Force Capability Research Articles

Targeting telecommunications: Why do rebel groups target information and communication technology infrastructure?

Although there has been much interest in how communication technology can shape conflict, the deliberate targeting of the telecommunication infrastructure by rebel groups has been largely overlooked. This article demonstrates that while some rebel groups systematically target telecommunications, others do not. It is argued that this reflects deliberate choices, and that rebel groups adapt their strategies based on cost–benefit analyses. Given the aim of avoiding detection and being targeted themselves, rebels may be more likely to target the telecommunication infrastructure when faced with a government with a technologically sophisticated military. However, a further increase in the opponent’s technological capabilities beyond a certain tipping point may compel rebels to employ preventive measures other than targeting telecommunications. Marxist-socialist or religious groups are expected to be more likely to target telecommunications to maintain a homogeneous propaganda space directed at their constituency, facilitating indoctrination and propaganda. These expectations were evaluated in an analysis of all rebel groups for the period 1970–2013. The results showed a non-linear relationship between rebel targeting of telecommunication infrastructure and the technological capabilities of the government forces, while Marxist-socialist and ethno-religious groups were more likely to target telecommunications compared with other groups.

Key features and applications of military drones: a case study from the Portuguese military ground forces

PurposeThe rapid advancement of new technologies necessitates the adaptation of existing resources to address the evolving demands of contemporary conflicts among nations. As exemplified by the emergence of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), these technologies have become indispensable components of military drone operations. This study investigates the role of innovation models in driving Portuguese Innovation and Development, focusing specifically on military drones.Design/methodology/approachThrough an examination of existing scientific and doctrinal literature, this research establishes a connection between theoretical concepts and the practical deployment of drones within the Portuguese ground forces. Employing a qualitative approach, this study follows a case study, with data collection following the principle of triangulation.FindingsThe findings of this research reveal several attributes crucial to drone utilization, such as optronic capability and drone range. These attributes are vital for ensuring high-quality, real-time imagery transmission and operational effectiveness in military activities.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the understanding of the implications of drone attributes for the Command, Control, Communications and Information Systems (C3IS) capabilities of the Portuguese ground forces. It highlights the importance of continued emphasis on drone development and innovation as a key priority for the Portuguese Army.

Multiscale Fiber Remodeling in the Infarcted Left Ventricle using a Stress-Based Reorientation Law

The organization of myofibers and extra cellular matrix within the myocardium plays a significant role in defining cardiac function. When pathological events occur, such as myocardial infarction (MI), this organization can become disrupted, leading to degraded pumping performance. The current study proposes a multiscale finite element (FE) framework to determine realistic fiber distributions in the left ventricle (LV). This is achieved by implementing a stress-based fiber reorientation law, which seeks to align the fibers with local traction vectors, such that contractile force and load bearing capabilities are maximized. By utilizing the total stress (passive and active), both myofibers and collagen fibers are reoriented. Simulations are conducted to predict the baseline fiber configuration in a normal LV as well as the adverse fiber reorientation that occurs due to different size MIs. The baseline model successfully captures the transmural variation of helical fiber angles within the LV wall, as well as the transverse fiber angle variation from base to apex. In the models of MI, the patterns of fiber reorientation in the infarct, border zone, and remote regions closely align with previous experimental findings, with a significant increase in fibers oriented in a left-handed helical configuration and increased dispersion in the infarct region. Furthermore, the severity of fiber reorientation and impairment of pumping performance both showed a correlation with the size of the infarct. The proposed multiscale modeling framework allows for the effective prediction of adverse remodeling and offers the potential for assessing the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions in the future. Statement of SignificanceThe organization of muscle and collagen fibers within the heart plays a significant role in defining cardiac function. This organization can become disrupted after a heart attack, leading to degraded pumping performance. In the current study, we implemented a stress-based fiber reorientation law into a computer model of the heart, which seeks to realign the fibers such that contractile force and load bearing capabilities are maximized. The primary goal was to evaluate the effects of different sized heart attacks. We observed substantial fiber remodeling in the heart, which matched experimental observations. The proposed computational framework allows for the effective prediction of adverse remodeling and offers the potential for assessing the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions in the future.

