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This work deals with fracture mechanisms in quasi-brittle materials, focusing on the characterization of the Fracture Process Zone (FPZ) of specimens under tensile load. Particularly, paper was used as model material. Experiments were conducted on notched and unnotched specimens. Based on an image analysis of these observations, a stochastic finite element model was developed, using both a nonlocal stress-based approach and a discretized random field modeling of the Young's modulus. The proposed methodology allowed characterizing the damage zone and the size of the FPZ, analyzing the influence of the mesostructure, composed of flocs (fiber aggregates where the basis weight is larger than the average one) and antiflocs (complement of flocs). The area of the active FPZ and the normalized stress drop were linked using a surface energy dissipated in the active FPZ. The stress drop, until limiting value, increased with the width of the active FPZ. Finally, a relationship between the surface energy and the nonlocal internal length was established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transport properties of gas diffusion layer (GDL) in proton exchange membrane fuel cell are important parameters in fuel cell modelling, and one method to measure them is to simulate the transport of each species at spatial resolutions of a few microns in a microstructure of the GDL. One issue in this method is the size of the microstructure as using an unnecessarily big sample could substantially increase the computational cost. Both carbon-paper and carbon-cloth GDLs are investigated and their microstructures are obtained using numerical generation and X-ray micro-tomography respectively at a resolution of 1.733 µm. For each reconstructed GDL, we use the orthorhombic lattice Boltzmann model to simulate fluid flow through some subsamples taken from it in both the in-plane and the through-plane directions; the results show that the permeability of all subsamples is anisotropic in that their permeability in the in-plane direction is higher than in the through-plane direction. For each GDL, we compare its permeability calculated using samples of different sizes and find its representative elementary volume (REV) – a volume above which the calculated permeability represents the average ability of the GDL to conduct fluids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some errors exist in the above paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thin-walled tubular deployable composite boom (DCB) has gained significant attention due to its lightweight, simple structure and high packaging efficiency. The experimental and numerical simulation methods were employed in this paper to investigate the folding behavior of the DCB. Using T700/epoxy unidirectional reinforced prepreg as raw material, DCB specimens were prepared by the vacuum bag method. To complete the folding experiments of DCB specimens, a folding mechanism was designed and manufactured. Folding experiments of DCB specimens were conducted and folding moment versus rotational displacement curves were measured. In addition, a Finite Element Model (FEM) was established to predict the folding behavior of the DCB. Different failure criteria were considered in the numerical analysis, including the Tsai‐Hill criterion and maximum stress criterion. Prediction results using the FEM were compared with experimental results, and both sets of results were in good agreement. It is shown that the DCB can achieve the folding function without failure. The research results in this paper are of great significance to the practical engineering application of the DCB. [Display omitted] • Six tubular deployable composite boom specimens and a precise folding mechanism were designed and prepared. • Folding experiments were conducted to measure the folding moment and rotational displacement curves. • A finite element model for predicting the folding behavior of the tubular deployable composite boom was established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article describes a new method for evaluation of radial crush strength of paper cores. Based on the theory of multilayered composites, a mathematical model has been developed to calculate the value of destructive force during radial crushing of spirally shaped paper cores whose layers are made of different materials. To start calculations, it is necessary to have geometry parameters of the cores, Young's modulus and SCT of an individual component layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces a novel numerical method for investigating the dynamic stability of a flutter panel exposed to a supersonic gas flow and a fluctuating axial excitation force. Initially, the system equation of motion was derived using Lagrange’s equation, where the first two modes are coupled Mathieu–Hill equations with damping, constituting a system of linear second-order differential equations with periodically variable coefficients. Subsequently, a new numerical method was proposed to analyze the dynamic stability of coupled Mathieu–Hill equations with damping. This method involves breaking down an arbitrary parametric load into discrete segments to approximate the variable excitation function using a step function. The system responses of each segment are then accumulated in matrix form. The proposed numerical method proves particularly effective for dynamic systems whose parameters cannot be treated as small. In practical application, the method allows the construction of instability regions corresponding to natural frequencies, subharmonics, and combination frequencies. Dynamic stability diagrams were generated based on dynamic pressure ratio, air/panel density ratio, Mach number, panel thickness—length ratio, and excitation frequency. The results demonstrated general agreement with those obtained through Hsu’s perturbation method, however, our numerical results have proven more accurate. The paper concludes by offering suggestions for suppressing panel flutter through appropriate parameter combinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces a novel stochastic inverse method that utilizes perturbation theory and advanced intelligence techniques to solve the multi‐parameter identification problem of concrete dams using displacement field monitoring data. The proposed method considers the uncertainties associated with the dam displacement monitoring data, which are comprised of two distinct sources: the first is related to stochastic mechanical properties of the dam, and the second is due to observation errors. The displacements at different measuring points generated by dam mechanical properties exhibit spatial