Mechanical Engineering Commons^™

Development Of 6d Electromagnetic Actuation For Micro/Nanorobots In High Viscosity Fluids For Drug Delivery, Mostafa Abdelaziz, Maki Habib

Mechanical Engineering

This research focuses on the development, design, implementation, and testing (with complete hardware and software integration) of a 6D Electromagnetic Actuation (EMA) system for the precise control and navigation of micro/nanorobots (MNRs) in high-viscosity fluids, addressing critical challenges in targeted drug delivery within complex biological environments, such as blood vessels. The primary objective is to overcome limitations in the actuation efficiency, trajectory stability, and accurate path-tracking of MNRs. The EMA system utilizes three controllable orthogonal pairs of Helmholtz coils to generate uniform magnetic fields, which magnetize and steer MNRs in 3D for orientation. Another three controllable orthogonal pairs of Helmholtz …

Mechanism Of Property Enhancement Of Cu−Ti Alloys Via Microalloying With Cr And Mg Elements, Huan Wei, Hong Wei, Hua-Yun Du, Qian Wang, Cai-Zhi Zhou, Ying-Hui Weu, Li-Feng Hou

Faculty Publications

The effect of adding Cr and Mg on the microstructure and properties of Cu−Ti alloys was examined. Cu−Ti−Cr−Mg alloys were fabricated using vacuum induction melting. The microstructure and phase composition of Cu−Ti−Cr−Mg alloys in different aging states were characterized. Additionally, the hardness and electrical conductivity of the materials were investigated. Results show that the precipitation pattern in Cu−Ti−Cr−Mg alloys resembled that of binary Cu−Ti alloys, with Cr and Ti forming the intermetallic compound of Cr2Ti during casting. The introduction of Cr and Mg increased the hardness of the alloy. Increasing the Mg content in the Cu−Ti−Cr−Mg alloy led to grain …

Advanced Manufacturing Of Multifunctional Shape Memory Polymer Composites And Self-Healing Systems, John B. Konlan

LSU Doctoral Dissertations

The need for multifunctional light weight structures for engineering applications is on the rise. Multifunctional composites are desired because of their ability to combine multiple functionalities into one structure. The advantages of a high strength-to-weight ratio of multifunctional composites make them desirable and suitable for use in energy-efficient applications. Shape-memory polymers (SMPs) have attracted interest over the past several decades because of their multifunctional nature. They have found use in many applications such as aerospace, satellites, automobiles, textiles, and biomedical devices, where lightweight and multifunctionality are key. The self-healing nature of most SMPs makes them suitable for use in lightweight …

Detection Of Error-Related Potentials Evoked By Haptic Feedback Of Eblow Flexion And Extension, Dylan Michael Page

Graduate Theses - Mechanical Engineering

Robotic rehabilitation systems are increasingly used to restore sensorimotor functions for individuals with disabilities. However, many assistive devices lack sensory feedback, which is essential information for user control and embodiment. Haptic feedback is a simple and non-invasive solution to provide sensory feedback through tactile stimulation. Errors in haptic feedback can reduce the device’s effectiveness. This study aims to investigate whether error-related potentials can be detected when evoked through errors in haptic feedback during elbow flexion and extension. Electroencephalography recordings showed statistically significant decreases in power spectral density under the conditions of 12.5 Hz, 2.8 and 4.0 seconds after the onset …

In-Situ Rtm Videos, Tanner Garrett

ScholarsArchive Data

This data set contains videos of resin infusion experiments.

A Comparison And Investigation Of 2d Axisymmetric And 3d Models For The Wave Augmented Varicose Explosions Atomizer, Caleb Miller

Senior Honors Theses

Atomization of non-Newtonian, high-viscosity fluids is a challenging task with many applications. One method of atomizing these types of flows is the Wave Augmented Varicose Explosions (WAVE) atomizer. Using this framework, the study establishes an analysis methodology, investigates the relationship between 2D axisymmetric (2DA) and 3D models, and provides analysis of geometric, non-geometric, and non-dimensional parameter influences on the atomizer characterization in 2DA models. The study found that 2DA models can provide viable predictions of certain 3D model characteristics, established several mathematical models for parameter relationships among 2DA models, and identified certain metrics as inadequate predictors of atomizer characteristics in …

Design And Optimization Of Lattice-Integrated Plif Cages Using Additive Manufacturing And Finite Element Modeling, Olivia Draughn

