Construction Of Prototype Research Articles

Pre-Commercial Demonstration of a Photosynthetic Upgrading Plant: Investment and Operating Cost Analysis

Pig farms have been identified as one of the most important sources of greenhouse gas emissions. This study demonstrates the production of vehicle biomethane in a demonstration prototype plant based on photosynthetic upgrading technology, where the CO2 and H2S present in biogas are consumed by a microalgae culture. The information collected during the prototype construction allowed for an assessment of the capital and operating costs of this novel biogas upgrading technology with other conventional systems. With this objective, the costs of the equipment comprising the biogas cleaning and purification system were calculated considering a biogas flow rate of 5 m3 h−1, corresponding to a small–medium biogas plant and an average pig farm size. The sustainability and competitiveness of the algae upgrading system and the low capital and operating costs vis à vis other upgrading technologies were proven. With a net energy production of 687 kWh day−1 and an annual profit of 30,348 € in a 3500 head pig farm, this technology can be easily installed in livestock farms, increasing the benefits and reducing the carbon footprint.

The novel synthesis of mechanisms for continuous origami based on the topological graph theory

Crease design is one of the most significant problems in continuous origami mechanisms. In this paper, a novel synthesis method is proposed to create creases. First, the basic operations of screw motion are described based on screw theory. Then, an innovative approach named loop splitting is demonstrated. This approach is then employed to analyse the motion output of single-loop and multiloop parallel mechanisms through the step-by-step disassembly of branches. According to the idea of loop splitting, two theorems used to design continuous origami mechanisms are proposed and proven. Furthermore, the categories of continuous origami mechanisms are described in this paper, and splicing design requirements for the initial origami units are proposed. In addition, three different categories of origami mechanisms based on the proposed design method are introduced: single-vertex with 4 creases, single-vertex with 6 creases, and combinations of single-vertex with 4 and 6 creases. Finally, the efficiency of the newly presented synthesis method is demonstrated via the construction of prototypes.

CFD Simulation of Stirling Engines: A Review

Stirling engines (SEs) have long attracted the attention of renewable energy researchers due to their external combustion design and flexibility in operating with various heat sources. The mathematical analysis of these devices is conducted by using a broad range of models ranging from basic zero-order to highly detailed fourth-order models, which are implemented through Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. The unique features of this last approach, combined with the increase in computing power, have promoted the use of CFD as a tool for analyzing SEs in recent years, significantly reducing the costs associated with prototype construction. However, Stirling CFD simulations are sophisticated due to the variety of physical phenomena involved, such as volume change, conjugated heat transfer, turbulent compressible fluid dynamics, and flow through porous media in the regenerator. Furthermore, there is currently no comprehensive review of CFD simulations of SEs in the literature; therefore, this contribution aims to fill that gap. Emphasis has been placed on identifying the type of engine, the physical phenomena modeled, the simplifying assumptions, and specific numerical aspects, such as mesh type, spatial and temporal discretization, and the order of the numerical schemes used. As a result, it has been found that in many cases, CFD numerical reports lack sufficient detail to ensure the reproducibility of the simulations. This work proposes guidelines for reporting CFD studies on Stirling engines to address this issue. Additionally, the need for a sufficiently detailed experimental benchmark database to validate future CFD studies is stressed. Finally, the use of Large Eddy Simulations on coupled key engine components—such as compression and expansion spaces, pistons, displacer, and regenerator—is suggested to provide further insights into the specific flow and heat transfer characteristics in Stirling engines.

Fatigue Analysis of Polylactide Manufactured by Fused Deposition Method of 3D Printing

Nowadays, 3D printing technology has gained popularity in various industrial sectors, especially in the field of developing new products. This technology allows for the layer-by-layer construction of 3D prototypes. This research primarily focuses on the fatigue performance of 3D-printed components made of Polylactide (PLA). PLA is a versatile material and has a diverse range of applications in packaging, medical, household items, etc. The specimens were made following the ASTM D638 standard using the Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technique. A fatigue test was carried out to investigate fatigue performance by fluctuating the loads and speed of the rotating beam fatigue tester. The finding reveals that materials break under variable strains at a stress magnitude is less than the material's ultimate tensile strength. Furthermore, it was discovered that the degree of the stress triggering fatigue failure reduces as the number of stress cycles increases. Fatigue failure is characterized as a time-delayed fracture due to cyclic stress. The finding reveals that PLA has a low fatigue strength of 19.62N.