correlation, while the observation errors at different points can be considered statistically random. In this context, the inversion formulas are derived for unknown stochastic parameters of the dam by combining perturbation equations and Taylor expansion methods. An improved meta‐heuristic optimization method is employed to identify the mean of stochastic parameters, while mathematical and statistical methods are used to determine the variance of stochastic parameters. The feasibility of the proposed method is verified through numerical examples of a typical dam section under different conditions. Additionally, the paper discusses and demonstrates the applicability of this method in a practical dam project. Results indicate that this method can effectively capture the uncertainty of dam's mechanical properties and separates them from observation errors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a comprehensive three-dimensional numerical investigation of horizontal square anchors embedded in geogrid-reinforced sand. Prior experimental studies have demonstrated notable enhancements in anchor uplift capacity when placed below geogrid reinforcement in soil. However, these results are limited to small anchor plates tested in laboratory conditions with over-reinforced sand. In contrast, this study focuses on large field-scale anchors and explores the influence of anchor width, embedment depth, reinforcement size, stiffness, and tensile strength on uplift capacity. The findings reveal that the optimal size for geogrid reinforcement is three times the anchor width. A diminishing improvement in uplift capacity with increasing anchor width was observed. Additionally, deeper anchor embedment reduces the uplift capacity improvement in geogrid-reinforced sand. The geogrid reinforcement is found to be more efficient in the case of shallow anchors placed in loose sand. The major contribution of this paper lies in the response analysis of large anchors and providing a better understanding of the uplift mechanism in geogrid-reinforced sand. • This paper presents a three-dimensional numerical investigation of large field-scale horizontal square anchors embedded in geogrid-reinforced sand. • The findings reveal that the optimal size for geogrid reinforcement is three times the anchor width (B) in contrary to the 5B value reported in the previous literature. • A diminishing improvement in uplift capacity with increasing anchor width was observed. • Deeper anchor embedment reduced the uplift capacity improvement in geogrid-reinforced sand. • The geogrid reinforcement is found to be more efficient in the case of shallow anchors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with stability of classical Runge–Kutta collocation methods. When such methods are embedded in linearly implicit methods as developed in [13] and used in [14] for the time integration of nonlinear evolution PDEs, the stability of these methods has to be adapted to this context. For this reason, we develop in this paper several notions of stability, that we analyze. We provide sufficient conditions that can be checked algorithmically using just the collocation points of the method to ensure that these stability notions are fulfilled by a given Runge–Kutta collocation method. We also introduce examples and counterexamples used in [14] to highlight the necessity of these stability conditions in this context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On-Orbit Servicing is increasingly crucial with the growing number of spacecraft. The foundation for On-orbit servicing is space docking mechanisms. As On-Orbit Servicing tasks become more complex, the demands for docking capture mechanisms increase in both function and performance. Therefore, it is crucial to design a docking mechanism with a large tolerance. Among various docking capture mechanisms, the multi-claw capture mechanism has the advantages of low impact and reliable capture. This paper analyzes the Common Berthing Mechanism and a docking mechanism with an underactuated two-degree-of-freedom claw-type capture mechanism as its core is proposed. Subsequently, this paper provided a detailed design of the mechanism based on the principle of underactuated capture. Furthermore, this article conducts numerical analyses of key mechanisms such as the capture mechanism and guide mechanism in the design process, verifying the functionality of the mechanisms. After completing the analysis of capturing dynamics, the tolerance ability of the mechanism was also verified, various key parameters were determined, and the parameters of components such as the torsion spring were also determined. Finally, the prototype of the proposed docking mechanism is developed, and the experiment is completed to validate its functional principle and tolerance capability. • This paper presents a docking mechanism for large spacecraft (weighing over 8 tons). • The mechanism employs an underactuated two-degree-of-freedom claw-type capture mechanism. • Simulations and simple laboratory tests were performed for design and validation. • The maximum lateral tolerance of this mechanism reaches 220 mm. • The developed port has reached a TRL of about 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we develop and analyze a mathematical model for spreading malaria, including treatment with transmission‐blocking drugs (TBDs). The paper's main aim is to demonstrate the impact the chosen model for demographic growth has on the disease's transmission and the effect of its treatment with TBDs. We calculate the model's control reproduction number and equilibria and perform a global stability analysis of the disease‐free equilibrium point. The mathematical analysis reveals that, depending on the model's demography, the model can exhibit forward, backward, and even some unconventional types of bifurcation, where disease elimination can occur for both small and large values of the reproduction number. We also conduct a numerical analysis to explore the short‐time behavior of the model. A key finding is that for one type of demographic growth, the population experienced a significantly higher disease burden than the others, and when exposed to high levels of treatment with TBDs, only this population succeeded in effectively eliminating the disease within a reasonable timeframe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coal pillar is a crucial element formed during underground coal mining, playing a significant role in ensuring coal mining operations are conducted safely. Historically, research on coal pillars has primarily focused on regular-shaped pillars, with limited attention given to special-shaped pillars. Therefore, this paper aims to investigate the special-shaped coal