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Copyright of Light Industry Machinery is the property of Light Industry Machinery Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Input kinematic parameters during the movement of the mechanism for opening and closing the roof of Tagnpps 95 m3 wagon were analyzed. This included studying all components including the steering wheel, motion transmissions, and the roof of the wagon. The process of creating a 3D model of the mechanism for opening and closing the wagon roof in SolidWorks software is described, as well as the procedure of kinematic analysis of the mechanism in SolidWorks Motion. The manual force required to operate the mechanism for opening and closing the roof is calculated. To optimize the existing mechanism, the case of replacing the current reducer gear with a reducer of a smaller gear ratio is taken into consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces fBrake, a novel simulation method now designed for use in periodic technical inspections of M1 and N1 vehicle categories, addressing challenges posed by Directive 2014/45/EU. The directive mandates that braking efficiency must be measured relative to the vehicle's maximum mass, which often results in underperformance during inspections due to vehicles typically being unladen. This discrepancy arises because the maximum braking forces are proportional to the vertical load on the wheels, causing empty vehicles to lock their wheels prematurely compared to laden ones. fBrake simulates the braking forces of unladen vehicles to reflect a laden state by employing an optimal brake-force distribution curve that aligns with the vehicle's inherent braking behavior, whether through proportioning valves or through electronic brake distribution systems in anti-lock-braking-system-equipped vehicles. Our methodology, previously applied to heavy vehicles, involved extensive experimentation with a roller brake tester, comparing the actual braking performances of dozens of vehicles to those of their simulated counterparts using fBrake. The results demonstrate that fBrake reliably replicates the braking efficiency of laden vehicles, validating its use as an accurate and effective tool for braking system assessments in periodic inspections, irrespective of the vehicle's load condition during the test. This approach ensures compliance with regulatory requirements while enhancing the reliability and safety of vehicle inspections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the software tool (Simscape—Multibody program of MATLAB) primarily intended for dynamic and kinematic processes with practical applications in static calculations. Currently, there are few published scientific works utilizing this tool for tasks like basic static calculations of truss systems. We were interested in comparing the calculation using the tools we use in our work and research activities for theoretical calculation; the potential reliance on simulations in the future could help to avoid the necessity of complex theoretical calculations, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors. Despite the fact that the structure may appear simple, in practice, there may not always be time for a verification calculation in the theoretical field (proper model creation, inclusion of all conditions, etc.). The beam system is intentionally both externally and internally statically indeterminate. For this reason, it is logically necessary to also consider deformation conditions. The achieved results were interesting in terms of accuracy compared to SOLIDWORKS, which was used for computation verification. Through very simple optimization, we were able to further increase the calculation accuracy without complicating other parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents aspects related to the indirect thermographic measurement of a C2M0280120D transistor in pulse mode. The tested transistor was made on the basis of silicon carbide and is commonly used in many applications. During the research, the pulse frequency was varied from 1 kHz to 800 kHz. The transistor case temperature was measured using a Flir E50 thermographic camera and a Pt1000 sensor. The transistor die temperature was determined based on the voltage drop on the body diode and the known characteristics between the voltage drop on the diode and the temperature of the die. The research was carried out in accordance with the presented measuring standards and maintaining the described conditions. The differences between the transistor case temperature and the transistor die temperature were also determined based on simulation work performed in Solidworks 2020 SP05. For this purpose, a three-dimensional model of the C2M0280120D transistor was created and the materials used in this model were selected; the methodology for selecting the model parameters is discussed. The largest recorded difference between the case temperature and the junction temperature was 27.3 °C. The use of a thermographic camera allows the transistor's temperature to be determined without the risk of electric shock. As a result, it will be possible to control the C2M0280120D transistor in such a way so as not to damage it and to optimally select its operating point. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to improve small-scale cabbage harvesting, which usually depends on labour-intensive methods. To solve this issue, an electric cabbage harvester for single-row applications was designed and developed. The harvester integrates different units, such as cutting, conveying, precise cabbage pushing, propelling, power supply (lead acid batteries), storage bin, and handle. The study involved selecting appropriate driving motors, optimising transmission in each unit, and designing the power supply. Critical components, including the cutter, pusher, and propelling shafts, were designed and subjected to static and dynamic analysis using ANSYS R18.0. In the static analysis torque values of 27.52 Nm, 40.99 Nm, and 888.35 Nm were used for the cutter, pusher, and propelling shafts, respectively, with dynamic analysis assuming peak torques 1.5 times higher. Maximum equilibrium stresses in the static analysis were 14.20 MPa, 7.35 MPa, and 36.36 MPa, while the dynamic analysis recorded 22.996 MPa, 9.145 MPa, and 66.88 MPa, all below the material’s yield stress. The results confirmed the safety and reliability of these components during field operations. A 2571 × 880 × 742 mm prototype was developed, with hand vibration and noise levels measured at 2.098 m/s2 and 78 dB(A), ensuring ergonomic safety. The harvester presents a promising solution for mechanising small-scale cabbage harvesting.