Virtual Prototype Construction and Motion Simulation of Submarine Cable Outer Wall Inspection Robot Based on CAD and Reinforcement Learning

Virtual Prototype Construction and Motion Simulation of Submarine Cable Outer Wall Inspection Robot Based on CAD and Reinforcement Learning

Development of a liquid-helium free cryogenic sample holder with mK temperature control for autonomous electron microscopy

The automated and autonomous cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (Cryo-EM) demands a sample holder capable of maintaining temperatures below 10 K with precise control, long holding times, and minimal helium use. Rising to this challenge, we initiated an ambitious project to develop a novel closed-cycle cryocooler-based cryogenic sample holder that operates without the use of liquid helium and the consumption of gaseous helium. This article presents the design, construction, and experimental testing of the initial prototype, which achieves an ultimate temperature of 5.6 K with exceptional stability close to 1mK, while providing a wide temperature control range from 295 K to 5.6 K, marking a clear advancement in cryo-EM holder development. While the prototype was not designed for atomic resolution imaging and thus lacks a sturdy support system to mitigate mechanical vibrations from the cryocooler's pulsed tube, this innovative approach successfully demonstrates proof of concept. It offers unprecedented capabilities for state-of-the-art cryogenic microscopy and microanalysis in materials and biological sciences.

Cost-effective soft-switching ultra-high step-up DC–DC converter with high power density for DC microgrid application

DC microgrids are integral to smart grids, enhancing grid reliability, power quality, and energy efficiency while enabling individual grid independence. They combine distributed and renewable energy sources, reducing overall energy consumption. High-gain DC–DC converters are crucial for elevating voltages from low-voltage DC sources like solar panels and wind turbines in DC microgrids. This paper introduces a non-isolated DC–DC converter designed to achieve ultra-high step-up (UHSU) voltage conversion utilizing a two-winding coupled inductor (CI). The propounded UHSU configuration achieves a substantial voltage increase by employing low duty cycles and a decreased turn ratio for the CI, resulting in a smaller core size. Moreover, this UHSU circuit incorporates soft-switching capabilities for both power switches and diodes, enhancing its efficiency. By keeping the voltage stress on the switches low, the design minimizes losses and improves overall efficiency. The operational modes are thoroughly analyzed, and comparisons with other topologies are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proffered UHSU circuit. Finally, the performance of the UHSU circuit is validated through the construction and testing of a 150-W laboratory prototype operating at a switching frequency of 50 kHz, with Vin = 20 V and Vout = 300 V.

Pengembangan sistem informasi penjualan berbasis web pada toko wallpaper dengan metode prototype

Sales information systems are a crucial component for companies, including Toko BIFFA Wallpaper, which requires increased efficiency in product sales. The current manual system causes various problems such as manual recording of transactions, income, and expenses, as well as ineffective archiving and management of daily and monthly financial reports. This research aims to build and implement a web-based sales information system to facilitate cashiers and owners of Toko BIFFA Wallpaper Kepanjen in managing, storing, and searching transaction data and reports. The method used is the prototype method, which includes needs analysis, rapid design, prototype construction, initial user evaluation, prototype improvement, and system development. The system is developed using PHP programming language and MySQL database, with testing conducted using the blackbox technique. The test results show that the system's appearance and features function well and meet user needs. This research concludes that the developed web-based sales information system significantly aids and facilitates cashiers and owners of Toko BIFFA Wallpaper Kepanjen in sales management, increasing efficiency and reducing manual errors.

