Design Of Devices Research Articles

Design and optimization for a longitudinal-flow corn ear threshing device of low loss and low energy consumption

The traditional corn grain harvester threshing device has the problems of high grain breakage rate, high unthreshed grain rate and high energy consumption when harvesting high water content corn ears. A longitudinal-flow corn ear threshing device and its measurement and control system were proposed to overcome these problems. The working performance and energy consumption of the threshing device were optimized by conducting three factors and five levels corn ear threshing experiments. The experiments took the threshing cylinder speed (X1), threshing gap (X2), and guide vane angle (X3) as the experimental factors, and the grain breakage rate (Y1), unthreshed grain rate (Y2), unit energy consumption (Y3), and threshing concave pressure (Y4) as the experimental indicators. According to the experimental results, the quadratic polynomial regression models between experimental indicators and experimental factors were established. Through models optimization, the optimal working parameters for the threshing device were obtained as X1 at 392.40 r/min, X2 at 40.70 mm, and X3 at 33.16°. Through conducting verification experiment, it was found that under the optimal parameters, the experimental indicators were Y1 at 2.32 ± 0.06 %, Y2 at 0.48 ± 0.04 %, Y3 at 2.14 ± 0.10 kJ/kg, and Y4 at 46.28 ± 3.23N. The errors between the experimental results and the quadratic polynomial regression models were less than 5 %, which indicated that the models had high prediction accuracy. Compared with the unoptimized experimental indicators, the optimized experimental indicators Y1, Y2, Y3 and Y4 decreased by 36.26 %, 39.24 %, 14.74 % and 16.27 %, respectively. The working performance of the threshing device was significantly improved, and the energy consumption was significantly reduced. The relevant research could provide reference for the optimization of the mechanical structure and working parameters of the corn ear threshing device.

Design of Devices for Making Beads from the Stems of Holy Basil

Design of Devices for Making Beads from the Stems of Holy Basil

Parallel Force Feedback Device Design With Constant Jacobian Matrix and Net Weight Fully Balanced

Abstract Force feedback devices offer realistic and intuitive feedback to operators, and achieving higher accuracy and transparency has been a prominent research focus in this field. However, errors in real-time force or position calculations are inevitable, which can have adverse effects on the accuracy of the equipment. This article presents the design of a parallel mechanism that incorporates a constant force and velocity mapping relationship based on the type synthesis of the constant Jacobian matrix. Specifically, the mechanism maintains a fixed direction of force applied to the operating platform by the drive pair, which is mounted on the fixed platform in each limb, irrespective of position changes. This unique feature enables the mechanism to achieve a complete net weight balance. The implementation method is detailed in this article, which involves adding appropriate counterweights to achieve a balance between the weight of the connecting rod and the overall gravity of the operating platform. Furthermore, the optimization of structural parameters helps to improve the performance of the developed prototype. The proposed design scheme not only addresses the fundamental reduction of errors caused by real-time force and position mapping solving but also enhances operational transparency. Finally, simulation and experimental tests are conducted to validate the proposed theory.

Current state of research in the field of 3D printing device designs using photopolymer composites (review)

Current state of research in the field of 3D printing device designs using photopolymer composites (review)

Molecular dynamics study of the effect of composition on elastic properties of silicon oxynitride films

Understanding the mechanical properties of silicon oxynitride (a-SiON), a key insulating material, is vital for electronic device design and reliability. Though the effects of fabrication conditions on a-SiON have been studied, the underlying relationship between its atomic-scale structure and mechanical properties remains unclear. This study investigates the relationship between elasticity and atomic-scale structures in a-SiON by molecular dynamics simulations with a universal graph neural network interatomic potential. The bulk modulus increases from 49 to 150 GPa with higher N content. N atoms form N2 molecules under O-rich conditions, hindering bulk modulus increase, and form an Si3N4-like network under O-poor conditions, enhancing bulk modulus. Formation energy calculations indicate N2 formation is preferable under O-rich conditions. Meanwhile, under O-poor conditions, Si–N bond formation is preferable, which reinforces a-SiON by increasing bond density. The findings suggest realizing O-poor conditions is crucial for highly elastic insulating films.

