Functional Prototype Research Articles

A Value Co-Creation Perspective on Data Labeling in Hybrid Intelligence Systems: A Design Study

The adoption of innovative technologies confronts IT-Service-Management (ITSM) with an increasing volume and variety of requests. Artificial intelligence (AI) possesses the potential to augment customer service employees. However, the training data for AI systems are annotated by domain experts with little interest in labeling correctly due to their limited perceived value. Ultimately, insufficient labeled data leads to diminishing returns in AI performance. Following a design science research approach, we provide a novel human-in-the-loop (HIL) design for ITSM support ticket recommendations by incorporating a value co-creation perspective. The design incentivizes ITSM agents to provide labels during their everyday ticket-handling procedures. We develop a functional prototype based on 17,120 support tickets provided by a pilot partner as an instantiation and evaluate the design through accuracy metrics and user evaluations. Our evaluation revealed that recommendations after label improvement showed increased user ratings, and users are willing to contribute their domain knowledge. We demonstrate that our design benefits for both human agent and AI systems in the form of hybrid intelligence service systems. Overall, our results emphasize agents' need for value-in-use by providing better results if they improve the labeling of support tickets pre-labeled by AI. Thus, we provide prescriptive knowledge of a novel HIL design that enables efficient and interactive labeling in the context of diverse applications of reinforcement learning systems.

On digital twinning of fused filament fabrication for tensile properties of polyvinylidene fluoride composites-based functional prototypes

In the last two decades, several studies have been conducted for the process parametric optimization of fused filament fabrication (FFF) with a variety of thermoplastic composites, especially for mechanical properties. But hitherto less has been conveyed, on the development of dynamic reduced order models (ROMs) for digital twining (DT) of tensile properties (of 3D printed implants/scaffolds) with novel thermoplastic-based composites. In this study, for the generation of dynamic ROM (for hybrid analytics), the signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio was used to ascertain the best settings of parameters for tensile properties of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) composite. The study suggests that the best setting of the FFF process, for the 3D printing of PVDF composite (90% PVDF, 8% hydroxyapatite (HAp), and 2% Chitosan (CS) (for maximizing the tensile properties as per ASTM-D638-Type-V) are nozzle temperature (NT) of 235°C, raster angle (RA) 45°, printing speed (PS) of 60 mm/s respectively resulting in peak load (PL) 394.87 N, peak stress (PSt) 33.92 MPa, Young’s modulus (E) 2.606 MPa. For a modulus of toughness (MOT) of 0.484 MPa, the best settings are NT 230°C, RA 90°, and PS 50 mm/s. The results are supported by the morphological analysis.

The Iterative Design Process of an Explainable AI Application for Non-Invasive Diagnosis of CNS Tumors: A User-Centered Approach.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is well-suited to help support complex decision-making tasks within clinical medicine, including clinical imaging applications like radiographic differential diagnosis of central nervous system (CNS) tumors. So far, there have been numerous examples of theoretical AI solutions for this space, for example, large-scale corporate efforts like IBM's Watson AI. However, clinical implementation remains limited due to factors related to the alignment of this technology in the clinical setting. User-Centered Design (UCD) is a design philosophy that focuses on developing tailored solutions for specific users or user groups. In this study, we applied UCD to develop an explainable AI tool to support clinicians in our use case. Through four design iterations, starting from basic functionality and visualizations, we progressed to functional prototypes in a realistic testing environment. We discuss our motivation and approach for each iteration, along with key insights gained. This UCD process has advanced our conceptual idea from feasibility testing to interactive functional AI interfaces designed for specific clinical and cognitive tasks. It has also provided us with directions to develop further an AI system for the non-invasive diagnosis of CNS tumors.

