Engineering Commons^™

Enhancing Iot Security Using Lightweight Machine Learning Algorithms: A Comprehensive Approach Using Ensemble Learning, Feature Selection, And Federated Transfer Learning, Khawlah Harahsheh

Electrical & Computer Engineering Theses & Dissertations

The rapid expansion of the Internet of Things (IoT) has introduced significant security vulnerabilities due to the resource-constrained nature of IoT devices and their exposure to cyber threats. Traditional security solutions are often infeasible due to the high computational and storage demands they impose. This dissertation presents a lightweight, AI-driven security framework that enhances IoT network resilience by integrating feature selection, ensemble learning, and federated transfer learning while maintaining data privacy and minimizing computational overhead.

The proposed framework consists of three primary components: Feature Selection for Intrusion Detection, which optimizes performance by reducing redundant data and improving detection accuracy with …

Mechanochemical Reaction Kinetics—A Theoretical Modeling And Experimental Study, Maria Dolores Masso Ramirez

Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering Theses & Dissertations

Mechanochemical reactions represent a class of chemical processes triggered by mechanical energy, widely recognized for their efficiency, solvent-free nature, and environmental benefits. They are increasingly applied in synthetic chemistry, a branch of science focused on creating new chemical compounds through controlled laboratory reactions. However, the mechanisms underlying mechanical activation remain poorly understood, primarily due to the difficulty in quantifying energy transfer during milling, where solid reactants are ground together using a ball mill. This thesis aims to bridge the gap in understanding the relationship between mechanical parameters and reaction kinetics by developing and validating a theoretical framework based on dimensional …

3d Printing Filament Machine (Revers3d), Jairo Gonzalez, John Gonzalez, Jaime Garcia, Xiaotian (Stephen) Yan, Andrew Huynh, Jose Canez

Mechanical Engineering Senior Theses

The Reverse3D printer project aims to develop an innovative machine that recycles leftover 3D printed parts into new, usable spools, promoting sustainability in the 3D printing community. The project will create a new dimension of versatility when using 3D printing filament while still being user-friendly. The device will incorporate a grinding unit to grind up the parts, a heating element, an extrusion system, a cooling system, and a spooling system to create a continuous filament strand. Our ultimate goal is to grind the plastic to a size capable of being melted down and molded into a spool-like form suitable for …

Smart Home Hvac Digital Twin Ml Meta-Model For Electric Power Distribution Systems With Solar Pv And Cta-2045 Controls, Rosemary E. Alden, Evan S. Jones, Steven B. Poore, Dan M. Ionel

Electrical and Computer Engineering Graduate Research

Building modeling, specifically heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) load and equivalent energy storage calculations, represent a key focus for decarbonization of buildings and smart grid controls. In this paper, an ultra-fast one minute resolution Hybrid Machine Learning Model (HMLM) is proposed as part of a novel contribution in the field of residential physics-based smart home surrogate modeling. Emulation of white box models, or digital twins, with editable parameters through machine learning (ML) meta-modeling serves as an alternative to wide-spread experimental big data collection. The HMLM employs combined k-means clustering with multiple linear regression (MLR) to emulate minutely HVAC power …

Quality Assurance Framework For Recovered Binders And Aggregates From Asphalt Mixtures Incorporating Recycled Materials, Eslam Deef-Allah, Magdy Abdelrahman

Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

This study proposes that a proactive quality assurance (QA) framework for asphalt mixes with recycled materials, i.e., reclaimed asphalt pavement and recycled asphalt shingles, should be developed. Quality control (QC) is generally concerned with the contractor's obligation to produce mixes which meet the job mix formula (JMF) targets. However, QA considers the variability in fabrication processes and materials and offers monitoring by evaluating the contractor's performance. Although both aggregate gradations and asphalt contents were within the JMF specifications, the recovered binders revealed significant differences from the contract binders in the JMF. Rheological tests indicated increased stiffness and elasticity but reduced …

A High-Temperature Lithium-Aluminum Alloy/Oxygen Or Air Fuel Cell, Sarwan S. Sandhu