Force-velocity profiling in elite luge athletes during the simulated luge start

Introduction & Purpose The idea of some athletes having high strength levels but being too slow for a particular movement while others are fast but not strong enough for the demands of their sport exists among many coaches. Therefore, planning decisions are often based on the measurement results of speed and force capabilities and the interest in the relationships between additional load, force, velocity and power during the required movement is high. The luge start is a ballistic movement that requires both high forces and velocities to reach maximal performance (i.e. fast starting times). Examining the load, force, velocity and power capabilities of elite luge athletes during the luge start could deliver insights for training prescription to improve individual weak points and improve performance. This study investigated the relationship between the calculated maxima of force-velocity (FV), load-velocity (LV) and power-velocity (PV) profiles during a simulated luge start and on-ice start times in elite luge athletes. Methods Eleven Austrian national luge team athletes (1 female, 10 male, 25 [4.4] y, 182.4 [7.3] cm, 86.65 [10.4] kg) participated in this study. Measurements were conducted during a single testing session on a specially designed start simulator. Each athlete performed starts against 5 increasing resistances relative to their bodyweight (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%). For each pull, relative maximum force (Fmax), maximum power (Pmax) and maximum velocity (Vmax) were calculated using the measurements of a linear position transducer (GymAware PowerTool). An experimental approach was used to create the FV-, LV- and PV-profiles showing the highest R2. On-ice start times [s] were measured by photoelectric sensors (ALGE). A correlation matrix (p < 0.05) was used to analyze the relationships between the theoretical Pmax, Fmax (i.e. theoretical isometric maximum force), theoretically unloaded Vmax (Vmax(F0)), theoretical relative maximum loads (Lmax(V0)) and starting times obtained from the profiles. Results Ten linear FV profiles and 11 exponential LV were created (Figure 1; FV: R2mean = 0.9532 ± 0.06; LV: R2mean = 0.9918 ± 0.01). There were significant negative relationships between Vmax(F0) and on-ice starting times (r(9) = -.74, p < .05; r(9) = -.71, p < .05; r(9) = -.74, p < .05) and significant positive correlations between Lmax(V0) and ice start times (r(9) = .71, p < .05; r(9) = .71, p < .05; r(9) = .72, p < .05). Discussion The FV relationship during a simulated luge start can be represented mostly through a linear regression line, supporting the findings of former studies which showed a quasilinear relationship between force and velocity in multi-joint movements (Bobbert, 2012; Jaric, 2015). In line with earlier approaches, PV relationships could be represented quite accurately by use of second-degree polynomial regressions (Allison et al., 2013; Padulo et al., 2017). Contradictory to the linear LV relationships found in other movements (García-Ramos et al., 2018), the luge start LV profile can be better represented by exponential regression curves which could be due to the minimized friction in the luge start setup. Conclusion The abilities of accelerating high external loads and producing high velocities both affect luge start time.

Research on dynamic performance and mechanical model of a novel magnetorheological shear thickening damper with adaptive variable damping gap

Abstract Magnetorheological shear thickening fluid (MRSTF) is an intelligent composite material, which shows considerable potential in semi-active vibration control. However, the current research is mostly limited to the study of the rheological properties of materials, and there is still a lack of damper structures that can effectively utilize the dual-control characteristics of MRSTF. In this paper, a novel damper structure with adaptive adjustable damping gap length is proposed. Its unique design integrates an adaptive internal damping gap that changes with the movement of the piston and an external gap controlled by the magnetic field, providing a relatively wide range of current-controlled damping force and reliable adaptive adjustment capabilities. Based on the M-S shear stress constitutive model and structural characteristics, the mechanical model is derived from the force balance of the micro-element, and verified by performance test and curve fitting. The effectiveness of the new damper structure proposed in this paper is verified by dynamic performance test. The results show that the damper has a wide range of current controlled damping force at low speed and reliable adaptive adjustment capability at high speed. Finally, the accuracy and universality of the modified mechanical model of damper are verified by curve fitting method. All these studies can offer an effective guidance for further application of MRSTF in the field of semi-active vibration control.