Honors Theses

The customization, characterization, and development of biomedical implants through additive manufacturing (AM) and finite element methods (FEM) becomes imperative to the success of surgical operations and long-term patient satisfaction. To combat stiffness mismatches and prevent stress shielding between implant and bone tissue, lattice structures can be implemented within bone implant design to reduce the effective Young’s modulus (EYM) of the implant and to promote osteointegration within bone tissue. Lattice structures are highly customizable, three dimensionally repeated patterned unit cells that can be manipulated to mimic the porous nature of bone tissues to increase implant-bone interface longevity. The study presents the …

Optimizing A Perfusion-Compression Bioreactor Via Python Integration, Umamah Amer

Honors Theses

Bioreactors are widely used in tissue engineering to support cell and tissue growth under controlled conditions. Perfusion-compression bioreactors, like the one developed in our lab, can be used to replicate the physiological loading of bone on 3D-printed scaffolds. When seeded with osteogenic cells and subjected to mechanical loading, these scaffolds serve as a model to study osteogenesis. To simulate physiological conditions, the bioreactor must apply 1000 compression cycles at forces up to 200 N, three times daily over 14 days. Upon implementation, validation testing and experimental studies exposed several limitations in the bioreactor’s control code. The system was initially programmed …

Bioactivity And Mechanical Performance Of Centrifugally Spun Poly(D,L-Lactide)/Poly(3-Hydroxybutyrate) Submicrometric Fibers Containing Zinc Oxide And Hydroxyapatite Nanostructures, Victoria Padilla-Gainza, Heriberto Rodríguez-Tobías, Karen Lozano, Cristobal Rodriguez, Robert Gilkerson, Antonio Ledezma-Pérez, Narcedalia Anaya-Barbosa, Graciela Morales

Mechanical Engineering Faculty Publications

This study investigates the morphological, thermal, mechanical, and bioactive properties of centrifugally spun fibrous composites made from poly(D,L-lactide)/poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PLA/PHB) blends with zinc oxide (ZnO) and hydroxyapatite (Hap) nanoparticles. A 75/25 PLA/PHB weight ratio was chosen to balance mechanical and thermal properties. The precursor solution viscosities ranged from 0.25 to 0.50 Pa s, increasing with nanoparticle incorporation probably due to polymer-nanoparticle interactions. SEM revealed a uniform fibrous morphology, with diameters of 1.21 for PLA/PHB, 2.65 for PLA/ZnO/Hap, and 1.80 μm for PLA/PHB/ZnO/Hap. TGA showed two-step degradation for PLA/PHB fibers, while PLA/PHB/ZnO/Hap degraded in a single step at 249°C, leaving a residue …

Acoustic Filter For Biopharmacy, Nicholas Rivet

Three Minute Thesis (3MT)

The design and development of a novel flow induced acoustically tuned “filterless” filter is proposed. The proposed research is on developing two or more prototypes that function as a cell retention device for perfusion cell cultures used in continuous manufacturing of monoclonal antibodies and recombinant proteins. This research will provide a non-invasive, cost-effective, flexible, and robust cell retention device for sustainable manufacturing of biologics.

Variable Volume Refrigerator, Ryder Dietz

Honors Theses

This project presents the design and development of a Variable Volume Mini-Fridge Shelf, a solution to address the limitations of fixed compartment sizes in standard mini-fridge/freezer units. The proposed design enables users to dynamically adjust the internal ratio of fridge to freezer space using a repositionable shelf integrated with an airflow-regulating vent. The project involved multiple stages, including concept development, thermal and flow simulations, and physical prototyping.

SolidWorks Flow Simulation was employed to validate natural convection-driven airflow between compartments and guide initial design decisions. While attempts were made to integrate a dynamic control loop using MATLAB Simulink and the SolidWorks …

Optimizing Epoxy Nanocomposites With Oxidized Graphene Quantum Dots For Superior Mechanical Performance: A Molecular Dynamics Approach, Prathamesh P. Deshpande, Robert Chan-Jobe, Josh Kemppainen, Gregory Odegard, Ozgur Keles

Michigan Tech Publications

Due to their excellent mechanical properties, epoxy composites are widely used in low-density applications. However, the brittle epoxy matrix often serves as the principal failure point. Matrix enhancements can be achieved by optimizing polymer combinations to maximize intermolecular interactions or by introducing fillers. While nanofillers such as clay, rubber, carbon nanotubes, and nanoplatelets enhance mechanical properties, they can lead to issues like agglomeration, voids, and poor load transfer. Quantum dots, being the smallest nanofillers, offer higher dispersion and the potential to promote intermolecular interactions, enhancing stiffness, strength, and toughness simultaneously. This study employed molecular dynamics simulations to design graphene quantum …