Implementasi Sistem Kalkulasi Berat Dan Iuran Sampah Berbasis Internet Of Things Pada Perumahan Bekasi Jaya Indah

Waste is a complex problem in developing countries like Indonesia, negatively impacting the environment and public health. Bekasi Jaya Indah Housing Estate, Bekasi City, faces the challenge of sub-optimal waste management. One of them is the gap between waste fees and the weight of waste generated, especially from houses with home industry activities. This research aims to improve monitoring efficiency by developing a tool based on firebase technology or user interface. This technology allows real-time access from various locations to monitor environmental conditions. This tool is not only a monitor of environmental conditions, but also a management tool to support better decision making in maintaining environmental stability and safety. The method used is the prototype method with the stages of communication, quick plan, quick design modeling, construction of prototype, and deployment delivery & feedback. This monitoring tool, it is expected that residents, officers, and administrators can easily monitor environmental conditions from various locations. User have the ability to take the necessary response actions quickly based on real-time information obtained from this monitoring tool.

Design Considerations Concerning an Innovative Drive System for a Manual Wheelchair

Manual wheelchairs, which are the basic means of transport for people with disabilities, are usually characterized by an inefficient adaptation to the physical capabilities of their users. For this reason, it is advisable to search for solutions that will allow us to change the parameters of the mechanical power generated by human muscles. For this purpose, mechanical gearing known from other solutions, for example, from bicycles, can be used. The paper describes the design methodology and a number of issues related to the construction of an innovative wheelchair prototype using a chain transmission in its drive system. This solution allows for the implementation of a variable ratio between the wheels and the pushrims. Thus, it effectively allows for matching the demand for driving torque to the movement conditions and the physical capabilities of its user. The use of such a system provides the basis for increasing the efficiency of the manual propulsion process. Initial studies show that changing the gear ratio allows for different speeds of the wheelchair wheel. In the tests conducted, the root mean square of this value varied from 15.2 RPM to 35.5 RPM, which resulted in a change in power from 15.8 W to 40.1 W. Of course, the values of rotational speed and torque show a cyclically changing character, which results from the intermittent nature of generating drive by the wheelchair user. The average peak values of rotational speed were 31.4 ± 1.7 RPM, 44.3 ± 3.4 RPM and 57.9 ± 3.4 RPM, while the torque was 12.1 ± 0.5 Nm, 12.4 ± 0.4 Nm and 14.1 ± 0.6 Nm for Gears 1, 4 and 6, respectively.

Research on the Construction Technology of INS Digital Prototype Based on Digital Twin

In response to the continuous advancement of digitalization and intelligence in equipment as mandated by the state, a digital twin-based inertial navigation digital prototype construction scheme has been designed. This scheme supports the realization of intelligent manufacturing, testing, evaluation, and operational assurance throughout the lifecycle of inertial navigation products. This paper decomposes the physical entities of the " three-autonomy " SINS and integrates component-level inertial navigation digital prototypes based on the principles of inertial navigation. The prototypes were integrated using heterogeneous models in simulation software. Pure navigation functionality verification was conducted on the prototypes. The results show that the errors in pure simulation of the inertial navigation digital prototypes constructed in this study are consistent with the physical navigation results of inertial navigation systems, providing a reference for the development of inertial navigation digital twin systems.

Design of a bioreactor as a vital biological support for testing microalgae cultures in the stratosphere.

Abstract In the present, the proposal for the design of an autonomous, light and completely closed bioreactor that will orbit in the stratosphere is developed, capable of promoting the growth of microalgae, specifically of the species: Chlorella vulgaris. The document will address the development of the relevant background information related to this proposal, which will support the bases and certain decisions described in the work, as well as the concepts that will define the theoretical framework for the identification of primary and secondary sources that allow to know, design and develop the proposed. In order to achieve a system capable of performing mixing and recirculation operations, necessary to promote the transfer of mass and energy, as well as the adequate distribution of light, the different existing bioreactor models and their most significant differences will be analyzed. For this work, only five of the nine stages of the mechatronic design methodology are covered: identification of needs, analysis of the problem, preparation of specifications, generation of possible solutions, and selection of the appropriate solution. The missing stages; detailed design, production of working drawings, prototype construction, and testing are underway.