Optimal robot task scheduling in cluttered environments considering mechanical advantage

Abstract In various industrial robotic applications, the effective traversal of a manipulator amidst obstacles and its ability to reach specific task-points are imperative for the execution of predefined tasks. In certain scenarios, the sequence in which the manipulator reaches these task-points significantly impacts the overall cycle time required for task completion. Moreover, some tasks necessitate significant force exertion at the end-effector. Therefore, establishing an optimal sequence for the task-points reached by the end-effector’s tip is crucial for enhancing robot performance, ensuring collision-free motion and maintaining high-force application at the end-effector’s tip. To maximize the manipulator’s manipulability, which serves as a performance index for assessing its force capability, we aim to establish an optimal collision-free task sequence considering higher mechanical advantage. Three optimization criteria are considered: the cycle time, collision avoidance and the manipulability index. Optimization is accomplished using a genetic algorithm coupled with the Bump-Surface concept for collision avoidance. The effectiveness of this approach is confirmed through simulation experiments conducted in 2D and 3D environments with obstacles employing both redundant and non-redundant robots.

Effect of number of triggers and shape of crash box on energy absorption during experimental collision

The capacity of passenger car crash boxes to absorb energy during crashes has been the subject of extensive research, which started with the creation of multiple crash box models, changes in crash box filling, and the inclusion of crash box triggers. On the other hand, no research has been done on the combination of axle trigger holes, nine-cell columns, and crash box models. The results of the experiment on the energy-absorbing capacity of AA6061-T4 crash box specimens under compressive loads are presented in this paper. The compression tests were conducted on a Universal Testing Machine with a maximum force capability of 1000 kN and a speed capability of 5 mm/s. Three models are used in crash box modeling. A cross-section of the model with a round hole-shaped trigger variation is included in these three versions. It is established that the hexagonal Frusta type with two holes absorbs the highest energy at 33.30 kJ, and has a displacement of 4.12 mm and a maximum force of 348.5 kN. The energy absorption capacity of the crash box was found to be increased by combining frusta versions of the hexagon model with two holes and nine-cell column filling.

Estimating highest capacity propulsion performance using backward-directed force during walking evaluation for individuals with acquired brain injury

There are over 5.3 million Americans who face acquired brain injury (ABI)-related disability as well as almost 800,000 who suffer from stroke each year. To improve mobility and quality of life, rehabilitation professionals often focus on walking recovery soon after hospital discharge for ABI. Reduced propulsion capacity (force output of the lower limbs to counteract ground reaction forces) negatively impacts walking ability and complicates recovery during rehabilitation for brain injured people. We describe a method, using backward-directed resistance (BDR) in a robotic-based treadmill device, to allow measurement of maximum walking propulsion force (MWPF) that is not otherwise possible during overground walking assessment. Our objective was to test the construct validity of a maximum walking propulsion force (MWPF) measure that reflects a person’s propulsive strength against applied BDR, while walking on a robotic treadmill-based device for participants with acquired brain injury (ABI). Our study enrolled 14 participants with ABI at an in inpatient rehabilitation in Galveston, TX from 8/1/21 − 4/31/22. The range of weight-adjusted MWPF was 2.6–27.1% body weight (%BW), mean 16.5 ± 8.4%BW, reflecting a wide range of propulsive force capability. The strongest correlation with overground tests was between the 6-minute walk test (6-MWT) distance and the MWPF values (r = 0.83, p < 0.001) with moderate correlations between the 10-meter walk tests at comfortable (CWS) and fast speeds (FWS). The Five Times Sit-to-Stand (used as a standard clinical measure of functional lower extremity strength) and MWPF tests were poorly correlated (r = 0.26, p = 0.4). Forward model selection included 6-MWT distance, age, and overground CWS as significant partial predictors of MWPF. We conclude that this novel MWPF measure is a valid representation of maximum propulsive force effort during walking for people post-ABI. Additional research could help determine the impact of interventions designed to increase propulsive force generation during rehabilitation training to improve overground walking performance.

