Engineering Commons^™

Mathematically Modeling The Mechanical Constants Of Thoracolumbar Fascia Under Compression, In Vivo, Vrajeshri Patel

Theses

The thoracolumbar fascia (TLF) is a complex structure made of many interconnecting aponeurosis and muscle fascia. It plays a role in posture, stabilizing the lumbosacral spine, load transfer, and respiration. Its complex structure and connections have mostly been observed through cadaveric studies while its mechanical properties have been addressed in only a few studies. Recently, new advances in ultrasound imaging have made it possible to move towards measuring tissue strain. Since this is an in vivo method, mechanical data of tissues in their natural environment allows a more accurate representation of tissue strain. However, many different methods of analyzing ultrasound …

Developing A Labview Based Thermally Stimulated Current (Tsc) Controller To Measure Residual Charge In Electrospinning, Jai Abhishekh Veezhinathan

Theses

Electrospinning is an electrohydrodynamic process for the fabrication of nanofibers which are widely used in therapeutical tissue engineering approaches. It utilizes the potential difference of an electrostatic field to overcome the surface tension of the polymer solution to extrude a fine jet of fluid which deposits on the grounded collector as a nanofiber mat. Using this process, nanofibers with diameters less than a micron can be produced.

Previous studies have shown the presence of residual charge in electrospun nanofibers. The presence and decay of residual charge during cell culture media is still unknown. In an attempt to clarify the presence …

Model Predictive Control Of Timed Continuous Petri Nets, Huaiyu Zhan

Theses

This thesis addresses the optimal control problem of timed continuous Petri nets. The theory of Model Predictive Control (MPC) is first discussed. Then continuous Petri nets (PN) are introduced as a powerful tool for modelling, simulation and analysis of discrete event/continuous systems. Their useful capabilities are studied. Finally, a macroscopic model based on PN as a tool for designing control laws that improve the behavior of traffic systems is given. The goal is to find an approach that minimizes the total delay of cars in an intersection by computing the switching sequence of the traffic lights. The simulation results show …

Using The Piezoelectric Backscatter Signal For Remote Sensing Of Neural Signals, Eren Alay

Theses

In recent studies, various methods to sense neural signals are used and new methods for remote sensing of neural signals are being developed. However, there are still major difficulties in building long-term implantable neural interface systems that can reliably record neural activity and serve as the basis of brain-machine interfaces (BMI). Therefore, this research is conducted to design a remote neural sensing system that is based on modulation of the backscatter signal from a piezoelectric element by the neural signals. The hypothesis is that if the neural signal is detected with a simple amplifier and the output of this amplifier …

The Santa Clara, 2014-01-30, Santa Clara University

The Santa Clara

No abstract provided.

Common Misconceptions Found In A Statics Course Through Discourse Analysis Of Student Learning Logs, Christopher Green

Research on the Hill (Salt Lake City)

Statics is a gateway engineering course. Many students use their performance in a statics course to evaluate and judge their desire to continue within an engineering field. Students’ performance can be adversely impacted by misconceptions they may have regarding class content and analysis techniques. Feedback from instructors can help students navigate through their misconceptions. It is critical that this feedback be concise and timely to prevent a slip in self-efficacy, or an increase in their frustration. Both factors can negatively impact a student’s desire to persist in engineering. Implementation of online learning logs allows students a timely communication avenue that …

Impacts Of Beaver Dams On Channel Hydraulics And Characteristics On Curtis Creek Near Hardware Ranch, Ut: Stream Restoration Implications, Trinity Stout

Research on the Hill (Salt Lake City)

Beaver dams have significant impacts on the hydrology, temperature, biogeochemical processes, and geomorphology of streams and riparian areas. They have also been used as a viable tool in restoring impaired riverine systems. Due to the dynamic nature of beaver dams, these impacts vary and are difficult to quantify. To begin understanding the impacts of dam complexes on riverine systems, we developed a 1-D hydraulic model to compare hydraulic responses for a reach that includes seven dams and a reach with no dams present. We also compared observations of substrate sizes, gradients, and geomorphic/habitat units for each reach. Results indicated an …

Application Of Isothermal Calorimetry To Phosphorus Sorption Onto Soils In A Flow-Through System, Chad Penn, Derek M. Heeren, Garey A. Fox, Ajay Kumar

Department of Agricultural and Biological Systems Engineering: Faculty Publications

The degree, mechanisms, and kinetics of phosphorus (P) sorption onto soils can have a significant influence on leaching losses of P from soil. The objectives of this study were to measure the impact of retention time (RT) on P sorption in a flow-through system intended to simulate downward movement of a P solution through two different riparian soils, and determine if isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) can provide useful information reflective of flow-through results. Topsoil from two riparian/alluvial sites (Barren Fork and Clear Creek) was sampled and characterized for P concentrations and parameters related to P sorption. Flow-through P sorption experiments …

Monotonic And Cyclic Response Of Fiber Reinforced Polymer Panels Fastened To Wood Framing, John P. Judd, Dr. Fernando S. Fonseca

Journal of Undergraduate Research

This paper summarizes the results of a research project to determine the response of Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) panels fastened to wood framing, under two different loading schemes: monotonic and repeated cyclic loading. The results of the monotonic testing phase of the project were published and presented at the International Conference on Composites Engineering [2].