Increasing Specific Capacitance by Optimization of the Thickness of Carbon Electrodes

AbstractIncreasing energy density without sacrificing the lifetime, power and cyclability of electrochemical capacitors is a very important goal. However, most efforts are directed toward the improvement of active charge‐storing materials, while the design of devices and minimization of the weight/volume of the passive component have received less attention. We propose here a mathematical model of a carbon supercapacitor in organic electrolyte, which establishes a relationship between the specific capacitance of a device, the thickness of its electrodes, and the weight of its passive components (case, external current leads, current collectors, etc.). The model was built based on experimentally obtained dependences and has been validated using experiments with electrodes made of two porous carbon materials. Regardless of the pore size distribution in the specified range of electrode thicknesses, the functional dependence of the electrode's specific capacitance on the thickness is well described within the linear approximation. The developed model enables optimization of the electrode thickness, thus maximizing specific energy density for a chosen carbon electrode material.

The Clinical Management of Traumatic Palatal Ulcers in an Adolescent Patient: A Common Lesion in Mini-Implant-Assisted Rapid Maxillary Expansion

Background: This case report describes the clinical management of a traumatic palatal ulcer, a complication associated with mini-implant-assisted rapid maxillary expansion (MARPE). Case Report: A 13-year-old female patient with maxillary constriction underwent MARPE treatment using a custom acrylic expander anchored by four mini-implants. Despite proper planning and device design, the patient missed her first follow-up appointment and continued activations, resulting in tissue inflammation and embedding of the device. Upon examination, swelling and displacement of the cement were observed, necessitating device removal. The traumatic ulcer was treated with chlorhexidine gel, paracetamol, and a soft diet. Complete recovery was achieved within one month. A second expander was then designed and installed, with more frequent monitoring and improved hygiene protocols. This approach led to successful expansion without complications. This case highlights the importance of precise treatment planning, proper mini-implant selection, and regular follow-ups in MARPE therapy. It also emphasizes the need for patient compliance and effective hygiene measures to prevent complications. Conclusions: The successful management of the traumatic ulcer demonstrates that prompt action and consideration of cost-effective treatment options can lead to positive outcomes in addressing MARPE-related complications.

Multifunctional Smart Fabrics with Integration of Self-Cleaning, Energy Harvesting, and Thermal Management Properties.

Due to their good wearability, smart fabrics have gradually developed into one of the important components of multifunctional flexible electronics. Nevertheless, function integration is typically accomplished through the intricate stacking of diverse modules, which inevitably compromises comfort and elevates processing complexities. The integration of these discrete functional modules into a unified design for smart fabrics represents a superior solution. Here, we put forward a rational approach to functional integration for the typical challenges of thermal management, energy supply, and surface contamination in smart fabrics. This sandwich-structured multilayer fabric (MLF) is obtained by continuous electrospinning of two layer P(VDF-HFP) fabric and one layer P(VDF-HFP) fabric functionalized with core-shell SiO2/ZnO/ZIF-8 (SZZ) nanoparticles. Specifically, MLFs achieve effective and stable energy harvesting in triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) with hydrophobicity and antibacterial properties. Meanwhile, MLFs also have high mid-infrared emissivity and sunlight reflectivity, successfully realizing radiative cooling under different climates, and have been applied in wearing clothing, roof shading, and car covers. This work may contribute to the design and manufacturing of next-generation thermal comfort smart fabrics and wearable electronics, particularly in terms of the rational design of multifunctional devices.

Research on the Design of Lower Extremity Rehabilitation Assistive Devices Based on User Experience

With the aggravation of social aging, patients with lower extremity movement disorders are also increasing year by year. The elderly with lower extremity movement disorders have their own characteristics in physiology, psychology and behavior. Firstly, this paper analyzes the research and development status of lower extremity rehabilitation assistive devices by data analysis and induction. Secondly, the physiological, behavioral and psychological characteristics of the elderly were analyzed through interviews and observation to understand the use of lower extremity assistive devices, and in-depth analysis was made on user needs and product pain points. Based on this analysis, this paper puts forward the design principles and elements based on the theoretical basis of user experience elements, increases the humanized design of lower extremity rehabilitation assistive devices, improves the safety and interest of products, and enhances user experience.

Electrochemical conversion of rice husk in molten salts to photocatalyst for CO2 photoreduction

Photocatalysts obtained from waste biomass by molten salt electrolysis can photocatalytically reduce carbon dioxide under simulated photosynthesis, which is of great significance for carbon neutrality. Herein, a molten-salt electrochemical synthesis strategy that silicon-carbide nanowires mixed carbon (SiC/C) is obtained at the cathode by absorption of molten salt and migration in molten salt with the rice husk (RHs) is especially used as the anode is reported. This study shows the excellent absorption and migration effect of molten salt on RHs pyrolysis products SiO2 and CO2. At the same time, the unilateral consumability of the anode is more advantageous in device design. The obtained SiC/C photocatalyst has an excellent performance in photocatalytic reduction of CO2.

