Engineering Commons^™

Electric Charge Capacity And Breakdown Voltage Of Martian Simulant By Using Electro Dynamic Balance, Sakurako Kuba

Von Braun Symposium Student Posters

No abstract provided.

How Spaceflight Affects The Detachment Of Zinc Whiskers, Kayla Capitan

Von Braun Symposium Student Posters

No abstract provided.

Predicting Mechanical Properties Of Lattice Structures, Behzad Bahrami Babamiri

Von Braun Symposium Student Posters

No abstract provided.

Incorporating Student Reflection Into Engineering Courses, Nancy Barr

TechTalks

Critical reflection as students move through their disciplinary curriculum is one way to cultivate capacity for critical thinking. By embedding opportunities for critical reflection in disciplinary courses, educators can combine aspects of writing theory, metacognitive learning, and critical pedagogy to help students begin to frame how they will apply their skills and talents to problems effecting diverse populations. The new undergraduate ME curriculum combines applied learning and project-based learning methods in a series of four ME Practice courses. Technical communication instruction is also embedded in these courses, and the “capstone” of each course is a reflective essay. By responding to …

Space Mining Is Almost Here!, Paul Van Susant

TechTalks

When going to the Moon and Mars for extended stays with humans it is required to minimize mass by "living off the land" as soon as possible. Mining local resources and using them to produce consumables and construct simple structures can leverage launch mass to the surface of those bodies. In addition, asteroid mining will be able to provide rocket fuel to further spur economic development in CIS-Lunar space and further open up solar system activities. I am working on mining on Mars and the Moon as well as construction using local rocks.

New Concepts In Evolutionary Algorithms For Systems Architecture Optimization, Ossama Abdelkhalik

TechTalks

This talk will present recent developments in evolutionary algorithms that focus on the systems architecture optimization. One challenge in systems optimization is the variable number of design variables. Three new concepts will be presented in this talk that enable evolutionary algorithms to handle this type of problems more efficiently. The first is the biologically inspired concept of Hidden Genes that implements tags to cover/uncover genes in the variables' code, which enable handling variable number of variables in evolutionary algorithms. The second concept is a structured chromosome approach that transcripts the variables in a multi-layer code as opposed to the standard …

The Subject Librarian Newsletter, Engineering And Computer Science, Fall 2017, Buenaventura "Ven" Basco

Libraries' Newsletters

No abstract provided.

Distributed Control System For Parallel-Connected Dc Boost Converters, Steven Goldsmith

Michigan Tech Patents

The disclosed invention is a distributed control system for operating a DC bus fed by disparate DC power sources that service a known or unknown load. The voltage sources vary in v-i characteristics and have time-varying, maximum supply capacities. Each source is connected to the bus via a boost converter, which may have different dynamic characteristics and power transfer capacities, but are controlled through PWM. The invention tracks the time-varying power sources and apportions their power contribution while maintaining the DC bus voltage within the specifications. A central digital controller solves the steady-state system for the optimal duty cycle settings …

Design And Development Of A High Altitude Wind Tunnel (Hat), David Ritchie

Research Horizons Day Posters

No abstract provided.

Size Distribution Of Carbon Nanoparticles From A Methane/Argon Hv Pulsed Dc Ampj, Steven Doyle

Research Horizons Day Posters

No abstract provided.

Professional Development, Outreach, And Technology Awareness With The Mobile Lab, Jeremy Worm

TechTalks

The Mobile Lab is a one of a kind mobile event facility operated by the Advanced Power Systems Research Center (APS LABS). The Mobile Lab travels the country providing hands-on Professional Development short courses, STEM Outreach, and as a venue for increasing awareness of new technologies. The Mobile Lab consists of a classroom, two full-functional powertrain test cells, a fleet of over 25 vehicles, and a chassis dynamometer. The configurability of the Mobile Lab enables support of virtually any technical or non-technical short course or outreach. The Mobile Lab commands attention, generating large crowds at conferences, expos, and community events, …