pillar formed after the excavation of the newly constructed 3307 headgate in Dayang Coal Mine, China. The primary object of this paper is to elucidate the mechanism behind the instability failure of special-shaped coal pillars and verify the influence of various geological conditions on their stability. To accomplish these goals, numerical simulation techniques were employed to analyze the stress distribution patterns and plastic zone failure characteristics of special-shaped coal pillar. The investigation revealed the presence of stress concentration phenomena within special-shaped coal pillar, where the stress peak values were directly correlated with the width of the pillar. Moreover, it was observed that as the width of coal pillar decreased, the stress curve gradually transitioned from a bimodal shape to a unimodal shape. Additionally, the ratio of the plastic zone within coal pillar increased as the width decreased, with pronounced tensile failures occurring at sharp corners. Building upon theoretical analysis and numerical simulation results, the interior of special-shaped coal pillar was classified into four distinct zones: damaged zone, progressive zone, stable zone, and special zone. Based on this zoning approach, a stability control technology was developed, employing a combination of "pier pillar support + flexible formwork concrete + grouting reinforcement + high-strength cable and bolt + U-steel." Subsequently, an industrial experiment was conducted to validate the efficacy of this control technology. Field monitoring results demonstrated that the newly excavated roadway exhibited minimal deformation and damage, thereby satisfying the requirements for safe and efficient mine production over the anticipated service life. Highlights: The failure characteristics and bearing mechanism of special-shaped coal pillars were analyzed, and a mechanical model was established, allowing exploration of the influence of different geological conditions on pillar stability. The stress evolution and plastic zone development characteristics of special-shaped coal pillar during the whole cycle were studied. A zoning criterion for special-shaped coal pillar was proposed, along with corresponding control measures, which were successfully applied to the site, effectively controlled the deformation of roadway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a class of scalar quartic polynomial delay systems is investigated. We found rich dynamics in this system through numerical simulation, including chaotic attractors, chaotic saddles, and intermittent chaos. Moreover, this chaotic quartic system may serve as an approximation, through Taylor expansion, for a wide class of scalar delay differential equations. Thus, these nonlinear systems may exhibit chaotic behaviors, and the studies in our paper may provide an insight into the emergence of chaos in other time-delay nonlinear systems. We also conduct a detailed theoretical analysis of the system, including the stability of equilibria and Hopf bifurcation analysis based on the theory of normal form and center manifold. Additionally, a numerical analysis is provided to give numerical evidence for the existence of chaos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights Textile composites are advanced materials composed of preforms combined with matrix materials. The fiber structure in the preform has a significant impact on the mechanical properties of the composite. Precise control over preform dimensions and internal fiber structural uniformity, termed ‘accurate shape control’, is essential to ensure reliable and stable composite component mechanical properties. This paper reviews current research progress on fabric deformation mechanisms, focusing on experimental characterization and numerical simulation. Experimental methods for fabric deformation include tensile, compression, bending, and shear deformation, whereas numerical methods encompass macroscopic continuum, discrete, and semi‐discrete models. The insights offered in this paper will aid a greater understanding of fabric deformation mechanisms, enabling an accurate prediction of complex shape molding and effective process parameter design, ultimately facilitating the structural design and engineering applications of textile composites. Recent trends and challenges in the study of fabric deformation mechanisms are presented. The experimental methods for fabric deformation were summarized and evaluated. Representative numerical modeling techniques and simulation methods are discussed. Some recommendations on potential future research directions are detailed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper delves into the numerical analysis of the extended Fisher-Kolmogorov (EFK) equation within open bounded convex domains R ⊂ R d , where d ≤ 3. Two distinct finite element schemes are introduced, namely the semi-discrete and fully-discrete finite element approximations. The existence and uniqueness of solutions are established for both the semi-discrete and fully-discrete finite element approximations. Error bounds are investigated across different scenarios, including comparisons between the semi-discrete and exact solutions, as well as between the semi-discrete and fully-discrete solutions, along with the fully-discrete and exact solutions. An effective algorithm has been proposed to solve the nonlinear system resulting from the fully-discrete finite element approximation at each time step. The paper also provides computed numerical error results and showcases a variety of numerical experiments to further illustrate and support the findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pseudo-random number generator (PRNG) based on chaos has been widely used in the fields of digital communication, cryptography and computer simulation. In this paper, we study a new PRNG based on spatial surface chaotic system (SSCS), which is constructed based on coupling mapping lattice (CML) and one-dimensional Logistic chaotic map. To verify the performance of this generator, we study its nonlinear dynamic properties, including the Lyapunov exponent, ergodicity and bifurcation phenomena. Moreover, we analyze the cryptographic properties such as key space, key sensitivity, correlation, histogram and information entropy, while performing NIST SP800-22 test and TestU01 test for the randomness of this system. Theoretical analysis and numerical simulation results show that the PRNG proposed in this paper has good complexity, ergodicity, sensitivity and randomness. Moreover, the key space can increase dynamically with the increase of encrypted data, especially suitable for the protection of big data such as multimedia, which is more advantageous than most existing