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Bucket conveyors are widely used in various industrial sectors due to their efficiency in material transport. However, like any machinery, they are susceptible to degradation during operation, leading to a decrease in performance and an increase in the risk of failure. Therefore, research was conducted to understand the impact of operation on bucket conveyor belts. In the study, samples were prepared from different locations and sections of the belt to investigate potential differences in material properties and strength. A series of mechanical tests, including a static tensile test, were conducted to assess the material strength. The results of the research revealed differences in mechanical properties among samples from different locations and belt sections. Furthermore, potential damages that may occur with incorrect handling were unveiled. These findings are crucial for industrial practices, providing a better understanding of factors influencing the durability and efficiency of bucket conveyor belts.

This paper proposes a noise reduction technique that combines empirical mode decomposition (EMD) and wavelet thresholding to eliminate the noise interference caused by metal slag in the steel cord conveyor belt damage signal. Initially, the original signal undergoes decomposition by EMD into high- and low-frequency intrinsic mode function (IMF) components based on metal slag signal feature analysis. The wavelet threshold de-noising method is then applied to filter out the high-frequency noise while preserving the low-frequency IMF components. The IMF components containing slag noise are discarded, and the filtered signal and the low-frequency IMF components are used for signal reconstruction to obtain an optimal noise reduction effect. The study demonstrates that this method is more effective in suppressing metal slag noise, environmental noise, and other noise interferences than traditional EMD decomposition noise reduction and wavelet threshold noise reduction methods. This research provides a valuable reference for noise reduction in steel cord conveyor belt detection data.

Copyright of Computer Measurement & Control is the property of Magazine Agency of Computer Measurement & Control 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.)

This paper proposes a noise reduction technique that combines empirical mode decomposition (EMD) and wavelet thresholding to eliminate the noise interference caused by metal slag in the steel cord conveyor belt damage signal. Initially, the original signal undergoes decomposition by EMD into high- and low-frequency intrinsic mode function (IMF) components based on metal slag signal feature analysis. The wavelet threshold de-noising method is then applied to filter out the high-frequency noise while preserving the low-frequency IMF components. The IMF components containing slag noise are discarded, and the filtered signal and the low-frequency IMF components are used for signal reconstruction to obtain an optimal noise reduction effect. The study demonstrates that this method is more effective in suppressing metal slag noise, environmental noise, and other noise interferences than traditional EMD decomposition noise reduction and wavelet threshold noise reduction methods. This research provides a valuable reference for noise reduction in steel cord conveyor belt detection data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bucket conveyors are widely used in various industrial sectors due to their efficiency in material transport. However, like any machinery, they are susceptible to degradation during operation, leading to a decrease in performance and an increase in the risk of failure. Therefore, research was conducted to understand the impact of operation on bucket conveyor belts. In the study, specimens were prepared from different locations and sections of the belt to investigate potential differences in material properties and strength. A series of mechanical tests, including a static tensile test, were conducted to assess the material strength. The results of the research revealed differences in mechanical properties among specimens from different locations and belt sections. Furthermore, potential damages that may occur with incorrect handling were unveiled. These findings are crucial for industrial practices, providing a better understanding of factors influencing the durability and efficiency of bucket conveyor belts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to evaluate the abrasive belt grinding performance, this paper proposes to conduct nickel-based superalloy robot abrasive belt grinding experiment based on different types of abrasive belts with multiple grit sizes. First, the single grinding performance evaluation is performed through five performance parameters: material removal rate, surface roughness, tangential force, specific grinding energy, and specific wear height. Then, based on the evaluation results of single grinding performance, a weighted evaluation function is established to comprehensively evaluate the grinding performance. It is found that the structured abrasive belt has relatively better grinding performance. The main factors affecting the abrasive belt grinding performance are identified through the evaluation results, with the effect of grit size being more significant. In addition, this paper analyzes the characteristics of material deformation based on the grinding subsurface microstructure, and discusses the effects of abrasive belts on material deformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The general tectonic structural architecture of southern Africa is an ensemble comprised of Kalahari Craton, a vast range of mosaics of the best-preserved geological Belts, and exposed crustal blocks. In the region, demarcation of geological boundaries, tracing of magnetic and gravitational bodies, and detrending lineaments are essential to understanding the structural