Engineering and Technological Advancements in Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS): A Five-Year Review

In the past five years, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has evolved significantly, driven by advancements in device design, treatment protocols, software integration, and brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). This review evaluates how these innovations enhance the safety, efficacy, and accessibility of rTMS while identifying key challenges such as protocol standardization and ethical considerations. A structured review of peer-reviewed studies from 2019 to 2024 focused on technological and clinical advancements in rTMS, including AI-driven personalized treatments, portable devices, and integrated BCIs. AI algorithms have optimized patient-specific protocols, while portable devices have expanded access. Enhanced coil designs and BCI integration offer more precise and adaptive neuromodulation. However, challenges remain in standardizing protocols, addressing device complexity, and ensuring equitable access. While recent innovations improve rTMS’s clinical utility, gaps in long-term efficacy and ethical concerns persist. Future research must prioritize standardization, accessibility, and robust ethical frameworks to ensure rTMS’s sustainable impact.

Boosting the Photoresponse of Azobenzene Single-Molecule Junctions via Mechanical Interlock and Dynamic Anchor.

As the most classic photoisomerization system, azobenzene has been widely utilized as a building unit in various photoswitching applications. However, attempts to build azobenzene-based single-molecule photoswitches have met with limited success, giving low on/off ratios. Herein, we demonstrate two designs of azobenzene-based photoresponsive single-molecule junctions, based on mechanically interlocked diazocine and azobenzene-based dynamic anchors, respectively. Molecular conductance measurements using the scanning tunneling microscope breaking junction (STMBJ) technique revealed dramatic conductance changes upon photoillumination, achieving a high on/off ratio of ∼3.7. Using density functional theory (DFT), we revealed peculiar quantum interference (QI) effects in the diazocine molecular switch, indicating that diazocine is an excellent candidate for molecular photoswitches. The asymmetric azobenzene devices with a dynamic anchor exhibit switching behavior between a fully off state and a highly conductive state associated with the trans/cis conformation transition. The findings of this work not only present the design and development of functional molecular devices based on azobenzene units but also provide insight into the fundamental properties of light-induced quantum interference in azobenzene-based molecular devices.

Defect Dipole Asymmetry Response Induces Electrobending Deformation in Thin Piezoceramics.

Ultrahigh electrostrains (>1%) in several piezoceramic systems have been reported since 2022, which attracts more and more interest in the field of piezoelectricity; however, the mechanism is still unclear. Here, in nonstoichiometric (K_{0.48}Na_{0.52})_{0.99}NbO_{2.995} ceramics, we have directly observed a novel electric field-induced bending (electrobending) phenomenon that visually exhibits an alternating concave-convex deformation under an electric field of ±50 kV cm^{-1}, leading to the measured ultrahigh electrostrain. It is demonstrated that the electrobending deformation arises from the different stresses due to the stretching or compression of the oriented-defect dipoles in the upper and lower surface layers of the ceramics under an electric field. Consequently, a giant apparent electrostrain of 31.8% is obtained at room temperature. Our discovery is an important addition and refinement to the field of condensed matter physics, while also providing a new strategy and shedding light on the design of future high-performance actuators and intelligent devices.

Device for preventing the formation of liquid plugs in a gas collection system or in a non-straight gas well

Relevance. Almost all gas fields, both in Russia and in the world, are developed under water-pressure conditions, which means that sooner or later the field operator is faced with the problem of well watering and liquid accumulation at their bottom. The control methods proposed at this stage of development of science and technology and the useful models and inventions applied for this, although they show their effectiveness in removing droplet liquid from the production wellbore, do not contribute to the further advancement of the removed fluid through the system for collecting and preparing products. Because of this fact, a number of problems arise, for example, the formation of local resistance in the form of ice or hydrate plugs, the cause of which is the fluid removed from the wellbore. Aim. Development of a universal device that can be used both in the production collection and preparation system and inside production wells, capable of injecting produced water into the gas flow in order to prevent the formation of “stagnant zones” of liquid. Objects. Flooded gas wells, the gas pressure in which is not enough to remove droplet liquid from the wellbore or transport this liquid to the place of product preparation. Methods. Assessment and analysis of existing devices to prevent the formation of liquid plugs in a gas collection system, identifying their main shortcomings, as well as mathematical modeling of the proposed model, in which these shortcomings are eliminated. Results and conclusions. The paper introduces a brief description of the problem under study and studies and discusses the main methods of preventing the formation of liquid plugs, used in gas fields both in Russia and in other countries. The authors have proposed the design of a universal device, which is devoid of the main identified disadvantages of analogue devices, and carried out its simplified mathematical calculation.

