model is solved using MATLAB software and is validated with real experimental data collected under hot climate conditions. The new nonlocal model is found to be more effective in analyzing heat transfer processes throughout the entirety of the PV system compared to conventional PV models. Additionally, the new cooling PV system has been compared …

Finite Element Analysis Of Stress-Induced Phase Transformation In Sma Wire, Ali M. Mamdouh, Ali S. Helal, Yasser A F El - Samadony

Journal of Engineering Research

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are well-known for their remarkable mechanical properties, particularly their shape memory and super-elasticity abilities. These Properties make them ideal for a variety of adaptive mechanical applications. The most common application is the implementation of SMA wires as mechanical actuators. However, the nonlinear characteristics and the hysteresis nature of SMAs limit their utility in engineering applications. This makes SMAs desirable, but it is considered a complicated material for developing advanced rehabilitation devices that can significantly enhance patient treatment. In this paper, a finite element analysis, (FEA) study investigated the behaviour of SMA wires under mechanical loads. COMSOL …

Design, Modeling, And Control Of Medical Service Quadrotor, Mohamed Eid, Anas Mohamed, Ali M. Mohamed

Journal of Engineering Research

Due to road accidents, it is difficult to supply injured people with first aid, especially in difficult-access regions. Also, uneven roads or far places pose a problem for ambulances and doctors to reach and save injured people’s lives. The paper aims to design, model, and control a drone able to fly at different heights and support patients with essential needs after accidents. The drone also contains sensors to measure blood sugar and pressure in cases of diabetic coma that require urgent intervention. The drone design was tested using SolidWorks and FLUENT to ensure safe design in different flying conditions. The …

Assessment Of Physical And Ergonomic Hazards And Their Compliance With National Standards. A Case Study, Amira Abdelraheem

Journal of Engineering Research

Occupational hazards are a significant concern in high-risk environments such as petroleum operating companies, where workers are exposed to various risks, including chemical, physical, mechanical, ergonomic, and psychosocial factors. Effective management of these hazards is essential to protect the health and safety of employees and maintain operational efficiency. This study aims to assess physical hazards including a-weighted equivalent noise levels, heat stress, Lightning and Ergonomics in a petroleum operating company in Egypt, and to check its conformity with national standards. Physical environment (Noise, heat stress and illumination) in different worksites were assessed using calibrated direct reading instruments to evaluate the …

A Structural Evaluation And Design Optimization Of A Tow Bar For Disabled Snowmobiles, David M. Pevic

Masters Theses

Snowmobile tow bars are devices used to rigidly connect two snowmobiles, such that a disabled snowmobile can be recovered from a remote location with a working snowmobile. These devices, however, are not widely used or readily available. An existing tow bar design was evaluated and redesigned to improve its structural capacity and performance. This evaluation provided a baseline to quantify improvement and included Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Design Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (DFMEA), and Design for Assembly analysis (DFA). A review of existing snowmobile tow bar patents was also performed. An updated design was then fabricated and similarly evaluated. …

Processing, Testing, Failure Analysis, And Modeling Of Elementary Natural Fiber-Reinforced Composites, Shuo Sun

All ETDs from UAB

Natural fiber reinforced composites have garnered significant interest as potential substitutes for conventional materials because of their eco-friendly attributes and favorable physical and mechanical properties. Typically, natural fibers undergo chemical treatments to enhance their compatibility with the polymer matrix prior to composite production. However, these treatments primarily affect the surface of the fiber bundles and have a limited impact on the inner elementary fibers within the bundle. This research work introduced a mechanical treatment method for hemp fiber by using an elevated temperature aqueous condition and mechanical force, which broke down the technical fiber bundles into elementary fibers and created …

Lessons In Low-Tech: A Handbook For Sustainable Education, Ceri Almrott, Loann Astorino, Sébastien Bette, Benoit Delinchant, Philippe Fortemps, Ulysse Girard, Paul Hendrick, Sacha Hodencq, Fabian Lecron, Julie Lhuissier, Kévin Loesle, Luis Miguel Lopez Santiago, Santiago Perez Rodriguez, Gauthier Renard, Tatiana Reyes, Virginie Vandenbulcke, John Walsh

Other resources

LT4SUSTAIN, an Erasmus+ funded transnational project, is at the forefront of responding to the increasing awareness of environmental and climate challenges. This awareness, particularly among youth, has led to a demand for social justice. With the coordinated work among six institutions, ranging from higher education institutions to private companies and associations, LT4SUSTAIN aims to raise awareness of Lowtech across society.

LT4SUSTAIN is pioneering a unique approach to technology design. By developing “hackathons” and other “hands-on” events, we are engaging students and industry in a way that improves inclusiveness. Our objective is to equip individuals with the skills to embark on …

Foundational Robotics, Akshit Lunia, Ananya Nagabhushana Rao, Yue Wang

Robotics

This textbook is a product of Co-DREAM OER (Collaborative Development of Robotics, Mechatronics, and Advanced Manufacturing Open Educational Resources), a US Department of Education-funded initiative to develop Open Educational Resource textbooks on robotics, mechatronics, and advanced manufacturing processes. It has been created by a diverse team of scholars and graduate students from across the country and is intended for higher-level robotics courses offered by 4-year undergraduate programs.