How Can The Adoption Of Biodegradable Packaging In The Beverage Industry Specifically Contribute To Reducing Single-Use Plastic Waste, And What Regulatory Or Cost-Related Challenges Hinder Its Widespread Implementation In Developing Countries?, Rebecca Aba Gaisie

2025 Awards for Excellence in Student Research and Creative Activity - Documents

This research investigates the potential of biodegradable packaging to reduce single-use plastic waste in the beverage industry and explores the regulatory and cost-related barriers to its adoption in developing countries. The beverage sector is a major contributor to global plastic pollution, and biodegradable alternatives offer a promising path toward sustainability. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study combines qualitative interviews with industry experts and case studies of businesses implementing biodegradable solutions, alongside quantitative survey data from 100 manufacturers and 200 consumers across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Findings reveal that while biodegradable packaging significantly reduces plastic waste and appeals to environmentally …

Investigation Of Surface Quality And Productivity In Precision Hard Turning Of Aisi 4340 Steel Using Integrated Approach Of Ml-Moora-Pso, Adel T. Abbas, Neeraj Sharma, Khalid Alqusaibi, Mohamed Abbas, Rakesh Sharma, Ahmed Elkaseer

Mechanical Engineering

AISI 4340 steel has applications in gun barrels, where the surface quality of the barrel is the prime factor. This study explores the application of a machine learning (ML) approach to optimize the precision turning of an AISI 4340 steel alloy using both conventional and wiper tool nose inserts under varying cutting parameters, such as cutting speed, depth of cut, and feed rate. The analytical framework integrates experimental machining data with computational algorithms to predict key output parameters: surface roughness (Ra) and material removal rate (MRR). A Multi-Objective Optimization based on Ratio Analysis (MOORA) method is used for data normalization. …

Data Science For Engineers, Heidi Moulton

Student Research Symposium

30% of USU undergraduate students participate in some sort of research, and for engineering students this often means generating large amounts of data.

Data Science for Engineers is a series of four modules that introduce students to data processing, visualization, and graphing in the Python programming language using Pandas DataFrames and Juypter Notebooks.

The modules are intended for students with a basic understanding of programming in Python, specifically those who have taken CS 1400 Introduction to Computer Science.

The Effects Of Geometric Shape And Power-Law Index On The Thermal Activity And Dynamic Behavior Of A Complex Fluid, Houssem Laidoudi

Emirates Journal for Engineering Research

The paper presents numerical results for non-Newtonian fluid confined horizontally between two rings. The outer ring has a circular shape, low temperature and rotates at a constant and uniform speed, while the inner ring has different shapes (circular, square and triangular), is constant and has a high temperature. This study aims to determine the method and the amount of heat transfer between the rings and under the influence of these factors: the rheological coefficient of the fluid, known as the power-law index, thermal buoyancy intensity, the rotation speed of the outer ring and the geometric shape of the inner ring. …

Effects Of Wetting Events On Mass Timber Surface Microbial Communities And Voc Emissions: Implications For Building Operation And Occupant Well-Being, Gwynne Á. Mhuireach, Susan Collins, Leslie Dietz, Patrick Finn Horve, Aurélie Laguerre, Dale Northcutt, Jason Stenson, Kevin Van Den Wymelenberg, Elliott Gall, Mark Fretz

Mechanical and Materials Engineering Faculty Publications and Presentations

IntroductionHumans have used wood as a construction material throughout history. Currently, mass timber products, such as cross-laminated timber (CLT), are becoming more popular as a structural material, since they are renewable and have a lower carbon footprint than concrete or steel. Nonetheless, some building types, such as healthcare, veterinary, and food manufacturing, avoid using structural mass timber due to concerns about microbial growth in the event of wetting. One solution is to use protective coatings on mass timber products to increase moisture resistance, although the coatings themselves may generate concerns about volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions. Natural uncoated wood also …

Simulating Low Gravity Particle Dynamics, Ryan Lewis

Student Research Symposium

• Vibrating motors prevent particle arches from forming and clogging nozzle.
• A metal mesh under the nozzle creates an evenly dispersed stream.
• Nozzle is static dissipative to ensure particles have consistent path through the charging section.

A Pressure-Based Estimate Of Multi-Orifice Synthetic Jet Performance, Rhett Parry

Student Research Symposium

Synthetic Jets

• Zero-Net Mass Flux
• Wide voltage and frequency response
• Trends with physical and nondimensional parameters

Atomistic Simulations Of Shape Memory Behavior And Negative Poisson's Ratio Effect Of Liquid Crystal Elastomers, Nanang Mahardika

Student Research Symposium

• LCEs are suitable materials for soft robotics application because it is programmable, responsive to various stimuli and has flexibility.