El patrimonio edificado del Movimiento Moderno recoge ejemplos de estructuras a base de superficies regladas. Una de ellas es la cubierta de cuatro paraboloides hiperbólicos de bordes rectos, tres de ellos de eje vertical y el último de eje inclinado, de la Iglesia Santísima Trinidad en Caracas. El objetivo es la definición arquitectónica de la Iglesia y sus paraboloides hiperbólicos a través de una metodología de visualización arquitectónica que utiliza el modelo 3D y las proyecciones ortogonales en el programa SolidWorks. La metodología se plantea en tres fases, en primer lugar, la búsqueda bibliográfica y planimétrica. En segundo, el desarrollo del modelo 3D y los detalles. Y finalmente, el análisis geométrico de la cubierta y de los detalles constructivos. Como conclusión se plantea un análisis complejo, inexistente hasta el momento, que permite la modelización de superficies curvas de complejidad geométrica y la obtención de nueva planimetría.

The dehydration process modifies the physical and chemical characteristics of certain crops, thereby increasing their shelf life and consequently reducing the organic waste generated. This process is contingent upon maintaining optimal temperature and humidity levels to prevent deterioration of the product. As indirect dehydrators have a high energy demand, new designs are required that facilitate the uniform distribution of air with a high-volume capacity of 100 kg per day. In the present study, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) techniques were employed to assess the drying performance of two dehydrator models. The simulations were executed in Solidworks 2020 and Flow Simulation, and they examined temperature distribution and velocity within the interior of the dehydrators. In Model 1, an inlet volume flow of 0.08 m3 s−1 and a heat source of 3.5 kW are considered, within a volume of 2.11 m3. In Model 2, an inlet volume flow of 0.03 m3 s−1 and two heat source of 2.5 kW are considered, within a volume of 2.02 m3. Model 1 was unable to achieve uniform air distribution within the drying chamber. In contrast, Model 2 demonstrated uniform velocity and temperature across the majority of the drying chamber, making it a superior option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study offers an in-depth structural analysis of the threading mechanism in a motorized leg-lengthening nail, a key device used in bone-lengthening surgeries. The primary aim is to assess the structural integrity and performance of the nail during the lengthening process. The paper starts with a comprehensive overview of the nail's design, historical background, and functionality, emphasizing the critical components of the lengthening mechanism. The methodology section details the structural analysis approach, incorporating both finite element analysis (FEA) and manual calculations. FEA simulations are employed to analyze the nail's behavior under compressive loads, considering realistic conditions such as the 95th percentile of human body weight. The analysis focuses on stress concentrations, deflections, and overall structural stability to pinpoint the potential weaknesses. Due to budget limitations that prevented the creation of physical prototypes, manual calculations were utilized to validate the FEA results. The findings identify stress concentrations, especially in the areas where male and female threads engage, leading to the design of recommendations to enhance strength and reliability. Experimental results corroborate the accuracy of the FEA simulations. The study concludes with suggestions for improving thread design, emphasizing safety, durability, and functionality. These recommendations aim to guide the future iterations of the motorized leg-lengthening nail, thereby promoting the development of safer and more effective devices for bone-lengthening surgeries. This structural analysis significantly contributes to understanding the mechanical behavior of the motorized leg-lengthening nail, playing a crucial role in advancing medical devices for bone-lengthening procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Petroleum Refinery Engineering is the property of Petroleum Refinery Engineering Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The current study uses a Finite Element (FE) Method to forecast residual stresses and deformation caused by the GTA welding process. The authors use a 5 mm thick stainless steel plate for the analysis. Residual stress and distortion predictions are made by successfully coupling thermal and mechanical studies. Mechanical and thermal analyses of moving heat source-exposed plates were conducted sequentially. Applications such as ANSYS and SOLIDWORKS are used to do the FE analysis. In transient thermal analysis, the arc's heat input has been modeled using a Gaussian distribution. Consideration of temperature-dependent physical and mechanical parameters is integral to the modeling process. The welding heat