Assessment of the mechanical properties of PC/ABS blends for functional prototyping by FFF 3D printing

PurposeThis paper aims to evaluate the mechanical behaviour of polycarbonate/acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC/ABS) filaments for fusion filament fabrication (FFF). PC/ABS have emerged as a promising material for FFF due to their excellent mechanical properties. However, the optimal processing conditions and the effect of the blending ratio on the mechanical properties of the resulting workpieces are still unclear.Design/methodology/approachA statistical factorial matrix was designed, including infill pattern, printing speed, nozzle size, layer height and printing temperature as factors (with three levels). A total of 810 workpieces were printed using PC/ABS blends filament with the FFF. The workpieces’ finishing and mass were evaluated. Tensile tests were performed. Analysis of variance was performed to determine the main effects of the processing conditions on the mechanical properties.FindingsThe results showed that the PC/ABS (70/30) exhibited higher tensile. Tensile rupture corresponded to 30% of the tensile strength. The infill pattern showed the highest contribution to the responses. The concentric pattern showed higher tensile strength. Tensile strength and mass ratio demonstrated the influence of mass on tensile strength. The influence of printing parameters on deformation depended on the blend proportions. Higher printing speed and lower layer height provided better quality workpieces.Originality/valueThis study has implications for the design and manufacturing of three-dimensional printed parts using PC/ABS filaments. An extensive experimental matrix was applied, aiming at a complete understanding of mechanical behavior, considering the main printing parameters and combinations not explored by literature.

On direct metal laser sintering of functional prototype- X and R- chart and analysis of process capability

In this study, direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) was used to fabricate the functional prototype of a stifel prosthesis. A benchmark was fabricated using 17–4 precipitate-hardened (PH) stainless steel (SS). For industrial use, the process capability of the DMLS fabricated prototypes needs to be ascertained, so an effort has been made to check the process capability by fabricating functional prototypes under the specified printing parameters. Finally, a methodology has been presented for the design, fabrication, and analysis of printed components. The result of this study suggests that the value of process capability indices (Cp and Cpk) is greater than 1. Further X and R bar charts were plotted for statistical analysis.

Functional Prototype Design for a Programmable Equipment in Personalized Football Training

AbstractAssembly and testing are the last stages in the design phase to obtain proof of concept for a certain product. Although it is time and cost consuming, assembly fit and test are crucial for the future development of any complex product, unveiling potential consequences in the future product life cycle. The current paper addresses the main assembly stages, testing strategies, feedback implementation, and redesign decisions involved in the development of a programmable equipment in personalized football training. Demountable subassemblies are used for the manufacture of the final prototype, encouraging interchangeability of parts, and modularity of the final product. Coupling, gear, key, and bearing assemblies are mainly used to physically obtain the programmable equipment prototype. Since some components are bespoke and are 3D printed specifically for this product, fit tests are undertaken to ensure proper functioning of all mechanical and electronic components. Software and electronic testing are also done to both calibrate and ensure proper code functioning. Optimization of the prototype is implemented in all three main systems that make up the personalized football training equipment: mechanical, electronic, and software. The optimized functional prototype of the equipment will be subjected to endurance tests in order to evaluate the life expectancy of individual components, subassemblies, and, finally, of the general product.

Breathing New Life into an Old Tree: Resolving Logging Dilemma of B + -tree on Modern Computational Storage Drives

Having dominated databases and various data management systems for decades, B + -tree is infamously subject to a logging dilemma: One could improve B + -tree speed performance by equipping it with a larger log, which nevertheless will degrade its crash recovery speed. Such a logging dilemma is particularly prominent in the presence of modern workloads that involve intensive small writes. In this paper, we propose a novel solution, called per-page logging based B + -tree, which leverages the emerging computational storage drive (CSD) with built-in transparent compression to fundamentally resolve the logging dilemma. Our key idea is to divide the large single log into many small (e.g., 4KB), highly compressible per-page logs , each being statically bounded with a B + -tree page. All per-page logs together form a very large over-provisioned log space for B + -tree to improve its operational speed performance. Meanwhile, during crash recovery, B + -tree does not need to scan any per-page logs, leading to a recovery latency independent from the total log size. We have developed and open-sourced a fully functional prototype. Our evaluation results show that, under small-write intensive workloads, our design solution can improve B + -tree operational throughput by up to 625.6% and maintain a crash recovery time of as low as 19.2 ms, while incurring a minimal storage overhead of only 0.5-1.6%.