Multi-Terminal Networks With An Untrusted Relay, Ahmed A. Zewail, Mohamed Nafea, Aylin Yener

Electrical and Computer Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

This paper investigates the impact of cooperation with an untrusted relay in multi-source multi-destination networks. The set up considered is one where the relay is the only means of communications due to the absence of direct links between the sources and the destinations. Since the relay is untrusted, all messages from the sources need to be kept secret from the relay. Furthermore, the destinations are assumed to have different levels of security clearance, i.e., some private messages should only be decoded by their intended receiver and should be kept secret from other destinations. An achievable secure rate region is found …

Ivus Validation Of Patient Coronary Artery Lumen Area Obtained From Ct Images, Tong Luo, Thomas Wischgoll, Bon Kwon Koo, Yunlong Huo, Ghassan S. Kassab

Computer Science and Engineering Faculty Publications

Aims

Accurate computed tomography (CT)-based reconstruction of coronary morphometry (diameters, length, bifurcation angles) is important for construction of patient-specific models to aid diagnosis and therapy. The objective of this study is to validate the accuracy of patient coronary artery lumen area obtained from CT images based on intravascular ultrasound (IVUS).

Methods and Results

Morphometric data of 5 patient CT scans with 11 arteries from IVUS were reconstructed including the lumen cross sectional area (CSA), diameter and length. The volumetric data from CT images were analyzed at sub-pixel accuracy to obtain accurate vessel center lines and CSA. A new center line …

Sr3<−3xNa3xSi3O9−1.5x (X = 0.45) As A Superior Solid Oxide-Ion Electrolyte For Intermediate Temperature-Solid Oxide Fuel Cells, Tao Wei, Preetam Singh, Yunhui Gong, John B. Goodenough, Yunhui Huang, Kevin Huang

Faculty Publications

We here report that a newly discovered superior oxide-ion conductor Sr_3−3xNa_3xSi₃O_9−1.5x (x = 0.45) (SNS) demonstrates full potential to be a practical solid electrolyte for intermediate temperature-solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs). It exhibits the highest oxide-ion conductivity with the lowest activation energy among all the chemically stable solid oxide-ion conductors reported. The ionic conductivity is stable over a broad range of partial pressures of oxygen (10⁻³⁰ to 1 atm) for an extended period of time. A SOFC based on a 294 μm thick SNS-electrolyte produces peak power densities …

Using “Expert Employees” To Identify Duties And Tasks For Cadd Technicians In North Central Idaho: Lessons Learned From A Modified Dacum Process, Raymond A. Dixon Ph.D., Linda S. Stricklin Ph.D.

Online Journal for Workforce Education and Development

Objective: We conducted a job analysis to identify the competency profile of an entry level CADD technician in North central Idaho. Background: In 2011, the Clearwater Economic Development Association and NIMA collaborated with Lewis-Clark State College and the University of Idaho in a project to strengthen the capacity of Career and Technology Education (CTE) teachers to teach computer aided drafting and designing (CADD). An application to the National Science Foundation, Advanced Technology Education (NSF ATE) program was made and funding began July of 2011. Method: A modified DACUM was used. A total of seven expert workers from …

Impact Of Residential Mechanical Ventilation On Energy Cost And Humidity Control, Florida Solar Energy Center, Eric Martin

FSEC Energy Research Center®

The DOE Building America program has been conducting research leading to cost effective high performance homes since the early 1990's. Optimizing whole house mechanical ventilation as part of the program's systems engineered approach to constructing housing has been an important subject of the program's research. Ventilation in residential buildings is one component of an effective, comprehensive strategy for creation and maintenance of a comfortable and healthy indoor air environment. The study described in this white paper is based on building energy modeling with an important focus on the indoor humidity impacts of ventilation. The modeling tools used were EnergyPlus version …

Sub-Diffraction Laser Synthesis Of Silicon Nanowires, James I. Mitchell, Nan Zhou, Woongsik Nam, Luis M. Traverso, Xianfan Xu

