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Many currently available dynamic hand orthoses use articulated connections that have one degree of freedom, such as hinge joints. These orthoses are therefore only able to replicate the multiaxial range of motion of the human hand to a limited extent. A possible solution for replecating the multiaxial movements of the hand is the use of pre-stressed compliant structures as a basis for the orthoses. After a brief description of this concept, the two main first steps by the development, the so called form-finding and the wrist-joint force characterization by hand movements are explained with theoretical analysis based on the static Finite Element Method. The influence of the orthosis parameters, global stiffness and geometric dimensions as well as the influence of the wrist-joint position relative to the orthosis are discussed. Finally, the next planned development steps towards to the first prototype are outlined.
The minitrack contains contributions with a focus on simulation modeling and digital twins and decision making in the context of Industry 4.0. The use of simulation models and digital twins is manifold, from planning to virtual commission and real-time operational decision support. Cyber-physical systems integrate the real world and the virtual world to enable decision making in the age of Industry 4.0. For example, customer decisions and supply disruptions which directly influence manufacturing and logistics systems require immediate decisions. Thus, models must have the capability to support decision making in manufacturing as well as in internal and external logistics in real-time. Methods include discrete-event simulation, discrete-rate simulation, hybrid simulation, system dynamics simulation, the combination of simulation modeling with machine learning or optimization heuristics, prescriptive analytics, and adaptive systems. Furthermore, this minitrack addresses simulation education and simulation models used for education and training in manufacturing and logistics.
In order to determine the influence of the ondulations in fabrics on the damping properties of fiber-reinforced plastics, the structural dynamic properties of fabric- and unidirectionally reinforced plastics are investigated. The free decay behavior of flat beam-like specimens is investigated under fixed-free boundary conditions. As the material damping is consistently higher in fabric-reinforced specimens compared to unidirectionally reinforced ones, a contribution of an additionally acting mesomechanic kinematic in fabric weaves is implied. Based on a degree of ondulation, it is possible to classify the enhancement of the material damping and determine the corresponding energy dissipation. The study provides valuable quantitative relations of the additional damping effect due to the mesomechanic kinematic. Compared to the unidirectionally reinforced material, plain weave enhances the material damping by 37…52% at ˜OPL=0.0133 , whereas twill weave 2/2 enhances it by 31…40% at ˜OT2=0.0098 . The consideration of the findings contributes to a deeper understanding of the visco-elastic dynamic behavior of fabric-reinforced plastics and allows further applications in research, development, and industry.
In this paper a compliant tensegrity structure based on spatially curved compressed members is presented. Due to an internal variation of the prestress state the shape of the structure can be controlled. In particular, a modification of a cylindrical outer shape to a conical form is achieved. Regarding to the applications in mobile robotics this approach enables a steerable two-dimensional rolling locomotion system. Beside the consideration of the underlying non-holonomic constraints a simplified mechanical model an the corresponding equations of motion are derived for a predefined actuation principle. Various numerical simulations are evaluated focusing on the corresponding locomotion behavior. Based on these results a reliable actuation strategy to navigate in two dimensions is proposed.
BACKGROUND
IL-6 is a pleiotropic cytokine modulating inflammation and metabolic pathways. Its proinflammatory effect plays a significant role in organ failure pathogenesis, commonly elevated in systemic inflammatory conditions. Extracorporeal blood purification devices, such as the Advanced Organ Support (ADVOS) multi hemodialysis system, might offer potential in mitigating IL-6's detrimental effects, yet its efficacy remains unreported.
METHODS
We conducted a proof-of-concept in vitro study to assess the ADVOS multi system's efficacy in eliminating IL-6. Varying concentrations of IL-6 were introduced into a swine blood model and treated with ADVOS multi for up to 12 h, employing different blood and concentrate flow rates. IL-6 reduction rate, clearance, and dynamics in blood and dialysate were analyzed.
RESULTS
IL-6 clearance rates of 0.70 L/h and 0.42 L/h were observed in 4 and 12-h experiments, respectively. No significant differences were noted across different initial concentrations. Reduction rates ranged between 40 and 46% within the first 4 h, increasing up to 72% over 12 h, with minimal impact from flow rate variations. Our findings suggest that an IL-6-albumin interaction and convective filtration are implicated in in vitro IL-6 elimination with ADVOS multi.
CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrates for the first time an efficient and continuous in vitro removal of IL-6 by ADVOS multi at low blood flow rates. Initial concentration-dependent removal transitions to more consistent elimination over time. Further clinical investigations are imperative for comprehensive data acquisition.
Electromyostimulation (EMS) is an up-and-coming training method that demands further fundamental research regarding its safety and efficacy. To investigate the influence of different stimulation parameters, electrode positions and electrode sizes on the resulting voltage in the tissue, a tissue mimicking phantom is needed. Therefore, this study describes the fabrication of a hydrogel arm phantom for EMS applications with the tissue layers of skin, fat, blood and muscle. The phantom was dielectrically validated in the frequency range of 20 Hz to 100 Hz. We also conducted electromyography (EMG) recordings during EMS on the phantom and compared them with the same measurements on a human arm. The phantom reproduces the dielectric properties of the tissues with deviations ranging from 0.8% to more than 100%. Although we found it difficult to find a compromise between mimicking the permittivity and electrical conductivity at the same time, the EMS-EMG measurements showed similar waveforms (1.9-9.5% deviation) in the phantom and human. Our research contributes to the field of dielectric tissue phantoms, as it proposes a multilayer arm phantom for EMS applications. Consequently, the phantom can be used for initial EMS investigations, but future research should focus on further improving the dielectric properties.
Fused filament fabrication (FFF) is a widely used additive manufacturing process for producing functional components and prototypes. The FFF process involves depositing melted material layer-by-layer to build up 3D physical parts. The quality of the final product depends on several factors, including the component density and tensile strength, which are typically determined through destructive testing methods. X-ray microtomography (XCT) can be used to investigate the pore sizes and distribution. These approaches are time-consuming, costly, and wasteful, making it unsuitable for high-volume manufacturing. In this paper, a new method for non-destructive determination of component density and estimation of the tensile strength in FFF processes is proposed. This method involves the use of gradual error detection by sensors and convolutional neural networks. To validate this approach, a series of experiments has been conducted. Component density and tensile strength of the printed specimens with varying extrusion factor were measured using traditional destructive testing methods and XCT. The cumulative error detection method was used to predict the same properties without destroying the specimens. The predicted values were then compared with the measured values, and it was observed that the method accurately predicted the component density and tensile strength of the tested parts. This approach has several advantages over traditional destructive testing methods. The method is faster, cheaper, and more environmentally friendly since it does not require the destruction of the product. Moreover, it facilitates the testing of each individual part instead of assuming the same properties for components from one series. Additionally, it can provide real-time feedback on the quality of the product during the manufacturing process, allowing for adjustments to be made as needed. The advancement of this approach points toward a future trend in non-destructive testing methodologies, potentially revolutionizing quality assurance processes not only for consumer goods but various industries such as electronics or automotive industry. Moreover, its broader applications extend beyond FFF to encompass other additive manufacturing techniques such as selective laser sintering (SLS), or electron beam melting (EBM). A comparison between the old destructive testing methods and this innovative non-destructive approach underscores the possible fundamental change toward more efficient and sustainable manufacturing practices. This approach has the potential to significantly reduce the time and cost associated with traditional destructive testing methods while ensuring the quality of FFF-manufactured products.
Introduction
About 40 % of the women worldwide suffer from Pelvic Floor Dysfunctions [1]. In previous studies, musculoskeletal simulations helped to understand and facilitate the complex issues of musculoskeletal disorders in several different branches [2, 3]. A fundamental prerequisite for the generation of these models is to have a basic understanding of the stresses acting on the pelvic floor. The aim of this study is to investigate the biomechanical factors influencing the activity of the pelvic floor muscles by establishing a parameterised model.
Methods
To identify the factors that affect the pelvic floor muscles, the process is divided into several stages. The first step is to investigate the loads acting on the pelvic floor. For this, a simplified sagittal cross-sectional model of the upper body is analysed. The discretization of the abdominal cavity is presented with resulting force vectors representing the organs in the abdominal and pelvic region, the tensile force of the structures that fixate the organs as well as the intraabdominal pressure.
A second step is the examination of the basic mechanics of the pelvic floor muscles. As the functional anatomy of these muscles demonstrate differences compared to other muscle groups [4], the understanding of how they differ is crucial for the construction of musculoskeletal models.
After a static examination of loads on a simplified muscle model, an extended model including the physiological properties of a muscle must be involved in the considerations. Therefore, the influence of parameters such as the ideal muscle strength and fibre length, as well as elasticity or passive stiffness of the elements must be taken into account. The influencing factors of the variables can be analysed in a simplified pelvic floor muscle model by systematically changing the parameters.
Results
The process of analysing the factors influencing the activity of the pelvic floor muscles follows two main strategies. The review of the effects of the whole body identifies the forces acting on the pelvic floor muscles and effect their activity.
With the examination of the basic mechanics of a simplified pelvic floor muscle model a better understanding is achieved of how the pelvic floor muscles absorb the loads acting in the body.
Discussion
This process results in the main influence factors on the activity of the pelvic floor. The consequent parameters form the basis for a biomechanically justified construction of musculoskeletal simulation models of the pelvic floor. Nevertheless, it must be considered, that these mechanical studies represent simplifications of the reality.
References
1. Wang et al, Front Public Health, 10:975829, 2022.
2. Bulat et al., Curr Sports Med Rep, 18(6):210-216, 2019
3. Melzner et al., Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol, 264:306-313, 2021
4. Ashton-Miller et al., Ann N Y Acad Sci, 1101:266-96, 2007
Workflow for the development of a non-invasive feedback device to assess pelvic floor contractions
(2024)
Introduction
Pelvic floor disorders affect about 40% of women worldwide [1]. Pelvic floor muscle (PFM) training is both a preventive and a therapeutic intervention. Current PFM training devices are invasive and have little scientific evidence. The idea is to develop a noninvasive feedback device to assess adequate PFM contraction. Therefore, evidence-based female musculoskeletal models, non-invasive data acquisition, sensor technology and artificial intelligence (AI) will be combined. This work presents the workflow to achieve such a feedback device and describes the interaction of the technologies used.
Methods
Exercises that induce PFM contractions have been evaluated and defined. Motion capture of these exercises will provide input for female musculoskeletal models. A combination of biomechanical rigid body and FEM simulations will be used to estimate PFM contractions. In addition, a non-invasive sensor will measure pelvic floor activity. The simulated and measured data will be used to develop an AI model that provides feedback on PFM contractions based on non-invasive data collection.
Results
The AMMR (AnyBody Managed Model Repository) of the AnyBody modelling system (AMS, Aalborg, Denmark) serves as the initial model for performing inverse dynamic simulations of the exercises. To calculate the PFM forces, the full-body model must be supplemented with the relevant pelvic floor structures and a mass model of the internal organs. A modified abdominal pressure model must also be incorporated. The AMS calculates the PFM activities caused by the internal organ loads and the generated abdominal pressure during the exercises. The muscle activities are transferred to a FEM model of the female pelvic floor (SfePy, simple finite elements in Python). The identical pelvic floor structures were integrated into the FEM model as in the AMS. Active PFM contractions can be simulated using the FEM model. Movement of the coccyx due to PFM contractions has been reported in the literature [2,3]. Therefore, a noninvasive coccyx motion sensor will be developed to provide additional information on PFM contractions. The measured data (coccyx motion sensor, motion capture) and the simulation results of the models will be combined to create an AI feedback model using Python. The final feedback device will consist of the AI model and the developed coccyx motion sensor, which can reproduce the resulting PFM contractions based on the sensor data and simplified motion tracking.
Discussion
The creation of the AMS and the FEM model is a prerequisite for the development of the feedback device. The relevant structures in the models are located inside the body. This limits the ability to observe the structures during the exercises, which can lead to difficulties in model validation. The development of a user-friendly sensor with sufficient measuring accuracy of the coccyx motion is another challenge. Nevertheless, the workflow represents a promising approach to develop a noninvasive feedback system to assess PFM contraction.
References
1. Wang et al, Front Public Health, 10:975829, 2022.
2. Bø et al, Neurourol Urodyn, 20:167–174, 2001.
3. Fujisaki et al, J Phys Ther Sci, 30:544–548, 2018.
Acknowledgements
This work was supported by the project no. BYCZ01-014 of the Program INTERREG Bavaria – Czechia 2021–2027.
