Engineering Commons^™

A Continuous Formulation For Logical Decisions In Differential Algebraic Systems Using Mathematical Programs With Complementarity Constraints, Kody M. Powell, Ammon N. Eaton, John Hedengren, Thomas F. Edgar

Faculty Publications

This work presents a methodology to represent logical decisions in differential algebraic equation simulation and constrained optimization problems using a set of continuous algebraic equations. The formulations may be used when state variables trigger a change in process dynamics, and introduces a pseudo-binary decision variable, which is continuous, but should only have valid solutions at values of either zero or one within a finite time horizon. This formulation enables dynamic optimization problems with logical disjunctions to be solved by simultaneous solution methods without using methods such as mixed integer programming. Several case studies are given to illustrate the value of …

A Continuous Formulation For Logical Decisions In Differential Algebraic Systems Using Mathematical Programs Of Complementarity Constraints, Kody Powell, Ammon N. Eaton, John Hedengren, Thomas F. Edgar

Faculty Publications

This work presents a methodology to represent logical decisions in differential algebraic equation simulation and constrained optimization problems using a set of continuous algebraic equations. The formulations may be used when state variables trigger a change in process dynamics, and introduces a pseudo-binary decision variable, which is continuous, but should only have valid solutions at values of either zero or one within a finite time horizon. This formulation enables dynamic optimization problems with logical disjunctions to be solved by simultaneous solution methods without using methods such as mixed integer programming. Several case studies are given to illustrate the value of …

Towards Developing Product Applications Of Thick Origami Using The Offset Panel Technique, Michael R. Morgan, Robert J. Lang, Spencer P. Magleby, Larry L. Howell

Faculty Publications

Several methods have been developed to accommodate for the use of thick materials in origami models which preserve either the model’s full range of motion or its kinematics. The offset panel technique (OPT) preserves both the range of motion and the kinematics while allowing for a great deal of flexibility in design. This work explores new possibilities for origami-based product applications presented by the OPT. Examples are included to illustrate fundamental capabilities that can be realized with thick materials such as accommodation of various materials in a design and manipulation of panel geometry resulting in an increased stiffness and strength. …

Mentored Environment For Isogeometric Analysis, Kevin Tew, Michael Scott

Journal of Undergraduate Research

The mentored environment for isogeometric analysis (IGA) has trained engineering and computer science students to develop isogeometric numerical methods and accompanying software to solve challenging problems in science and engineering. The mentoring environment consisted of:

1. Weekly group meetings where research concepts were discussed, scientific literature was reviewed, and progress was monitored.
2. Pairing of students with a faculty members to develop IGA design-through-analysis methodologies.
3. Preparation of results for peer-reviewed publications.

Intensive Mentoring And Micro-Electronics Research For Students In Engineering (Immerse) 2014, Aaron Hawkins, Stephen Schultz

Journal of Undergraduate Research

The MEG funds used for this projects supported undergraduate students working in the IMMERSE program starting in the Summer of 2014. IMMERSE employed a total of 35 students, with 14 of them being supervised directly by Dr. Aaron Hawkins and Stephen Schultz. The students working for Drs. Hawkins and Schultz were paid hourly wages for their research work from this MEG grant.

Meg Report: Elastic Frames For Earthquake Resistance, Paul Richards

Journal of Undergraduate Research

The topic of the proposal was steel frames with superior elastic energy capacity that will permit buildings to better withstand severe earthquake loading. The anticipated outcomes related to mentoring were: each student researcher would be the lead author on a conference publication, students would present results at a national conference, and each student researcher would be a co-author on a journal article; with the graduate student researcher as a lead author.

Associative Cad References In The Neutral Parametric Canonical Form, Daniel Robert Staves

Theses and Dissertations

Due to the multiplicity of computer-aided engineering applications present in industry today, interoperability between programs has become increasingly important. A survey conducted among top engineering companies found that 82% of respondents reported using 3 or more CAD formats during the design process. A 1999 study by the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) estimated that inadequate interoperability between the OEM and its suppliers cost the US automotive industry over $1 billion per year, with the majority spent fixing data after translations. The Neutral Parametric Canonical Form (NPCF) prototype standard developed by the NSF Center for e-Design, BYU Site offers …

Neutral Parametric Database, Server, Logic Layers, And Clients To Facilitate Multi-Engineersynchronous Heterogeneous Cad, Kelly Eric Bowman

Theses and Dissertations

Engineering companies are sociotechnical systems in which engineers, designers, analysts, etc. use an array of software tools to follow prescribed product-development processes. The purpose of these amalgamated systems is to develop new products as quickly as possible while maintaining quality and meeting customer and market demands. Researchers at Brigham Young University have shortened engineering design cycle times through the development and use of multiengineer synchronous (MES) CAD tools. Other research teams have shortened design cycle-times by extending seamless interoperability across heterogeneous design tools and domains. Seamless multi-engineer synchronous heterogeneous (MESH) CAD environments is the focus of this dissertation. An architecture …