Enhancing attention in autism spectrum disorder: comparative analysis of virtual reality-based training programs using physiological data

BackgroundThe ability to maintain attention is crucial for achieving success in various aspects of life, including academic pursuits, career advancement, and social interactions. Attention deficit disorder (ADD) is a common symptom associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which can pose challenges for individuals affected by it, impacting their social interactions and learning abilities. To address this issue, virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a promising tool for attention training with the ability to create personalized virtual worlds, providing a conducive platform for attention-focused interventions. Furthermore, leveraging physiological data can be instrumental in the development and enhancement of attention-training techniques for individuals.MethodsIn our preliminary study, a functional prototype for attention therapy systems was developed. In the current phase, the objective is to create a framework called VR-PDA (Virtual Reality Physiological Data Analysis) that utilizes physiological data for tracking and improving attention in individuals. Four distinct training strategies such as noise, score, object opacity, and red vignette are implemented in this framework. The primary goal is to leverage virtual reality technology and physiological data analysis to enhance attentional capabilities.ResultsOur data analysis results revealed that reinforcement training strategies are crucial for improving attention in individuals with ASD, while they are not significant for non-autistic individuals. Among all the different strategies employed, the noise strategy demonstrates superior efficacy in training attention among individuals with ASD. On the other hand, for Non-ASD individuals, no specific training proves to be effective in enhancing attention. The total gazing time feature exhibited benefits for participants with and without ASD.DiscussionThe results consistently demonstrated favorable outcomes for both groups, indicating an enhanced level of attentiveness. These findings provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of different strategies for attention training and emphasize the potential of virtual reality (VR) and physiological data in attention training programs for individuals with ASD. The results of this study open up new avenues for further research and inspire future developments.

Tractor-operated hydraulically controlled tree shaker for harvesting fruits

A tractor-operated hydraulically controlled tree shaker was developed to harvest Aonla (Phyllanthusemblica) and Jamun (Syzygium cumini) fruits. This machine generates vibration to shake fruit trees withprovision to hold the tree trunk up to 2438 mm high. Besides, a collecting basket made of green net with fully opened diameter of 6706 mm has also been developed. Performance assessment of the machine was carried out on Aonla and Jamun fruit trees at two different stroke rates and compared with the traditional method of fruit harvesting. The best results were obtained at stroke rates 1480 ± 8 and 1600 ± 12 rpm for Aonla and Jamun trees, respectively. The average harvest per tree at these stroke rates was 52.99 kg and 12.53 kg for Aonla and Jamun trees, respectively. Mature, immature, and damaged harvested fruits were 78.59%, 5.59% and 15.81%, respectively, for Aonla. In Jamun, the mature, immature, and damaged harvests were 82.34%, 7.10%, and 10.56%, respectively. The overall fuel consumption for harvesting Aonla and Jamun fruits was 5.6 and 6.06 l/h, respectively. For Aonla, the cost of harvesting with the machine was Rs. 5.03/kg, whereas it was Rs. 20.94/kg for jamun. In contrast, the cost of harvesting in the traditional method was Rs. 4.20/kg for Aonla and Rs. 15/kg for Jamun. The cost of operation was higher due to the harvesting of untrained, non-pruned treesand the machine being a functional prototype. The overall saving in labour was 74-80% in Aonla and 75-80% in Jamun fruit harvesting compared to the manual method

Digital Health App to Address Disparate HIV Outcomes Among Black Women Living in Metro-Atlanta: Protocol for a Multiphase, Mixed Methods Pilot Feasibility Study.