limits. The study presents the prevalent gravitational and magnetic investigation of major geological Belts, enhancing edges of Cratons, and evaluation of surface invariants to improve the geological understanding and evaluate the correlation of structures with the general structural tectonic framework. The utilized filter methods in the gravity maps are the Directional derivatives along x, y, and z-directions, the Modulus tensor, the Total horizontal derivative, and the Tilt angle techniques.The phase-based filters used in the magnetic section include the Total horizontal derivative, Analytical signal, Tilt angle method, Tilt of total horizontal derivative, Theta method, Horizontal tilt angle method, Enhanced tilt filter, and Enhanced total derivative of the tilt angle. The Directional derivatives of the gravity field and the Modulus of the gravity gradient tensor demarcate the boundaries of geological structures. The Total horizontal derivative method gives an immediate and easy-to-read image of the linear structures and fault systems. The signal cluster on the Analytical signal and Tilt angle maps delineate the boundaries of causative geological sources. The Theta map is comparable with the enhanced total derivative of the tilt angle. The Tilt of the total horizontal derivative, Theta map, and Enhanced tilt filter accentuate the traces of magnetic bodies, including the Cratons. The study finds regional lineaments surrounding the Cratons and concentrated along the geological Belts. The approach of using joint elegant filters is effective and increases the certainty of the interpretation.

Within the political organization of Inner Asian history, the Mongols constituted one of the most important links of the steppe tradition. The Turkish and Mongolian political and cultural structure was born and continued its development within an integrated framework. In this direction, mythical elements, epic narratives and cultural motifs have reached a rich depth of meaning in these societies over time, with their psychic structure dating back to ancient times. The use of the belt/girdle continued in the same development process, moving from the Turks to the Mongols, and the Mongols even used this motif in the political and social sphere, with the dominant meanings of power, power, submission and obedience. Later on, they organised many ceremonies and rituals that were indicative of power and submission through such acculturated items that were attributed symbolic meanings. As a matter of fact, Genghis Khan respected the religious values of the communities living as tribes in the steppe cultural environment and made the protective spirit of their traditions the basis of his own success. The use of belt/girdle between Genghis Khan and his successors was used as an important symbol in the political and social sphere, carrying a faith-based thought infrastructure in its essence. At the same time, his successors, representing the manifestation of divine will and power as the Golden Urugh, activated the symbolism of the belt motif in the political sphere. The representation of the divine will, which is the source of power and authority, is actually seen as a reflection of their mythological beliefs in their figurative world. In this regard, among the Mongols, belts with various functions were used in shaman dresses and the motifs on them. In particular, the arch, which has gained imagery in the world of faith as the surrender of the will, the presentation of freedom and obedience, has always been perceived as containing this feature. In addition, throughout the historical process, this symbolism of the belt was carried by the Turks and Mongols to the areas where they spread, and its use became widespread among Muslim societies. In this study, the meaning of the belt as a political symbol in the Mongols and its functionality through its use in ceremonies will be examined and its reflections in social life will be discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The city of Baqubah witnessed a large random urban growth due to the increase in the population, as well as the migrations from different areas, which caused the emergence of slums clearly scattered on the outskirts of the city, taking advantage of open and green areas and empty spaces around the city, as well as the negative effects caused by urban growth on the agricultural areas which has increased the size of the large loss in reducing its size in the scarcity of water and its impact on all aspects of life in the governorate, which requires the development of treatments and solutions proposed to mitigate the effects associated with this growth. One of these treatments lies in the establishment of the green belt or the so-called green areas around the city, which is a green belt of protected farms, because of its great importance for improving the city's environment, as well as its benefits for mental health as an outlet for the city's residents because of the aesthetic of the green nature and open spaces for entertainment, as well as its economic importance in increasing agricultural products through the establishment of nurseries, ornamental plants, and others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A set of 44 taxa of lichenized fungi and 5 species of lichenicolous fungi was gathered in 1984 in the summit area of the mountain Glittertinden, the second highest mountain in Scandinavia. The sampled species include several high alpine taxa known as members of well-established alpine lichen communities but only few pioneer species indicating that the investigated rocks had already been ice-free for a long time. The local flora is compared to that reported from Scandinavia’s highest mountain, Galdhøpiggen, by the late Gunnar Degelius in the 1940s. With the continuing melting of the local ice cap on the summit of Glittertinden, biota will face profoundly changed environmental conditions with much additional substrate ready to be colonized in the near future.