Chemical and Materials Engineering Faculty Publications

This paper is in support of our current effort in the development of an experimental hybrid (lithium- aluminum alloy/electrolyte/oxygen or air) fuel cell for the acquisition of the experimental data required to characterize its performance behavior. The literature-based assembled formulation provided in this paper can be used to predict the cell open-circuit electric potential, lithium amount in the cell anode alloy, and g-atom ratio of lithium to aluminum in the cell anode as a function of time at any cell discharge current level. The ohmic voltage losses can also be computed in the cell cathode, anode, and two electrolytes at …

Analyzing The Resilience Of Infrastructure-Based Vs. Camera-Based Lane Detection In Autonomous Vehicles, Pritesh Yashaswi Patil

Masters Theses

Traditional autonomous vehicle perception subsystems that use on-board sensors have the drawbacks of high computational load and data duplication. Infrastructure-based sensors, which can provide high-quality information without the computational burden and data duplication, are an alternative to traditional autonomous vehicle perception subsystems. However, these technologies are still in the early stages of development and have not been extensively evaluated for lane detection system performance. Therefore, there is a lack of quantitative data on their performance relative to traditional perception methods, especially during hazardous scenarios, such as lane line occlusion, sensor failure, and environmental obstructions. This need is addressed by evaluating …

Control Of Industrial Robots Based On Artificial Intelligence, Bryan Lara Medrano

Open Access Theses & Dissertations

Industrial robots are vital in developing smart factories, creating the need for more efficient and modern control systems. As a result, investigators and scholars are dedicating great effort to advancing this field et al. [27]. Literature showcases significant progress in various areas, including the control of articulated arms and advancements in human-robot interfaces, self-decision-making, object recognition, decision-making, and routing planning. This manuscript describes a novel technique for predicting the movement of a robotic arm based on artificial neural networks. We have implemented an artificial intelligence method based on artificial neural networks to analyze the possible routing of a robotic arm …

Live Recording Of Lectures, Louise Lynch

Case studies: Digital Education

The final year module, consisting of 2-hour lectures and 2-hour tutorials, focuses on worked examples. To support students, especially those repeating the module, lectures were recorded and uploaded to Brightspace. Due to the difficulty of the subject and the small class size, in-person delivery was prioritised. The IT 360 mic was used for audio only, no video was recorded, calculations were done on OneNote Class Notebook using the pen functionality of the Surface Pro. This method gives students immediate access to worked examples. Open Broadcast Studio (OBS) was employed to manage different programmes without screen sharing interruptions, while maintaining the …

Numbas For Formative Assessment, Louise Lynch

Case studies: Digital Education

Numbas is an open-source e-assessment system aimed at mathematics and other numerate disciplines. It allows for the setup of individual assessments for students, increasing academic integrity. Numbas can autograde attempts, and the use of the Learning Tool Interoperability (LTI) within Brightspace allows instructors to view attempts, monitor progress, and alter marks where applicable. This adds a valuable element for both formative and summative assessments. In this module, Numbas was used to provide students with individual parameters for the same problems as part of their continuous assessment. These problems would consist of several steps and typically take over 30 minutes to …

Incorporating Screenpal Video To Brightspace Quiz “Hints” Function, Michael O Connor

Case studies: Digital Education

I have used the quiz function in Brightspace for some time as an asynchronous learning support and formative assessment technique for various cohorts from apprentice to UG FT students. Typically, I would create several MCQ quizzes around key learning outcomes (LOs) or “muddiest point” discoveries in the classroom. These quizzes were set up to allow the students unlimited attempts, with results published automatically and all question attempts shown with correct answers. While it was effective and well received (interesting particularly by apprentices whose summative assessment results are often high stakes) I often felt it became a repetitive answer selection exercise …

Endothelial Dysfunction Promotes Age-Related Reorganization Of Collagen Fibers And Alters Aortic Biomechanics In Mice, Liya Du, Jeffrey Rodgers, Nazli Gharraee, Olivia Gary, Tarek Shazly, John F. Eberth, Susan M. Lessner

Faculty Publications

Endothelial dysfunction, defined as a reduction in the bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO), is a risk factor for the occurrence and progression of various vascular diseases. This study investigates the effect of endothelial dysfunction on age-related changes in aortic extracellular matrix (ECM) microstructure and the relationship between microstructural adaptation and the mechanical response. Here, we used groups of NOS3 knockout (KO), NOS3 heterozygotes (Het), and wild-type (WT) B6 mice (controls) to study changes in hemodynamic parameters, collagen fiber organization, and both active and passive aortic mechanics using biaxial pressure myography over a time course from 1.5 to 12 mo. Our …