Optimization of collection efficiency for a dual-row jet mining machine based on CFD-DEM coupling

Deep-sea mineral resources possess vast reserves; yet, the depositional environment is extremely harsh, and the mining challenges are significant. Overcoming the technical hurdles of deep-sea mining and protecting the marine environment to achieve sustainable development and utilization of seabed resources are major challenges in the field of marine resource development. In this work, we employ a coupled Computational Fluid Dynamics-Discrete Element Method (CFD-DEM) approach with the objective of enhancing the collection efficiency of deep-sea polymetallic nodules. The research focuses on adjusting and optimizing the collection parameters of a dual-jet collector. We examine the influence of the collector's jet angle and velocity on the collection efficiency. We conduct a numerical analysis of the movement characteristics of nodules, the distribution of the flow field, and the efficiency of nodule collection. The results indicate that when the rear jet angle is too small, the stripping and blocking effects on the nodules deteriorate. Conversely, when the jet angle is too large, the upwelling flow velocity decreases. The optimal collection effect is achieved with a rear jet angle of 55°. Lower jet velocities result in poorer nodule stripping, collection, and lifting. Higher jet velocities, however, increase seafloor disturbance and reduce the device's energy utilization efficiency. The collection efficiency is optimal at jet velocities ranging from 8 to 9 m/s. This research provides valuable insights for the design of high-efficiency dual-jet collector devices.

Effect of the Type and Amount of Sedimented Sand and Clay Dust on the Energy of the Solar Panel

Background: The application of solar energy utilization in the world to generate electricity is established. The use of solar panels to generate electricity has witnessed steady scientific progress and plays a significant role in confronting environmental pollution. For solar panels, the efficiency depends to a large extent on the relationship between the solar radiation reaching the Earth’s surface and the dust layer covering the panels.In the case of a solar panel collecting a large amount of dust in its working place, the solar radiation is first diluted through the dust layer before it reaches the panel. This is the main reason for the decrease in the panel’s efficiency. Objectives: It is of utmost importance to study the effects of dust on the design of photovoltaic devices. The potential power reduction of panels due to dust is a pressing issue, with immediate consequences for the operation and number of panels in large solar power plants. This work aims to urgently study the effect of dust accumulation on the front surface of solar panels. Methods: The experiment is being conducted on two different solar panels: the first is monocrystalline with a power of 200 watts, and the second is polycrystalline with a power of 280 watts. Two types of dust – sand and clay – are being used in quantities ranging from 5 g to 25 g. Results: The introduction of sand dust led to a substantial decrease in the energy output of the monocrystalline solar panel, ranging from 3.3% to 7.5 %. Similarly, the use of clay dust resulted in a significant energy drop of 4% to 8%.While the energy of the polycrystalline plate decreased between 2.5% to 6.7% when using sand dust and between 3% to 7.1% when using clay dust. Conclusion: Our research uncovers the negative impact of dust on the efficiency of solar panels, particularly in the case of monocrystalline panels and those exposed to clay dust. This opens up avenues for further research and exploration in the field of solar technology.

Evaluation of Post-Processing on Additive Manufactured Bioresorbable Polymers for Medical Devices.

Additive manufacturing (AM) has seen massive growth in the medical device sector and an increase in the clearance of devices. Many challenges still exist in the design, development, and clinical use of AM-fabricated devices, notably the processing, annealing, and sterilization of resorbable polymers. In addition, the use of these materials continues to grow in medical devices and scaffold technologies for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine (TERM). Specifically, this study focused on the scaffold mechanical properties post-processing and throughout a simulated resorption (in vitro) study. Herein, we evaluated three (3) materials that span a range of mechanical properties and degradation rates relating to a range of tissue healing rates and mechanical properties affording the opportunity of biomimetic potentials, Caproprene 100M, Lactoflex 7415, and Lactoprene 100M. These bioresorbable polymers were additively manufactured into scaffold forms of Type V tensile bars to investigate post-processing parameters. A range of heat treatments were then performed after the AM process to induce a range of semicrystalline morphologies, and subsequently, two different sterilization techniques were performed, one based on super critical carbon dioxide and another using electron beam radiation. It was statistically shown that the heat treatment parameters and the sterilization method had statistically significant effects on the scaffold properties of each material. While material differences were responsible for the majority of the mechanical property breadth, techniques utilizing analysis of variance allowed the observation of significant effects and interactions associated with heat treatment, sterilization, and material parameters (alpha = 0.05). The characterization of the sample groups provided insight into the process-structure-property-performance relationships of the resorbable scaffold samples. It was established that the post-processing impacted the scaffold structures, and therefore, sterilization and heat treatment selections should be included within initial design considerations alongside material selection as critical for device development, especially when AM bioresorbable scaffolds for TERM.