chaotic mapping. The results of this paper will provide a new idea for the study of chaotic cryptography, and motivate the study of new discrete chaotic models with desirable statistical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper employs a numerical approach to investigate the impact of liquidity shocks on European options in modeling markets. To accurately capture the behavior of European options under liquidity shocks, a coupled system of differential equations is employed, consisting of a degenerate parabolic equation and a diffusion-free equation. The primary focus is on developing and analyzing implicit-explicit methods for numerically simulating European option pricing, specifically considering the presence of liquidity shocks while ensuring the positivity of the solution. The paper also includes convergence analysis and establishes the discrete comparison principle for the developed methods. Numerical experiments are conducted using both uniform and nonuniform meshes to validate the theoretical findings, demonstrating the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Full-waveform inversion (FWI) is an effective method for imaging subsurface properties using sparsely recorded data. It involves solving a wave propagation problem to estimate model parameters that accurately reproduce the data. Recent trends in FWI have seen a renewed interest in extended methodologies, among which source extension methods leveraging reconstructed wavefields to solve penalty or augmented Lagrangian (AL) formulations have emerged as robust algorithms, even for inaccurate initial models. Despite their demonstrated robustness on synthetic data, challenges remain, such as the lack of a clear physical interpretation and reliance on difficult-to-compute least-squares (LS) wavefields. Moreover, the literature lacks a general and through comparison of these source extension methods with each other and with the standard FWI. This paper is divided into three critical parts. In the first, a novel formulation of these methods is explored within a unified Lagrangian framework. This novel perspective permits the introduction of alternative algorithms that use LS multipliers instead of wavefields. These multiplier-oriented variants appear as regularizations of the standard FWI, are suitable to the time domain, offer tangible physical interpretations, and foster enhanced convergence efficiency. The second part of the paper delves into understanding the underlying mechanisms of these techniques. This is achieved by solving the associated non-linear equations using iterative linearization and inverse scattering methods. The paper provides insight into the role and significance of Lagrange multipliers in enhancing the linearization of the equations. It explains how different methods estimate multipliers or make approximations to increase computing efficiency. Additionally, it presents a new physical understanding of the Lagrange multiplier used in the AL method, highlighting how important it is for improving algorithm performance when compared to penalty methods. In the final section, the paper presents numerical examples that compare different methods within a unified iterative algorithm, utilizing benchmark Marmousi and 2004 BP salt models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the essential theoretical elements related to the construction and operation of numerical control machines, starting from a study of the theoretical aspects related to the design of a CNC typewriter. The block diagrams of the machine, the interconnections between the component blocks and the operation of the whole system are highlighted. The paper also describes the implementation of the typewriter. It starts from a detailed diagram of the wiring and connections between the component elements, up to the presentation and commentary of how to create the program for the microcontroller used. Finally, the testing and operation of this CNC is detailed, from the design of the drawing to its actual realization, with the help of the designed and implemented assembly. CNC systems allow the repetitive production of the same parts, exactly the same and without deviations. Unlike a human operator who cannot execute two identical parts, the repeatability achieved by machines with numerical controls is clearly superior, so the reproducibility component is ensured. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Faced with the pressure brought by major changes in the shipping industry such as liner alliances and larger ships, more and more ports are inclined to choose cooperation. This paper first explains the reasons for the lack of spontaneous cooperation motives between ports through game theory and then points out that in order to achieve stable cooperation between ports, it may be necessary to use external forces to establish a cooperation mechanism that enables both parties to achieve a win-win situation. Further, the article explores the evolution path of port cooperation and the stability of cooperation through evolutionary game theory and finds that the incremental benefits of port cooperation, the cost of cooperation, the additional revenue of free-riding, the compensation for unilateral cooperation, and the distribution coefficient of incremental benefits are the key factors affecting the stability of port cooperation. Then, with the help of numerical simulation experiments, the influencing factors affecting the evolution path and stability of port cooperation are discussed. Finally, in order to promote port cooperation and improve the stability of cooperation, this paper puts forward corresponding policy implications and management insights for policymakers based on relevant influencing factors. • The article explains the reasons for the lack of spontaneous cooperation motives between ports through classical game theory. • to promote the cooperation among ports, the article analyzes the related determinants affecting the evolutionary paths port cooperation. • The article calculates the equilibrium points of the evolutionary game model, determines the corresponding equilibrium strategies. • Numerical simulation analysis was carried out on the changes of relevant parameters reflecting corresponding influencing factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A coupled numerical multi-physics model is developed to study the generation and variation mechanisms of friction torque, including fluid lubricating, micro-contact, sliding and heat transfer among the friction components. The engagement experiment is conducted to verify the accuracy of numerical model and investigate the stability of friction torque. The results show that the most significant operating factor affecting the