Introduction
Dislocation of the shoulder joint is one of the more common complications after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty [1], which is often associated with malposition of the prosthetic components [2]. Therefore, achieving sufficient shoulder stability should not be neglected when positioning the implant components. One parameter for assessing shoulder stability can be shoulder stiffness. The aim of this work is to develop a reverse shoulder implant prototype that allows intraoperative measurement of shoulder stiffness while varying the position of the implant components. The measured stiffness could provide a quantitative statement regarding the optimal positioning of the implant components, which can be adjusted accordingly in the final reverse shoulder prosthesis.
Methods
To measure the stiffness of the shoulder joint, it is necessary to record the joint angles and the torques generated during movement. The changes in the rotation angles were measured using 3D hall sensors and magnets. The magnets were placed under the humerosocket, and the hall sensors were integrated into the glenosphere. The strength of the magnetic field was used to determine the position of the humerosocket in relation to the glenosphere. The accuracies of the angle measurements were tested using a test bench.
Three thin film pressure sensors were used to record forces at different points under the humerosocket. To obtain a force value from the sensor signal, the sensors were calibrated using a load cell. The variation of the implant components positions was integrated into the prototype implant through different constructive mechanisms to adjust the stiffness of the shoulder joint.
Results
In the range of ±45° flexion/extension combined with ±15° adduction/abduction, the joint position could be determined with sufficient accuracy (error e ≤ 5°). The areas near the combined maximum deflections of ±45° flexion/extension and ±45° adduction/abduction indicate the greatest deviation from the target angle. The force values of the thin film sensors enable the calculation of moments around two axes. As variable component position parameters, the tray offset, the neck-shaft angle and the humerus version were integrated into the implant prototype.
Discussion
Ideally, the accuracy of the angle measurements should only depend on the amount of deflection and not on the direction of deflection. The asymmetric behavior indicates a deviation from the correct positioning of the hall sensors. The application of a calibration matrix could compensate for the measurement errors and could demonstrate the potential of the new method for joint angle measurements. The accuracy of the torque measurements and the functionality of the mechanical arresting mechanisms must be investigated in further studies. Overall, the developed measurement method can help to avoid malpositioning of the implant components in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty.
References
1. Clark et al, J Shoulder and elbow surgery, 21:36-41 2012.
2. Randelli et al, J Musculoskeletal surgery, 98:15-18, 2014.
Subject Specific Scaling Of Muscle Strengths In The Lower Extremity For Musculoskeletal Models
(2024)
During the hot pressing of pure titanium and different carbon steels in a temperature range of ϑ = 950–1050 °C, a compound layer up to dL≈10 μm thick is formed at the titanium–steel interface. With a higher carbon content of the used steel, the layer thickness increases. The carbon concentration within the layer is in the range of stoichiometry for TiC. Apart from TiC, no other phases can be detected by X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements inside the formed layer. The calculation of the activation energy for the TiC layer formation is Q = 126.5–136.7 kJ mol−1 and is independent of the carbon content of the steel. The resulting microstructure has a grain size gradient, wherein the mechanical properties, such as hardness and Young‘s modulus, are almost constant. Statistical analysis using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) indicates that the carbon content of the steel has the most significant influence on layer thickness, followed by annealing temperature and annealing time. By selecting the appropriate carbon steel and the subsequent removal of the steel, it is possible to produce targeted TiC layers on titanium substrates, which holds enormous potential for this material in wear-intensive applications.
Polyetheretherketone is a promising material for implants due to its good mechanical prop-
erties and excellent biocompatibility. Its accessibility to a wide range of applications is facilitated by the ability to process it with an easy-to-use manufacturing process such as fused filament fabrication. The elimination of disadvantages associated with the manufacturing process, such as a poor surface quality, is a main challenge to deal with. As part of the mass finishing process, centrifugal disc finishing has demonstrated good results in surface optimization, making it a promising candidate for the post-processing of additively manufactured parts. The objective of this study is to identify the key parameters of the centrifugal disc finishing process on the waviness of additively manufactured PEEK specimens, which has not been investigated previously. The waviness of the specimen was
investigated by means of confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), while weight loss was additionally tracked. Six parameters were investigated: type, amount and speed of media, use of compound, amount of water and time. Type of media, time and speed were found to significantly influence waviness reduction and weight loss. Surface electron microscopy images demonstrated the additional effects of deburring and corner rounding. Results on previous studies with specimens made of metal showed similar results. Further investigation is required to optimize waviness reduction and polish parts in a second post-processing step.
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have recently emerged as a potential link between inflammation, immunity, and thrombosis, as well as other coagulation disorders which present a major challenge in the context of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). By examining blood from ECMO patients for NETs and their precursors and correlating them with clinical and laboratory biomarkers of coagulation and inflammation, this study aims to evaluate the association between the presence of NETs in the bloodstream of ECMO patients and the development of potentially severe coagulation disorders during ECMO therapy.
Therefore, blood samples were collected from healthy volunteers (n=13) and patients receiving veno-venous (VV) ECMO therapy (n=10). To identify NETs and their precursors, DNA and myeloperoxidase as well as granulocyte marker CD66b were visualized simultaneously by immunofluorescence staining in serial blood smears. Differentiation of DNA-containing objects and identification of NETs and their precursors was performed semiautomatically by a specific algorithm using the shape and size of DNA staining and the intensity of MPO and CD66b signal.
Neutrophil extracellular traps and their precursors could be detected in blood smears from patients requiring VV ECMO. Compared to volunteers, ECMO patients presented significantly higher rates of NETs and NET precursors as well as an increased proportion of neutrophil granulocytes in all detected nucleated cells. A high NET rate prior to the initiation of ECMO therapy was associated with both increased iL-6 and TNF-α levels as an expression of a high cytokine burden. These patients with increased NET release also presented an earlier and significantly more pronounced decrease in platelet counts and ATIII activity following initiation of therapy compared with patients with less elevated NETs. These findings provide further indications for the development of immune-mediated acquired thrombocytopenia in ECMO patients.
The success of surgical treatment for fractures hinges on various factors, notably accurate surgical indication. The process of developing and certifying a new osteosynthesis device is a lengthy and costly process that requires multiple cycles of review and validation. Current methods, however, often rely on predecessor standards rather than physiological loads in specific anatomical locations. This study aimed to determine actual loads experienced by an osteosynthesis plate, exemplified by a standard locking plate for the femoral shaft, utilizing finite elements analysis (FEA) and to obtain the bending moments for implant development standard tests. A protocol was developed, involving the creation and validation of a fractured femur model fixed with a locking plate, mechanical testing, and FEA. The model’s validation demonstrated exceptional accuracy in predicting deformations, and the FEA revealed peak stresses in the fracture bridging zone. Results of a parametric analysis indicate that larger fracture gaps significantly impact implant mechanical behavior, potentially compromising stability. This study underscores the critical need for realistic physiological conditions in implant evaluations, providing an innovative translational approach to identify internal loads and optimize implant designs. In conclusion, this research contributes to enhancing the understanding of implant performance under physiological conditions, promoting improved designs and evaluations in fracture treatments.
AbstractTensegrity structures are prestressed structures consisting of compressed members connected by prestressed tensioned members. Due to their properties, such as flexibility and lightness, mobile robots based on these structures are an attractive subject of research and are suitable for space applications. In this work, a mobile robot based on a tensegrity structure with two curved members connected by eight tensioned strings is analyzed in terms of deformation in the curved members. Further, the difference in locomotion trajectory between the undeformed and deformed structure after the prestress is analyzed. For that, the theory of large deflections of rod-like structures is used. To determine the relationship between acting forces and the deformation, the structure is optimized using minimization algorithms in Python. The results are validated by parameter studies in FEM. The analysis shows that the distance between the two curved members significantly influences the structure’s locomotion. It can be said that the deformation of the components significantly influences the locomotion of tensegrity structures and should be considered when analyzing highly compliant structures.
Operational wear behaviour of 3D-printed lightweight metal gears: EDS and oil analysis comparison
(2024)
Additive manufacturing (AM) has come to the fore in recent years among manufacturing techniques. This technique, which has different advantages than traditional ones such as casting, forging and machining, is expected to be widely used in producing machine parts like gears in the coming years. Therefore, experimental data on AM parameters for lightweight metal gears are important for industrial production. In this study, a wear test was applied to AlSi10Mg and Ti6Al4V gears under operational conditions, and the wear behaviour of conventionally and additively manufactured gears was compared. The amount of abrasion elements was determined by analysing the oil in the gearbox. In addition, gear surfaces were analysed using scanning electron microscopy and an energy-dispersive spectrometer before and after wear. Thus, the wear behaviour of gears produced by conventional and AM under service conditions was demonstrated comparatively.
Using markerless motion capture and musculoskeletal models: An evaluation of joint kinematics
(2024)
BACKGROUND: This study presents a comprehensive comparison between a marker-based motion capture system (MMC) and a video-based motion capture system (VMC) in the context of kinematic analysis using musculoskeletal models. OBJECTIVE: Focusing on joint angles, the study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of VMC as a viable alternative for biomechanical research.
METHODS: Eighteen healthy subjects performed isolated movements with 17 joint degrees of freedom, and their kinematic data were collected using both an MMC and a VMC setup. The kinematic data were entered into the AnyBody Modelling System, which enables the calculation of joint angles. The mean absolute error (MAE) was calculated to quantify the deviations between the two systems.
RESULTS: The results showed good agreement between VMC and MMC at several joint angles. In particular, the shoulder, hip and knee joints showed small deviations in kinematics with MAE values of 4.8∘, 6.8∘ and 3.5∘, respectively. However, the study revealed problems in tracking hand and elbow movements, resulting in higher MAE values of 13.7∘ and 27.7∘. Deviations were also higher for head and thoracic movements.
CONCLUSION: Overall, VMC showed promising results for lower body and shoulder kinematics. However, the tracking of the wrist and pelvis still needs to be refined. The research results provide a basis for further investigations that promote the fusion of VMC and musculoskeletal models.
Absorber-free laser transmission welding enables precise and clean joining of polymer foils without absorbent additives or adhesives. It is well suited for applications in medical technology and food industry, which impose high demands on process reliability. To achieve a large process window and thus a reliable process, a homogeneous weld seam temperature is desirable. For this purpose, the intensity distribution of the laser beam is adapted locally by refractive beam shaping optics. Using a donut-shaped intensity distribution, the weld seam temperature is homogenized. Thus, the process window for welding polypropylene or polyethylene foils is enlarged up to a factor of 4 compared to a conventional, Gaussian-shaped distribution. This enables the reliable welding of even 85 µm thin foils, which could only be welded to a limited extent with a conventional laser intensity distribution.
Pelvic floor dysfunction is a common problem in women and has a negative impact ontheir quality of life. The aim of this review was to provide a general overview of the current state oftechnology used to assess pelvic floor functionality. It also provides literature research of the phys-iological and anatomical factors that correlate with pelvic floor health. The systematic review wasconducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library andIEEE databases were searched for publications on sensor technology for the assessment of pelvicfloor functionality. Anatomical and physiological parameters were identified through a manualsearch. In the systematic review 115 publications were included. 12 different sensor technologieswere identified. Information on the obtained parameters, sensor position, test activities and subjectcharacteristics were prepared in tabular form from each publication. 16 anatomical and physiologi- cal parameters influencing pelvic floor health were identified in 17 published studies and rankedfor their statistical significance. Taken together, this review could serve as a basis for the develop-ment of novel sensors which could allow for quantifiable prevention and diagnosis, as well as par-ticularized documentation of rehabilitation processes related to pelvic floor dysfunctions.
Pelvic floor dysfunction is a common problem in women and has a negative impact on their quality of life. The aim of this review was to provide a general overview of the current state of technology used to assess pelvic floor functionality. It also provides literature research of the physiological and anatomical factors that correlate with pelvic floor health. This systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. The PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, and IEEE databases were searched for publications on sensor technology for the assessment of pelvic floor functionality. Anatomical and physiological parameters were identified through a manual search. In the systematic review, 114 publications were included. Twelve different sensor technologies were identified. Information on the obtained parameters, sensor position, test activities, and subject characteristics was prepared in tabular form from each publication. A total of 16 anatomical and physiological parameters influencing pelvic floor health were identified in 17 published studies and ranked for their statistical significance. Taken together, this review could serve as a basis for the development of novel sensors which could allow for quantifiable prevention and diagnosis, as well as particularized documentation of rehabilitation processes related to pelvic floor dysfunctions.