in stainless steel welding and how it behaves inside the joint has significant effects in determining the welding joint distortion, mechanical properties, and the weldments fit with the design criteria due to stainless steel thermal properties. Subsequent mechanical analysis is fed the transient thermal histories to the model. Analyzing mechanical systems involves using the big displacement hypothesis. How restrictions influence distortion and residual stresses is quantitatively investigated. The anticipated stresses and distortion values are presented and discussed for various scenarios. Welding distortion was minimized when a copper backing plate was used, as shown by a lower maximum deformation measured compared to situations without the plate. The backing plate reduced maximum stress values and lowered residual stresses. A backing plate also made the fusion zone smaller and the temperature drop from the peak welding temperature to room temperature steeper. According to the research, using a copper backing plate during stainless steel welding may significantly reduce deformation and residual stresses. The results could improve stainless steel welding by choosing the best materials for backing plates and improving welding. Investigation results and the mathematical models of welding simulation can significantly improve stainless steel deformation-reducing techniques in many applications and introduce particular techniques to predicate the impacts of backing plates in such welding processes as food, chemical, Pharmaceutical, Oil and Gas, and water treatment industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the flow effects in different degrees of thoracic aortic stent graft protrusion extension by creating bird beak effect simulations using accurate 3D geometry and a realistic, nonlinear, elastic biomechanical model using computer-aided software SolidWorks. Methods: Segmentation in 3D of an aortic arch from a computed tomography (CT) scan of a real-life patient was performed using SolidWorks. A parametric analysis of three models was performed: (A) Aortic arch with no stent, (B) 3 mm bird-beak configuration, and (C) 6.5 mm bird-beak configuration. Flow velocity, pressure, vorticity, wall shear stress (WSS), and time average WSS were assessed. Results: The flow velocity in Model A remained relatively constant and low in the area of the ostium of the brachiocephalic artery and doubled in the left subclavian artery. On the contrary, Models B and C showed a decrease in velocity of 52.3 % in the left subclavian artery. Furthermore, Model B showed a drop in velocity of 82.7% below the bird-beak area, whereas Model C showed a decline of 80.9% in this area. The pressure inside the supra-aortic branches was higher in Model B and C compared with Model A. In Model A, vorticity only appeared at the level of the descending aorta, with low to non-vorticity in the aortic arch. In contrast, Models B and C had an average vorticity of 241.4 Hz within the bird beak area. Regarding WSS, Model A, and Model B shared similar WSS in the peak systolic phase, in the aortic arch, and the bird beak area, whereas Model C had an increased WSS by 5 Pa on average at these zones. Conclusion: In the present simulations' lower velocities, higher pressures, vortices, and WSS were observed around the bird beak zone, the aortic arch, and the supra-aortic vessels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, aluminum-based metal matrix composites (MMCs) were fabricated with varying compositions of SiC and TiO2 reinforcements using the stir casting method. Three different compositions were examined: 98% Al6061 alloy, 1% SiC, and 1% TiO2; 96% Al 6061 alloy, 2% SiC, and 2% TiO2; and 94% Al alloy, 3% SiC, and 3% TiO2. These MMCs were evaluated for their mechanical behavior and microstructure in terms of tensile, flexural, and impact strength. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed a uniform distribution of reinforcements, while also indicating an uneven dispersion of SiC particles within the Al matrix. Tensile testing displayed an ultimate strength of 160.06 MPa, an elongation of 6.63%, and a hardness of 96.5 for the sample with the composition of 94% Al, 3% SiC, and 3% TiO2. For the composition of 96% Al alloy, 2% SiC, and 2% TiO2, the highest flexural strength of 6.57 kN, notable impact strength of 6 J, and a hardness value of 93.68 were achieved. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was employed to analyze surface morphology. These results demonstrate the potential of these MMCs for practical applications due to their improved properties compared to commercially available composites. The study highlights the tailored mechanical attributes of metal matrix composites, showcasing their strength, stiffness, fatigue resistance, and corrosion resistance. Such systematic analyses aid in the development of more efficient and dependable structures for wind turbine applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to solve the problems of exoskeleton robot in bio-mimicry, portability and human-computer interaction, based on the analysis of the ulnar-radius movement mechanism of the human forearm during internal and external rotation, a wearable flexible exoskeleton device of the human forearm driven by shape memory alloy (SMA) spring was proposed. Firstly, according to the movement mechanism of the pronator teres, pronator and supinator muscles in the forearm muscles when the human body static tremor occurred, an exoskeleton device conforming to human biomechanics was designed by using the software SolidWorks. Secondly, according to the relationship between the contraction force of the SMA spring and the axial tensile length, the SMA spring was energized and heated, and the contraction force generated by the spring drove the exoskeleton device to complete the passive suppression of stationary tremor. Finally, the motor was used to drive the vibration of the wooden prosthetic hand to simulate the patient's onset state, and the motion data of the fluorescent sphere attached to the surface of the forearm was recorded with the help of the Vicon dynamic capture system. The research results show that the angle of internal and external rotation of the forearm decreases significantly, and when the SMA spring is stretched to 100 mm and 120 mm, the absolute average value of the angle of internal and external rotation decreases by respectively 45. 07% and 61. 39%, and the exoskeleton device can effectively control the patient's symptoms during the tremor process. The bio-mimetic and flexible properties of the exoskeleton are in line with the movement characteristics of the human forearm, and its lightweight and portability can improve the auxiliary effect in daily life activities, providing new perspectives and methods for the field of upper limb rehabilitation medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Banana cultivation is a prominent agricultural activity in Pakistan, particularly in the lower Sindh districts such as Tando Muhammad Khan, Hyderabad, Sanghar, and Mirpur Khas. Each banana plant bears fruit only once in its lifetime, resulting in a significant amount of waste biomass from the pseudo stems after harvest. Utilizing these waste stems can enhance environmental sustainability and increase economic benefits for farmers. Traditional methods of extracting banana Fiber are plagued by inefficiencies, including lengthy processing times and subpar Fiber quality. This study possesses the design and development of a mechanized solution to extract high quality banana Fiber efficiently. The process encompasses the selection of suitable material, detailed design, mathematical analysis, and the assembly of machine components, aiming to address the shortcomings of conventional extraction methods. The performance analysis was conducted for the machine successfully handled banana stems up to 155mm in width and 22mm in thickness, demonstrating its robust capacity and versatility in processing various sizes. The positive simulation results provide a theoretical validation of the design before physical testing, suggesting the machine components are well designed and capable of enduring typical operational stresses. This study addressed Sustainable development goal 8 Decent work and economic growth, 9 industry innovation and infrastructure, 12 Responsible consumption and production and 13 climate action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research is motivated by the issue faced by motorcycle users, namely the wear and tear of brake shoes, which can reduce braking effectiveness and increase the risk of accidents. The main objective of this study is to analyze the structural properties of motorcycle brake shoes with three different materials (aluminum alloy, cast iron, and magnesium alloy) and brake linings made of different carbon variants (alumina-carbon composite, carbon ceramics, and carbon fiber) under static pressures. Additional design aspects including weight and production cost are also evaluated during the material selection process for the motorcycle’s brake shoe and brake lining. The 3D modeling of the brake shoe and lining was done in Solidworks using measurement data from a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM). The finite element analysis was performed using ABAQUS software. Considering the results from the finite element analysis, weight, and economic aspects, the study found that aluminum alloy (Al alloy) and carbon composite can be suitable materials for brake shoes and brake lining. The Al alloy brake shoe provides 62.7% weight saving while exhibiting good structural properties under static load and a moderate increase in production cost compared to cast iron. Similarly, brake lining with alumina-carbon composite showed the least deformation under static load while maintaining modest production costs compared to the other carbon variants.