Model-Driven Design Of Materials, Gregory M. Odegard

TechTalks

Thomas Edison once said “I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work.” The Edisonian approach to materials development has been the gold standard for most of human history. However, advances in computational speeds and modeling techniques over the last couple of decades have enabled new model-driven approaches to materials development, as manifested in the Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME) and Materials Genome Initiative (MGI) efforts. By designing and simulating new materials in a computational environment, we can dramatically cut down on the cost and time associated with the Edisonian approach to material development. At Michigan Tech, …

Persistent Operation Of Mobile Robots, Nina Mahmoudian

TechTalks

Success of numerous unmanned mobile missions in space, air, ground, and water is measured by the ability of the robots to usefully operate for extended time in dynamic and uncertain environments. This talk will provide an overview of the recent progress towards performing autonomous long-term missions. The approach includes task and energy routing scheduling, efficient path planning and coordination, and low-infrastructure platforms. The goal is to provide practical solutions by lowering deployment and operating costs, while also increasing efficiency, endurance and persistence during complex missions like disaster responses and long-term science discoveries.

Doe Apra-E Nextcar Program On Connected And Automated Vehicles In Collaboration With Gm, Jeffrey D. Naber

TechTalks

Within the $3.5M ARPA-e NEXTCAR program, Michigan Tech in collaboration with GM will development and demonstrate on a fleet of eight 2017 Chevrolet Volts and a mobile connected cloud computing center, a Vehicle Dynamics and Powertrain (VD&PT) model-based predictive controller (MPC) encompassing a real-time VD&PT dynamic model leveraging vehicle conductivity (V2X) with real-time traffic modeling and predictive speed horizons and eco-routing. The objective is to achieve a minimum of 20% reduction in energy consumption (electric + fuel) through the first ever real-time implementation and connection of route planning, powertrain energy management MPC algorithms. Connectivity data from vehicles, infrastructure, GPS, traffic …

Wire Neutralization System, Scott A. Bradley, Jason Wiitanen, Timothy B. Smigowski, John T. Niemeyer, Andrew Culkin

Michigan Tech Patents

A wire neutralizing system for use with a vehicle including a frame adapted to be hitched to a vehicle. At least one wheel supports the frame while a bottom of the wheel rolls over terrain having buried wires. The system also includes a blade movable between a stowed position in which the blade is above the bottom of the wheel and a deployed position in which the blade is below the bottom of the wheel, such that the blade plows through the terrain to disable buried wires when in the deployed position.

Implementation Of A Self Leveling Controller On A Legged Rover, Rahul Rameshbabu

Summer Community of Scholars Posters (RCEU and HCR Combined Programs)

No abstract provided.

Me-Em 2016-17 Annual Report, Department Of Mechanical Engineering-Engineering Mechanics, Michigan Technological University

Department of Mechanical Engineering-Engineering Mechanics Annual Reports

Table of Contents

• Undergrad Features
• Graduate Features
• Enrollment & Degrees
• Graduates
• Faculty & Staff
• Department News
• Alumni
• Donors
• Contracts & Grants
• Patents & Publications

Transforming Lives At Sheridan : A Tribute To Dr. Mozammel Khan, Lorraine Fraser, Mozammel Khan, Iain Mcnab, Jack Urowitz, Soumitra Nandi, Srinivas Ganapathyraju, Kam Ho, Daniel Zrymiak

Books and Websites

The original 2017 edition of this title was published in recognition of Dr. Mozammel Khan’s career in quality assurance instruction and positive impact on graduates of Sheridan College’s Quality Assurance Manfacturing Management program (PQUAS), with proceeds from the book supporting the Mozammel Khan scholarship Foundation. Khan, originally from Bangladesh, taught in Singapore before immigrating to Canada in the 1990s, where he founded the first post-secondary QA program of its kind in Ontario at Sheridan College.