In order to reveal the material removal behavior of robot abrasive belt grinding (RABG) of nickel-based superalloy, the experimental research method of single grit grinding is proposed. In the research, ceramic alumina grits are used to scratch superalloy K438 based on the experimental setup of RABG. Four material removal parameters, namely real cutting depth, number of cutting edges involved in grinding, effective cutting area of cutting edges and pile-up ratio, are used to quantitatively describe the material removal behavior. The experimental results show that the grits have good cutting performance. And the cutting edges involved in grinding change dynamically, which has a significant influence on material removal. In addition, this paper analyzes the differences between RABG and wheel grinding (WG), studies the effect of cutting depth on material removal, and determines the factors that affect the material removal ability by evaluating the material removal ability of different grits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces a new method for efficient and low-damage machining of Ti6Al4V: laser-assisted CBN belt grinding. The impact of laser power and grinding depth on the machining behavior of the material is investigated, the elemental distribution and chemical state of the ground surface are analyzed, and the removal mechanism of laser-assisted CBN belt grinding is described. The results show that increasing laser power will improve processing efficiency, enhance plastic material removal, and improve surface quality; the tangential grinding force is decreased by 63.5% and the normal grinding force is decreased by 72.6% at the maximum laser power; a large amount of Ti and N are present on the ground surface, and they are present in the form of TiN compounds. This study is a guide to the research on efficient and low-damage machining of hard-to-process materials like titanium alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The physical and hormonal changes occur in pregnant women, which may cause skeletal and muscular discomforts and back and pelvic pain. If the pelvic muscles mechanism is damaged, pelvic joints may have less stability, and the joint is more exposed to shearing force. As a result of this condition, the activity pattern of these muscles of the lumbar region may change, increased muscle activity compensates for the anterior forces, and bending moments may occur, especially when the abdomen volume is increased. In previous studies, the activity of pelvic muscles in the test of active straight leg raise (ASLR) was evaluated in pregnant women without using a pelvic belt. These belts are strapped at the level of the pelvic ring and do not fully support the lumbar region. The lumbar-pelvic belt can extend below the lower angle of the scapula, completely covering the lumbar region and supporting the waist and pelvis simultaneously. As a result, the whole body acts as a unit compared to a pelvic belt. The present study aims to compare the effect of the lumbar-pelvic belt with the pelvic belt in the activity of the pelvic muscles during the ASLR test of the lower limb in pregnant women with back and pelvic pain. Materials & Methods This was a clinical trial study on 48 pregnant women with pregnancy-related back and pelvic pain referred to the Kawsar Specialized and Subspecialty Clinic in Arak City, Iran. The sampling method was convenience sampling based on inclusion and exclusion. All participants completed the written consent form, and then they were randomly divided into three groups: lumbar-pelvic belt (14 women), pelvic belt (14 women), and control (20 women). First, a demographic questionnaire was completed by the participants. Then the pelvic muscles’ muscle activity was evaluated using surface electromyography during the ASLR test at the beginning of the study and then three weeks later. Covariance analysis was used in SPSS version 26 software for data analysis, and the significance level was considered 0.05. Results After three weeks of using the devices, the activity of the right rectus femoris, left rectus femoris, right biceps femoris, and left biceps femoris muscles decreased in both groups who used the belts and increased in the control group during the ASLR test. The activity of the right biceps femoris and left biceps femoris muscles in the lumbar-pelvic belt group was significantly reduced compared to the pelvic belt group (P

This article discusses, describes and analyzes the main problems of open mining in overburden work with the transportation of rock mass at the Angren coal open pit. The analysis of the main problems in the design of cyclical-flow technology with belt conveyors for hard rocks at the unloading and loading section of the bunker has been carried out. Calculations were carried out using the Ansys Workbench program. This article discusses, describes and analyzes the main problems of open mining in overburden work with the transportation of rock mass at the Angren coal open pit. In order to study them, a review was made of the stages of using conveyors for the mining industry both in different countries and at the Angren coal mine. In addition, as a result of the analysis, the author found that the main problem in the design of cyclic-flow technology with belt conveyors for hard rocks is due to the operation of the design of the unloading and loading hopper. In order to solve the problem identified by the author, optimization of the “CPT” with belt conveyors is proposed based on the improvement of the design of the bunker using the “Ansys Workbench» program, the prospects for using this calculation and analytical program are emphasized.