Birck and NCN Publications

We demonstrate synthesis of silicon nanowires of tens of nanometers via laser induced chemical vapor deposition. These nanowires with diameters as small as 60 nm are produced by the interference between incident laser radiation and surface scattered radiation within a diffraction limited spot, which causes spatially confined, periodic heating needed for high resolution chemical vapor deposition. By controlling the intensity and polarization direction of the incident radiation, multiple parallel nanowires can be simultaneously synthesized. The nanowires are produced on a dielectric substrate with controlled diameter, length, orientation, and the possibility of in-situ doping, and therefore are ready for device fabrication. …

Simulation Of Groundwater Flow In The Vicinity Of Trojan Corporation Near Mapleton And Spanish Fork, Utah Using Gms And Femwater, Jonathan Bailey, Dr. Wayne Downs

Journal of Undergraduate Research

Groundwater is a valuable resource. It accounts for over 99% of the earth’s available freshwater. Recognition of the value of groundwater has led to the passing of a number of laws to protect, preserve and when needed require remediation of groundwater that has been contaminated by industrial pollutants. An integral component of groundwater remediation and contaminated site management is the development of a numerical groundwater model that describes the direction and rate of flow of the groundwater. Numerical modeling of groundwater flow requires a synthesis of experience and intuition with fundamental scientific and mathematical principles.

Unity Iv: Fuselage Body Design, Analysis, Testing, And Construction, Alexis J. Pabst, Dr. Paul Eastman

Journal of Undergraduate Research

The Unity IV rocket is a twenty-foot tall rocket with a 16.5-inch diameter. It is a super-sonic, hybrid rocket that uses a solid propellant and liquid oxidizer. The rocket has been designed and built by students from three Utah universities. It is intended to take an instrumentation package super-sonically to an altitude of 130,000 ft and return it safely to earth.

Comparing Nox Emissions Of Diesel Fuel And Oxygenated Fuels, Timothy M. Allred, Dr. Dale R. Tree

Journal of Undergraduate Research

The emissions produced by both passenger and commercial vehicles are a significant contributor to pollution problems that face many cities and areas around the world. One of these pollutants is known as NOx, which refers to the chemical compounds NO2 and NO. These gases are formed when fuel is burned at high temperatures and are an undesirable by-product of the internal combustion engine. Nitrogen dioxide reacts in air to form acid rain as well as contributing to ground-level ozone and smog.

Seismic Timber Connection, Mathew Fielding, Dr. Fernando Fonseca

Journal of Undergraduate Research

Three light gauge aluminum connections were designed, constructed and tested to determine the possibility of resisting an applied moment in timber beams and columns. A timber column 3 inches by 5.5 inches was axially compressed with 1000 lb. while the attached beam (3 inches by 3.5 inches) was loaded to determine the moment resisting capacity of the system. Fracture of the connection occurred at an average of 1550 ft-lb; this corresponded to a deflection of .4 inches. Actual failure of the joint occurred at an average of 1950 ft-lb. with an average deflection of .58 inches.

Development Of Instruments For The Diagnosis And Treatment Of Hydrocephalus, Ryan T. Ochsner, Dr. Mark Manwaring

Journal of Undergraduate Research

The Brain Instrumentation Laboratory (1220 SWKT) associated with the Department of Neuroscience and Electrical and Computer Engineering at Brigham Young University specializes in the development of new technologies which may facilitate the management of diseases of the brain. Of specific interest to the laboratory is the improved treatment of hydrocephalus. Hydrocephalus is a condition which results in progressive damage to the brain because of tremendous pressure when cerebral spinal fluid (CFS) is not absorbed as fast as it is produced. This condition results in increasing ventricle size within the brain and associated pressure and deformation.

Real-Time Adaptive Cancellation Of Non-Stationary Interference In Radio Astronomy, Andrew Poulsen, Dr. Brian Jeffs

Journal of Undergraduate Research

When images of remote galaxies/stars are observed by radio telescope, much sensitivity can be blurred by interference. This interference can be caused by both the atmosphere and man-made sources. Specifically, the Russian GLONASS satellite system transmits data at a bandwidth wherein much information important to radio astronomers is radiated by astronomical objects. A real-time DSP-based system is needed to adaptively remove the interfering signals and restore clarity to the radio astronomy signal.

A New Stereology, Ryan J. Larsen, Dr. Brent L. Adams

Journal of Undergraduate Research

Much research in recent years has focused on producing polycrystalline materials with high numbers of special grain boundaries. Special grain boundaries are defined as boundaries with desirable properties, such as resistance to corrosion, cracking, or precipitation. Most researchers describe grain boundary geometry only with the three parameters of misorientation between adjacent crystal lattices. Although misorientation data have been successfully linked to some properties, knowledge of misorientation alone is insufficient to predict grain boundary energy, and can thus provide only a first-order approximation of a boundary’s properties.