Editor Lorraine Fraser collects heartfelt letters of appreciation to Khan from alumni of the PQUAS program, who share memories, successes and challenges from their time …

Variational Principles In Classical Mechanics, Douglas Cline

Library Books

Two dramatically different philosophical approaches to classical mechanics were developed during the 17th - 18th centuries. Newton developed his vectorial formulation that uses time-dependent differential equations of motion to relate vector observables like force and rate of change of momentum. Euler, Lagrange, Hamilton, and Jacobi, developed powerful alternative variational formulations based on the assumption that nature follows the principle of least action. These powerful variational formulations have become the preeminent philosophical approach used in modern science, as well as having applications to other fields such as economics and engineering.

This book introduces variational principles, and illustrates the intellectual beauty, the …

Finite Element Analysis Of A Friction Clutch System In An Automatic Transmission, Samuel Cook

Capstone Design Expo Posters

The purpose of this project is to develop a computational solution to the effects of certain variables present inside an automatic transmission, more specifically, the friction clutch system that enables and disables different gear-sets. Afton partnered with the School of Engineering looking for a time-sensitive, computational solution to serve as a valuable comparison to what exists at Afton’s disposal currently. The solution is a finite element analysis (FEA) simulation that transforms a real world device with many nuances and intricacies into a simplified model in a two dimensional test space. The challenge exists in keeping the simplified model accurate to …

3d Printed Ear Canal Model, Ahmad Ali, Rosheena Hairston, Hunter Locks

Capstone Design Expo Posters

A multi-material ear canal model was designed and created from CT scans of an actual patient. This ear canal model serves as a training model for trainees, surgeons and doctors to develop a better understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the ear by physically looking, touching and testing the model. The major task taken was to establish and identify the area of interest provided with the files of medical scans by using 3D Slicer. The files were then converted to a stereolithographic (STL) file where it was able to be edited for smoothing in programs such as Meshmixer or …

Radiotherapy Ergonomic Patient Positioning System, Anthony Briscoe Ii, Joseph Oliva, Yvette Smith, Darius Stuvaints

Capstone Design Expo Posters

External beam radiotherapy is a powerful tool to combat cancer, but requires precise positioning of patients. The standard practice involves patients lying on treatment tables within immobilization equipment. These systems have limited clearance between treatment sources and the patient that can be uncomfortable or claustrophobic for patients. Patients may move when uncomfortable, leading to improper dose delivery, possibly causing painful side effects or further cancers. We present an alternative, open configuration patient positioning solution for more ergonomic setup options with competitive positioning capabilities compared to conventional systems.

Our ergonomic positioning system consists of a seat for patients on a scissor …

Underwater Ant House, Mark Duggan, Zachary Ellis, Zachary Soulier

Capstone Design Expo Posters

The project seeks to design and test and submersible enclosure capable of sustaining oxygen breathing life. A mesh covered in a superhydrophobic coating can both restrain water up to a maximum pressure and retain a direct interface between air and water. Oxygen can transfer over this boundary if there is a sufficient difference in concentrations between the water and air.

Multiple designs have been produced with the intent of testing and demonstrating these theories. 3D printing allowed for quick and customizable production of every component. Enclosures were made for testing the maximum allowable pressure and to fit an oxygen sensor. …

Reducing Noise In Automatic Transmission, Connor Golden-Weathers, Riley Hall, Matthew Bosco, Felix Pyatigorskiy

Capstone Design Expo Posters

The efficiency of an automobile increases as its running torque increases. This is an avenue for improving fuel economy that is actively being pursued. However, transmissions running at higher torques produce an unacceptable amount of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). NVH occurs most visibly as a result of the vehicle’s friction clutch behavior. At present, machines capable of testing this behavior exist (MTM machine and LVFA rig) but are very expensive in terms of time, space, and production cost.