CVT chains are widely used in vehicles because the slip between parts is small, which enables efficient power transmission. However, the intermittent motion of CVT chain pins entering and leaving the pulleys causes undesirable vibration in the whole chain, and affects the basic performance of the CVT. Therefore, it is important to investigate the influence of the geometrical specifications of the chain on this vibratory motion. This study focused on the pin-pulley slip length when the pins enter and leave the pulleys, and a mathematical model for the power loss of a CVT chain was developed. The validity of this model was verified and confirmed experimentally. In addition, the influence of the shape of chain components on power loss was also investigated. In particular, the influence of the position of the contact point between the pins and pulleys on power loss was investigated both theoretically and experimentally, and geometric parameters were optimized. As a result, the model formulated in this paper can be used to investigate measures for reducing CVT power loss.

This article serves as a continuation of our previously published work and focuses on loose material transport via sandwich belt conveyors. Experimental, analytical, stochastic, and numerical approaches are used to obtain and utilize the moduli of a bilateral Winkler elastic foundation that represent a loose material, which is wheat (Triticum aestivum) that is free of bran in this case. The solutions were obtained for a uniformly and nonuniformly distributed loose material. The task of the conveyor with loose material is simplified into a symmetric task, i.e., a beam on an elastic bilateral Winkler foundation, for an analytical solution and stochastic solution (Anthill and Matlab sw). In a numerical approach, this is considered a plane strain problem within the finite element method (Ansys and MSC.Marc sw). The experimental data are evaluated and used to obtain the functions of Winkler elastic foundation moduli, which are further considered in the numerical solution. The finite element method mainly serves as a verification tool. The acquired histograms of the elastic foundation moduli can be further applied in various scientific and research fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Belt grinding is increasingly being used to process complex parts because of its ability to achieve flexible, form-following machining. Although the choice between down-grinding or up-grinding is one of the most common issues in process decisions, the influences of the differences in material removal mechanisms remain unclear, especially on surface residual stresses (RS). Thus, this paper focuses on the different grinding direction's influence on residual stress distribution, followed by a causal analysis of the abrasive cutting mechanism. The results suggest that the up-grinding surface is more prone to compressive RS of σa due to the different material flow directions close to the machined surface, and has stronger stress amplitudes of σt due to the increased belt wear caused by the grits entering from the hardened machined surfaces. For both down- and up-grinding, σa along the grinding trace's cross-section is symmetrically distributed in a peaked pattern, but σt is closer to a uniform distribution. One possible reason is that the contact wheel dissipates heat more quickly on both sides than in the center. Besides, the consistency of the RS distribution is better for up-grinding both within the same grinding trace and among different grinding traces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium alloys have been widely used in ships, aviation, aerospace, and other industries because of their excellent material properties. In the abrasive belt grinding of titanium alloy materials, abrasive belt grinding is a kind of flexible grinding, and its cutting force and material removal are important parameters that characterize the machining process. Powerful belt grinding can realize the removal of large materials, but ensuring its surface integrity is also crucial to the comprehensive material properties of titanium alloy materials. This paper studies the grinding amount: the effect of feed rate, linear speed, and initial grinding pressure on the grinding force, and the influence of the grinding force on the law of material removal and surface integrity. By studying the relevant parameters of abrasive belt grinding consumption, revealing its changing law, determining the best grinding range, and obtaining the best powerful grinding parameters. It is concluded that the maximum grinding force can be achieved when the maximum initial grinding pressure is 12N and the smaller feed speed is 200 mm/min and the medium-high line speed is 15.6 m/s while achieving a large margin of material removal and ensuring better surface integrity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The equilibrium equations for the coupled flexural–flexural–torsional–extensional mechanics of an axially moving beam with initial tension are studied. The