friction stability is the applied pressure, followed by the rotating speed and the ATF temperature. Simultaneously, the operating factors have great influence on the torque response, engagement time and temperature rise. Moreover, the growth model of friction torque can be divided into two categories: one is increasing linearly and the other is concave parabolic rising. Highlights • A coupled numerical multi-physics model is presented to study the generation and variation mechanisms of friction torque. • The bench test is conducted to verify the accuracy of numerical model and investigate the stability of the friction torque. • The most significant operating factor affecting the friction stability is the applied pressure, followed by the rotating speed and ATF temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A paper-based channel is a useful platform for the facile development of analytical devices implementing various chemical or biological reactions. To improve the analytical performance for various applications, it was necessary to analyze the detailed mixing characteristics within a paper-based channel. In this paper, we proposed a mathematical model to predict a concentration field created as a result of the imbibition of multiple fluids within a porous material. Interestingly, we found that the model exhibited a constant interdiffusion width within a paper-based channel even though the flow front velocity decreased over time. We were able to verify that our model accurately predicted the concentration field by comparing the experimental and numerical results for mixing in a 2 inlet-channel. Finally, we designed and fabricated paper-based channels to generate two (linear and non-linear) concentration gradients based on predictions made by the model. Both the experimental and numerical results were in good agreement, demonstrating that our model was accurate and useful for developing a paper-based analytical device utilizing the mixing characteristics of a sample and reagent flow system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Coating blades are used in the paper industry to meter off the excess coating applied to the paper. They are essential in attaining high-quality coating films with minimum operating cost. During the coating process, the blades are worn down at the tip and are replaced when the coating quality degrades. The objectives of this study are to predict the wear rate of the blades and examine the hypothesis that the blades wear into a quasi-steady-state wear profile, despite both low- and high-angle particle impact. Experimental data and results from finite element simulations are presented for a series of blade materials and suspensions. The approach taken differs considerably from earlier studies, in that it treats blade wear as erosion from the action of the impacting slurry particles rather than abrasion, thus explaining the enhanced wear around the heel. The current approach relies on computer experiments to solve the equations for the liquid flow field, the individual particle motion, the substrate deformation and the eroded volume of the blade, rather than employing empirical relations between wear rates and average fluid velocity. The shear thinning behavior of the coating suspension was properly taken into account. To validate the calculations, blade samples from both a pilot and an off-machine coater were collected at a variety of time intervals. The blade samples aided not only in the establishment of the wear rates and the identification of the wear patterns, but also in the confirmation of the steady-state wear hypothesis that is correctly predicted by the simulations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this study, the determinability of time related colour changes in prints made using ink that dries on matte coated paper with the offset printing technique and infrared method, has been investigated with artifical neural networks after analysis of the experimental and numerical methods. In the experimental part a ECI 2002 CMYK test scale is printed on a 135g/m2 matte coated. The prints obtained were measured with a spectrophotometer at certain intervals and by converting the reflection data obtained into the CIELAB colour description spectrum, time related changes in printed colours have been determined. In the empirical study however, colour changes in prints made on matte coated paper using inks that dry with the infrared method are modelled numerically. The average deviation has been found to be 0.4%. As a result, artificial neural networks can be used with the aim to digitally calculate time related colour changes in the offset printing system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper brieffy overviews some recent and very fresh results on a rather new class of dynamic optimization problems governed by the so-called sweeping (Moreau) processes with controlled moving sets. Uncontrolled sweeping processes have been known in dynamical systems and applications starting from 1970s while control problems for them have drawn attention of mathematicians, applied scientists, and practitioners quite recently. We discuss here such problems and major results achieved in their theory and applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a new damage detection and localization technique based on the changes in vibration parameters using BAT and Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm. The finite element method is used to apply damage at specific element(s) of the considered beams. The damage is represented by a reduction in Young's modulus and the identification of damage is formulated as an optimization problem using objective function based on Modal Scale Factor and changes in natural frequencies. A procedure for detecting and locating damage of beam-like structures based on BAT algorithm is used. This approach presents a method that can be used to detect the single and multiple-damage positions and the rate of damage in structural elements with high accuracy after the first iteration. The results obtained using BAT algorithm are compared to those obtained using Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm. By taking noise into account in the damage detection and localization problem, it is shown that our approach based on BAT algorithm can detect the damage locations with high accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanical response of three different structural core sandwich panels in out-of-plane compression and shear has been analyzed. Specific core shapes examined are arc-tangent, wavy trapezoidal and hemispherical. Unit cells consisting of representative elements of the core attached to face sheets were selected for analysis. Both face sheets