Bilateral Gait Trainer For Transtibial Amputees, Desmond Greer, Odinachi Anene, Andrew Wallace, Noah Hill

Bioengineering Senior Theses

Lower limb amputation affects over 2.3 million individuals in the U.S., with peripheral vascular disease and diabetes as leading causes. Prosthetic rehabilitation is critical for restoring mobility, yet barriers like therapist shortages, cost, and inconsistent at-home training limit patient outcomes. This thesis presents the design, development, and testing of a bilateral gait training device that addresses these challenges by providing real-time haptic feedback and quantitative gait metrics for at-home rehabilitation. The device integrates force-sensitive resistors embedded in insoles to monitor plantar pressure distribution, haptic actuators (eccentric rotating mass motors) mounted on thigh straps to deliver corrective feedback, and an Arduino-based …

I-280 Wildlife Culvert, Gunner Craig, Tate Reese

Civil, Environmental and Sustainable Engineering Senior Theses

Interstate 280 (I-280) serves as one of two (2) main arteries between San Francisco and the peninsula and south Bay Area. Being situated through various nature reserves at the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, I-280 creates a barrier between said mountains and surrounding areas, disrupting migratory patterns. The heavy usage of this road, along with natural migratory patterns of large and medium sized mammals in the area results in high amounts of wildlife vehicle collisions (WVC’s). In order to provide remedial efforts, the team explored various methods to alleviate WVC’s. Ultimately the final proposed design consisted of a cast …

Endothelial Dysfunction Promotes Age-Related Reorganization Of Collagen Fibers And Alters Aortic Biomechanics In Mice, Liya Du, Jeffrey Rodgers, Nazli Gharraee, Olivia Gary, Tarek Shazly, John F. Eberth, Susan M. Lessner

Faculty Publications

Endothelial dysfunction, defined as a reduction in the bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO), is a risk factor for the occurrence and progression of various vascular diseases. This study investigates the effect of endothelial dysfunction on age-related changes in aortic extracellular matrix (ECM) microstructure and the relationship between microstructural adaptation and the mechanical response. Here, we used groups of NOS3 knockout (KO), NOS3 heterozygotes (Het), and wild-type (WT) B6 mice (controls) to study changes in hemodynamic parameters, collagen fiber organization, and both active and passive aortic mechanics using biaxial pressure myography over a time course from 1.5 to 12 mo. Our …

Ptap Memo: Methods For Tn Reduction Of Sewering, Unh Stormwater Center

UNH Stormwater Center

No abstract provided.

Shear-Thinning Hydrogel For Delayed Delivery Of A Small Molecule Metalloproteinase Inhibitor Attenuates Myocardial Infarction Remodeling, Joshua E. Mealy, William M. Torres, Lisa A. Freeburg, Shayne C. Barlow, Alison A. Whalen, Chima V. Maduka, Tarek Shazly, Jason A. Burdick, Francis G. Spinale

Faculty Publications

No abstract provided.

Multiphase Iterative Algorithm For Mixed-Integer Optimal Control, Chaoying Pei, Sixiong You, Yu Di, Ran Dai

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

Mixed-integer optimal control problems (MIOCPs) frequently arise in the domain of optimal control problems (OCPs) when decisions including integer variables are involved. However, existing state-of-the-art approaches for solving MIOCPs are often plagued by drawbacks such as high computational costs, low precision, and compromised optimality. In this study, we propose a novel multiphase scheme coupled with an iterative second-order cone programming (SOCP) algorithm to efficiently and effectively address these challenges in MIOCPs. In the first phase, we relax the discrete decision constraints and account for the terminal state constraints and certain path constraints by introducing them as penalty terms in the …

Towards Universal Non-Dimensional Characterization Of The Oscillatory Dynamics Of Wind Turbine Rotors Of Multiple Sizes, North Yates, Fernando L. Ponta, Alayna Farrell