form of the governing equations is discussed, and numerical solutions are presented for two types of boundary misalignment that both result in out-of-plane flexural–torsional equilibria. Solutions to the governing equations are obtained while retaining all non-linear terms. With all non-linear terms, the governing equations cannot be expressed in first-order form and appear to be missing boundary conditions, thus complicating the numerical solution. The results are compared to an existing reduced model, thereby confirming previously employed simplifying assumptions. Finally, an alternative form of the equations of motion is derived that are simpler and consists of only polynomial non-linearities. The new equations are shown to capture the behavior studied with only a small reduction in accuracy compared to other models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Belt conveyors are important transportation equipment in coal mining enterprises. At present, most research on this topic focuses on areas such as tear resistance and foreign body identification. Few studies have focused on belt wear, but belt wear is the subject of daily inspections on site. The artificial grayscale analysis method, support vector machine (SVM) method, and deep learning network are proposed herein to identify the degree of belt wear by using image acquisition devices installed on belt conveyors to collect images of no-load belts, instead of manual inspection. The experimental results indicate that the grayscale analysis method has limitations in identifying belt wear. For complex types of wear, such as annular wear, its recognition capability is poor, and the grayscale analysis method is heavily dependent on the results of human analysis. The highest accuracy of the SVM method is 84.5%, and it effectively identifies complex wear states. After training, worn belts can be detected automatically. However, the selection of features during training completely depends on human decisions, and the accuracy is affected by such factors that have a great influence. The deep learning network attained a 91.5% average recognition accuracy rate with the highest accuracy being 95%. It can fully automate intelligent feature selection, training and detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium alloys have high hardness and low plasticity, there will be large cutting force and serious tool wear during machining. Laser-assisted grinding can significantly improve its machinability, but the wear mechanism of abrasive tools and its influence on material removal during machining have not been well revealed. In this paper, the variation of cutting force under different laser power, laser scanning speed and feed speed were studied. In addition, the influences of different laser powers on material removal was also investigated. At the same time, the abrasive belt wear in laser-assisted grinding and conventional grinding was compared. The results indicated that increasing the laser power can reduce the cutting force. When the laser power increased from 7.2W to 9.6W, the cutting force showed the maximum change trend, which decreased by 46%. Enhanced material removal and increased plastic flow with increasing laser power. Increasing the laser scanning speed and workpiece feeding rate will also increase the cutting force. In addition, laser-assisted grinding can reduce belt wear compared with conventional grinding under the same grinding parameters. Therefore, laser-assisted grinding has an important potential role in the field of grinding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Archives of Rehabilitation is the property of Negah Institute for Social Research & Scientific Communication 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 purpose of this study is to propose an effective model for predicting the slip ratio of a belt transmission mechanism during power transmission, considering the different tensile stiffness of the drive belt. The slip ratio of the belt mechanism was measured under a constant applied torque to compare it with the theoretical value based on belt elastic elongation. The apparent friction coefficient between the belt material and the pulley was measured using a laboratory-made counter-type disc-on-block friction tester under a constant fixed slip velocity condition. The test results showed that when a soft rubber belt was used, the slip ratio of the belt mechanism could be accurately predicted by considering only the elastic elongation of the belt itself. However, when a rigid metal belt was used, the experimental slip ratio of the belt mechanism was larger than the theoretical value. The observed friction coefficient between the belt material and the pulley indicated that the friction force depended on the slip velocity, with the friction force at low slip velocity being smaller than that at high slip velocity. Based on these results, a prediction model for the slip ratio was proposed, considering micro-slip due to the varied frictional coefficient, and its validity was examined.