Development of hydrogen peroxide based micro thruster utilizing biomass-based catalyst bed

Micro thrusters, also referred to as micro-newton thrusters, are thrusters having a wide range of force capabilities in the micro-newton range. Micro thrusters are used in CubeSats, tiny robots and drones, micro- and nanosatellites, spacecraft attitude control, etc. The aim of the present study is to develop a monopropellant thruster (MPT) for 90 % concentrated hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). A rotatory evaporator was used to obtain a 90 % H2O2 form the available concentration of 50 % H2O2. The next stage involved the designing of the monopropellant thruster utilizing the NASA CEA rocket performance algorithm and the derived mathematical model. The test facility was constructed which includes a thruster, a feed line system, a static test firing platform, a data collecting system and the measuring sensors. To measure the thrust of the thruster, a pendulum thrust mechanism was constructed and fabricated into an experimental test stand. Lastly, the MPT chamber, which uses stainless steel mesh, was prepared and packed with the biomass-based catalyst. The 14 bar injection pressure conditions were used for the fire tests. With a mass flow rate of 5 g/s and a decomposition pressure of 10 bar, the theoretical specific impulse (Isp) was calculated to be 1993.2 Ns/kg at an O/F ratio of 0.002. The test firing with 90 % concentrated hydrogen peroxide gave an experimental specific impulse of 794.5 Ns/kg, which gives efficiency of 39.9 %.

Fiber-Reinforced Equibiaxial Dielectric Elastomer Actuator for Out-of-Plane Displacement.

Dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) have gained significant attention due to their potential in soft robotics and adaptive structures. However, their performance is often limited by their in-plane strain distribution and limited mechanical stability. We introduce a novel design utilizing fiber reinforcement to address these challenges. The fiber reinforcement provides enhanced mechanical integrity and improved strain distribution, enabling efficient energy conversion and out-of-plane displacement. We discuss an analytical model and the fabrication process, including material selection, to realize fiber-reinforced DEAs. Numerical simulations and experimental results demonstrate the performance of the fiber-reinforced equibiaxial DEAs and characterize their displacement and force capabilities. Actuators with four and eight fibers are fabricated with 100 μm and 200 μm dielectric thicknesses. A maximal out-of-plane displacement of 500 μm is reached, with a force of 0.18 N, showing promise for the development of haptic devices.

Design and application of bidirectional soft actuator with multiangle chambers

Purpose This study aims to introduce a novel bidirectional soft actuator as an enhancement to conventional pneumatic network actuators. This improvement involves integrating air chambers positioned at specific angles to improve stability, adaptability and grasping efficiency in various environments. Design/methodology/approach The design approach incorporates air chambers positioned at a 45° angle relative to the horizontal direction at the actuator's terminus, along with additional chambers at a 90° angle. Mathematical models are developed for longitudinal and transverse bending, as well as for obliquely connected cavities, based on the assumption of piecewise constant curvature. Analyses are conducted on output forces, bending characteristics and end contact areas for both transverse and longitudinal ends. Findings The proposed soft actuator surpasses traditional pneumatic network actuators in gripping area due to the inclusion of a diagonal air cavity and a transverse pneumatic network structure at the terminus. As a result, it provides torsion and gripping force in both directions. Testing on a dedicated platform with two variants of grippers demonstrates superior gripping force capability and performance in complex environments. Practical implications Through the design of multiangle chambers, the soft actuator exhibits diverse driving angles and morphological variations, offering innovative design perspectives for industrial grasping. Social implications The design of multiangle chambers facilitates personalized configurations of soft actuators by researchers, enabling tailored angles for specific interaction environments to achieve desired functionalities. This approach offers novel insights into soft actuator design, addressing more prevalent industrial grasping challenges. Originality/value This study introduces a novel soft actuator design that significantly enhances gripping capabilities in comparison to conventional pneumatic network actuators. The incorporation of specific air chamber configurations and mathematical modeling provides valuable insights for the development of adaptable and efficient robotic grippers for industrial and household applications.