Michigan Tech Publications

One concern in the field of Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines (HAWTs) is what control strategies are needed to handle gust pulses in the wind to prevent extreme oscillations of the blades to reduce fatigue stress, prevent blade rupture, and extend the turbine’s operational life. In order to design innovative control strategies to modify the blade’s oscillatory response, it is crucial to establish the fundamental vibrational behavior of the blades when excited by gust pulses of different frequencies and amplitudes present in the fluctuating wind inflow. In a series of previous works, the authors presented a novel Reduced-Order Characterization (ROC) technique …

Aimr-Brainstorm: Ai-Enhanced Interactive Mixed Reality For Collaborative Ideation, Yuchuan Ma

Dartmouth College Master’s Theses

This study investigates the potential of an AI-enhanced Mixed Reality (MR) brainstorming system, named AIMR-Brainstorm, in comparison to traditional sticky notes for creative ideation. By integrating real-time idea extraction through ChatGPT with immersive, physics-based visualizations, the system aims to transform analog brainstorming workflows into dynamic, interactive digital experiences. Using a within-subject experimental design, 30 participants engaged in paired brainstorming sessions with both AIMR and sticky notes. Quantitative measures of efficiency, engagement, creativity, and user satisfaction were collected through between-session and post-study surveys, while qualitative feedback provided additional insights into user experiences. Conclusively, while traditional sticky notes were generally preferred for …

Comparative Performance Analysis Of Cryptographic Workloads Across Cloud Providers: A Multi-Language Study On Faas And Iaas Platforms Dataset, Jeremiah Webb

Doctoral Dissertations and Master's Theses

Cloud computing has become a relatively new paradigm for the delivery of compute resources, with key management services (KMS) playing a crucial role in securely handling cryptographic operations in the cloud. This paper presents the microbenchmark of cloud cryptographic workloads, including SHA HMAC generation, AES encryption/decryption, ECC signature/verification, and RSA encryption/decryption, across Function-as-a-Service (FaaS) and Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) in conjunction with KMS offerings from Ama- zon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure to conduct a comparative performance analysis. The methodology involves the AWS Cloud Development Kit (CDK) and the Bicep language to deploy AWS Lambda Functions and Azure Functions, respectively, to …

Adaptive Control Of Thrusters To Account For Deficiencies In Actuator Effectiveness And Model Uncertainties, Matthew Stanko

Doctoral Dissertations and Master's Theses

Future space missions are expected to become ever more ambitious and challenging. A successful mission requires advanced and resilient control algorithms that enable missions, such as satellite refueling, on-orbit inspection, and end-of-life servicing. This thesis explores the development and application of robust and adaptive control laws for an over-actuated spacecraft system with 3 degrees of freedom (DoF) to mitigate the effects of actuator deficiencies and system uncertainties. Additionally, the nature of the system being over-actuated allows for particular actuator degradation and failure. For stability and command tracking, a novel controller is designed and augmented with sliding mode control, adaptive control, …

Analysis Of Responder-Involved Struck-By Crashes, Jacob Wilhelm

Doctoral Dissertations and Master's Theses

Emergency responders face significant risks of injury and death from struck-by crashes while operating on or near roadways. Annually, about 50 responders are killed, and hundreds more are injured, leading to operational disruptions and damage to life-saving equipment (ERSI, 2024). This study takes a data-driven approach to identify key risk factors and effective countermeasures for reducing the severity of struck-by crashes. Key findings indicate that struck-by crashes most frequently occur on weekends during late-night hours (2 AM–4 AM), often at crash scenes or disabled vehicle scenes on limited-access highways. Driver behavior – particularly “D” drivers (distracted, drugged, drowsy, disgruntled) – …

Evaluating The Impact Of Access Density On Pedestrian And Bicycle Safety, Charles Hruda

Doctoral Dissertations and Master's Theses

This study examines the impact of access density on pedestrian and bicycle crash rates in urban areas of Florida. Access management, defined as the strategic control of vehicular access points along roadways, plays a crucial role in mitigating conflicts between various roadway users. Previous research has established a positive correlation between access density and crash rates, yet limited studies have analyzed its effects on vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.