and core were assumed made from paper. Finite element analysis employing large deformation and rotations and orthotropic elastic–plastic behavior was used. The results show that the arc-tangent and trapezoidal cores are prone to collapse by extensive bending and buckling, whereas the hemispherical core behaved more stably in compression and shear. Core sheets with a hemispherical shape were prepared from copy paper sheets in a specially designed forming machine. Sandwich test specimens were prepared from this core and tested in out-of-plane compression, and the load-displacement response was compared to predictions from finite element simulations. The experimental and finite element results were consistent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new shell element has been proposed for geometrically non-linear, finite element analyses of axially moving paper web. Web instability problems of paper travelling in a printing system, such as wrinkling and fluttering, pose special challenges in the numerical analyses. For examples, these are finite bending stiffness (as opposed to membrane), orthotropy, and non-uniform distributions of mechanical and hygro-properties (in different length scales). The new formulation has accounted for paper transport velocity and paper bending stiffness based on a mixed Lagrangian–Eulerian description of the motion. A natural coordinate system has been employed in the analytical and finite element formulations. Benchmarking with different finite elements in various tests showed that the proposed element is indeed more stable and reliable for the chosen application than existing elements. The usability of the shell element has been successfully demonstrated by two example problems: wrinkling of stretched isotropic and orthotropic membranes, and the vibration of a web showing a speed-tensioning effect above a critical web transport velocity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The profiles of the edge of rectangular sheets of paper folded so as to join opposite edges were measured and compared with the profiles calculated with the theory of elasticity. I show how the calculation can be accomplished by using the aspect ratio of the loops as the only input parameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates roll paper fire using laboratory-scale experiments, with emphasis on water transport on burning surfaces for sprinkler suppression. Freeburn, water transport and suppression experiments were conducted using different types of paper with various basis weight and water absorptivity. For fire suppression, the experimental results showed different water transport patterns that are sensitive to the burning surface conditions. This is in contrast to the water transport under no fire conditions in straight vertical rivulets exhibiting highly non-uniform distribution along the roll perimeter. For roll paper fire growth, both surface delamination and exfoliation play a crucial role, with the delamination length increasing either linearly or exponentially with time and the exfoliation rates strongly dependent on paper basis weight. Although the effects observed at the small scale in this work may have differences from those at large scales, the experimental results yield insights for better understanding of fire growth and suppression mechanisms and provide extensive data for numerical model development and validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Positive semidefinite kernels on spheres cross time are on demand in spatial statistics, machine learning and numerical analysis, motivated by applications in the climate, environmental and earth sciences. Most of the recent literature has focused on kernels that are isotropic on the sphere and stationary in time, but this assumption is often overly limited in quantifying spatial dependence properly. A broader class of kernels can be obtained by trading isotropy for axial symmetry, i.e., stationarity with respect to longitudes only. This paper challenges theoretical aspects by providing a spectral representation that uniquely characterizes space-time positive semidefinite kernels that are axially symmetric on the sphere and stationary in time. We also address the problem of partial Fourier inversion and show that it is feasible under mild technical conditions. The second part of the paper focuses on constructive methods to build nonseparable kernels having axial symmetry on the sphere and stationarity over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The elastic instability phenomenon in hyperelastic layered materials with the phases exhibiting stiffening behavior is studied • A closed-form expression for the critical stretch of macroscopic instability is derived • An analytical prediction based on Bloch-Floquet analysis for the microscopic instability is exhibited • The critical parameters and transition of instability modes are found to be highly tunable with phase stiffening This paper investigates the elastic instability behavior in soft periodic laminates subjected to finite strains, with a focus on both macroscopic and microscopic instabilities. Considering the deformation-induced phase stiffening, the Gent model with a high bulk-to-shear modulus ratio describes the behavior of incompressible phases. This non-Gaussian statistics-based model captures the non-linear constitutive results from the limited extensibility of polymeric molecular chains. This paper derives an analytical prediction for the onset of macroscopic (or longwave) instability and microscopic instability as functions of material parameters. Moreover, a numerical Bloch-Floquet analysis is imposed on identifying the instability behavior under compression. We consider a wide range of phase combinations and find that the relatively rapid stiffening of the matrix compared to the stiff layer increases the stability of laminates by decreasing the critical stretch ratio. Essentially, properly manipulating the stiffening parameters can produce an absolutely stable region without observed instability. This paper also systematically illustrates the changes in instability and the transition between macro and micro instability in fully Gent laminates, which show higher stability than fully neo-Hookean laminates with larger critical stretch ratios. The critical characteristics of instabilities, such as critical stretch ratios and critical wavenumbers, can be controlled by the choice of stiffening parameters and other material properties, enlarging the tuning of soft laminates for desired buckling patterns in practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A model to explore the multiphysics characteristic of semiconductors is presented. • The model determines the thermal