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is a recognized therapy for heart failure with altered ejection fraction and abnormal left ventricular activation time. Since the introduction of the therapy, a 30% rate of non-responders is observed and unchanged. The 12-lead ECG remains the only recommended tool for patient selection to CRT. The 12-lead ECG is, however, limited in its inability to provide a precise pattern of regional electrical activity. Electrocardiographic imaging (ECGi) provides a non-invasive detailed mapping of cardiac activation and therefore appears as a promising tool for CRT candidates. The non-invasive ventricular activation maps acquired by ECGi have been primarily explored for the diagnosis and guidance of therapy in patients with atrial or ventricular tachyarrhythmia. However, the accuracy of the system in this field is lacking and needs further improvement before considering a clinical application. On the other hand, its use for patient selection for CRT is encouraging. In this review, we introduce the technical considerations and we describe how ECGi can precisely characterize ventricular activation, especially in patients with left bundle branch block, thus identifying the electrical substrate responsive to CRT.

Purpose: To describe the load-velocity relationship and the effects of increasing loads on spatiotemporal and derived kinetic variables of sprinting using weighted vests (WV) in soccer players and determining the load that maximizes power output. Methods: A total of 23 soccer players (age 20.8 [1.51 y) performed 10 maximal 30-m sprints wearing a WV with 5 different loads (0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% body mass [BM]). Sprint velocity and time were collected using a radar device and wireless photocells. Mechanical outputs were computed using a recently developed valid and reliable field method that estimates the step-averaged ground-reaction forces during overground sprint acceleration from anthropometric and spatiotemporal data. Raw velocity-time data were fitted by an exponential function and used to calculate the net horizontal ground-reaction forces and horizontal power output. Individual linear force-velocity relationships were then extrapolated to calculate the theoretical maximum horizontal force (F0) and velocity and the ratio of force application (proportion of the total force production that is directed forward at sprint start). Results: Magnitude-based inferences showed an almost certain decrease in F0 (effect size = 0.78-3.35), maximum power output (effect size = 0.78-3.81), and maximum ratio of force (effect size = 0.82-3.87) as the load increased. The greatest changes occurred with loads heavier than 20% BM, especially in ratio of force. In addition, the maximum power was achieved under unloaded conditions. Conclusions: Increasing load in WV sprinting affects spatiotemporal and kinetic variables. The greatest change in ratio of force happened with loads heavier than 20% BM. Thus, the authors recommend the use of loads ≤20% BM for WV sprinting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Fórum pro Konzervátory-Restaurátory is the property of Technical Museum in Brno 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.)

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is a radiation-free and noninvasive medical image reconstruction technique in which a current is injected and the reflected voltage is received through electrodes. EIT electrodes require good connection with the skin for data acquisition and image reconstruction. However, detached electrodes are a common occurrence and cause measurement errors in EIT clinical applications. To address these issues, in this study, we proposed a method for detecting faulty electrodes using the differential voltage value of the detached electrode in an EIT system. Additionally, we proposed the voltage-replace and voltage-shift methods to compensate for invalid data from the faulty electrodes. In this study, we present the simulation, experimental, and in vivo chest results of our proposed methods to verify and evaluate the feasibility of this approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article serves as a continuation of our previously published work and focuses on loose material transport via sandwich belt conveyors. Experimental, analytical, stochastic, and numerical approaches are used to obtain and utilize the moduli of a bilateral Winkler elastic foundation that represent a loose material, which is wheat (Triticum aestivum) that is free of bran in this case. The solutions were obtained for a uniformly and nonuniformly distributed loose material. The task of the conveyor with loose material is simplified into a symmetric task, i.e., a beam on an elastic bilateral Winkler foundation, for an analytical solution and stochastic solution (Anthill and Matlab sw). In a numerical approach, this is considered a plane strain problem within the finite element method (Ansys and MSC.Marc sw). The experimental data are evaluated and used to obtain the functions of Winkler elastic foundation moduli, which are further considered in the numerical solution. The finite element method mainly serves as a verification tool. The acquired histograms of the elastic foundation moduli can be further applied in various scientific and research fields.