In Vitro Molecular Modification Of Human Cultured And Primary Cells Using Lance Array Nanoinjection, John W. Sessions

Theses and Dissertations

Fundamentally altering cellular function at a genetic level is a major area of interest in the biologic sciences and the medical community. By engineering transfectable constructs that can be inserted to dysfunctional cellular systems, scientists can mitigate aberrant genetic behavior to produce proper molecular function. While viral vectors have been a mainstay in the past, there are many limitations, particularly related to safety, that have changed the focus of genome editing to incorporate alternative methods for gene delivery. Lance Array Nanoinjection (LAN), a second-generation microfabricated transfection biotechnology, is one of these alternative technologies. LAN works by utilizing both simultaneous electrostatic …

Lateral Resistance Of Pipe Piles Behind A 20-Foot-Tall Mse Wall With Welded-Wire Reinforcements, Ryan Thomas Budd

Theses and Dissertations

Pile foundations for bridges must often resist lateral loads produced by earthquakes and thermal expansion and contraction of the superstructure. Right-of-way constraints near bridge abutments are leading to an increased use of mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls below the abutment. Previous research has shown that lateral pile resistance can be greatly reduced when piles are placed close to MSE walls but design codes do not address this issue. A full-scale MSE wall was constructed and 24 lateral load tests were conducted on pipe, square and H piles spaced at distances of about 2 to 5 pile diameters from the back …

Extracellular Matrix From Whole Porcine Heart Decellularization For Cardiac Tissue Engineering, Nima Momtahan

Theses and Dissertations

Heart failure is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Every year in the United States, more than 800,000 people are diagnosed with heart failure and more than 375,000 people die from heart disease. Current therapies such as heart transplants and bioartificial hearts are helpful, but not optimal. Decellularization of porcine whole hearts followed by recellularization with patient-specific human cells may provide the ultimate solution for patients with heart failure. Great progress has been made in the development of efficient processes for decellularization, and the design of automated bioreactors. In this study, the decellularization of porcine …

An Automated Method For Optimizing Compressor Blade Tuning, Kurt Berlin Hinkle

Theses and Dissertations

Because blades in jet engine compressors are subject to dynamic loads based on the engine's speed, it is essential that the blades are properly "tuned" to avoid resonance at those frequencies to ensure safe operation of the engine. The tuning process can be time consuming for designers because there are many parameters controlling the geometry of the blade and, therefore, its resonance frequencies. Humans cannot easily optimize design spaces consisting of multiple variables, but optimization algorithms can effectively optimize a design space with any number of design variables. Automated blade tuning can reduce design time while increasing the fidelity and …

Maximizing Virtual Mucax Engineering Design Team Performance, Brett Randall Stone

Theses and Dissertations

Teams of design engineers are increasingly working as members of virtual teams, or teams whose members are distributed geographically and communicate mostly through electronic means. In addition, emerging multi-user (MU) applications engage complementary teams in synchronous design activities. These new MU tools are changing the way engineers work together. Together, these factors have created a new and interesting environment in which engineering design teams must function. The work presented here lays out two major themes that teams and their managers can effectively apply to organizing and managing MU teams: 1) teams can maximize their potential productivity by determining the optimal …

Understanding And Addressing Collaboration Challenges For The Effective Use Of Multi-User Cad, David James French

Theses and Dissertations

Multi-user computer-aided design (CAD) is an emerging technology that promises to facilitate collaboration, enhance product quality, and reduce product development lead times by allowing multiple engineers to work on the same design at the same time. The BYU site of the NSF Center for e-Design has developed advanced multi-user CAD prototypes that have demonstrated the feasibility and value of this technology. Despite the possibilities that this software opens up for enhanced collaboration, there are now a new variety of challenges and opportunities to understand and address. For multi-user CAD to be used effectively in a modern engineering environment, it is …

The Influence Of Pile Shape And Pile Sleeves On Lateral Load Resistance, Dalin Newell Russell

Theses and Dissertations

The lateral resistance of pile foundations is typically based on the performance of round piles even though other pile types are used. Due to lack of data there is a certain level of uncertainty when designing pile foundations other than round piles for lateral loading. Theoretical analyses have suggested that square sections will have more lateral resistance due to the increased side shear resistance, no test results have been available to substantiate the contention. Full-scale lateral load tests involving pile shapes such as circular, circular wrapped with high density polyethylene sheeting, square, H, and circular with a corrugated metal sleeve …

Decomposition Of Manufacturing Processes For Multi-User Tool Path Planning, Andrew Scherbel Priddis