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) was established as a treatment for severe cardiac or respiratory disease. Intra-device clot formation is a common risk. This is based on complex coagulation phenomena which are not yet sufficiently understood. The objective was the development and validation of a methodology to capture the key properties of clots deposed in membrane lungs (MLs), such as clot size, distribution, burden, and composition. One end-oftherapy PLS ML was examined. Clot detection was performed using multidetector computed tomography (MDCT), microcomputed tomography (μCT), and photography of fiber mats (fiber mat imaging, FMI). Histological staining was conducted for von Willebrand factor (vWF), platelets (CD42b, CD62P), fibrin, and nucleated cells (4′, 6-diamidino-2-phenylindole, DAPI). The three imaging
methods showed similar clot distribution inside the ML. Independent of the imaging method, clot loading was detected predominantly in the inlet chamber of the ML. The μCT had the highest accuracy. However, it was more expensive and time consuming than MDCT or FMI. The MDCT detected the clots with low scanning time. Due to its lower resolution, it only showed clotted areas but not
the exact shape of clot structures. FMI represented the simplest variant, requiring little effort and resources. FMI allowed clot localization and calculation of clot volume. Histological evaluation indicated omnipresent immunological deposits throughout the ML. Visually clot-free areas were covered with leukocytes and platelets forming platelet-leukocyte aggregates (PLAs). Cells were embedded in vWF cobwebs, while vWF fibers were negligible. In conclusion, the presented
methodology allowed adequate clot identification and histological classification
of possible thrombosis markers such as PLAs.
The use of intrinsically compliant tensegrity structures in manipulation systems is an attractive research topic. In this paper a 3D compliant robotic arm based on a stacked tensegrity structure consisting of x-shaped rigid members is considered. The rigid members are interconnected by a net of prestressed, tensioned members with pronounced intrinsic elasticity and by inelastic tensioned members. The system's motion is achieved by length-change of the inelastic tensioned members. The operating principle of the system is discussed with the help of kinematic considerations and verified by experiments.
Background and objectiveDue to the high prevalence of dental caries, fixed dental restorations are regularly required to restore compromised teeth or replace missing teeth while retaining function and aesthetic appearance. The fabrication of dental restorations, however, remains challenging due to the complexity of the human masticatory system as well as the unique morphology of each individual dentition. Adaptation and reworking are frequently required during the insertion of fixed dental prostheses (FDPs), which increase cost and treatment time. This article proposes a data-driven approach for the partial reconstruction of occlusal surfaces based on a data set that comprises 92 3D mesh files of full dental crown restorations.MethodsA Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) is considered for the given task in view of its ability to represent extensive data sets in an unsupervised manner with a wide variety of applications. Having demonstrated good capabilities in terms of image quality and training stability, StyleGAN-2 has been chosen as the main network for generating the occlusal surfaces. A 2D projection method is proposed in order to generate 2D representations of the provided 3D tooth data set for integration with the StyleGAN architecture. The reconstruction capabilities of the trained network are demonstrated by means of 4 common inlay types using a Bayesian Image Reconstruction method. This involves pre-processing the data in order to extract the necessary information of the tooth preparations required for the used method as well as the modification of the initial reconstruction loss.ResultsThe reconstruction process yields satisfactory visual and quantitative results for all preparations with a root mean square error (RMSE) ranging from 0.02 mm to 0.18 mm. When compared against a clinical procedure for CAD inlay fabrication, the group of dentists preferred the GAN-based restorations for 3 of the total 4 inlay geometries.ConclusionsThis article shows the effectiveness of the StyleGAN architecture with a downstream optimization process for the reconstruction of 4 different inlay geometries. The independence of the reconstruction process and the initial training of the GAN enables the application of the method for arbitrary inlay geometries without time-consuming retraining of the GAN.
Im Betrieb von Förderbändern auftretende Phänomene sind das Bandwandern in Achsrichtung der Walzen und die Bandverformung in der Bandebene [1, S. 142]. Das Bandwandern ist bisher detailliert untersucht [2–4], während die Bandverformung Gegenstand weniger Veröffentlichungen ist. Deshalb wird in diesem Artikel eine Methode zur Berechnung der sich im dynamischen Betrieb einstellenden Verformung eines elastischen Förderbandes vorgestellt. Dazu wird ein Mehrkörpersimulations-Modell basierend auf der Lumped-Mass-Modellierung verwendet. Als Untersuchungsbeispiel dient ein Zwei-Walzensystem mit flexiblen und zylindrischen Walzen, sowie ein flexibles Förderband. Es zeigt sich, dass mit der Lumped-Mass-Modellierung eine dynamische Bandverformung, die von der gewählten Diskretisierung abhängt, berechnet werden kann. Aufgrund dieser Abhängigkeit ist es notwendig eine Konvergenzanalyse durchzuführen. Zusätzlich ist darauf zu achten, dass die künstliche Anregung aufgrund der Lumped-Mass-Modellierung nicht mit einer Eigenfrequenz des Modells zusammenfällt.
Bei der Untersuchung und Optimierung der Getriebedynamik, im Sinne der Akustik und Lastverteilung, wird oftmals der Drehwegfehler als Bewertungskriterium herangezogen. Zahlreiche Forschungsvorhaben haben sich in diesem Zusammenhang intensiv mit dem Drehwegfehler als parametererregte Schwingungsanregung auseinandergesetzt, um diesen im Hinblick auf das Systemverhalten zu optimieren. Dabei bleibt der Zahnfußbereich, welcher außerhalb der Evolvente liegt, und dessen Einfluss auf den Drehwegfehler oftmals unberücksichtigt.
Dieser Artikel untersucht daher den Einfluss des Zahnfußbereiches auf den statischen Drehwegfehler, indem relevante Größen wie das spezifische Kopfspiel und der Fußrundungsradius an einer typischen und real eingesetzten Stirnradverzahnung variiert werden.
Ferner wird betrachtet, inwiefern der Drehwegfehler durch unterschiedliche Geometriedefinitionen (Fertigungssimulation, Zahngeometrie mit vereinfachter sowie stark vereinfachter Modellierung des Zahnfußbereichs) beeinflusst wird. Die Autoren nutzen hierfür zwei FE-Ansätze (adaptives und nicht-adaptives Netz) und bewerten diese hinsichtlich ihrer Gültigkeit, Modellgüte und Praktikabilität.
Die Ergebnisse der Untersuchungen werden hinsichtlich einer minimal erforderlichen Geometrie des Zahnfußbereiches interpretiert. Für den Praxistransfer wird einerseits der maximale Fehler bei Nichtberücksichtigung des gesamten Zahnfußbereichs beziffert.
Andererseits wird eine Empfehlung zur Anpassung einer vereinfachten Geometrie, an eine Geometrie, ähnlich der aus einer Fertigungssimulation, gegeben. Weiterhin wird der Artikel diskutieren, ob man ein vereinfachtes Zahnmodell zur Berechnung der Getriebedynamik nutzen kann, wenn der Fertigungsprozess noch nicht definiert ist.
Generative deep learning approaches for the design of dental restorations: A narrative review
(2024)
Objectives:
This study aims to explore and discuss recent advancements in tooth reconstruction utilizing deep learning (DL) techniques. A review on new DL methodologies in partial and full tooth reconstruction is conducted.
Data/Sources:
PubMed, Google Scholar, and IEEE Xplore databases were searched for articles from 2003 to 2023.
Study selection:
The review includes 9 articles published from 2018 to 2023. The selected articles showcase novel DL approaches for tooth reconstruction, while those concentrating solely on the application or review of DL methods are excluded. The review shows that data is acquired via intraoral scans or laboratory scans of dental plaster models. Common data representations are depth maps, point clouds, and voxelized point clouds. Reconstructions focus on single teeth, using data from adjacent teeth or the entire jaw. Some articles include antagonist teeth data and features like occlusal grooves and gap distance. Primary network architectures include Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) and Transformers. Compared to conventional digital methods, DL-based tooth reconstruction reports error rates approximately two times lower.
Conclusions:
Generative DL models analyze dental datasets to reconstruct missing teeth by extracting insights into patterns and structures. Through specialized application, these models reconstruct morphologically and functionally sound dental structures, leveraging information from the existing teeth. The reported advancements facilitate the feasibility of DL-based dental crown reconstruction. Beyond GANs and Transformers with point clouds or voxels, recent studies indicate promising outcomes with diffusion-based architectures and innovative data representations like wavelets for 3D shape completion and inference problems.
Clinical significance:
Generative network architectures employed in the analysis and reconstruction of dental structures demonstrate notable proficiency. The enhanced accuracy and efficiency of DL-based frameworks hold the potential to enhance clinical outcomes and increase patient satisfaction. The reduced reconstruction times and diminished requirement for manual intervention may lead to cost savings and improved accessibility of dental services.
The present paper takes a novel approach to production of fibre-reinforced thermoplastic tubes. The method begins with the raw materials, reinforcing fibre and thermoplastic granulate which are processed to tapes through a newly developed direct impregnation process. It is followed by consolidation of fibre-reinforced thermoplastic tubes using infrared (IR) emitters in the filament winding process. This process employs various angles and utilizes a rotatable consolidation axis. The winding process operates at a constant speed, addressing the challenge of bending the fibre-reinforced tapes in the angle reversal areas near the tube ends. Experiments have confirmed that the process can run at speeds reaching approximately 470 mm/min. The design of the impregnation line takes into account the properties of the thermoplastic and the roving, allowing for a speed of up to 1 m/s.
Transient surrogate modeling of modally reduced structures with discontinuous loads and damping
(2024)
In this work, a surrogate model for structural, transient and discontinuously excited finite element method simulations is developed. This allows to reduce the computational effort of repeated calculations of identical models under different load cases. The architecture of the surrogate combines fully connected neural network layers with long short-term memory layers. For the reproduction of different damping ratios, a categorical variable is added to the continuous input data. Based on a recursive flow of the predicted data back to the input layer, long-term dependencies do not vanish due to short-input sequences. The system dimension is reduced by applying the model-order reduction technique for modal decomposition. The high accuracy of the surrogate and the reduction of computational costs are shown on an academic example of a cantilever beam and a real-world example of a robot. The advantages of our approach are illustrated in comparison with state-of-the-art surrogates for transient finite element analysis. By using the surrogate proposed in this study, oscillations due to discontinuous excitation of mechanical structures can be reproduced. For this purpose, only short-input sequences are necessary since the excitation of the oscillations does not have to be part of the input sequence during the whole duration of the oscillations. Due to the categorical variable for the damping ratio, the surrogate can account for the influence of different damping in parameter studies.
In the early-stage development of sheet metal parts, key design properties of new structures must be specified. As these decisions are made under significant uncertainty regarding drawing configuration changes, they sometimes result in the development of new parts that, at a later design stage, will not be drawable. As a result, there is a need to increase the certainty of experience-driven drawing configuration decisions.
Complementing this process with a global sensitivity analysis can provide insight into the impact of various changes in drawing configurations on drawability, unveiling cost-effective strategies to ensure the drawability of new parts. However, when quantitative global sensitivity approaches, such as Sobol's method, are utilized, the computational requirements for obtaining Sobol indices can become prohibitive even for small application problems. To circumvent computational limitations, we evaluate the applicability of different surrogate models engaged in computing global design variable sensitivities for the drawability assessment of a deep-drawn component.
Here, we show in an exemplary application problem, that both a standard kriging model and an ensemble model can provide commendable results at a fraction of the computational cost. Moreover, we compare our surrogate models to existing approaches in the field. Furthermore, we show that the error introduced by the surrogate models is of the same order of magnitude as that from the choice of drawability measure. In consequence, our surrogate models can improve the cost-effective development of a component in the early design phase.
AbstractRegularized static friction models have been used successfully for many years. However, they are unable to maintain static friction in detail. For this reason, dynamic friction models have been developed and published in the literature. However, commercial multibody simulation packages such as Adams, RecurDyn, and Simpack have developed their own specific stick-slip models instead of adopting one of the public domain approaches. This article introduces the fundamentals of these commercial models and their behavior from a practical point of view. The stick-slip models were applied to a simple test model and a more sophisticated model of a festoon cable system using their standard parameters.