Learning Partial Differential Equations Of Solid Diffusion From Atomistic Simulations, Wongel Nadew

Student Research Symposium

Why do we study diffusion in solid materials?

Open Accessarticle Crystal Plasticity Modeling Of Dislocation Density Evolution In Cellular Dislocation Structures, Md Mahabubur Rohoman, Caizhi Zhou

Faculty Publications

The complex thermal cycles during the solidification process in metal additive manufacturing (AM) lead to the formation of high-density dislocation networks, organizing into submicron-scale cellular structures. These ultrafine structures are recognized as crucial for enhancing the mechanical properties of AM metals. In this study, we investigate the evolution of dislocation density within these cellular structures under plastic deformation and its impact on mechanical response using dislocation density-based crystal plasticity finite element (CPFE) modeling. The model incorporates the evolution of both statistically stored dislocation (SSD) and geometrically necessary dislocation (GND). Our simulations reveal that the yield and flow stresses of dislocation …

A Model Predictive Control To Improve Grid Resilience, Joseph Young, David G. Wilson, Wayne Weaver, Rush Robinett

Michigan Tech Publications

The following article details a model predictive control (MPC) to improve grid resilience when faced with variable generation resources. This topic is of significant interest to utility power systems where distributed intermittent energy sources will increase significantly and be relied on for electric grid ancillary services. Previous work on MPCs has focused on narrowly targeted control applications such as improving electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure or reducing the cost of integrating Energy Storage Systems (ESSs) into the grid. In contrast, this article develops a comprehensive treatment of the construction of an MPC tailored to electric grids and then applies it …

40 - Design, Fabrication, And Installation Of Morphing Control Surfaces For Small-Scale Uas, Kyle Purser

Undergraduate Research Symposium

Morphing control surface technology, inspired by organic structures and compliant mechanisms, offers significant potential for enhancing the aerodynamic efficiency and performance of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Despite these benefits, its adoption has been hindered by complexities in design, manufacturing, and installation, particularly when compared to traditional flap systems. This research explores the design, fabrication, and integration of morphing control surfaces for small-scale UAS using additive manufacturing techniques. To reduce costs and streamline the design process, fused deposition modeling (FDM) additive manufacturing was employed for component fabrication. An off-the-shelf Horizon Sport Cub S2 served as the testing platform, modified with a …

Wind-Resilient Solar: Harnessing Cfd For Enhanced Load Estimation, Aly Mousaad Aly

Faculty Publications

Solar panels are a cornerstone of renewable energy infrastructure, playing a pivotal role in global sustainability efforts. To ensure their resilience and long-term viability, accurate wind load estimations are essential for designing supporting structures, which account for nearly 50% of their total cost. However, traditional building codes lack comprehensive guidance for solar panels, resulting in inconsistent estimations due to discrepancies in scaled wall-bounded wind tunnel testing methodologies. These inaccuracies pose safety risks, increase costs, and hinder adoption. Emerging technologies like computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations offer a promising alternative by enabling full-scale analysis under realistic conditions of complete turbulence. This …

Advancing Solar Farm Resilience: Cfd-Driven Wind Load Optimization, Aly Mousaad Aly

Faculty Publications

This study investigates wind load design methods for ground-mounted solar panels and arrays by comparing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations with design standards. A case study of a solar farm impacted by Hurricane Maria examines the effects of elevation height, tilt angle, and variations in the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) standards on wind loads and structural failure. Turbulence models, including Reynolds Stress Model, k–ε Model, and Large Eddy Simulation (LES), are used to analyze wind pressures, lift, drag, and peak pressures. Results show Phase 1 experienced higher wind loads than Phase 2 due to design differences. A cost-benefit …

Fabrication Of Ultra High-Temperature Compact Heat Exchanger By Extrusion-Based Ceramic Additive Manufacturing, Abid Hasan Rafi, David W. Lipke, Jeremy Lee Watts, Greg Hilmas, Ming-Chuan Leu

Miners Solving for Tomorrow Research Conference

No abstract provided.

Effects Of The Sintering Process On Additively Manufactured Copper Projectiles, Avery Lyons, William Petzoldt, Phillip R. Mulligan

Miners Solving for Tomorrow Research Conference

No abstract provided.

Multidisciplinary Design Optimization Of A Notional Cubesat Mission, Collin Gentry

Miners Solving for Tomorrow Research Conference

No abstract provided.

Extreme Fast Charging Algorithm For Lithium-Ion Batteries With Precision Lithium Plating Regulation For Degradation Reduction, Kiernan O'Boyle, Yaqi Zhu, Jonghyun Park

Miners Solving for Tomorrow Research Conference

No abstract provided.