მექანიზებული საიერიშო ხიდების განვითარების ისტორია და ძირითადი ტენდენციები

The purpose, use, development history of mechanized attack bridges and general trends in this field is discussed. Requirements during the Russia-China war and Persian Gulf operations are also discussed. The main principles of this type of engineering equipment, their role on the modern battlefield, and the achievements of leading countries in the creation and development of modern mechanized attack bridges is analyzed. The importance of modern mechanized attack bridges in the mountainous terrain of Georgia is emphasized. Their role in increasing the combat capability of the defense forces, both offensively and operationally, as well as in the implementation of mobile defense and logistical support, is mentioned. Also, their role in supporting civil authorities during natural or man-made disasters is mentioned.

Generalized methodology of valuate using the satellite repeater connection for targeted purpose.

Providing electronic communication services to military formations that protect the state in the conditions of repelling a full-scale military invasion of the Russian Federation, requires the creation of a communication system (SZ) of the Armed Forces (AF) of Ukraine, which has the necessary properties to perform the assigned tasks as intended [1; 2]. According to the standard AJP-3 «Joint doctrine of the conduct of NATO operations» [3], increasing the combat capabilities of the combined forces and supporting operations (combat operations) is carried out, including through the use of satellite communications. The potential capabilities of satellite communication, such as broadcasting, high reliability and quality of communication channels, independence from distance, physical and geographical conditions, and high mobility, allow to ensure the communication of subscribers of the electronic communications system of the armed forces, which is a combat platform that allows the system management to receive network information services in real time. Modern satellite repeaters (SR) can have up to several dozen transponders of several frequency bands [4–6]. Satellite communication systems, which include several SRs, can provide high bandwidth of radio channels and the possibility of transmitting large volumes of information through them and allow solving the problem of creating global information and telecommunication systems and networks. The satellite communication system of the AF of Ukraine should be able to change the configuration for a specific service area depending on the needs of certain types of satellite networks, and therefore the satellite communication system of the AF of Ukraine should be based, including on SR communication of commercial appointment. The article proposes a generalized methodology for evaluating satellite communication relays of the SSR of the AF of Ukraine, the novelty of which is its general orientation for satellite communication systems built according to different architectural principles, using different frequency-orbital resources and providing different services using a methodological approach, which is based on the provisions of qualimetry and the calculation of integral and relative efficiency indicators, which takes into account the characteristic indicators of individual satellite repeaters.

Design and Analysis of Five-Phase Fault-Tolerant Vernier Permanent Magnet Machines for Direct-Drive Occasions

Abstract A fault-tolerant vernier permanent magnet machine (FTVPMM) with five phases for direct-drive occasions is designed and analyzed. The construction of the proposed FTVPMM is introduced and the principle of the vernier modulation effect is investigated. Parameters are designed and optimized by finite element analysis (FEA), including tooth width, slot opening, PM thickness, pole-arc coefficient, air-gap length, and rotor yoke. Furthermore, major electromagnetic performances are discussed, including cogging torque, no-load back electromotive force (BEMF), output torque, and fault-tolerant capability.