The human nose serves as the primary gateway for air entering the respiratory system and plays a vital role in breathing. Nasal breathing difficulties are a significant health concern, leading to substantial healthcare costs for patients. Understanding nasal airflow dynamics is crucial for comprehending respiratory mechanisms. This article presents a detailed study using tomo-Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) to investigate nasal airflow dynamics while addressing its accuracy. Embedded in the OpenNose project, the work described aims to provide a validation basis for different numerical approaches to upper airway flow. The study includes the manufacturing of a transparent silicone model based on a clinical CT scan, refractive index matching to minimize optical distortions, and precise flow rate adjustments based on physiological breathing cycles. This method allows for spatial high-resolution investigations in different regions of interest within the nasopharynx during various phases of the breathing cycle. The results demonstrate the accuracy of the investigations, enabling detailed analysis of flow structures and gradients. This spatial high-resolution tomo-PIV approach provides valuable insights into the complex flow phenomena occurring during the physiological breathing cycle in the nasopharynx. The study's findings contribute to advancements in non-free-of-sight experimental flow investigation of complex cavities under nearly realistic conditions. Furthermore, reliable and accurate experimental data is crucial for properly validating numerical approaches that compute this patient-specific flow for clinical purposes.
Test Setup for Investigating the Impact Behavior of Biaxially Prestressed Composite Laminates
(2024)
Instrumented impact testing and compression-after-impact testing are important to adequately qualify material behavior and safely design composite structures. However, the stresses to which fiber-reinforced plastic components are typically subjected in practice are not considered in the impact test methods recommended in guidelines or standards. In this paper, a test setup for investigating the impact behavior of composite specimens under plane uniaxial and biaxial preloading is presented. For this purpose, a special test setup consisting of a biaxial testing machine and a specially designed drop-weight tower was developed. The design decisions were derived from existing guidelines and standards with the aim of inducing barely visible impact damage in laminated carbon fiber-reinforced plastic specimens. Several measurement systems have been integrated into the setup to allow comprehensive observation of the impact event and specimen behavior. A feasibility test was performed with biaxially prestressed carbon fiber-reinforced plastic specimens in comparison with unstressed reference tests. The compressive-tensile prestressing resulted in lower maximum contact forces, higher maximum deflections, higher residual deflections and a different damage pattern, which was investigated by light microscopic analysis. Finally, the functionality of the experimental setup is discussed, and the results seem to indicate that the test setup and parameters were properly chosen to investigate the effect of prestresses on the impacts behavior of composite structures, in particular for barely visible subsequent damages.
Progress in additive manufacturing is leading to the emergence of new areas of application. Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) is increasingly used for the development of metallic medical implants, but for high-risk implants like vascular support structures (stents), surface quality is critical to ensure successful implantation without harming the surrounding tissue and ensure the patients’ health. Therefore, enhancing the surface quality is crucial. Electropolishing is a method for removing surface roughness by smoothing out micro-peaks and valleys. However, L-PBF structures have a high surface roughness due to metal particles adhering on the surface. To achieve a smooth surface for additively manufactured implants like stents using electropolishing, the removal of these particles needs to be studied in more detail.
The objective of this study is to examine the electropolishing mechanism of 316L stainless steel samples additively manufactured through Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF). The main objective is to investigate the removal properties and surface characteristics during electropolishing. To achieve this, various surfaces were characterized for morphology and roughness during Hull cell experiments. Markings are utilized on the Hull cell sample surfaces to identify points of interest during quasi-in-situ measurements. The surfaces are then analyzed after multiple time steps, applying different currents to investigate particle dissolution. The surface characteristics are analyzed through scanning electron microscopy, and surface roughness is analyzed using laser scanning microscopy.
The results show that the electropolishing process preferentially removes the adhering particles present on the surface of the samples. Increasing the current density results in faster particle dissolution and a smoother surface (see Figure 1a and b). The mechanism of material removal of various surface features, as shown in Figure 1 (red circle, yellow arrow and red square), was assessed based on the experimental results of the surface structures seen on the SEM images. It was found that different surface features were removed during the experiment at different polishing times and current densities. The amount of charge flowed was found to correlate with surface morphology.
Based on the obtained results, various surface features (such as large adherent particles, agglomerates of smaller particles, and valleys) and their changes with increasing test duration and current density were observed by quasi-in situ analyses. A reduction in the diameter of round particles adhering to the surface was observed at both low and higher current densities (see Figure 1a red circle a). Increasing the polishing time resulted in leveling of both large particles and valleys (see Figure 1b red square). Also, dissolution of agglomerates of smaller particles occurred at different polishing times as a function of current density and polishing time (see Figure 1a yellow arrow) are observed.
Smoothed surface structures can be observed in regions with equivalent surface charge density (see Figure 2). As a result, comparable surface morphologies may appear at the same area charge density, irrespective of a specific current density. So, it may be adequate to only consider the amount of charge flowed to describe the electropolishing of additive materials.
In conclusion, comprehending the dissolution characteristics of particles on L-PBF surfaces is essential for attaining satisfactory surface finish in electropolishing. The results of this study offer valuable perspectives into the electropolishing mechanism of additively manufactured 316L stainless steel and can guide future investigations on surface finishing and polishing of additive manufactured implants like stents.
Figure 1
Increasingly stringent emission limits have made particulate filters necessary for gasoline engines. Similar to diesel applications, gasoline particulate filters (GPFs) can be monitored by differential pressure measurement or by the radio-frequency-based filter diagnosis (RF sensor). In addition to measuring the soot loading, ash detection is critical for monitoring the GPF over the entire vehicle lifetime. Because the RF sensor detects the filter loading through a change in the dielectric properties of the GPF, it can detect not only soot but also ash. In diesel applications, the RF sensor has already demonstrated its potential for ash detection. To verify the feasibility of simultaneous ash and soot monitoring for GPFs, filters were loaded with ash on an engine test bench and measured on a lab test bench under defined synthetic exhaust gas conditions. By evaluating resonant modes, soot and ash could be clearly distinguished, as ash mainly affects the resonant frequency, while soot also changes the quality factor due to its high dielectric losses. However, higher soot loadings could not be detected by the resonant parameters, but instead by a frequency-averaged transmission signal. While the presence of ash caused an offset in this signal, its sensitivity to soot was not affected. Thus, the influence of ash can be corrected if the signal in the soot-free filter state is known, e.g., from the behavior of the resonant parameters. Therefore, even with a continuously increasing ash loading over the lifetime of a vehicle, an accurate soot detection is possible with the RF sensor.
Preliminary considerations on the form-finding of a tensegrity joint to be used in dynamic orthoses
(2024)
Early motion therapy plays an important role for effective long-term healing of joint injuries. In many cases, conventional dynamic orthoses fail to address the intricate movement possibilities of the underlying joints, limited by their simplistic joint representations, often represented by revolute joints, enabling rotations by only one axis. In this paper, a two-dimensional compliant tensegrity joint for use in biomedical applications is investigated. It consists of two compressed members and five compliant tensioned members. Relative movement possibilities are realized by the intrinsic compliance of the structure. In the development of these systems, the first step is the determination of the static stable equilibrium. This analysis is conducted in this paper by considering the potential energy approach or by using the geometric nonlinear finite element method. The mechanical behavior of the structure is assessed with a specific emphasis on its mechanical compliance. The primary objective of this study is the investigation of the influence of structural parameters on the overall stiffness and movability of the structure. The results underscore the significant effect of member parameters on the stiffness and movability of the compliant tensegrity joint, particularly under varying load magnitudes. These findings provide insights for optimizing the joint’s performance, contributing to its potential application in advanced orthotic and exoskeleton devices.
The pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus has claimed more than 6.5 million lives worldwide. This global challenge has led to accelerated development of highly effective vaccines tied to their ability to elicit a sustained immune response. While numerous studies have focused primarily on the spike (S) protein, less is known about the interior of the virus. Here we propose a methodology that combines several experimental and simulation techniques to elucidate the internal structure and mechanical properties of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The mechanical response of the virus was analyzed by nanoindentation tests using a novel flat indenter and evaluated in comparison to a conventional sharp tip indentation. The elastic properties of the viral membrane were estimated by analytical solutions, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations on a membrane patch and by a 3D Finite Element (FE)-beam model of the virion's spike protein and membrane molecular structure. The FE-based inverse engineering approach provided a reasonable reproduction of the mechanical response of the virus from the sharp tip indentation and was successfully verified against the flat tip indentation results. The elastic modulus of the viral membrane was estimated in the range of 7-20 MPa. MD simulations showed that the presence of proteins significantly reduces the fracture strength of the membrane patch. However, FE simulations revealed an overall high fracture strength of the virus, with a mechanical behavior similar to the highly ductile behavior of engineering metallic materials. The failure mechanics of the membrane during sharp tip indentation includes progressive damage combined with localized collapse of the membrane due to severe bending. Furthermore, the results support the hypothesis of a close association of the long membrane proteins (M) with membrane-bound hexagonally packed ribonucleoproteins (RNPs). Beyond improved understanding of coronavirus structure, the present findings offer a knowledge base for the development of novel prevention and treatment methods that are independent of the immune system.
Isogeometric sheet metal forming simulation is a numerical simulation technique that is used to predict the behavior of sheet metal parts during the forming process [1] and tries to tighten the link with the Computer Aided Design (CAD) description. This technique uses the isogeometric analysis (IGA) approach, which combines the well-established framework of traditional finite element analysis (FEA) and the power of non-uniform rational B-splines (NURBS). In contrast to the approach in a “classical” FEA framework, IGA directly uses the ansatzspace of the CAD geometry for analysis, which opens the possibility to work directly on the exact geometry. Furthermore, the smoothness of the NURBS basis functions results in a more accurate simulation [2].
A powerful method to reduce the computational effort is adaptive mesh refinement, that has been developed and optimized for sheet metal forming applications over several years for standard Finite Elements. However, it remains an open question how an efficient local adaptive mesh refinement strategy can be implemented for complex industrial sheet metal forming simulations based on trimmed NURBS models, which are typically the description in Boundary Representation (B-Rep) CAD-models [3]. First investigations for explicit dynamics have been made in [4].
In this contribution, a detailed comparison between FEA and IGA sheet metal forming applications is conducted. The state of the art for FEA and IGA will be contrasted and the need for an efficient adaptive mesh refinement strategy will be discussed. The goal of our research is to develop an efficient adaptive mesh refinement strategy for isogeometric sheet metal forming simulations in LS-DYNA. This will contribute to closing the efficiency gap between IGA and FEA in explicit dynamics, accelerate the product development process and enable the application of IGA in industrial sheet metal forming simulations.
In fatigue strength assessment, the methods based on ideal elastic stresses according to Basquin and the less established method based on elastic-plastic stress quantities according to Manson, Coffin and Morrow are applied. The former calculates loads using linear-elastic stresses, the latter requires elasticplastic evaluation parameters, such as stresses and strains. These can be determined by finite element analysis (FEA) with a linear-elastic constitutive law, and subsequent conversion to elastic-plastic loads, using the macro support formula by Neuber. In this contribution, an alternative approach to approximate elastic-plastic parameters proposed by Glinka is compared to the the strain-life method using Neuber's formula, as well as the stress-life method of Basquin. Several component tests on 42CrMoS4-QT specimens are investigated. To determine the input data for the fatigue strength evaluations, the entire test setup is computed by FEA. The nodal displacements from these validated full-model simulations are used as boundary conditions for a submodel simulation of a notch, whose results serve as input for the fatigue strength assessments. It is shown that all approaches provide a reliable assessment of components. Our key result is that the strain-life method using the concept by Glinka for notch stress computation, yields improved results in fatigue strength assessments.
Although magnesium and its alloys are promising candidates as biodegradable implant materials, the tendency for localized corrosion mechanism in physiological environment limit their biomedical application. Electropolishing is an attractive strategy for improving the corrosion behaviour of metals, but it is still largely unexplored in magnesium materials. In this study, the characterization of electropolished surfaces of AM50 and pure magnesium was performed, focussing on their in vitro degradation behaviour in cell medium. Corrosion rates were evaluated using potentiodynamic polarisation. The surface morphology before and after the onset of corrosion was investigated by scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The presented electropolishing process led to improved surface performances, observable by significantly lower corrosion rates (0.08 mm·year-1 in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium), lower arithmetical mean height (0.05 µm), lower water contact angle (25-35°) and lower micro hardness (35-50 HV 0.1) compared to mechanically and chemically treated surfaces. MgO/Mg(OH)2 could be detected on electropolished surfaces. The localized corrosion mode could be reduced, but not entirely prevented. Electropolishing shows great potential as post-treatment of magnesium-based components, but detailed tests of the long-term corrosion behaviour are an important area of future research.
One major goal of production system design is to decide on space requirements in the plant. In this phase, detailed information about the supply chain network (e.g. which suppliers deliver which parts) is often unavailable. Nevertheless, typical decisions in supply chain management, like the definition of replenishment processes and quantities or make-or-buy decisions, impact space requirements and the capital investment in raw materials. Therefore, it should be considered in factory and production planning. This research article proposes a simulation approach for a production simulation in which raw material replenishment is integrated to evaluate the capital investment and space requirements for raw materials.