The goal of this project is to produce a cost-effective machine in which friction clutch behavior can be analyzed in a …

Media Mixing Apparatus, Nick Colt, Eric Depew, Kurt Thoele, Chris Ward

Capstone Design Expo Posters

The purpose of this project is to reduce the physical exertion and radiological exposure of the maintenance worker by reducing mixing time of water and resin beads when replacing resin beads in a shipboard tank. Presently, a maintenance worker empties ⅓ cubic foot of resin media into a bucket, and fills the bucket with about 1-⅓ gallons of water. Then the water and resin media is mixed with a paddle by hand, until it appears homogeneous, creating a slurry. The slurry is dumped into a funnel after the mixing process and introduced to the system after the discharge valve is …

Unattended Underground Energy Harvesting Sensor, Jeffrey Buck, Tzshay Wade, Jaeton Foxley, Brandon Ruffin

Capstone Design Expo Posters

The team designed an underground energy harvesting sensor that utilizes the ambient energy from its surroundings to provide low power telecommunications to a remote host. The scope of this project is to analyze the feasibility of such system and explore the capabilities of available energy harvesting techniques that utilize the environment, feasibility of operation, and creating a design. Some of the most common methods that have been proven to function on certain environments are thermoelectric and solar energy. Thermoelectricity uses a temperature gradient and solar uses the energy of the sun. To provide a remote vibration signal an accelerometer was …

Explosion Damping Device (Blast Shield), Cullen Bade, Juwan Cephas, Raymond Long

Capstone Design Expo Posters

The proposed device has the main goal to protect a vehicle and personal inside the vehicle in the event of an explosion from underneath of a Humvee most likely caused by an IED explosion. The constraints were that the vehicle could not be lifted too far off the ground to increase the chance the vehicle rollover; the design should not block accessibility to the passengers; be versatile in order to help fit different model vehicles; and most important be able to help in deflecting the blast away from the vehicle. The final design consisted on a V-shaped blast shield similar …

3d Printed Sports Mouthguard, Abdullah Mohsen, Abdulrahman Alharshani

Capstone Design Expo Posters

The 3D printed sports mouthguard can be specifically designed to provide exceptional protection and comfort to athletes in any sport. The process by which an athlete undergoes for obtaining their mouthguard requires a substantial amount of time and cost. Introducing 3D printer capabilities into the dental and sporting fields would elicit faster manufacturing time with more economically priced materials.

In testing our theory, the initial components of the research consisted of scanning a dental impression cast and transferring the S.T.L. file scan onto the C.A.D. software. The next important step required us to discover which material to wire with the …

Venus Lander Design, Garon Morgan, Brian Rodrigues, Dhruv Sachani, Jason Scott

Capstone Design Expo Posters

The students designed an Entry, Descent, and Landing (EDL) system for a lander to reach the surface of Venus. The students used a combination of 3D modelling and programming to design the EDL within given constraints under specific tolerances. An EDL takes into consideration entry flight dynamics, aeroheating, and landing systems. The EDL was divided into three stages (see below). The separation of stages was designed to address unique challenges found at different points throughout the EDL. The primary objective of the first stage was to minimize the heat associated with the entry velocity to the payload. The second stage …

Measurement Of Impact Forces On Teeth And Jaw When Wearing Sports Mouth Guards, Alghamdi Abdullah, Alnaser Mobarak, Quiroz Ingrid, Serrate Ciro Alcoba, Veizaga Rodrigo

Capstone Design Expo Posters

The objective of this project is to accurately measure the forces the teeth and jaw experience when subjected to impact. For this purpose piezoelectric technology (PVDF), which converts voltage to force and vice versa can be used to measure forces applied to teeth. A PVDF cable is calibrated and used for measuring force along with a control measuring device (PCB Piezotronics). The method involves wrapping the PVDF cable around a 3D home-printed, customized denture. The cable was chosen due to the fact that it allows for adequate fit between mouth guard and denture. Two masses, a baseball and 2 lbs …