To quantify these impacts, this study identified high-crash roadway segments using Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) data. Geometric, traffic, crash, and access management information was collected and analyzed …

Engineering Anisotropic Porosity In Green Parts From Binder Jet 3d Printing, Reshma Chandrashekhar Kubsad

Doctoral Dissertations and Master's Theses

Binder Jet Additive Manufacturing (BJAM) is a promising metal additive manufacturing technique that enables the fabrication of complex geometries without the need for support structures. However, the inherent porosity in green parts, remains a challenge in achieving desired mechanical properties and performance. Instead of treating porosity as a limitation, this thesis explores engineering of anisotropic porosity engineering, where controlled variations in porosity in the green parts can be used to enhance functionality and efficiency in specific applications. The objective of this research is to investigate and analyze the key print parameters that influence green part density. By systematically varying layer …

The Interaction Of A Transient Forward Axial Disturbance Flow With A Rotor, Zhuorui Li

Doctoral Dissertations and Master's Theses

This research presents an in-depth investigation of the aeroacoustic characteristics of a scaled-down Joby Aviation rotor, focusing on its performance under realistic conditions for urban air mobility (UAM). Utilizing a high-fidelity numerical simulation approach that combines Large-Eddy Simulation (LES) and Unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (URANS) models, the study effectively captures the complex aerodynamic and acoustic interactions inherent in rotor operations. Validation of the numerical framework was achieved through comprehensive comparisons with available experimental data, demonstrating a high level of accuracy in predicting both aerodynamic performance metrics, including thrust and torque, as well as acoustic emissions. The simulation revealed significant impacts resulting …

Antenna Multi-Band Enhancement By Employing Negative Impedance Converters, Kevin Pepin

Doctoral Dissertations and Master's Theses

This thesis presents the implementation of a Negative Impedance Converter (NIC) integrated with a planar monopole antenna, originally centered at 2.9 GHz, to create a multi-band network. The network exhibits resonances at frequencies of 0.9 GHz, 1.5 GHz and 1.9 GHz. The work highlights the design process of pairing a NIC with a capacitive, single-band antenna, addressing key challenges such as overcoming the limitations associated with low self-resonant frequency (SRF) inductors. The design process included the use of measurement-based component models and radio-frequency simulations using Keysight Advanced Design Systems (ADS). The developed NIC emulates a -0.99 pF capacitor using two …

Aeroacoustics Applications To Jets And Rotors, Michael Marques G.

Doctoral Dissertations and Master's Theses

Aeroacoustics plays a critical role in the advancement of propulsion technologies for both conventional and emerging aerial systems. This dissertation investigates two key topics: noise suppression in supersonic rectangular jets and rotor noise characterization in hover and ground effect. Using high-fidelity numerical simulations and theoretical analyses, this research aims to develop effective noise mitigation strategies and improve predictive methodologies.

The first part of this study focuses on the reduction of noise in supersonic rectangular jets through active control techniques. A novel approach utilizing unsteady microjet actuation at the nozzle lip is explored to disrupt the formation of large-scale turbulent structures …

Coupled Dynamics In The Cislunar Region And Spacecraft Attitude Prediction In A Higher-Fidelity Model​, Annika Anderson

Doctoral Dissertations and Master's Theses

The cislunar region of space is a complex, multi-body dynamical environment that cannot be modeled trivially. Traditional point-mass assumptions made to simplify the mission design process may be insufficient for accurately predicting spacecraft motion in environments where orbit-attitude coupling is non-negligible. One of the most famous of such models is the circular restricted three-body problem. This thesis advances the state of the art in astrodynamics by modeling all bodies in the problem as rigid bodies, allowing for spacecraft orientation to be propagated and considered. Two models are under consideration—the circular restricted full three-body problem (CRF3BP) and a full higher-fidelity ephemeris …

Machine Learning Methods For Hypervelocity Fragment Flyout Characterization, Katharine Larsen

Doctoral Dissertations and Master's Theses

Resulting from breakup events, such as collisions and explosions, hypervelocity fragments create potential hazards for both terrestrial and on-orbit environments, such as terrestrial weapons explosions and satellite breakup events, respectively. To avoid unnecessary damage, an accurate understanding or characterization of hypervelocity fragmentation events is vital. Currently, publicly available two-line elements collected from on-orbit breakup events are limited, excluding pre-detonation parent body conditions, such as orientation, and information of smaller fragments. The uncertainty of these datasets varies between each collected set. Therefore, the overall goal of this work is to employ machine learning to estimate distribution characteristics of a space debris …