and mechanical properties of complex patterns. • Results show a strong correlation between thermal and mechanical properties. • Dielectric bands asymmetrically affect thermal and mechanical behavior. • Machine learning can predict one property from another. As semiconductor performance improves through advanced package designs, it becomes important to consider both thermal and mechanical properties. Better understanding their relationship enhances system design and optimization. This study has introduced a numerical method that takes into account both thermal and mechanical fluxes to construct thermal and mechanical property maps for practical application in semiconductor engineering. Furthermore, this paper investigated the relationship between the two properties using the constructed property maps in commercially available semiconductor packages. Owing to the complexity of packaging design patterns, a coupled isoparametric mapping and machine learning (ML) method was introduced to investigate their effects. The model then determines and investigates the anisotropic equivalent thermal and mechanical properties of the commercialized semiconductor packages with complex pattern designs, according to the package materials, volume fractions of each material, and design patterns. This approach pursues more sophistication and practicality compared to simplified composite structure property evaluation models. Additionally, all processes in the algorithm are automated based on ML methods, making them practically applicable in the semiconductor industry. The study shows that there is a strong correlation between the thermal and mechanical characteristics in the complex package patterns. This relationship was able to form a fairly clear category based on the shape of the dielectric band because the dielectric band had significantly different effects on the thermal and mechanical fluxes. The study discussed the physical implications of the similarities and differences between the two behaviors and validated the results of the equivalent properties through finite element (FE) analysis. Finally, the study cross-validates the relationship by showing that information from one flux behavior can be used to predict the other based on the ML method. Based on the results, this paper can provide a better understanding of thermal and mechanical fluxes in semiconductor package patterns for package design and optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new cable-damper stopper equipped for Coal-Fired Thermal Power Plants (CFTPPs) was proposed in our previous paper, where a series of shaking table tests were carried out to investigate its seismic performance, so this paper aims to reveal the working mechanism of the stopper from the theoretical and numerical simulation aspects. The stopper is composed of three main components, i.e. a steel cable, a steel block and a viscous damper. First, the nonlinear restraint stiffness of the steel cable to the boiler was derived; second, the critical damping of the stopper, which makes the vibration of the boiler decay exponentially with no oscillation, was derived; third, an iterative method was proposed to globally tune the CFTPP structure, which makes it possible to obtain the optimal parameters of the cable-damper stopper, including the diameter of the steel cable and damping coefficient of the damper. Finally, finite element models were built and time history analyses were conducted to verify the proposed optimization approach. Firstly, the finite element models were proved valid through the comparison between the results of the simulations and the experiments. Then, based on the results of the simulations, the theoretical procedure was validated. The results revealed that the proposed cable-damper stopper reduced the seismic responses of displacements of the top floor and the boiler significantly, about 30.18% and 60.01% respectively compared with their counterparts of CFTPPs without stoppers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to investigate the tribological benefits of a biomimetic teardrop surface texture inspired by snakeskin compared to conventional surface textures with the help of geometrical and flow parameters using computational fluid dynamics techniques. Design/methodology/approach: The lubricant is assumed to be Newtonian, and the flow is laminar with constant viscosity and isothermal property. The governing equations, continuity and Navier–Stokes equation, are discretised by the finite volume method, and cavitation modelling is included. The discretisation for the momentum equations is carried out using the second-order difference method for the SIMPLEC algorithm of pressure–velocity coupling. Findings: The results indicate that biomimetic teardrop surface texturing performs better than conventional shapes surface textures in improving tribological performance. Furthermore, the parallel texture orientation along with the flow generates a high-pressure distribution relative to other orientations. Surface texture area density also highly influences the load-carrying capacity, which is optimum at 29%. Zigzag pattern arrangement performs better compared to linear pattern arrangement of texturing. Originality/value: The paper proposes that this unique biomimetic teardrop shape can give better tribological performance than conventional shapes. Peer review: The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-02-2024-0053/ [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Induced polarization (IP) tomography measurements, as a near-surface geophysical method, can provide information about the degree of chargeability of subsurface materials and are commonly used in mineral exploration, engineering studies (e.g., sediment/bedrock interface identification, crushed zones and faults detection, and landslide and soil properties imaging), as well as in environmental investigations (contaminant plums identification and landfill characterization). The purpose of these measurements is to obtain the distribution of polarizability characteristics inside an object, generally below the surface, at the boundary of the object, or outside the area in question. The results of such measurements can be mathematically modeled for the specific polarizability properties by solving the Poisson’s equation restricted by appropriate boundary conditions. In this paper, we focused on the importance of simulating induced-polarization responses and retrieving chargeability distributions in geo-materials to enhance the characterization of subsurface structures. We presented the methods for forward modelling and non-linear inversion of IP measurements. To this end, in the first step, the Poisson’s equation for a two-dimensional ground with an arbitrary distribution of conductivity is solved using the finite difference numerical method. In the next step, based on the existing relations between conductivity and chargeability (the Siegel’s formulation), the apparent IP response is calculated. Finally, we solved the non-linear chargeability inversion problem following a non-linear apparent resistivity inversion. This is achieved by imposing physical constraints to prevent the estimation of unrealistic model parameters, using a Newton-based optimization method. To evaluate the efficiency of the proposed methodology, we utilized the proposed algorithm on two simulated examples and a real data set. Our numerical results show that the algorithm reliably represents the main features and structure of the Earth’s subsurface in terms of resistivity and chargeability models. All the algorithms presented in this paper have written in the MATLAB programming language. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of the Plate Indirect Evaporative Cooler (PIEC) can be effectively improved by incorporating baffles in the dry channel. However, in the dimensional influence of the baffles on PIEC performance there remains a research gap. In order to investigate the impact of baffle dimensions on the wet bulb efficiency, namely the average heat transfer coefficient and the cooling capacity of the PIEC, this paper proposed and verified a three-dimensional numerical model and method based on the species transport model and the Euler wall film model. At the same time, in order to obtain the equilibrium point between the enhanced heat transfer performance and the additional resistance induced by baffles, a comprehensive performance evaluation index is introduced. The results indicate that, under the same conditions, (1) the baffle effect on PIEC performance is significant at a lower inlet air velocity, and the wet bulb efficiency of the PIEC with baffles can be improved by 22.8%; (2) the baffle effect on PIEC performance is negative if its relative length exceeds 60% or the primary air inlet velocity surpasses 4 m/s under the conditions specified in this paper; and (3) the baffle effect on PIEC performance is significant when its channel height is lower and its channel width is larger, and the wet bulb efficiency of the PIEC with baffles can be improved by 29.3%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current flat-plate solar collectors perform best when their absorbers rotate around their axis. However, with their concentrators, reflectors, and tracking mechanisms, they take up a lot of space and are thus commercially speaking, not the best solutions. This paper proposes a novel solar collector design which employs the (relative) rotation of absorbers, but strives to combine the benefits of fixed and (absolute) tracking solar systems, i.e. volume occupancy from the former and thermal performance from the latter. The findings of our numerical analysis show that, the solar irradiance efficiency of this novel design is 20% higher than that of a fixed flat-plate collector during clear-sky days, and it is equally lower than that of an absolute tracking collector. This paper also introduces a new criterion for describing single-axis tracking solar collectors which should be included in the classifications of solar collectors. Finally, the article, which represents a continuation of our research in the field of solar energy utilization, can contribute to the future development of solar technologies and solve some of the current challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we derive explicit second-order necessary and sufficient optimality conditions of a local minimizer to an optimal control problem for a quasilinear second-order partial differential equation with a piecewise smooth but not differentiable nonlinearity in the leading term. The key argument rests on the analysis of level sets of the state. Specifically, we show that if a function vanishes on the boundary and its the gradient is different from zero on a level set, then this set decomposes into finitely many closed simple curves. Moreover, the level sets depend continuously on the functions defining these sets. We also prove the continuity of the integrals on the level sets. In particular, Green's first identity is shown to be applicable on an open set determined by two functions with nonvanishing gradients. In the second part to this paper, the explicit sufficient second-order conditions will be used to derive error estimates for a finite-element discretization of the control problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of the present article is to investigate the hydromagnetic particle Reiner-Rivlin fluid flow in an asymmetric (divergent) channel. The non-dimensionalized equations solved by the shooting method. The graphs are intended to examine how different developing parameters affect the thermal and velocity fields. The effects of various parameters on skin friction and the rate of heat transmission along channel walls are investigated using tabular data. The current results are in admirable agreement with the published data. The fluid velocity delineates in the first portion of the channel and rockets up in the second when the inelastic parameter increases. An increase in cross-flow Reynolds number is accompanied by an increasing tendency in particle temperature. Several areas, like metal steam resistors, fiber suspension in paper manufacture, etc., are significantly impacted by the magnetic field's action on Reiner-Rivlin fluid through asymmetric channels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is concerned with the multi-frequency factorization method for imaging the support of a wave-number-dependent source function. It is supposed that the source function is given by the inverse Fourier transform of some time-dependent source with a priori given radiating period. Using the multi-frequency far-field data at a fixed observation direction, we provide a computational criterion for characterizing the smallest strip containing the support and perpendicular to the observation direction. The far-field data from sparse observation directions can be used to recover a Θ-convex polygon of the support. The inversion algorithm is proven valid even with multi-frequency near-field data in three dimensions. The connections to time-dependent inverse source problems are discussed in the near-field case. Numerical tests in both two and three dimensions are implemented to show effectiveness and feasibility of the approach. This paper provides numerical analysis for a frequency-domain approach to recover the support of an admissible class of time-dependent sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]