Developing Mechanisms As Liga Microstructures, Jordan E. Brough, Dr. Larry Howell

Journal of Undergraduate Research

Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) is a rapidly developing field which uses technology similar to that used to carve out the millions of tiny channels found in today’s computer processors. MEMS, however, uses this technology to make mechanical structures and mechanisms instead of electrical pathways. My effort over the past eight months has been to research the developing LIGA MEMS design (an electromolding process), fabricate a test structure via the LIGA technology, and in the process establish a working relationship between Sandia National Laboratories California (a leader in MEMS) and BYU’s microengineering team.

Use Of Linear Analysis Of Microstructures In Defining Performance Closures For Highly Constrained Mechanical Design, Mark Lyon, Dr. Brent L. Adams

Journal of Undergraduate Research

Using methods described by Adams1, the design of a compliant beam was modeled in a multidimensional Fourier design space. A compliant beam is one that achieves motion through bending. The motivation for the problem was a bicycle derailleur. A compliant beam could replace the entire rear derailleur if a large amount of flexibility could be obtained and yet have a relatively strong force when displaced to return the beam to its original position. The compliant derailleur would be simpler and cheaper than current derailleur designs. In general, metals are too stiff and plastics are too weak for this application. The …

Development Of Stable Silica Washcoats For Monolithic Substrates, Ethan A. Mastny, Dr. Calvin H. Bartholomew

Journal of Undergraduate Research

The objective was to develop an efficient procedure for depositing silica washcoats onto cellular, ceramic monoliths while ensuring that the silica maintains its desired properties of surface area and pore structure and is stable against erosion. Catalyst coated ceramic monoliths find application in automotive emissions control and other areas of pollution abatement.

The Effect Of Material Choice On Thromboembolism, Peter M. Crapo, Dr. Kenneth Solen

Journal of Undergraduate Research

Stroke, heart attack, or other severe medical problems may arise when platelet aggregates block a patient’s blood vessels. These aggregates form when blood is exposed to foreign surfaces in biomedical equipment. When blood is first exposed to a foreign surface, platelets adhere to the surface. A cluster of platelets on the surface is called a thrombus. Thrombi grow as more platelets adhere, and the momentum of passing fluid or other causes may dislodge them. Dislodged thrombi are called emboli, and the entire process is called thromboembolism. Thromboembolism cannot be entirely avoided in blood-contacting devices, such as artificial organs.

Ultrasound-Activated Delivery Of Doxorubicin From Polymeric Micelles To Breast Cancer Cells, Philip D. Blood, Dr. William G. Pitt

Journal of Undergraduate Research

A major limitation to the effectiveness of cancer chemotherapy is the toxic side effects it has on normal tissues. Thus, it would be highly advantageous to develop a form of treatment that allows higher doses of drugs to be delivered to tumors without increasing the amount of drug absorbed by healthy tissues. To this end, various controlled drug delivery systems are being devised which aim to preferentially target cancerous tissue.

Low-Frequency Ultrasound Increases Outer Membrane Permeability Of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa And Escherichia Coli, Christopher M. Runyan, Dr. William G. Pitt

Journal of Undergraduate Research

Our lab has investigated the use of low-frequency ultrasound as an adjuvant to antibacterial therapy. We have found that ultrasound can increase killing of certain combinations of antibiotics with bacteria. Ultrasound at very low frequencies, alone, may kill bacteria; however, these frequencies are harmful to other living tissues and can not be used in a clinical setting. While ultrasound does not kill bacteria at slightly higher frequencies, it can enhance antibiotic killing, a phenomenon known as the “bioacoustic effect.”

Stereogram Printer, Daniel E. Smalley, Dr. Richard H. Selfridge

Journal of Undergraduate Research

The goal of this creative works project was to build an inexpensive Stereogram printer capable of producing three-dimensional images from a series of two-dimensional pictures. This type of printer is very useful for making hologram-like images of objects and scenes that would be impossible to ‘holograph’ by traditional, optical methods. Though several printers of this type have already been built, they generally cost several thousands of dollars to develop. The author built the following small-scale printer primarily from a $200 LCD television and a $10 scanner. (However, it should be noted that this piece of equipment had to be run …

A Compliant Orthoplanar Piezoelectric Actuator, Aaron Shelley, Dr. Larry Howell

Journal of Undergraduate Research

This research focused on developing a new actuator/motor by integrating two previously unrelated technologies. In the past, piezoelectric crystals have been used primarily to measure acceleration in the engineering field, because of their unique nature of generating electricity when changes in their position occur. Modern researchers now use piezoelectric crystals in the opposite way, in that they put electricity through the crystals, causing them to expand or contract. The ability to cause the crystals to expand/contract merely by having a voltage difference across the crystal represents a whole new method of creating actuators/motors.