Characterization of the BOLDPET optical prototype, an innovative Cherenkov detector for 511 keV γ radiation

In the present work we describe the design, construction, and testing of the optical prototype developed for the BOLDPET project, with the objective of creating a PET detection module with high spatial and time resolution. The BOLDPET technology uses an innovative detection liquid, trimethylbismuth, for detecting 511 keV γ-quanta resulting from positron annihilation. The optical signal is exclusively produced through the Cherenkov mechanism, and the produced photons are detected using Planacon microchannel-plate photomultiplier. We achieve an excellent time resolution of 150 ps (FWHM) within a sizable detection volume measuring 55 mm× 55 mm× 25 mm. Through detailed Geant4 simulations, we examine the limiting factors affecting time resolution and explore potential avenues for improvement. Furthermore, we demonstrate the feasibility of coarse 2D localization of interactions using the optical signal alone, achieving a precision of about 5–8 mm (FWHM) within the homogeneous detection volume.

Artificial intelligence: prototype of an automated irrigation system for the cultivation of roses in Cotopaxi

Implementing artificial intelligence in agriculture can improve efficiency, reduce pollution, and promote more effective agricultural production. Efficient irrigation management avoids wasting water and ensures that plants receive the right amount of water at the right time. The purpose of this research is to present an intelligent irrigation system based on neural networks and fuzzy logic, to avoid the presence of pests due to excess relative humidity in rose crops in Cotopaxi. A mixed methodology was used. The SCRUM methodology, Android Studio as an integrated development environment, a relational database management system and the Mobile-D method were used as software elements. For the prototype construction, the main hardware element that was used was the Arduino Board. The system for irrigating automated water using fuzzy logic took less time than manual irrigation. Training actions were proposed for employers and employees in the use and maintenance of the automated irrigation system, to maintain continuous improvement in the process

Design and construction of an affordable optical power meter: micro- to milli-Watt in the 400–800 nm range

This study introduces the design, construction, and evaluation of an affordable optical power meter prototype, AYR (Affordable Yet Reliable) version 1.0, which operates effectively within the 400–800 nm range, using a silicon photodiode. Aimed at bridging the gap in accessibility to precise and reliable photonics instrumentation, especially in resource-constrained settings, AYR 1.0 leverages advancements in photodiode technology, additive manufacturing, and do-it-yourself electronics. The device incorporates a custom-built electronic circuit that facilitates accurate optical power measurement by converting light into electrical current. Through rigorous testing against a reliable commercial optical power meter, AYR 1.0 demonstrated exceptional accuracy and reliability. Sensitivity values ranged from ∼13 μA mW−1 at 405 nm to ∼796 μA mW−1 at 805 nm. The operational power range spanned from 0.003 mW to 242.0 mW, with linearity (R 2) values consistently above 0.9981, indicating high fidelity in measurement. Repeatability percentages varied between 99.4% and 99.9%, and response times ranged up to 55 μs, showcasing the prototype’s rapid and reliable response to changes in optical power. The key components include a low-cost silicon photodiode (2DU10), a differential trans-impedance amplifier circuit for signal processing, and a 3D-printed housing for the sensor head and console, contributing to its cost-effectiveness and robustness. The prototype’s total cost was 116 US dollars, highlighting its affordability and potential for widespread adoption.