The purpose of the article is to study the specific role of the embroided towel (rushnyk) as a key element of women’s wedding clothing in the context of its cultural code; outlining the concept of cultural code in terms of decorative art and people’s worldview; to determine the role of the embroidered towel (rushnyk) in women’s wedding costume. The methodology of the study is based on the principle of historicism, systematicity and author’s objectivity. General scientific methods of analysis, analogies, modeling, and systemic analysis have also been used. Scientific novelty. The article reveals for the first time the specifics of the embroidered towel (rushnyk) as an element of cultural code of women’s wedding clothing of the Ukrainian people. The role of the embroided towel (rushnyk) in a traditional costume of a bride is outlined as one of its key elements having a protective meaning, considering its use as personification of a belt. The reasons for such rituals are explained. Conclusions. By analysing particular items of decorative and applied arts (embroided towels, costume elements), as well as a set of rituals and examples of oral folk arts related to the topic of the study, it has been proved that the embroidered towel (rushnyk) in wedding rituals of the Ukrainian people plays an important role precisely in terms of using it as an element of cultural code of the bride’s clothing. A number of examples reveal the ways of tying it to a bride and a groom, as well as other participants of the ceremony. For this purpose, wedding pictures and illustrations depicting brides and grooms in traditional festive costumes were used. They included, in particular, illustrations of wedding clothing of young people from Kherson county of Kherson province, costumes of newly married couples from Novhorod-Siverskyi county of Chernihiv province, a picture of a wedding in the village of Borovykove, Cherkasy region (mid-20th century). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 3D printer design, special care must be taken when choosing the print head positioning mechanism. Indeed, this choice has a significant influence on the manufacturing accuracy, printing speed, workspace characteristics, and total cost of the printer. Considering 3D printers with layer-based processes, many designs include two stages: a planar mechanism for positioning the nozzle on a horizontal plane and a linear mechanism for the vertical build–plate motion. From the literature, two designs are usually applied for horizontal motion, commercially known as "CoreXY" and "H-bot". Their load distribution characteristics are compared here: it is found that both have significant drawbacks. Therefore, an alternative architecture, called "CoreH-bot," is introduced to overcome such limitations; this mechanism is both fully planar, which greatly simplifies its design and assembly phases while increasing part life, and has low unbalanced torques during motion, which increases the maximum speed for the given accuracy. The CoreH-bot kinematic equations are analyzed to define the Jacobian matrix and the corresponding workspace. The static and dynamic analyses are also performed. A prototype with this architecture has been designed that shows interesting capabilities in terms of print speed, while being both simple and cost-effective to assemble. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Increasing number of heavy cancer patients has created challenges in diagnostic imaging and radiation oncology. Practical weight limits of the equipment can become an obstacle both for imaging and treatment of these patients. Most magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography (CT) tables' static load capacities are between 450 and 500 pounds, and linear accelerator tables can support similar weights depending on the type of the table and manufacturer. One recurring issue we encountered was failure of the treatment couch's longitudinal drive belt due to heavy patients' sudden movement. In several cases, snapping of the longitudinal drive belt occurred when the patient's weight was under 300 lbs (below the rated weight limit). Additionally, we observed vertical deflection of the couch when extended/cantilevered with heavy patients. The purpose of this work was to implement immobilization methods and safety devices for radiation treatment management of heavy patients in order to increase patient/provider safety, prevent treatment couch damage, and reduce treatment disruptions. Materials and methods: We created three safety devices for treatment management of heavy patients. Wooden brace and Scissor jack were used to lock the couch longitudinal axis (while the couch longitudinal drive was floated) during the setup of a heavy patient and absorb the mechanical impulse applied to the couch longitudinal drive belt. Wooden brace was built in house and positioned in between the wall and treatment couch to lock the longitudinal axis. Commercially available 10 in × 10 in scissor jack lift with adjustable height 3 ½ in – 13 in was modified to increase effectiveness and safety. An additional stand was created with adjustable height and rolling rubber wheels to support the couch when extended/cantilevered with heavy patients. Results: Using these devices prevented the longitudinal belt from breaking and improved the patient/therapist safety at eight treatment sites within our network. No farther couch belt failures were observed since devices were introduced for clinical use. All three devices can be used and removed without any modifications done to the treatment couch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Optimizing strategies to reduce the negative effects of lifts on low back pain (LBP) have attracted the attention of researchers. One of the practical strategies to deal with the effects of loads on the spine is lumbar belts. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of lumbar belts on the coordination variability of spine and pelvis during repetitive lifts in male athletes with non-specific chronic LBP.Materials and Methods: Twelve male athletes with chronic LBP participated in the study voluntarily. Participants with and without belts lifted the box for one minute at a frequency of 10 times per minute, and cinematic information based on the three-segment model of spine was recorded using a motion capture system equipped with 10 cameras. Coordination and coordination changes for these segments were calculated using a modified vector coding (VC) method. To compare the collected data, if normal, paired t-test was used in SPSS software and in variability data, statistical parametric mapping (SPM) method was used in MATLAB software with the significance level of P ≤ 0.05.Results: A significant difference was observed for the coordination of the pelvic segment to the lower back segment [concentric phase (P ≤ 0.035), eccentric phase (P ≤ 0.043)]. On the other hand, no significant difference was reported between using and not using belts for the coordination of the lumbar segment to the lower trunk segment (P = 0.545), lower trunk segment to the upper trunk segment (P = 0.440), and the variability of all calculated couplesConclusion: According to the findings, using the belt may optimize the transfer of motion from the distal segment to the proximal segment, which can reduce the pressure on the waist and prevent injury and pain in the lumbar region. Therefore, it is recommended that athletes with LBP use a belt when lifting heavy loads in order to transfer movement from the distal to the proximal segment correctly.

The Anatolian geography that hosted various civilizations throughout history carries traces of a wealthy cultural past. Currently it is possible to see traces of the historic and cultural diversity that Bandirma has as a part of this wealthy geography at Bandirma Museum. In the scope of the study belts and belt buckles exhibited at display cabinets number 5 and 6 at the grand exhibition hall of Bandirma Museum were examined. Samples examined during assessment were classified according to production and ornament methods after which description process was initiated. Measurement and photographing of the works have been completed. As a result of examination, it was understood that generally forging method was used in production of belts and belt buckles. It was understood that more than one decoration technique was used together in the production of the works. The purpose of my study could be presented as defining production and ornament properties of these handicrafts at the museum to discuss those aspects that display the artistic and esthetic understanding of their period of production. It could be argued that these movable cultural assets in Bandirma Museum display similarities with other examples in neighboring art circles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The aim of the publication is to design an analytical relationship for determining the bending coefficient measurable by belt friction. Following the results of the presented measurements, the theoretical assumption is verified that in the material of the belt stress arises during the friction of the contact surfaces, due to external forces and bending of the belt. Selected experiments of drawing a polypropylene belt at a constant speed over an aluminium cylindrical surface are carried out using a servo drive on a measuring bench with computer-controlled instrumentation. The results of friction and bending coefficient measurements are interpreted in connection with the setting of various input parameters (especially friction surfaces and belt thicknesses), at a constant shaft speed. The newly identified dimensionless bending coefficient of belt friction is a material coefficient with a comparative information value concerning the flexibility of the belt, suitably supplementing the friction Euler-Eytelwein coefficient. The presented publication can be suitably applied especially to the engineering educational process.

Introduction. Burial rites, which are a traditional object of research in archeology and ethnography, are one of most stable elements of ethnic culture. The costume and its individual elements took an important place in the funeral and memorial rites. The study of these rituals can reveal new aspects of the spiritual culture of the Mari people. Materials and Methods. The work is based on the comparison of archaeological and ethnographic materials, culturogical approach, methods of semantic, cultural and anthropological research. Results and Discussion. The reference of funeral and memorial rites to the passage rites determined the use of the elements of a wedding dress, including fur clothes and jewelry. The belt that served as a storage was an important part of the burial costume, as well as the sacrificial and ritual complexes of the ancient Mari tribes. Conclusion. Application of a culturological approach to the research of the funeral rituals of the Mari people allowed to conclude that the costume substituted the deceased, served as the embodiment of a generic body that went back to the totem. The funeral costume, like the wedding one, assumed the use of ancient symbolic codes. The belt that completed the symbolic human body was an important burial costume. The belt served as a defense in the ancient Mari sacrificial ritual complexes, enhancing their association with the world tree.