A factory has to adapt to a future production program and increasing volumes. The planning of new factories must therefore already take expansion stages and reconfigurations into account. This leads to an increase in the complexity of planning, as different variants have to be planned and put into a chronologically reasonable and cost-optimized sequence. A factory data model that covers expansion stages manages the planning data amount and reduces complexity. Based on existing models from the literature, a factory data model was developed and modeled in the Unified Modeling Language standard. The factory data model shows which classes are interdependent and how planning results are stored reusable for other variants. An example is used to explain the developed factory data model and highlighting its advantages. The aim is to enable factory planners to document variant sequences and expansion stages in a comprehensible way, which supports the interdisciplinarity of factory planning projects.
The present study investigates the interface between carbon steel and titanium samples annealed at different temperatures (𝜗1 = 800 ◦C and 𝜗2 = 1050 ◦C). In both cases, an observable layer forms at the interface, with its thickness increasing from t𝜗1= 2.75 ± 0.15 μm at 800 ◦C to t𝜗2= 8.86 ± 0.29 μm at 1050 ◦C. The layer’s composition and thickness evolve with temperature. Analysis reveals approximately 40 at.-% carbon concentration in the exterior region, indicating likely titanium carbide creation. X-ray diffraction identifies titanium carbide peaks, while microscopy and elemental mapping confirm compositional gradients at the interface.
Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD) shows a gradient in grain size near the TiC surface, reflecting TiC nucleation rates. XRD data detect both titanium carbide and titanium phases, with TiC becoming more prominent at 1050 ◦C. Rietveld analysis further confirms TiC formation. Notably, distinct diffraction patterns on the contact and rear sides suggest a Ti(C, O, N) presence. Depth profiles exhibit varying surface and depth carbon concentrations, attributed to temperature effects. The study successfully demonstrates TiC coating fabrication through hot pressing, wherein Ti(C, O, N) coatings arise from titanium’s affinity for reacting with oxygen and nitrogen. This research contributes to the understanding of phase transformations and interfacial properties in titanium-carbon steel systems.
The low-cycle and high-cycle fatigue behavior of the Mg-base wrought alloy AZ31 is investigated in the temperature range 20– 300 °C using total-strain-controlled push – pull tests. It is shown that the mechanical properties of the material are substantially influenced by the direction dependent formation of deformation twins and resulting deformation asymmetry. As a consequence tensile mean stresses develop during total-strain-controlled fatigue tests without mean strain.
Effects of Deep Rolling on the Fatigue Behavior of Ti-6Al-4V at Ambient and Elevated Temperatures
(2003)
Several specimens of AZ31 magnesium alloy were taken in different directions from a rolled plate and subjected to tensile, compressive and four-point bending tests. Tensile and compressive tests allowed to characterize the mechanical properties of the material in the rolling and cross rolling directions. The bending tests were carried out in four different specimen types to take the effect of the anisotropy induced by the rolling procedure itself into account. Six strain gages per specimen allowed to observe the evolution of the strain with the bending moment during the tests. All bending specimens were bent until a total compressive deformation of 2.5 %. It was observed that the corresponding tensile strain was significant lower and slightly different for each specimen type. In addition, a characteristic non-uniform distribution of deformation twinning was observed. The induced residual stresses after bending were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and incremental hole-drilling (IHD). Due to the different mechanical behavior in tension and compression, an asymmetric residual stress distribution after bending could be observed. The neutral axis was, in all cases, shifted towards the tensile side. This observation agrees with the strain measurements during bending tests.
Review of elasto-static models for three-dimensional analysis of thick-walled anisotropic tubes
(2023)
Most shell or beam models of anisotropic tubes under bending have no validity for thick-walled structures. As a result, the need to develop three-dimensional formulations which allow a change in the stress, strain and displacement distributions across the radial component arises. Basic formulations on three-dimensional anisotropic elasticity were made either stressor displacement-based by Lekhnitskii or Stroh on plates. Lekhnitskii also was the first to expand these analytical formulations to tubes under various loading conditions. This paper presents a review of the stress and strain analysis of tube models using three-dimensional anisotropic elasticity. The focus lies on layered structures, like fiber-reinforced plastics, under various bending loads, although the basic formulations and models regarding axisymmetric loads are briefly discussed. One section is also dedicated to the determination of an equivalent bending stiffness of tubes.
Following a ban on many materials containing bisphenol-A, new bisphenol-free Boron silicates have been found as substitutes. The purpose of this study is to describe the mechanical properties of these bisphenol-free magnetoactive borosilicate polymers containing hard magnetic particles. Samples of 0%, 33% and 66% by wt. were loaded for compression using a universal testing machine. The maximum forces occurring for different travel speeds were compared before and after post-magnetization treatments. The post-magnetization included 2 stages. In addition, the change in mechanical properties within 24 hours after the post-magnetization process was investigated. Furthermore, the influence of speed and particle content were investigated. In general, there is a correlation between the required compressive force and, the level of post-magnetization stress, the increase in travel speed and particle content in the boron silicate. Comparison of the non-post-magnetized and post-magnetized samples using two-tailed t-tests shows that the p-values for all weight fraction changes in NdPrFeB particles and travel speeds are less than 0.001. Also, a comparison between tests in which the traverse speed was varied also showed significant changes in the resulting compression forces. The same is valid for changes in the weight ratio of the NdPrFeB particles in the samples. For post-magnetized samples, no significant difference can be observed in the first 24 hours following magnetization. In summary, the material presents viscoelastic, plastic force-displacement behavior, which can be well recognized by its bi-linear curve shape.
The investigation shows that borosilicate polymers based on NdPrFeB can have their mechanical behavior modified and controlled by post-magnetization processes. This opens new possibilities for many future applications.
BACKGROUND: Thrombosis remains a critical complication during venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV ECMO). The involvement of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in thrombogenesis has to be discussed. The aim was to verify NETs in the form of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in the plasma of patients during ECMO.
METHODS: A fluorescent DNA-binding dye (QuantifFluor®, Promega) was used to detect cell-free DNA in plasma samples. cfDNA concentrations from volunteers (n = 21) and patients (n = 9) were compared and correlated with clinical/technical data before/during support, ECMO end and time of a system exchange.
RESULTS: Before ECMO, patients with a median (IQR) age of 59 (51/63) years, SOFA score of 11 (10/15), and ECMO run time of 9.0 (7.0/19.5) days presented significantly higher levels of cfDNA compared to volunteers (6.4 (5.8/7.9) ng/μL vs. 5.9 (5.4/6.3) ng/μL; p = 0.044). Within 2 days after ECMO start, cfDNA, inflammatory, and hemolysis parameters remained unchanged, while platelets decreased (p = 0.005). After ECMO removal at the end of therapy, cfDNA, inflammation, and coagulation data (except antithrombin III) remained unchanged. The renewal of a system resulted in known alterations in fibrinogen, d-dimers, and platelets, while cfDNA remained unchanged.
CONCLUSION: Detection of cfDNA in plasma of ECMO patients was not an indicator of acute and circuit-induced thrombogenesis.
This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of a three-dimensional compliant tensegrity joint structure, examining its actuation, kinematics, and response to external loads. The study investigates a baseline configuration and two asymmetric variants of the joint. The relationship between the shape parameter and the parameters of the tensioned segments is derived, enabling the mathematical description of cable lengths for joint actuation. Geometric nonlinear static finite element simulations are performed to analyze the joint's response under various load conditions. The results reveal the joint's range of motion, the effect of different stiffness configurations, and its deformation behavior under external forces. The study highlights the asymmetric nature of the joint and its potential for targeted motion restriction. These findings advance the general understanding of the behavior of the considered tensegrity joint and provide valuable insights for their design and application in soft robotic systems.
Theoretical considerations on a 2D compliant tensegrity joint in context of a biomedical application
(2023)
In this paper, a two-dimensional compliant tensegrity joint was investigated for potential biomedical applications such as orthotics or exoskeletons. The structure consists of two compressed members connected by five compliant tensioned members. The concept is based on the tensegrity principle, which allows the realization of dynamic orthoses without conventional hinge joints. Another advantage is the adaptability to the individual needs of the patient through a suitable design of the structure and the careful selection of the characteristics of the elements. Using geometric nonlinear analysis, the mechanical behavior of the structure was investigated, focusing on mechanical compliance. The main objective was to determine the influence of the initial length and stiffness of the tensioned members and the influence of the magnitude of external forces on the overall stiffness of the movable member of the structure. The results highlight the significant impact of member parameters on the structure's stiffness and movability under varying load magnitudes. The research laid the foundation for future development of dynamic orthoses based on this structure.
Combined Ash and Soot Monitoring in Gasoline Particulate Filters with a Radio-Frequency-Based Sensor
(2022)
In recent years, it turned out that primarily the number of ultrafine particles and not their mass is relevant in terms of harmful health effects. Therefore, exhaust emission standards are constantly being tightened with regard to the particulate number. To meet the emission limits, particulate filters have become necessary for gasoline engines. Similar to diesel applications, gasoline particulate filters (GPFs) can be monitored via differential pressure measurement or via a radio-frequency approach (RF-sensor). The latter is based on the influence of the soot conductivity on the electromagnetic field. To control the GPF, ash detection is of crucial importance besides the soot load monitoring. With the differential pressure system, this is only possible with high uncertainties due to the low pressure increase caused by ash. The RF-sensor, however, has already demonstrated its potential for ash detection in diesel applications. In order to verify the applicability of the system for GPFs, filters were loaded via a method for fast ash loading. Thereby, it was shown that by evaluating resonant modes – especially the resonant frequency – the ash loading can easily be measured as long as the filter is soot-unloaded. In contrast, soot loading can be determined independently from this by considering a frequency-averaged transmission signal between the antennas of the RF-sensor. Using a setup for radio-frequency material characterization, the dielectric parameters of the generated ash were also measured. In comparison with the properties of the synthetic soot PrintexU, ash showed significantly lower dielectric losses. Thus, the evaluation of the loss-dependent quality factor, which is only possible at low soot loadings, allows a precise conclusion whether the filter is completely soot-free. Furthermore, using synthetic soot loading, it could be shown that soot detection via the averaged transmission signal is not affected by ash. In summary, it could be shown that with the RF-sensor, ash and soot can be simultaneously detected.
In this paper, the movement behavior of amoeboid locomotion system is investigated and the theoretical proof of the locomotion of the system is provided with the finite element method. It is shown that not only the speed of locomotion but also its direction can be influenced by the drive frequency. Depending on the drive frequency, a movement from the home position and a subsequent movement in opposite directions can be achieved. In addition, high speeds of movement can be achieved in a limited frequency range.
BACKGROUND:
Tracheobronchial mucus plays a crucial role in pulmonary function by providing protection against inhaled pathogens. Due to its composition of water, mucins, and other biomolecules, it has a complex viscoelastic rheological behavior. This interplay of both viscous and elastic properties has not been fully described yet. In this study, we characterize the rheology of human mucus using oscillatory and transient tests. Based on the transient tests, we describe the material behavior of mucus under stress and strain loading by mathematical models.
METHODS:
Mucus samples were collected from clinically used endotracheal tubes. For rheological characterization, oscillatory amplitude-sweep and frequency-sweep tests, and transient creep-recovery and stress-relaxation tests were performed. The results of the transient test were approximated using the Burgers model, the Weibull distribution, and the six-element Maxwell model. The three-dimensional microstructure of the tracheobronchial mucus was visualized using scanning electron microscope imaging.
RESULTS:
Amplitude-sweep tests showed storage moduli ranging from 0.1 Pa to 10000 Pa and a median critical strain of 4 %. In frequency-sweep tests, storage and loss moduli increased with frequency, with the median of the storage modulus ranging from 10 Pa to 30 Pa, and the median of the loss modulus from 5 Pa to 14 Pa. The Burgers model approximates the viscoelastic behavior of tracheobronchial mucus during a constant load of stress appropriately (R2 of 0.99), and the Weibull distribution is suitable to predict the recovery of the sample after the removal of this stress (R2 of 0.99). The approximation of the stress-relaxation test data by a six-element Maxwell model shows a larger fit error (R2 of 0.91).
CONCLUSIONS:
This study provides a detailed description of all process steps of characterizing the rheology of tracheobronchial mucus, including sample collection, microstructure visualization, and rheological investigation. Based on this characterization, we provide mathematical models of the rheological behavior of tracheobronchial mucus. These can now be used to simulate mucus flow in the respiratory system through numerical approaches.