Solar Tracking and Monitoring System

Abstract: We will eventually have to deal with the depletion of fossil fuels and other non-renewable energy sources as they are running out rapidly. Having a large number of renewable alternative energy sources is crucial. The sun's radiation properties meet both requirements. As a result, new technologies focused on solar energy harvesting are starting to appear. Concentrated or photovoltaic panels may yield the highest efficiency. Due to the planet's rotation, which causes humans to view the sun at different times of the day the efficiency may reduce. Devices that direct a solar panel or concentrating panel during the day are incorporated in the design, along with light-trackers to boost the system's effectiveness. A solar tracker can monitor the sun's radiation in single direction. The device monitors daily tilt of the sun for optimal performance. The work focuses on the fundamentals of solar panel parameters and their application, as well as the design and construction of an automatic solar tracker prototype utilizing Arduino code based on microcontroller. By simulating the sun's 12-month tracking in a matter of minutes, the device incorporates automation mechanisms into the tracking system.

Chain mail structures in architecture: a systematic, multi-scalar design exploration

Chain mail structures, known for flexibility and adaptability, hold increasing promise for architectural applications, including transportable and reconfigurable systems. However, there is a dearth of knowledge on both systematic methods to design them, and complex behaviours of interlocking modules that comprise the structure. Preliminary studies, in response to this research gap, demonstrate the chain mail’s structural potential as programmable architecture. Nevertheless, to validate our models, we must move from the small scale to recognisably viable structures at an architectural scale.Acknowledging the multiscale prototype’s significance for developing new architectural systems, this study scales up chain mail structures from a small 1:10 scale to larger 1:2 and 1:1 scales. Employing a Research-Through-Design approach, we systematically addressed the challenges, focusing on module fabrication and prototype construction through analogue computation. Fabrication adjustments involve changing materials and modifying designs to suit manufacturing techniques. Additional design elements and process steps are needed to facilitate programming the larger scale structures due to the increased weight during construction. The research culminated in a full-scale saddle-like structure, illustrating the feasibility of direct scaling from smaller to larger scales and the expansive architectural potential of chain mail structures.In conclusion, the study successfully identified and responded to specific challenges related to the fabrication and construction of upscaled chain mail prototypes, aligning solutions with practical contexts. In doing so, this research contributes a set of considerations to enable more systematic design approaches for chain mail structural systems in architecture. At the same time, scaling up uncovers the inherent intelligence of these structures, providing a foundation for both empirical testing through analogue experimentation, and developing a predictive framework for their development and application in the field.

Towards the Optimization of a Photovoltaic/Membrane Distillation System for the Production of Pure Water.

The production of pure water plays a pivotal role in enabling sustainable green hydrogen production through electrolysis. The current industrial approach for generating pure water relies on energy-intensive techniques such as reverse osmosis. This study unveils a straightforward method to produce pure water, employing real-world units derived from previously simulated and developed laboratory devices. This demonstrated system is cost-effective and boasts low energy consumption, utilizing membrane distillation (MD) driven by the waste heat harnessed from photovoltaic (PV) panels. In a previous study, modeling simulations were conducted to optimize the multi-layered MD system, serving as a blueprint for the construction of prototype devices with a suitable selection of materials, enabling the construction of field-testable units. The most efficient PV-MD device, featuring evaporation and condensation zones constructed from steel sheets and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membranes, is capable of yielding high-purity water with conductivity levels below 145 μS with high flux rates.

Design, integration, and commissioning of the first linac for image guided hadron therapy prototype

The Linac for Image Guided Hadron Therapy (LIGHT) system has been developed as the first commercial high-frequency linac-based proton therapy accelerator system. As part of the development process and of the technical validation of the concept, a reduced energy prototype linac (including all the key functional aspects of the full energy accelerator) has been designed and tested in parallel with the preparation work for a full-scale system. The LIGHT prototype construction, installation, and commissioning with beam allowed the identification of technical gaps and design improvements before the transfer to a medical device implementation. This paper gives a comprehensive summary of the design and integration aspects and presents for the first time the results achieved with the LIGHT prototype that was installed and commissioned on CERN premises in the years 2015–2019. Published by the American Physical Society 2024

Design and Construction of Steam Power Plant Prototype (Performance Analysis of Boiler System and Compress Cylinder)

Design and Construction of Steam Power Plant Prototype (Performance Analysis of Boiler System and Compress Cylinder)