In this work, we have considered a cantilever beam with a rectangular plastic cross-section, reinforced by four wire reinforcements made of ductile Iron. It was studied using numerical resolution based on theoretical formulae and then simulated using Solidworks software. A comparison of the results on the frequency ratios between the theoretical and numerical by Solidworks models gave a low error of 1.389% with a high correlation coefficient of around 0.959. Then, two top reinforcements inside the beam were cut in order to study the behavior of the intact beam and the damaged beam. Using the simulation results, we found an accurate damage severity using a mathematical method based on error deviation indicators or Model Performance Analysis (MPA).

Composite Multimetal Stahl 1018 has been used in the process of preserving worn surfaces of materials operating in extremely difficult conditions. This work presents the results of simulation of the mechanical properties of steel samples in contact with the MM "Stahl 1018" composite. Tests were carried out for various models with with one- and two-sided contact sample models with the composite. Theoretical tests were conducted in the "SolidWorks 2019" environment. It was found that the maximum strength of the specimen layer made of MM "Stahl 1018" material, which closely adheres to the surfaces of steel bases on both sides (444 MPa) is higher than that of the material layer in one-sided contact (358 MPa), for specimens with a height of 4.5 mm and at 80 °C. Simulations also revealed a significant increase in the maximum stress in the composite MM "Stahl 1018" for specimens in the so-called free state from 285 MPa to 358 MPa with the increasing temperature from 20 °C to 80 °C, for specimens 4.5 mm high.

In the world of the automotive industry there are still several problems that must be resolved, such as what happened in one of the workshops, there was a shortage of tools to repair bent truck frames because of the accident. One of the tools needed to repair the frame is the bending tool, with this the planning process for making the tool has a problem with the ability of the hydraulic tool to be used to repair the frame of the Mitsubishi Center 125. With the simulation method using SolidWorks software, it can be seen that the force load on the frame of the Mitsubishi center 125 will then obtain data that can be analyzed using the finite element method. In the simulation, try to use a force load of 1 ton.f to 20 ton.f at two points, namely the center and side, then can be seen that the displacement of the object that occurs. The results of the simulation are increasing the force load, the degree of change in shape is increasing along with the damage to the object and the highest change of 500 mm so it requires the ability of hydraulic tools that have a compressive capacity of more than 20 tons.

In response to evolving engineering education, there is a growing focus on fostering students’ practical skills. This study implemented a Mini Project Based Learning (MPBL) approach within the Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) course. The tasks involved SOLIDWORKS modelling, writing CNC code using CADEM seeNC Turn software, and hands-on CNC machining by students. Quantifiable outcomes demonstrated the development of students’ CNC expertise. Numerical evidence showcased a significant increase in academic performance, with the percentage of students scoring over 80 marks rising from 33.33% in the previous academic year (CAY-M1) to an impressive 45.83% in the current academic year (CAY), highlighting the positive impact of MPBL. MPBL improved comprehension and enhanced critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and communication skills. Its integration in CIM sparked creative enthusiasm among students and educators. Effective evaluation tools played a pivotal role in elevating project results, ensuring a holistic learning experience that integrated theory and engineering design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An engineering-to-order company has developed multi-spindle wheel nutrunner machines for automotive wheel mounting. The rotating shaft component that supports that machine has experienced compressive and twisting stress during operation, resulting in damage not only to the shaft but also some parts attached to the wheel. This study uses the house of quality (HOQ) and finite element method (FEM) approaches to redesign the rotary shaft to meet quality standards for its engineers, as customers, in a systematic way by using qualitative data from interviews, documents, and questionnaires provided by five rotary shaft engineering experts. Based on the importance levels of technical specifications obtained from the HOQ results, two rotary shaft redesign models for the redesigned models 1 and 2 obtain the maximum von Mises stress from the virtual testing using FEM analysis of 277.5 MPa and 111.8 MPa, respectively, which are below the company standard maximum yield strength of 470 MPa. Hence, using the company's minimum safety factor, the redesigned model 2 is chosen for the improved version of rotary shaft design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study develops a 3D-CFD model to analyze the thermal performance of perforated fin heat sinks and evaluates four perforated continuous and interrupted fin heat sinks with distinct geometric patterns. Using the Finite-Volume Method (FVM) to discretize the governing equations, the SolidWorks 2019 flow simulation software was implemented to solve and validate the latter, demonstrating that the CFD simulation model