Theses and Dissertations

Engineering activities by nature are collaborative endeavors. Single-user applications like CAD, CAE, and CAM force a strictly serial design process, which ultimately lengthens time to market. New multi-user applications such as NXConnect address the issue during the design stage of the product development process by enabling users to work in parallel. Multi-user collaborative tool path planning software addresses the same serial limitations in tool path planning, thereby decreasing cost and increasing the quality of manufacturing processes. As part complexity increases, lead times are magnified by serial workflows. Multi-user tool path planning can shorten the process planning time. But, to be …

A Comparison Of Instructional Strategies For Teaching Entry-Level Welding At The High School Level, Jared Paul Massic

Theses and Dissertations

The traditional method of teaching welding has remained unchanged for decades. In this model, an instructor gives demonstrations to a class of students and then helps them individually as they practice the techniques of welding. This traditional instructional method has been effective but is time consuming. Due to a significant increase in the demand for skilled welders within the United States, efforts have been made to develop more efficient methods of providing welding instruction. Various electronic welding guidance systems and virtual welding systems have recently been developed. In this study, the researcher addressed two questions 1) Does the use of …

Simple Models For Estimating The Rotational Stiffness Of Steel Column-To-Footing Connections, Joshua Edwin Tryon

Theses and Dissertations

Despite the crucial role they play in transferring loads from the superstructure to the foundation, steel column-to-footing connections have received little attention in research. Though shallow embedded connections are typically characterized as pinned, studies have shown that they exhibit significant rotational stiffness. The objective of this thesis is to quantify the rotational stiffness of such connections. A method named the continuum model is developed by which the rotational stiffness of embedded connections may be calculated. Outputs from this model are compared with experimental data on steel connections embedded in concrete. The continuum model is shown to be capable of reasonably …

Evaluation Of Passive Force On Skewed Bridge Abutments With Controlled Low-Strength Material Backfill, Kevin Bjorn Wagstaff

Theses and Dissertations

Although its use has become more widespread, controlled low-strength material, or CLSM, has fallen through the crack between geotechnical engineering and materials engineering research. The National Ready Mix Association states that CLSM is not a low strength concrete, and geotechnical engineers do not consider it as a conventional aggregate backfill. The use of CLSM as a bridge abutment backfill material brings up the need to understand the passive force versus backwall displacement relationship for this application. To safely account for forces generated due to seismic activity and thermal expansion in bridge design, it is important to understand the passive force …

Evaluation Of The Accuracy Of Approach Volume Counts And Speeds Collected By Microwave Sensors, Gregory Hans Sanchez

Theses and Dissertations

This study evaluates the accuracy of approach volumes and free flow approach speeds collected by the Wavetronix SmartSensor Advance sensor using the field data collected by JAMAR counter boards for free flow approach volumes and a TruCam LiDAR gun for approach speeds. The Advance sensor is primarily designed for dilemma zone reduction. It does not have the capability to differentiate between lanes, but the Advance sensor currently used has a detection range of up to 600 ft. and has the capability to track vehicles approaching the intersection. The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) wanted to use this capability to get …

Using Source-To-Source Transformations To Add Debug Observability To Hls-Synthesized Circuits, Joshua Scott Monson

Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation introduces a novel approach for exposing the internal, source-level expressions of circuits generated by high-level synthesis (HLS) for in-circuit debug. The approach uses source-to-source transformations to instrument specific source-level expressions with debug ports. These debug ports allow a user to connect a debugging instrument (e.g. an embedded logic analyzer) to record the activity of the expression corresponding to the debug port. This dissertation demonstrates that a debugging solution based on these source-to-source transformations is feasible and that individual debug ports can be added for a cost of a 1-2% increase in circuit area on average. It also introduces …

Measuring Soft Error Sensitivity Of Fpga Soft Processor Designs Using Fault Injection, Nathan Arthur Harward

Theses and Dissertations

Increasingly, soft processors are being considered for use within FPGA-based reliable computing systems. In an environment in which radiation is a concern, such as space, the logic and routing (configuration memory) of soft processors are sensitive to radiation effects, including single event upsets (SEUs). Thus, effective tools are needed to evaluate and estimate how sensitive the configuration memories of soft processors are in high-radiation environments. A high-speed FPGA fault injection system and methodology were created using the Xilinx Radiation Test Consortium's (XRTC's) Virtex-5 radiation test hardware to conduct exhaustive tests of the SEU sensitivity of a design within an FPGA's …

An Analysis Of The Effectiveness Of A Multi-Disciplinary Decision Support System On System-Level Decision Making, Troy Mario Seletos

Theses and Dissertations

Decisions Support Systems (DSSs) are used to enhance decision maker speed and effectiveness. However, without a view of an entire system, any decision may have unanticipated effects such as sub-optimal outcomes. The purpose of this research is to show that with a system-level analysis, more informed decisions can be made that take into account a larger system or greater number of dimensions or objectives. This research also explores the benefits of using a DSS over analysis of unprocessed data and the effectiveness of integrating a product design generator (PDG) with a business DSS, creating a system DSS, where system-level effects …