LuGre or not LuGre
(2023)
The LuGre model is widely used in the analysis and control of systems with friction. Recently, it has even been made available in the commercial multibody dynamics simulation software system Adams. However, the LuGre model exhibits well-known drawbacks like too low and force rate-dependent break-away forces, drift problems during sticking periods, and significant differences in non-stationary situations between the pre-defined friction law and the one produced by the LuGre model. In the present literature, these problems are supposed to come from the model dynamics or its nonlinear nature. However, most of these drawbacks are not simple side effects of a dynamic friction model but are caused in the LuGre approach, as shown here, by a too simple and inconsistent model of the bristle dynamics. Standard examples and a more practical application demonstrate that the LuGre model is not a “what you see is what you get” approach. A dynamic friction model with accurate bristle dynamics and consistent friction force is set up here. It provides insight into the physical basis of the LuGre model dynamics. However, it results in a nonlinear and implicit differential equation, whose solution will not be easy because of the ambiguity of the friction characteristics. The standard workaround, a static model based on simple regularized characteristics, produces reliable and generally satisfactory results but definitely cannot maintain a stick. The paper presents a second-order dynamic friction model, which may serve as an alternative. It can maintain a stick and produces realistic and reliable results.
Titanium is used in many areas due to its excellent mechanical, biological and corrosion-resistant properties. Implants often have thin and filigree structures, providing an ideal application for fine cutting with laser. In the literature, the main focus is primarily on investigating and optimizing the parameters for titanium sheets with thicknesses greater than 1 mm. Hence, in this study, the basic manufacturing parameters of laser power, cutting speed and laser pulse of a 200 W modulated fiber laser are investigated for 0.15 mm thick grade 2 titanium sheets. A reproducible, continuous cut could be achieved using 90 W laser-power and 2 mm/s cutting-speed. Pulse pause variations between 85 and 335 μs in 50 μs steps and a fixed pulse width of 50 μs show that a minimum kerf width of 23.4 μm, as well as a minimum cut edge roughness Rz of 3.59 μm, is achieved at the lowest pulse pause duration. An increase in roughness towards the laser exit side, independent of the laser pulse pause duration, was found and discussed. The results provide initial process parameters for cutting thin titanium sheets and thus provide the basis for further investigations, such as the influence of cutting gas pressure and composition on the cut edge.
Friction has long been an important issue in multibody dynamics. Static friction models apply appropriate regularization techniques to convert the stick inequality and the non-smooth stick–slip transition of Coulomb’s approach into a continuous and smooth function of the sliding velocity. However, a regularized friction force is not able to maintain long-term stick. That is why dynamic friction models were developed in recent decades. The friction force depends herein not only on the sliding velocity but also on internal states. The probably best-known representative, the LuGre friction model, is based on a fictitious bristle but realizes a too-simple approximation. The recently published second-order dynamic friction model describes the dynamics of a fictitious bristle more accurately. It is based on a regularized friction force characteristic, which is continuous and smooth but can maintain long-term stick due to an appropriate shift in the regularization. Its performance is compared here to stick–slip friction models, developed and launched not long ago by commercial multibody software packages. The results obtained by a virtual friction test-bench and by a more practical festoon cable system are very promising. Thus, the second-order dynamic friction model may serve not only as an alternative to the LuGre model but also to commercial stick–slip models.
Owing to increasingly stringent emission limits, particulate filters have become mandatory for gasoline-engine vehicles. Monitoring their soot loading is necessary for error-free operation. The state-of-the-art differential pressure sensors suffer from inaccuracies due to small amounts of stored soot combined with exhaust gas conditions that lead to partial regeneration. As an alternative approach, radio-frequency-based (RF) sensors can accurately measure the soot loading, even under these conditions, by detecting soot through its dielectric properties. However, they face a different challenge as their sensitivity may depend on the engine operation conditions during soot formation. In this article, this influence is evaluated in more detail. Various soot samples were generated on an engine test bench. Their dielectric properties were measured using the microwave cavity perturbation (MCP) method and compared with the corresponding sensitivity of the RF sensor determined on a lab test bench. Both showed similar behavior. The values for the soot samples themselves, however, differed significantly from each other. A way to correct for this cross-sensitivity was found in the influence of exhaust gas humidity on the RF sensor, which can be correlated with the engine load. By evaluating this influence during significant humidity changes, such as fuel cuts, it could be used to correct the influence of the engineon the RF sensor.
Product sounds with clearly audible tonal components are often perceived as unpleasant or annoying. If different simultaneously operating aggregates are present in a system, for example vehicle engines and gearboxes, the interaction of tonal components, similar to music, can evoke additional sensations in human auditory perception. Supplementary to a pronounced tonality, such sounds can also yield distinct degrees of consonance or dissonance between tones. Previous studies showed that the perceived dissonance had a high impact on preference judgements for sounds with similar tonality. In experiments of the present study, sounds that differed in tonality were rated with respect to the auditory sensations sharpness, tonality and dissonance by one group of participants while another group only carried out a preference task. Thereout a model for predicting perceived preference is derived from the subjective judgements of auditory sensations. The performance of the preference predictions based on subjective udgements will be compared against purely model-based predictions using different algorithms for acoustic attributes.
Fused layer modeling (FLM) is widely used and is gaining more acceptance in the industry mainly due to its material variety and low costs. However, the usage is limited by a process-related anisotropy of the produced parts. The strength and ductility of the printed parts are significantly lower in the build-up direction than perpendicular to it. This is caused by insufficient interlayer bonding resulting from a reduced surface temperature in the process zone. To overcome this problem, a diode laser is integrated into the conventional FLM process to increase the surface temperature between the already printed surface and the newly applied substrate directly at the deposition zone. The investigations carried out show a significant improvement in the mesostructure, as well as a clear reduction in the anisotropy of the printed test specimens.
This work aims first to develop a dynamic lumped model for the isothermal reactions of hydrogen/steam with a single iron oxide/iron pellet inside a tubular reactor and to validate the model results against the experimental reaction kinetic data with the help of our STA device. To describe the temporal change in mass, and consequently, the temporal heat of reaction, the shrinking core model, based on the geometrical contracting sphere, is applied. It turned out that, the simulation model can reproduce the experimental, temporal concentration and temperature-dependent conversion rates with a maximum deviation of 4.6% during the oxidation reactions and 3.1% during the reduction reactions. In addition, a measured isothermal storage process comprising one reduction and one oxidation phase with a holding phase in between on a single reacting pellet could be reproduced with a maximum absolute deviation in the conversion rate of 1.5%. Moreover, a lumped, non-isothermal simulation model for a pelletized tubular redox-reactor including 2kg of iron oxide pellets has been established, in which the heat of reaction, heat transfer to the ambient and heat transfer between the solid and gas phases are considered. The temporal courses of the outlet gas concentration as well as the temperatures of the gas stream and the solid material at a constant input gas flow rate and a constant reacting gas inlet concentration but different input gas temperatures are estimated. Because of the endothermic nature of the reduction reaction, the inlet reacting gas temperature shall be kept high to prevent the severe temperature drop in the solid phase and, consequently, the significant reduction of the reaction rate. Contrary to that, the oxidation process requires lower input gas temperatures to avoid the excessive overheating of the reaction mass and, consequently, the sintering of the reacting pellets. Finally, five of the previous reactors have been connected in series to explore the influence of the changing inlet gas temperatures and concentrations on the dynamic performance of each storage mass.
Absorber-free laser transmission welding enables clean and precise joining of plastics without additives or adhesives. It is therefore well suited to produce optical and medical devices, which place high demands on cleanliness and accuracy.
However, the weld usually has an undesirably large vertical expansion, causing bulges and distortion. To improve this, the intensity distribution of the laser beam as well as the processing strategy must be adapted. Due to the complexity, this is aided by process simulation. However, simulation parameter calibration and verification are usually done considering the seam width and height, which is of limited significance. To overcome this, we propose a new method for image processing of microtome sections, determining the spatially resolved geometry of the weld. Thus, the deviation between experiment and simulation can be calculated pixel by pixel. This spatially resolved value is predestined for the calibration of the simulation parameters: For a parameter field with 18 different settings, the total deviation between experiment and simulation is less than 11 % after calibration.
To avoid dislocation of the shoulder joint after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, it is important to achieve sufficient shoulder stability when placing the implant components during surgery. One parameter for assessing shoulder stability can be shoulder stiffness. The aim of this research was to develop a temporary reverse shoulder implant prototype that would allow intraoperative measurement of shoulder stiffness while varying the position of the implant components. Joint angle and torque measurement techniques were developed to determine shoulder stiffness. Hall sensors were used to measure the joint angles by converting the magnetic flux densities into angles. The accuracy of the joint angle measurements was tested using a test bench. Torques were determined by using thin-film pressure sensors. Various mechanical mechanisms for variable positioning of the implant components were integrated into the prototype. The results of the joint angle measurements showed measurement errors of less than 5° in a deflection range of ±15° adduction/abduction combined with ±45° flexion/extension. The proposed design provides a first approach for intra-operative assessment of shoulder stiffness. The findings can be used as a technological basis for further developments.
Microchips are intensively used in almost all nowadays electronic devices. With the continuous advancement of our technologies, they get smaller in size than ever before. They generate high-intensity heat loads that need to be transported effectively such that they may function properly. Heat pipes have proven to be very effective in transporting relatively large heat loads from miniature components. They are of seamless structure that involves a working fluid capable of evaporation and condensation at the working temperature of the electronic chips. The working fluid is derived to move from the condenser to the evaporator via multiple microgrooves using capillary forces. It is important that the condensate reaches the evaporator at a proper rate such that no dry-out or flooding occur. In this work, we are particularly interested in the case of capillary-driven flows in rectangular microchannels. A generalized model is developed that works for axe-symmetric rectangular channels of arbitrary, moderately varying width profiles. It also accounts for any contrast of viscosity between the liquid and the vapor under isothermal conditions. The model shows to reduce to the special case of imbibition in straight and uniform microchannels, for which comparisons with experimental and modeling works show an excellent match. Cases representing linearly and quadratically varying converging/diverging width profiles have been explored. It is found that the viscosity ratio has a significant influence on the rate at which the meniscus advances. The model also negates the common practice found in the literature of using the formula developed for imbibition rates in capillary tubes for rectangular microchannels by replacing the diameter of the tube with the hydraulic diameter. It is also found that the channel profile has an influential effect on the imbibition rates. For tapered microchannels, the capillary force increases along the channel length while it decreases for diverging ones. It is interestingly demonstrated that, for quadratically tapered microchannel, the speed of the meniscus increases towards the end of the microchannel compared with linearly varying microchannels. On the other hand, for diverging microchannels, the speed of the meniscus decreases due to the increase in the cross-sectional area. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis has been conducted to provide a framework for confirmation and verification for which very good match has been established, which builds confidence in the modeling approach.
Developing new deep-drawn sheet metal parts is a challenging task due to conflicting demands for low costs, durability, and crash properties. Ensuring manufacturability throughout geometrical changes adds to the complexity, leading engineers to rely on experience-driven iterative design changes that compromise requirements and lack reproducibility. Finite Element (FE) simulation models are employed to ensure manufacturability, albeit at the expense of high computational costs and delays in part development.
To improve efficiency, a Machine learning (ML)-centered approach was proposed to ensure manufacturability. However, the limited availability of data raises uncertainty about whether a low- or high-dimensional ML approach is most suitable for drawability assessment.
This work compares the accuracy of a low-dimensional, feature-based Linear Support Vector surrogate and an adapted high-dimensional PointNet model under different dataset sizes. The dataset is composed of parametrically generated, U-shaped structural sheet metal parts.
We use a one-step simulation scheme and evaluate results with a Forming Limit Diagram (FLD) to label drawability. Results show the point of transition to be at about 500 training samples, from which onwards Deep learning is advantageous.
Moreover, the generalizability of these models is tested on a second dataset with topologically similar components. This is to assess the potential for a geometrically more comprehensive evaluation. We discuss several influences on model performances and outline future potentials.