employed in the current study is reliable. The performance parameters of the heat sink are presented in terms of Reynolds number and heater power. The results indicate that modules B and C achieved higher heat transfer rates, average heat transfer coefficient, and Nusselt number compared to the other modules. Module A had the highest fin efficiency and module D exhibited greater fin effectiveness than the other ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of tools provided by CAD software has become an essential component of any design process in modern mechanical design. These tools provide a simplified design methodology that does not require expert knowledge for the design of complex mechanical parts. Gears, as one of the most used mechanical components, have precisely defined and well-understood several types of tooth geometry. However, different shapes of tooth profiles cannot be easily analyzed and designed without knowledge of mathematics and analytical geometry. With modern design tools, especially CAD software, that knowledge is not necessarily required in the design process. Engineers can simply define the relative motion of one component to produce all necessary parameters that define the shape and geometry of another component. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The built heritage of the Modern Movement includes examples of structures based on ruled surfaces. One such example is the roof of the Santísima Trinidad church in Caracas, composed of four hyperbolic paraboloids with straight edges, three of which have a vertical axis and the fourth an oblique one. The objective is the architectural definition of the church and its hyperbolic paraboloids through an architectural visualisation methodology that uses a 3D model and orthogonal projections in the SolidWorks program. The methodology is proposed in three phases: first, the bibliographical and planimetric research; second, the development of the 3D model and the details; and finally, the geometric analysis of the roof and the construction details. In conclusion, a complex analysis is proposed, which has not existed until now, allowing the modelling of curved surfaces of geometric complexity and the creation of new planimetry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the sustainable use of recycled plastics, specifically polypropylene (PP) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), in the manufacture of geogrids for geotechnical and civil engineering applications. Plastics were collected from a recycling center, specifically targeting containers used for food, cleaning products, and other domestic packaging items. These plastics were sorted according to the Möbius triangle classification system, with HDPE (#2) and PP (#5) being the primary categories of interest. The research methodologically evaluates the mechanical properties of PP/HDPE (0/100, 25/75, 50/50, 75/25 and 100/0% w/w) composites through tensile and flexural tests, exploring various compositions and configurations of geogrids. The results highlight the superiority of pure recycled HDPE processed into 1.3 mm thick laminated yarns and hot air welded for 20 to 30 s, exhibiting a deformation exceeding 60% in comparison to the PP/HDPE composites. Through SolidWorks® Simulation, it was shown that the adoption of a trigonal geogrid geometry optimizes force distribution and tensile strength, significantly improving slope stabilization efficiency. Based on the results obtained, a laboratory-scale prototype geogrid was developed using an extrusion process. The results underscore the importance of careful composite design and yarn configuration selection to achieve the desired mechanical properties and performance in geogrid applications. It emphasizes the potential of recycled plastics as a viable and environmentally friendly solution for stabilizing slopes, contributing to the reduction in plastic waste and promoting sustainable construction practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The simulation studies performed on walking quadruped robot, with 8 link coplanar Desai's walking leg mechanism, is conducted using SAM 6.1 software along with the kinematic analysis and motion analysis of a quadruped robot performed in SOLIDWORKS software. The optimised link lengths of each leg in Quadruped robot are obtained based on motion along a straight path and a staircase. The foot profile of optimised model is compared with Desai's, Theos Jansen's, and Joe Klann's walking leg mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composite Multimetal Stahl 1018 has been used in the process of preserving worn surfaces of materials operating in extremely difficult conditions. This work presents the results of simulation of the mechanical properties of steel samples in contact with the MM "Stahl 1018" composite. Tests were carried out for various models with with one- and two-sided contact sample models with the composite. Theoretical tests were conducted in the "SolidWorks 2019" environment. It was found that the maximum strength of the specimen layer made of MM "Stahl 1018" material, which closely adheres to the surfaces of steel bases on both sides (444 MPa) is higher than that of the material layer in one-sided contact (358 MPa), for specimens with a height of 4.5 mm and at 80 °C. Simulations also revealed a significant increase in the maximum stress in the composite MM "Stahl 1018" for specimens in the so-called free state from 285 MPa to 358 MPa with the increasing temperature from 20 °C to 80 °C, for specimens 4.5 mm high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Robotic arms are