Dynamic Control Of Radiative Surface Properties With Origami-Inspired Design, Rydge B. Mulford, Matthew R. Jones, Brian D. Iverson

Faculty Publications

Thermal management systems for space equipment commonly use static solutions that do not adapt to environmental changes. Dynamic control of radiative surface properties is one way to respond to environmental changes and to increase the capabilities of spacecraft thermal management systems. This paper documents an investigation of the extent to which origami-inspired surfaces may be used to control the apparent absorptivity of a reflective material. Models relating the apparent absorptivity of a radiation shield to time-dependent surface temperatures are presented. Results show that the apparent absorptivity increases with increasing fold density and indicate that origami-inspired designs may be used to …

Aminoacyl-Trna Synthetase Production For Unnatural Amino Acid Incorporation And Preservation Of Linear Expression Templates In Cell-Free Protein Synthesis Reactions, Andrew Broadbent

Theses and Dissertations

Proteins—polymers of amino acids—are a major class of biomolecules whose myriad functions facilitate many crucial biological processes. Accordingly, human control over these biological processes depends upon the ability to study, produce, and modify proteins. One innovative tool for accomplishing these aims is cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS). This technique, rather than using living cells to make protein, simply extracts the cells' natural protein-making machinery and then uses it to produce protein in vitro. Because living cells are no longer involved, scientists can freely adapt the protein production environment in ways not otherwise possible. However, improved versatility and yield of CFPS protein …

The Impact Of Bicycle Corridors On Travel Demand In Utah, Christopher Kent Haskell

Theses and Dissertations

Bicycling as an alternate mode of transportation has been on the rise. It is environmentally friendly in nature and the associated health benefits have made it a popular choice for many types of trips. The purpose of this research is to increase understanding of the impacts of implementing bicycle corridors (as part of the Utah Department of Transportation's (UDOT) Inclusion of Active Transportation policy) on bicycle rate as a function of roadway characteristics. The results of this research will be used in determining when and where bicycle corridors will enhance the transportation system and an estimate of the overall impact …

Design, Development And Testing Of Web Services For Multi-Sensor Snow Cover Mapping, Jiri Kadlec

Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation presents the design, development and validation of new data integration methods for mapping the extent of snow cover based on open access ground station measurements, remote sensing images, volunteer observer snow reports, and cross country ski track recordings from location-enabled mobile devices. The first step of the data integration procedure includes data discovery, data retrieval, and data quality control of snow observations at ground stations. The WaterML R package developed in this work enables hydrologists to retrieve and analyze data from multiple organizations that are listed in the Consortium of Universities for the Advancement of Hydrologic Sciences Inc …

Conjugate Heat Transfer And Average Versus Variable Heat Transfer Coefficients, Tyler James Macbeth

Theses and Dissertations

An average heat transfer coefficient, h_bar, is often used to solve heat transfer problems. It should be understood that this is an approximation and may provide inaccurate results, especially when the temperature field is of interest. The proper method to solve heat transfer problems is with a conjugate approach. However, there seems to be a lack of clear explanations of conjugate heat transfer in literature. The objective of this work is to provide a clear explanation of conjugate heat transfer and to determine the discrepancy in the temperature field when the interface boundary condition is approximated using h_bar compared to …

Analysis Of High Fidelity Turbomachinery Cfd Using Proper Orthogonal Decomposition, Ronald Alex Spencer

Theses and Dissertations

Assessing the impact of inlet flow distortion in turbomachinery is desired early in the design cycle. This thesis introduces and validates the use of methods based on the Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) to analyze clean and 1/rev static pressure distortion simulation results at design and near stall operating condition. The value of POD comes in its ability to efficiently extract both quantitative and qualitative information about dominant spatial flow structures as well as information about temporal fluctuations in flow properties. Observation of the modes allowed qualitative identification of shock waves as well as quantification of their location and range of …

Lattice Flexures: Geometries For Stiffness Reduction Of Blade Flexures, Larry L. Howell, Ezekiel G. Merriam

Faculty Publications

Reducing the motion-direction stiffness of compliant mechanisms reduces their actuation effort and simplifies associated static balancing mechanisms. This work introduces a flexure type called lattice flexures and evaluates some of their fundamental properties. Lattice flexures have a reduced bending stiffness when compared to traditional rectangular-section blade flexures of similar size. The motion-direction bending stiffness of two lattice flexure types, called X-type and V-type, are analytically derived, corroborated with finite element analysis, and validated with measurements of physical prototypes. The lattice flexure has the potential to reduce the bending stiffness of some compliant mechanisms by 60-80%, as demonstrated in devices manufactured …