Cisgender Black women in the southern United States are at heightened risk for HIV and adverse sexual and reproductive health outcomes. Mobile health interventions that target HIV risk while being adapted to the needs and lived experiences of Black women are remarkably limited. The study aims to refine SavvyHER, a mobile app for HIV prevention, with Black women residing in high HIV incidence areas of Georgia and evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and usability of SavvyHER. This paper describes the procedures implemented to conduct this research. Community-based participatory research tenets guide this multiphase study to finalize the development of what we hypothesize will be an effective, sustainable, and culturally relevant HIV prevention and optimal sexual health and reproductive wellness app for Black women. This multiphased, mixed methods study consists of 3 phases. The first phase entails focus groups with Black women to understand their preferences for the functionality and design of a beta prototype version of SavvyHER. In the second phase, an app usability pretest (N=10) will be used to refine and optimize the SavvyHER app. The final phase will entail a pilot randomized controlled trial (N=60) to evaluate the app's feasibility and usability in preparation for a larger trial. Findings from preliminary focus groups revealed educational content, app aesthetics, privacy considerations, and marketing preferred by Black women, thus informing the first functional SavvyHER prototype. As we adapt and test the feasibility of SavvyHER, we hypothesize that the app will be an effective, sustainable, and culturally relevant HIV prevention, sexual health, and reproductive wellness tool for Black women. The findings from this research substantiate the importance of developing health interventions curated for and by Black women to address critical HIV disparities. The knowledge gained from this research can reduce HIV disparities among Black women through a targeted intervention that centers on their health needs and priorities. DERR1-10.2196/42712.

Exploring the potential of onboard energy scavenging subsystems for generating valuable data

We propose implementing an onboard energy scavenging subsystem utilizing piezoelectric materials, which serves the dual purpose of generating electrical energy and facilitating data acquisition for multifaceted applications. In a practical demonstration, we have engineered a fully functional prototype adept at gathering data via a piezoelectric-centric energy scavenging mechanism. This gathered data is seamlessly synchronized with GPS coordinates and timestamps, meticulously organized within a system architecture, and harnessed through meticulously crafted Python code. The wealth of data that we obtain from an onboard energy scavenging subsystem holds significant potential. It empowers us to discern road irregularities and potholes through intricate analytical methodologies while also facilitating a thorough assessment of asphalt quality. Furthermore, it enables real-time surveillance of vehicular suspension system health and offers a nuanced exploration of driver behavior patterns. In a pragmatic pursuit of actionable insights, the amassed data can be expeditiously conveyed to relevant authorities. These authorities can perform even deeper Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Deep Learning (DL) to proactively initiate timely corrective measures, thereby elevating road safety standards and ensuring the maintenance of critical infrastructure. The Results and Discussion section underscores the attainment of substantial and noteworthy outcomes, further affirming the significance of our findings.

Usability Analysis of a Medication Visualization Tool for Decision Support.

In Germany, patients are entitled to a medication plan. While the overview is useful, it does not contain explicit information on various potential adverse drug events (ADEs). Therefore, physicians must continue to seek information from various sources to ensure medication safety. In this project a first functional prototype of a medication therapy tool was developed that focuses on visualizing and highlighting potential ADEs. A usability analysis about the tool's functionality, design and usability was conducted. A web application tool was developed using the MMI Pharmindex as database. ADEs are color coded and can be displayed in three different ways - as a list, a table, or a graph. To test the tool, an online survey was conducted amongst healthcare professionals (n = 9). The test included two real medication plans to check ADEs through the tool. The survey results indicated that the web tool was clear and self-explanatory. It scored overall "good" (score: 76.5) on the System Usability Scale questionnaire. Due to the free-text information of the database used, there were some inconsistencies in the visualized ADEs. There is a demand for a visualization tool for medications. The high quality of the database is crucial in order to correctly visualize all necessary information, such as drug-drug interactions and inclusion of patient data. This is essential to provide a trustworthy tool for medical professionals.

Review of Design and Implementation of Automated Drugs Mixer

Macromixing and drug control are becoming more essential in a wide range of chemical and biological applications. The efficacy of microfluidic macromixing devices, which are particularly beneficial to give an exact quantity of material at specified times, is greatly influenced by the infusion pump. The construction of a low-cost functional prototype of an infusion pump in the management of delivery rates that are variable and low in particular quantities is proposed in this study. The infusion pump may be seen working at various flow rates, proving that the device may be utilized to control the volume and rate of flow of chemical fluids in medical settings, in addition to microfluidic mixing investigations in specific and scientific studies, In general, the biomedical field.