New structural sheet metal parts are developed in an iterative, time-consuming manner. To improve the reproducibility and speed up the iterative drawability assessment, we propose a novel low-dimensional multi-fidelity inspired machine learning architecture. The approach utilizes the results of low-fidelity and high-fidelity finite element deep drawing simulation schemes. It hereby relies not only on parameters, but also on additional features to improve the generalization ability and applicability of the drawability assessment compared to classical approaches. Using the machine learning approach on a generated data set for a wide range of different cross-die drawing configurations, a classifier is trained to distinguish between drawable and non-drawable setups. Furthermore, two regression models, one for drawable and one for non-drawable designs are developed that rank designs by drawability. At instantaneous evaluation time, classification scores of high accuracy as well as regression scores of high quality for both regressors are achieved. The presented models can substitute low-fidelity finite element models due to their low evaluation times while at the same time, their predictive quality is close to high-fidelity models. This approach may enable fast and efficient assessments of designs in early development phases at the accuracy of a later design phase in the future.
Heat staking is a joining technology by which thermoplastic pins are formed by force and temperature to create a form- and force-fitting connection between components. This paper examines the characteristics of 3D printed pins in comparison to conventionally turned pins for heat staking applications. The 3D printed pins are created using fused layer modeling, with variations in horizontal and vertical building directions, as well as different layer thicknesses. The study investigates the impact of significant factors on the heat staking process, including the forming force and temperature. Tensile tests, micrographs, and micro-CT measurements were conducted to determine the properties of the heat-staked joints. Additionally, a stage plan was developed to enhance the understanding of the forming process of both printed and conventionally turned materials. The findings suggest that, under specific process parameters, 3D printed pins exhibit comparable strength to conventionally manufactured pins. The research also demonstrates that the anisotropy resulting from the layer-by-layer construction of the pins significantly influences the strength of the connection. Furthermore, the study reveals that 3D printed pins exhibit good forming accuracy during the heat staking process, and the cavities formed during printing can be substantially reduced.
Appropriate climate change mitigation requires solutions for all actors of the energy system. The residential sector is a major part of the energy system and solutions for the implementation of a seasonal hydrogen storage system in residential houses has been increasingly discussed. A global analysis of prosumer systems including seasonal hydrogen storage with water electrolyser, hydrogen compressor, storage tank, and a fuel cell studying the role of such a seasonal household storage in the upcoming decades is not available. This study aims to close this research gap via the improved LUT-PROSUME model, which models a fully micro sector coupled residential photovoltaic prosumer system with linear optimisation for 145 regions globally. The modelling of the cost development of hydrogen storage components allows for the simulation of a residential system from 2020 until 2050 in 5-year steps in hourly resolution. The systems are cost-optimised for either on- or off-grid operation in eight scenarios including battery electric vehicles, which can act as an additional vehicle-to-home electricity storage for the system. Results show that implementation of seasonal hydrogen systems only occurs in least cost solutions in high latitude countries when the system is forced to run in off-grid mode. In general, a solar photovoltaic plus battery system including technologies that can cover the heat demand is the most economic choice and can even achieve lower cost than a full grid supply in off-grid operation for most regions until 2050. Additional parameters including the self-consumption ratio, the demand cover ratio, and the heat cover ratio can therefore not be improved by seasonal storage systems if economics is the main deciding factor for a respective system. Further research opportunities and possible limitations of the system are then identified.
Mechanical surface treatments such as deep rolling or laser-shock peening can markedly affect the cyclic performance of light-weight alloys, especially if significant thick work hardened surface regions are induced. At room temperature, the cyclic deformation behaviour is strongly influenced by the nature of the induced near-surface microstructures provided that they remain stable during fatigue loading. At elevated temperatures, the stability of near-surface work hardening and local microstructures plays an even more important role since the process-induced residual compressive stresses are likely to anneal out partially or completely. This overview illustrates to what extent deep rolling can effect the cyclic performance of various wrought light alloys being fatigue loaded in stress control at ambient and elevated temperatures.
Mechanical surface treatments, such as deep rolling, shot peening and laser shock peening, can significantly improve the fatigue behavior of highly stressed metallic components. Deep rolling is an especially attractive technique since it is possible to generate deep, near-surface compressive residual stresses and work hardening while retaining a relatively smooth surface finish. Indeed, this technique is best known for increasing the fatigue strength and lifetime of steel components such as crankshafts. Although most work on deep rolling has been on steels, recently it has also been applied with reasonable success to titanium alloys. Accordingly, in this investigation, we examine the effect of deep rolling on the high-cycle fatigue behavior of Ti-6Al-4V, with particular emphasis on the thermal and mechanical stability of the residual stress states and near-surface microstructures. Preliminary results on laser shock peened Ti-6Al-4V are also presented for comparison. In addition, we examine whether these surface treatments are effective in retaining fatigue strength at the higher temperatures of 300 to 450C. Based on the cyclic deformation and stress/life behavior, together with the X-ray and microstructural observations, it is found that deep rolling can be quite effective in retarding the initiation and initial propagation of fatigue cracks in Ti-6Al-4V at such higher temperatures, despite the almost complete relaxation of the residual stresses at the surface. This clearly implies that, in addition to residual stresses, near-surface microstructures, which in Ti-6Al-4V consist of ultrafine near-surface nanostructures, play a critical role in the enhancement of fatigue lifetimes by mechanical surface treatments.
In this paper, the high-temperature fatigue behavior and residual stress states of a Ti-6Al-4V alloy are investigated after mechanical surface treatment. In particular, the two surface treatments investigated, laser shock peening and deep rolling, were observed to result in significantly different residual stress states. The consequent isothermal fatigue behavior at elevated temperatures, characterized using cyclic deformation curves, are discussed in terms of the stability of the near-surface work hardening and compressive residual stresses. Despite pronounced relaxation of the residual stresses, both laser shock peening and deep rolling led to a significant improvement in the cyclic deformation behavior and, hence, increased fatigue lifetimes at elevated temperatures as compared to untreated materials states.
Dual front steering axles are quite common in multi-axled heavy duty trucks. In standard layouts of such axle combinations, the steer motions of the wheels depend not only on the rotation of the steering wheel but also on the movements of the axles. As a consequence, the model complexity of the steering system should match with the complexity of the suspension model. The development of new technologies like advanced driver assistance systems or autonomous driving can only be accomplished efficiently using extensive simulation methods. Such kind of applications demand for computationally efficient vehicle models. This paper presents a steering system model for dual front axles of heavy duty trucks which supplements the suspension model of the axles. The model takes the torsional compliance of the steering column as well as the stiffness of the tie rods and the coupling rod into account. A quasi-static solution provides a straight forward computation including the partial derivatives required for an efficient implicit solver. The steering system model matches perfectly with comparatively lean, but sufficiently accurate multibody suspension models.
A prototype of a thermal insulation system to offer high selectivity of the solar gain regarding the solar incidence angle (SATIS) was applied to a typical solid brick masonry for existing buildings in Germany. Light conducting elements (LCEs) inclined at 19 ° were incorporated in SATIS, which equals the average solar noon angle in southern Germany during winter. The entire wall construction was experimentally investigated in a differential climatic chamber test bench at four different irradiation angles according to a dynamic test procedure. In addition, a conventional wall construction (CWC) has been measured. At SATIS’ design angle of 19 °, the SATIS wall construction shows a solar gain (SG) of 394.5 Wh/m², while the SG of the CWC amounts to only 25.4 Wh/m². The validated transient model of the SATIS wall construction showed that, at the end of the irradiation period of the dynamic test procedure (8 h), the solar heat penetrates to a depth of 253 mm and 111 mm inside the 385 mm thick brick wall masonry at the irradiation angles of 19 ° and 50 °, respectively. During the same time, the stored solar energy at 50 ° amounts to only 24.4 % of that stored at 19 °.
Introduction The most well known effect of mechanical surface treatments on metallic materials is the improvement in fatigue properties. It is therefore not surprising that most of the archival literature on mechanical surface treatments, such as shot peening, deep rolling and laser shock peening, deals with the effect of near-surface properties on fatigue behavior. Most of these studies, however, are confined to room temperature fatigue behavior; in comparision, the effect of mechanical surface treatment on fatigue behavior at high temperatures has been rarely investigated [1-5]. The reason for this disparity can be found in the popular belief that fatigue strength improvement by mechanical surface treatments is mainly due to the presence of compressive residual stresses, and since such stresses should anneal out at elevated temperatures, mechanical surface treatments for high temperature applications would appear questionable. However, this view may be over simplistic as there is always a possibility that the residual stresses may be at least partially stable at elevated temperatures [6]; in addition, other factors may be involved, such as the nature of the near-surface microstructure. Accordingly, it is the objective of this study to examine the role of mechanical surface treatments on the high temperature fatigue behavior of several metallic engineering materials. Moreover, it is the aim of this work to clarify what are the critical temperature "thresholds' at which near-surface microstructures and residual stresses become unstable and whether this can explain the observed fatigue behavior.
It is well known that mechanical surface treatments, such as deep rolling, shot peening and laser shock peening, can significantly improve the fatigue behavior of highly-stressed metallic components. Deep rolling (DR) is particularly attractive since it is possible to generate, near the surface, deep compressive residual stresses and work hardened layers while retaining a relatively smooth surface finish. In the present investigation, the effect of DR on the low-cycle fatigue (LCF) and high-cycle fatigue (HCF) behavior of a Ti–6Al–4V alloy is examined, with particular emphasis on the thermal and mechanical stability of the residual stress states and the near-surface microstructures. Preliminary results on laser shock peened Ti–6Al–4V are also presented for comparison. Particular emphasis is devoted to the question of whether such surface treatments are effective for improving the fatigue properties at elevated temperatures up to ∼450 °C, i.e. at a homologous temperature of ∼0.4T/Tm (where Tm is the melting temperature). Based on cyclic deformation and stress/life (S/N) fatigue behavior, together with the X-ray diffraction and in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations of the microstructure, it was found that deep rolling can be quite effective in retarding the initiation and initial propagation of fatigue cracks in Ti–6Al–4V at such higher temperatures, despite the almost complete relaxation of the near-surface residual stresses. In the absence of such stresses, it is shown that the near-surface microstructures, which in Ti–6Al–4V consist of a layer of work hardened nanoscale grains, play a critical role in the enhancement of fatigue life by mechanical surface treatment.
Hydrogen storage based on the repeated reduction and oxidation (redox) reactions of iron oxide/iron composites represents a promising technology. This work is dedicated to studying the influence of the amount of water added during the pelletizing process on the cycle stability and structure of iron oxide pellets. The storage composites were prepared from iron oxide (Fe2O3) and 10 wt.-% support material (cement) with different amounts of water (18 and 33 wt.-%) in a laboratory-scale pelletizing disk. To evaluate the cycle stability of the composites, the kinetics of the redox reactions were experimentally measured at 800 ∘
C in an atmosphere of 50% N2 and 50% H2 (reduction) or 50% steam (oxidation), respectively. Moreover, the structure of the pellets was analyzed by micro-computed tomography scans. It turned out that pellets with higher water contents attained faster kinetics and a higher cycle stability. The sample with the least water content (18 wt.-%) needed about 26 min and 19 min to reach a conversion rate of 80% during the reduction and oxidation reactions of the sixth redox cycle, respectively. In contrast, the sample with the highest water content (33 wt.-%) could achieve the same conversion rate after 18 min (reduction) and 13 min (oxidation) during the ninth redox cycle.
Increasing the lifetime of titanium implants through a diffusion-controlled surface treatment
(2023)
Multi-fidelity optimization of metal sheets concerning manufacturability in deep-drawing processes
(2023)
Multi-fidelity optimization, which complements an expensive high-fidelity function with cheaper low-fidelity functions, has been successfully applied in many fields of structural optimization. In the present work, an exemplary cross-die deep-drawing optimization problem is investigated to compare different objective functions and to assess the performance of a multi-fidelity efficient global optimization technique. To that end, hierarchical kriging is combined with an infill criterion called variable-fidelity expected improvement. Findings depend significantly on the choice of objective function, highlighting the importance of careful consideration when defining an objective function. We show that one function based on the share of bad elements in a forming limit diagram is not well suited to optimize the example problem. In contrast, two other definitions of objective functions, the average sheet thickness reduction and an averaged limit violation in the forming limit diagram, confirm the potential of a multi-fidelity approach. They significantly reduce computational cost at comparable result quality or even improve result quality compared to a single-fidelity optimization.