Transient characterisation and analysis of shape memory alloy wire bundles for the actuation of finger joints in prosthesis design

Most current lower arm/hand prosthesis designs incorporate relatively bulky, heavy dc motors that produce substantial noise when performing actuation which rendersthem uncomfortable for the end-user. The engineering challenge is to produce more effective powered upper limb prosthetic solutions. Identification, characterisation and testing of actuation methods with better force to weight ratios are essential pre-requisites for this. The main aim of this work is to carry out a comprehensive study to establish conclusively the feasibility of employing Shape Memory Alloys (SMA’s) in the actuation of prosthetic finger designs. A comprehensive review of existing literature has been undertaken in order to establish the maximum grip forces at each phalanx of the human hand under different loading conditions. An experiment was developed in conjunction with this review to estimate the time response of the hand during a gripping/releasing action. These results, in combination with physical dimensions, will be used to drive the design of a prosthetic limb.&#x0D; A test rig has been developed which can facilitate complete transient and steady-state characterisation of a range of SMA wire diameters and bundle configurations. Anumber of different configurations were tested, each configuration having a different combination of 150 μm and 300 μm diameter nitinol wires. A data acquisition systemwas used to capture and retain data pertaining to the full characterisation of the bundles and in particular the strain and force capabilities of the various arrangements. A direct comparison is made between the actuator capabilities and the requirements of a working limb for basic gripping actions. This work will contribute to the development of an improved powered prosthetic solution.

Design and Characterization of Soft Fabric Omnidirectional Bending Actuators

Soft robots, inspired by biological adaptability, can excel where rigid robots may falter and offer flexibility and safety for complex, unpredictable environments. In this paper, we present the Omnidirectional Bending Actuator (OBA), a soft robotic actuation module which is fabricated from off-the-shelf materials with easy scalability and consists of three pneumatic chambers. Distinguished by its streamlined manufacturing process, the OBA is capable of bending in all directions with a high force-to-weight ratio, potentially addressing a notable research gap in knit fabric actuators with multi-degree-of-freedom capabilities. We will present the design and fabrication of the OBA, examine its motion and force capabilities, and demonstrate its capability for stiffness modulation and its ability to maintain set configurations under loads. The mass of the entire actuation module is 278 g, with a range of omnidirectional bending up to 90.80°, a maximum tolerable pressure of 862 kPa, and a bending payload (block force) of 10.99 N, resulting in a force-to-weight ratio of 39.53 N/kg. The OBA’s cost-effective and simple fabrication, compact and lightweight structure, and capability to withstand high pressures present it as an attractive actuation primitive for applications demanding efficient and versatile soft robotic solutions.

Influence of Growth, Maturation, and Sex on Maximal Power, Force, and Velocity During Overground Sprinting.

Sudlow, A, Galantine, P, Del Sordo, G, Raymond, J-J, Dalleau, G, Peyrot, N, and Duché, P. Influence of growth, maturation, and sex on maximal power, force, and velocity during overground sprinting. J Strength Cond Res 38(3): 491-500, 2024-In pediatric populations maximal anaerobic power, force, and velocity capabilities are influenced by changes in body dimensions and muscle function. The aim of this study was to investigate the influences of growth, maturation, and sex on short-term anaerobic performance. One hundred forty children pre-, mid-, and postpeak height velocity performed two 30-m sprints concurrently measured using a radar device. Maximal power (Pmax), force (F0), and velocity (v0) were calculated from sprint velocity-time data and normalized using sex-specific, multiplicative, allometric models containing body mass, fat-free mass (FFM), or height, and chronological age. Absolute values for Pmax, F0, and v0 were higher with increasing maturity (p < 0.01; d ≥ 0.96), and boys had greater outputs than girls (p < 0.01; d ≥ 1.19). When Pmax and v0 were scaled all maturity-related and sex-related differences were removed. When F0 was scaled using models excluding age, all maturity-related differences were removed except for the least mature group (p < 0.05; d ≥ 0.88) and boys maintained higher values than girls (p < 0.05; d ≥ 0.92). All maturity-related and sex-related differences were removed when F0 was scaled using models including age. Maturity-related and sex-related variance in Pmax and v0 can be entirely explained when FFM, height, and chronological age are accounted for. Regarding F0, there seems to be a threshold after which the inclusion of age is no longer necessary to account for maturity-related differences. In young prepubertal children, the inclusion of age likely accounts for deficits in neuromuscular capacities and motor skills, which body dimensions cannot account for. Practitioners should focus on eliciting neural adaptations and enhancing motor coordination in prepubertal children to improve anaerobic performance during overground sprinting.