Iterative approach for photonic crystal devices design

Background. An approach to the design of photonic crystal (PhC) devices is proposed, which differs from the known general-purpose optimization methods (for example, a genetic algorithm or gradient procedures) by using information about diffraction patterns at different frequencies when optimizing an element designed to operate at the selected wavelength. The following is an approach to the design of photonic crystal elements. The proposed approach differs from known general-purpose optimization methods (e.g., genetic algorithm or gradient procedures) by using diffraction pattern information at different frequencies while optimizing an element designed to operate at the selected wavelength. The design of functional PhC structures with expected characteristics (for example, waveguides) for a certain wavelength (albeit given by a monochromatic radiation source) is described. Aim. Development based on the FDTD method and confirmation of the functionality of the iterative procedure for calculating the characteristics of metal-dielectric PhC lattices. Methods. The study is based on an iterative approach to the design of PhC elements based on the use of the FDTD method. Results. Model examples were used for demonstration of practical convergence and applicability of the developed iterative procedure. The efficiency of the PhC waveguide, understood as the ratio of the output energy to the input energy, was increasing at each iteration up to 97.2%. Conclusion. The method of synthesis of metal-dielectric PhC structures with preset properties based on application of developed iterative procedure is proposed and argued. The results of the analysis of the 2D PhC waveguide based on a set of round copper rods show the applicability of the proposed method.

An Antagonistic Photovoltaic Memristor for Bioinspired Active Contrast Adaptation.

Machine vision systems that consist of cameras and image-processing components for visual inspection and identification tasks play a critical role in various intelligent applications, including pilotless vehicles and surveillance systems. However, current systems usually possess a limited dynamic range and fixed photoresponsivity, restricting their capability of gaining high-fidelity images when encoding a high-contrast scene. Here, it is shown that a photovoltaic memristor incorporating two antagonistic photovoltaic junctions can autonomously adjust its response to varying light stimuli, enabling the amplification of shadows and inhibition of highlight saturation. Due to the dynamic photodoping effect at the p-n junction with an asymmetrical profile, the photocurrent polarities of the antagonistic memristor can be changed as the light intensity increases. The light-intensity-dependent switchable photovoltaic behaviors match Weber's law where photosensitivity is inversely proportional to the light stimuli. An 11×11 memristor array is used to detect a high-contrast scene with light intensities ranging from 1 to 5×104 µW cm-2, achieving a similar active contrast adaptation performance compared with the human visual systems (less than 1.2 s at 94 dB). This work paves the way for innovative neuromorphic device designs and may lead to the development of state-of-the-art active visual adaptation photosensors.

Modification of New Semiconductor Materials by Doping

In the era of information, people’s lives are inseparable from electronic equipments. Semiconductors are key materials for manufacturing electronic equipment, which can be applied in multiple fields such as integrated circuits, solar cells, and so on. However, pure semiconductors have a single property, which are difficult to meet the design and usage requirements of different electronic devices. To solve the problem, introducing heteroatoms for modification to make them have more suitable performance will be a good way. Good semiconductor performance generally relies on precise control of the doping process. Different types of semiconductor materials typically require specific doping techniques to improve its performance. Adding small amounts of heteroatoms to pure semiconductors can significantly improve their conductivity by forming p/n junctions or achieving specific functions. Doping technology has been widely used in the semiconductor manufacturing industry. It is of great significance for the manufacturing of chips, photovoltaics and other devices. At present, there are still many shortcomings in doping technology. It may come across the semiconductor structure failure caused by doping, or difficulty in meeting performance requirements for use. Thereofore, continuous research and improvement are still needed. This paper reviewed the applications and the doping techniques of various semiconductor materials including two-dimensional semiconductors and organic semiconductors. In addition, it also provides prospects for their related applications and development.