The movement of a meniscus inside a capillary tube has been extensively studied in the context of displacing one fluid with another immiscible one. This phenomenon exists in many applications including pharmaceutical, oil production, filtration and separation processes, and others. When one of the phases is entrapped inside a capillary tube, it forms what is called a ganglion with two menisci between the two fluids. In a straight uniform capillary tube, a stagnant entrapped ganglion is symmetric. The situation is different if the capillary tube is tapered in which case the two menisci assume different curvatures. Such inhomogeneity of the capillary pressure self-propels the ganglion to move. The fate of the ganglion inside the tapered tube depends on whether it is wetting or nonwetting to the tube wall. That is, after the initial movement, a wetting ganglion accelerates towards the tapered end of the tube while a nonwetting one decelerates towards the wider end before reaching a terminal configuration. Such fates are linked to the variations of the capillary pressure, which continuously increases for a wetting ganglion and decreases for the nonwetting one. In this work, a generalized model is developed that not only describes capillary-driven dynamics over a wide range of viscosity and density contrasts but also pressure-driven scenarios with/without gravity. The model, however, neglects the inertial effect of the two fluids on account of the fact that it is confined to the very early time of the movement process. A first-order nonlinear ordinary differential equation is developed that describes the dynamic behavior of both the wetting and nonwetting ganglions. A fourth-order Runge-Kutta algorithm is developed to solve the model equations. Furthermore, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis was used to provide a comparison and verification framework.
In Vitro Analysis of Human Cartilage Infiltrated by Hydrogels and Hydrogel-Encapsulated Chondrocytes
(2023)
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease causing loss of articular cartilage and structural damage in all joint tissues. Given the limited regenerative capacity of articular cartilage, methods to support the native structural properties of articular cartilage are highly anticipated. The aim of this study was to infiltrate zwitterionic monomer solutions into human OA-cartilage explants to replace lost proteoglycans. The study included polymerization and deposition of methacryloyloxyethyl-phosphorylcholine- and a novel sulfobetaine-methacrylate-based monomer solution within ex vivo human OA-cartilage explants and the encapsulation of isolated chondrocytes within hydrogels and the corresponding effects on chondrocyte viability. The results demonstrated that zwitterionic cartilage–hydrogel networks are formed by infiltration. In general, cytotoxic effects of the monomer solutions were observed, as was a time-dependent infiltration behavior into the tissue accompanied by increasing cell death and penetration depth. The successful deposition of zwitterionic hydrogels within OA cartilage identifies the infiltration method as a potential future therapeutic option for the repair/replacement of OA-cartilage extracellular suprastructure. Due to the toxic effects of the monomer solutions, the focus should be on sealing the OA-cartilage surface, instead of complete infiltration. An alternative treatment option for focal cartilage defects could be the usage of monomer solutions, especially the novel generated sulfobetaine-methacrylate-based monomer solution, as bionic for cell-based 3D bioprintable hydrogels.
Maintaining dimensional accuracy is a major challenge of laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) preventing its application for more complex and filigree L-PBF structures in industrial practice. Previous studies have shown that residual stresses and distortion of benchmark L-PBF components may be predicted by sequential thermo-mechanical analyses. However, the reliability of these analyses for more complex structures must be critically questioned, as comprehensive validation and sensitivity analyses are scarce. In this paper, we present a calibrated and validated low-fidelity sequential thermo-mechanical finite element analysis (FEA) of a tubular L-PBF lattice structure, i.e., an aortic stent, where pronounced local deformation is expected. As a first step, the finite element model was extensively calibrated using experimental data to ensure reproducibility of the simulation results. Thereupon, geometric features critical to the distortion of L-PBF lattice structures and measures to compensate for the distortion, such as inversion of the distorted L-PBF structure, were investigated. It was found that the distortion of the L-PBF lattice structures can be reduced, but not completely prevented, by increasing the strut angles, increasing the strut thickness, and decreasing the transition radius in the area of merging struts. FEA-based inversion of the numerically predicted deformed structure minimized distortion, resulting in the L-PBF aortic stent approximating the intended CAD geometry even with a small strut thickness. This work shows that low-fidelity sequential thermo-mechanical FEA can be used not only for the analysis and deformation compensation of reference structures, but also for the analysis of more complex filigree structures with pronounced local deformation.
This communication presents an experimental and analytical study on the evaporation mechanism in a closed-structured asymmetric plate heat exchanger (PHE) employed as a stagnant water evaporator for the application in an adsorption heat transformation appliance. To this aim, an experimental unit is constructed, which comprises two identical PHEs, one acting as an vaporator/condenser and the second, as an adsorber/desorber. Two endoscopes are mounted inside the investigated evaporator to visualize the evaporation mechanism when performing adsorption-evaporation processes under different boundary conditions. It turned out that the evaporation mechanism is a partially covered, thin film evaporation. A heat transfer analysis is performed to evaluate the heat transfer coefficient of the thin film evaporation () inside the investigated evaporator, resulting in -values between 1330 and 160 [W∙m−2∙K−1] over the investigated adsorption-evaporation time. Correlating the obtained () to the film thickness and the wetted area results in -values between 0.34 and 0.78 [mm] and wetted to total area ratios of 0.78 to 0.16. Besides, an analytical model has been developed and introduced to correlate the overall evaporator heat transfer coefficient with the adsorption potential and the time rate of change of the water uptake.
Additive Manufacturing (AM) is a future-oriented manufacturing technology that is experiencing an enormous boom in the times of Industry 4.0. As a result, various AM technologies and printer models from different manufacturers are entering the market over a short time span. With the advancing establishment of this manufacturing technology for series applications, the expectations and requirements of the fabricated components are also increasing. However, a major challenge is the application-specific selection of the most suitable AM process due to a lack of comparable data. Furthermore, there needs to be more know-how regarding the geometrical and mechanical characteristics of AM parts. This paper addresses this problem by comparing the three most common plasticbased AM processes in the areas of surface quality, dimensional accuracy, and mechanical properties. Roughness measurements, evaluation of a benchmark artifact, tensile tests, and load increase tests are carried out. Based on the results, the individual possibilities and limitations of the compared AM processes can be detected.
Friction has long been an important issue in multibody dynamics. Static friction models apply appropriate regularization techniques to convert the stick inequality and the non-smooth stick-slip transition of Coulomb’s approach into a continuous and smooth function of the sliding velocity. However, a regularized friction force is not able to maintain long-term stick. That is why, dynamic friction models were developed in the last decades. The friction force depends herein not
only on the sliding velocity but also on internal states. The probably best known representative, the LuGre friction model, is based on a fictitious bristle but realizes a too simple approximation. The recently published second order dynamic friction model describes the dynamics of a fictitious bristle more accurately. Its performance is compared here to stick-slip friction models, developed and launched not long ago by commercial multibody software packages.
Due to the complexity and the number of factors involved in factory layout planning, computers were identified as an efficient tool to support the process. However, so far no method for computer-aided layout planning has gained wide acceptance in practical application. One reason for this is that in present approaches either the user or the computer designs the layout, neglecting either the qualitative or the quantitative goals. To bridge this gap, this article introduces a concept for human-computer-integration based on evaluative feedback and inverse reinforcement learning. A key element of the concept is the interactive planning process in which user and computer alternately design and improve the layout until a satisfactory layout is found. The user evaluates the layouts according to qualitative criteria, adjusts them intuitively and specifies objectives and restrictions in an explorative way. The computer on the other hand – in form of a reinforcement algorithm – generates possible layouts and incorporates the user’s feedback into its policy. This synergy is expected to generate better results than an expert or an algorithm alone could. Furthermore, in the context of learning factories, it encourages critical thinking and allows students to develop a deeper understanding of the factors that contribute to efficient manufacturing processes. Both an architecture for the implementation is proposed and the requirements for the user interface are specified.
It is generally known that project-based learning is a very important part of engineering education to connect theoretical knowledge with practical work. Students learn to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges as it is the case in their later professional life. If students are not used to project work or the scientific topic is new and relatively complex, they may be overwhelmed. The consequence is that students achieve poor results, are frustrated, and therefore learning success is low. Semi-structured projects are introduced that combine the advantages of structured experiments with projects. The project work is structured into several parts with detailed descriptions of the tasks. In the end, students get similar results to doing a free project, but the success rate is higher due to higher guidance. Therefore, these semi-structured projects are seen to be an appropriate method to guide students to learn how to do project work. The feedback from most students is very positive. Some students with no previous lab experience complained about the project work and wished for more guidance to become familiar with lab work. In sum, the student feedback is encouraging to develop semi-structured projects further.
Although many composite structures are inconsistently curved, such as the leading edges of aircraft wings, the variety of research in impact engineering is almost limited to the impact performance of plates or cylindrically curved specimens. It is not known whether the findings obtained from standardized tests can be transferred to curved structures or which adaptions are required. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the deformation and damage behavior of inconsistently curved structures is essential to transfer the observed impact behavior of flat specimens to general curved structures and therefore to utilize the full lightweight potential of a load-specific design. An accurate description of the procedure as well as the results of the experimental and numerical study of the low-velocity impact behavior of differently single-curved elliptic specimens is presented. To close the research gap of the impact behavior of geometries with curvatures between the plates and simplified leading edges, novel specimens geometries have been derived from established impact test standards. Glassfiber-reinforced specimens are subjected to an instrumented impact test at constant impact energy. This is numerically investigated by a stacked-layer model, which used cohesive zone modeling to enable the simulation of matrix cracking, fiber fracture and delamination. The resulting projected damage areas, as well as the force and deflection histories, were evaluated and section cuts were examined to discuss the damage morphology, formation and propagation process. Significant effects on maximum deflection, compliance and dynamic behavior on the size and morphology of damage were found.
In the treatment of hand injuries in the context of orthopedic care, movable hand orthoses are used in many cases. Early motion therapy is in most cases advantageous for adequate, rapid, and successful long-term healing of the hand. Conventional mobile hand orthoses can only be used for movement therapy to a limited extent since they represent the wrist as a simple rotating joint and neglect the complexity of the movement possibilities of the hand. In this paper, a novel concept for movable hand orthoses based on prestressed compliant structures is presented. The advantage with this concept is that it replicates the multiaxial motion capabilities without the need for conventional joints. Besides the derivation and description of the concept, a first three-dimensional CAD design is shown. Additionally, the next planned steps in the development of such a novel dynamic hand orthosis are described.
In the treatment of hand injuries in the context of orthopedic care, movable wrist hand orthoses are used in numerous instances. Early motion therapy is in most cases advantageous for adequate, rapid and successful long-term healing of the hand. Conventional dynamic wrist hand orthoses can only be used for movement therapy to a limited extent since they represent the wrist as a simple rotating joint and neglect the complexity of the hand movement possibilities. In this paper, a preliminary concept for dynamic wrist hand orthoses based on prestressed compliant structures is presented. The distinctive feature of this concept lies in the enabling of multiaxial motion capabilities of the human hand without applying conventional joints. According to the concept the wrist region is surrounded by a prestressed compliant structure. Besides the derivation and description of the concept, a first three-dimensional computer-aided design is shown. Additionally, the necessary steps in the development of such a novel dynamic wrist orthosis are discussed.
Surgical Smoke is generated during the cauterization of tissue with high-frequency (HF) devices and consists of 95% water vapor and 5% cellular debris. When the coagulation tweezers, which are supplied with HF voltage by the HF device, touch tissue, the electric circuit is closed, and smoke is generated by the heat. In-vivo investigations are performed during tracheotomies where surgical smoke is produced during coagulation of tissue. Furthermore, in-vitro parametric studies to investigate the particle number and size distribution and the spatial distribution of surgical smoke with laser light sheet technique are conducted. With higher power of the HF device, the particles generated are larger in size and the total number of particles generated is also higher. Adding artificial saliva to the tissue shows even higher particle counts. The study by laser light sheet also confirms this. The resulting characteristic size distribution, which may include viruses and bacterial components, confirms considering the risk arising from surgical smoke. Furthermore, the experiments will provide the database for further numerical investigations.
High Spatial Resolution Tomo-PIV of the Trachea Focussing on the Physiological Breathing Cycle
(2023)
Investigations of complex patient-specific flow in the nasopharynx requires high resolution numerical calculations validated by reliable experiments. When building the validation base and the benchmark of computational fluid dynamics, an experimental setup of the nasal airways was developed. The applied optical measurement technique of tomo-PIV supplies information on the governing flow field in three dimensions.
This paper presents tomo-PIV measurements of the highly complex patient-specific geometry of the human trachea. A computertomographic scan of a person’s head builds the basis of the experimental silicone model of the nasal airways. An optimised approach for precise refractive index matching avoids optical distortions even in highly complex non-free-of-sight 3D geometries. A linear-motor-driven pump generates breathing scenarios, based on measured breathing cycles. Adjusting of the CCD cameras‘ double-frame-rate PIV-Δt enables the detailed analysis of flow structures during different cycle phases. Merging regions of interest enables high spatial resolution acquisition of the flow field.