Low‐velocity impact behavior in multi‐layered structures and hybrid composites via sandwich stacking techniques

AbstractThe study aimed to investigate the impact behavior of fabric laminates composed of carbon, Kevlar, and hybrid materials through low‐velocity impact tests. Non‐hybrid and hybrid laminates were created using layup techniques with sandwich stacking sequences. Drop weight impact tests were conducted using varying levels of impact energy to assess the influence of stacking sequence and hybridization on impact properties. The results showed significant improvements in impact properties with increasing stacking sequence, particularly a 108.8% and 137.4% enhancement in C4 and K4 laminates, respectively. Kevlar laminates exhibited higher energy resistance than carbon laminates, and the Kevlar‐carbon‐Kevlar‐carbon hybrid laminate demonstrated superior impact force and energy absorption capabilities. Additionally, the study analyzed penetration depth and identified different failure modes dependent on stacking sequence and impact energy levels. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing fabric laminated composites. Thus, the research could be implemented in industries requiring materials with enhanced impact resistance, such as aerospace, automotive, sports equipment, and protective gear manufacturing.Highlights Investigated the impact performance of stacked fabric structures, including carbon, Kevlar, and hybrid laminated composites, through low‐velocity impact tests. Fabricated both non‐hybrid and hybrid laminates using layup techniques with a sandwich stacking sequence to assess the impact properties of the composite laminates. Observed greater penetration depth in the C2 stacked structure, while the KCKC hybrid laminate showcased greater resistance to a depth of penetration (DOP). Various failure modes were investigated, demonstrating their relationship with stacking sequence and impact energy levels.

Military Balancing for Future Conventional Arms Control Agreements in Europe

Abstract A qualitative assessment of the conventional military balance between NATO and Russia may form a basis of any potential conventional arms control (CAC) agreement in Europe. Article discusses methods to assess force capability and military balances, and then suggests updates to the methods based on insights from recent conflicts, military capability trends and developments. The article offers a weighted static force analysis model to assess military balances, that can be used for CAC agreements, called the Quantitative Approach to Conventional Arms Control (QuACAC). This approach may help narrow areas of disagreement between negotiating parties, and provide a basis for CAC agreement adaptation.

Electric field control of magnetic anisotropy and model for oriented Co/graphene design

Electric field controlled magnetic devices have attracted interest in the area of magnetic recording research, owing to their lower power consumption and high stability. While heterostructures composed of Co and carbon materials exhibit unique properties, our understanding of the magnetic properties of Co on graphene with a wavelike structure and related electric field-controlled phenomena remains limited. Here, we demonstrate the preparation of a customized Co/graphene structure, in which the controllability of the coercive force is enhanced. Taking the coercive force and geometric factor of Co into consideration, a shape-dependent magnetic anisotropy is proposed, which sufficiently explains the correlation between the coercive force and the aspect ratios of the Co stripes. For the magnetic field perpendicular to the bottom lines of canyons, the adjustment capability of the coercive force is enhanced under conditions of a more negatively charged surface. Based on the large electric field and related magnetic anisotropy energy, a ferro-ionic control (FeIC) model is proposed, which describes the relationship between the electric potential and coercive force in electrified conditions. Based on a FeIC model with a preferred orientation, we propose a design of an integrated FeIC inductor with field tunability that could strongly impact the field of integrated-circuit design, resulting in wider applications and functionalities of chips.