often chosen as the primary manipulator for teleoperated robots specializing in executing tasks that require high skills from humans. The optimization of robotic arm design has been studied extensively using various types of optimization algorithms. However, studies validating and optimizing robotic arms with a high degree of freedom (DOF) using co-simulation techniques are scarce. This study presents the validation and modeling of a five-DOF robotic arm by observing the torques produced by each robotic arm joint using the co-simulation method between Solidworks and Simscape Multibody. The system is modeled in a Solidworks environment with full freedom and overall configurations. The model is then exported to Simscape Multibody for modeling processes. Several validation processes were conducted to validate the Simscape Multibody by comparing torques produced from the three-DOF robotic arm in Simscape with three DOF dynamic equations. Further validation was conducted using coordinate geometry of the end effector position in Solidworks, Simscape, and mathematical geometry models. The proposed co-simulation model agrees with the mathematical model with an average error of 7.6%. This study will likely provide a new approach to the co-simulation technique for systems with a high degree of freedom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an image clustering algorithm that classifies parts to be fabricated using traditional and additive manufacturing (AM) technologies. The proposed algorithm is a MATLAB-based software tool that clusters 3D CAD models of parts considering their geometry only. The algorithm can classify image datasets, CAD datasets, and combined datasets that contain both images and CAD models. The software tool reduces the time and effort spent during process selection by offering a preselected set of parts that are more suitable for AM. The software tool is aimed at supporting decision-making for traditional manufacturing companies that consider expanding their production capability by introducing AM processes in their production facilities. The HICA software tool expands the scope of scientific applications in manufacturing process selection by providing an unsupervised approach that does not require data labelling. The tool is made available as a MATLAB function through a permanent link.

Concentrating solar mirrors need to accurately focus sunlight onto a receiver. Since mirror surface normal determines reflected light direction, reflection-based metrology methods that measure surface normal have the advantage of directly measuring the mirror’s intended functional performance characteristic. Several methods have been reported that produce high-resolution measurements of mirror surface normal of concentrating solar mirrors [1-8]; these systems typically employ an optical target, a camera, and sometimes an external light source. These elements must be placed in a configuration that satisfies multiple feasibility constraints, including mechanical and optical visibility and reflection constraints. For complex problems or installations in cluttered environments, it can be difficult to analyze all of these constraints manually. We have created a computer automated design (CAD) tool that aids in visualization of reflection-based metrology systems, making it possible to determine layouts for complex metrology design problems. The tool is implemented SolidWorks, a commercial CAD system [9]. By exploiting the SoidWorks constraint satisfaction mechanism, the tool is able to present interactive visualization of reflection and field of view constraints in real time without any additional code or macros. The tool supports ease of use and multiple design configurations through an ordinary spreadsheet interface. The tool can be used to address a variety of reflection-based metrology design problems, and is available to the public as open source.

In this study, we aim to investigate the heat transfer and flow characteristics of diverse hybrid nanofluids (CuO-ZnO-Water, EG-Water, CuO-EG-Water, SiO2-EG-Water, and Al2O3-EG-Water) as coolants across eight discrete inlet velocities in a shell and tube heat exchanger. Various materials (copper, stainless steel, titanium, and carbon steel) have been employed for the tubing to optimize system performance. The impact of Reynolds number concerning hybrid nanofluids on Nusselt number and friction factor was assessed in this research. The results of the numerical simulations are found to agree well with experimental results within an average deviation of 1.8%. The results indicated the superior heat transfer capabilities of the hybrid nanofluid compared to the base fluid across all conditions. The outcomes revealed the superior heat transfer capabilities of the CuO-ZnO-Water hybrid nanofluid under all tested conditions. When employing CuO-ZnO-Water as a coolant, a substantial increase of over 9% in temperature reduction was observed, as opposed to the approximately 6% attained by other hybrid nanofluids at a lower velocity of 0.5 m/s. Notably, higher Reynolds numbers corresponded to increased Nusselt numbers and decreased friction factors. The decline percentage of the friction factor was 43% at Reynolds number ranging between 10,000 to 40,000. We emphasize the imperative need to optimize nanoparticle types for crafting hybrid nanofluids to enhance the performance of industrial heat exchangers and their coolant efficiency. Ultimately, the utilization of hybrid nanofluids in conjunction with shell and tube heat exchanger systems has yielded a notable enhancement in the overall thermal efficiency of these systems.