Analysis of trans‐domain motion process of bullet‐shaped trans‐domain amphibious vehicle

AbstractA fully functional prototype of a bullet‐shaped trans‐domain amphibious vehicle with the ability to perform reciprocating cross‐medium movements has been developed. Once the bullet‐shaped underwater vehicle completes its designated underwater tasks, upon reaching a suitable location for surface observation, it will transform into a bullet‐shaped coaxial counter‐propeller aircraft to carry out cross‐domain out‐of‐water and performing aerial flight missions. The successful transition of the vehicle into amphibious mode is attributed to the design of an innovative energy attitude multiplexing mechanism. Simultaneously, a rational and effective hybrid‐switching strategy has been proposed to enhance the reliability of the vehicle's amphibious mode transition. In view of the complex and changeable cross‐domain environment, we have adopted a modular design concept, breaking down the entire cross‐domain movement process into three key phases: air operation flight, transient cross‐domain, and underwater active sailing. Detailed theoretical analysis, algorithm design, and experimental research have been conducted for each phase. This paper proposes and expounds the key design principles, evaluates the performance indicators of key components, and weighs the matching of body dynamics and propulsion performance to ensure that the vehicle achieves the expected performance. Finally, the success of the test at different phases further proves that the vehicle has the ability to achieve complete cross‐domain operation.

Aeroelastic Analysis of Actuated Adaptive Wingtips Based on Pressure Actuation

Folding wingtips address the challenges posed by high-aspect-ratio wings, such as airport conformity and increased wing root bending moment. Actuated adaptive wingtips extend the functionalities of folding wingtips by using a stiffness-adaptive aeroelastic hinge that is actively adjustable in flight. The objective of this paper is the aeroelastic analysis of a wing equipped with an adaptive-stiffness hinge. While the structural design of the wingtip actuator based on pressure-actuated cellular structures (PACS) was developed in a previous study, in this study the authors verify the concept of actuated adaptive wingtips through aeroelastic analysis. This study shows that the investigated PACS actuator, structurally designed from glass-fiber-reinforced plastic, is capable of bearing the loads acting on the wingtips of a Cessna Citation X. The adaptive-stiffness hinge, positioned between 86.7 and 91.2% of the semispan, reduces the wing root bending moment by up to 7.8% in a 2.5g maneuver load case, while keeping the wing straight in cruise. A further increase in load alleviation potential can be achieved in the future by extending the actuator’s operating envelope and thus increasing its load-bearing capacity. The functional verification of the actuated adaptive wingtip concept by means of aeroelastic analysis forms the basis for the manufacturing and testing of a functional prototype.

Public libraries as a partner in digital innovation project: Designing a virtual reality experience to support digital literacy

We introduce a project titled as Our Shared Virtual World which aims at increasing public libraries’ capability to provide knowledge on digital technology to general public. The practical goal of the project has been to produce a functional prototype of a virtual reality (VR) application that could be utilized freely in all the public libraries in Finland. In many countries worldwide, libraries’ role is expanding from providers of traditional books to providers of information technologies and related new forms of literacy, and this development provides the broader backdrop for the project. The contribution of the article is two-fold: First, we describe how an immersive VR application can be collaboratively developed within this specific research context, namely within a network of public libraries, and introduce the tangible outcome of the project, the VR application called Forest Elf. Secondly, we scrutinize how results of such a design work can be sustained over time: through participatory design (PD), we aimed at creating conditions which would enable public libraries to continue developing and using the artefact also after the project. We provide insights on how to tackle the challenge of research prototypes ending up being abandoned, and what factors in the context of library partnership support or hamper sustainable digital innovation — digital innovation that is inclusive and equitable but also has a long-lasting impact.

Prototype Results of an Internet of Things System Using Wearables and Artificial Intelligence for the Detection of Frailty in Elderly People

As society moves towards a preventative approach to healthcare, there is growing interest in scientific research involving technology that can monitor and prevent adverse health outcomes. The primary objective of this paper is to develop an Internet of Things (IoT) wearable system based on Fried’s phenotype that is capable of detecting frailty. To determine user requirements, the system’s architecture was designed based on the findings of a questionnaire administered to individuals confirmed to be frail. A functional prototype was successfully developed and tested under real-world conditions. This paper introduces the methodology that was used to analyze the data collected from the prototype. It proposes an interdisciplinary approach to interpret wearable sensor data, providing a comprehensive overview through both visual representations and computational analyses facilitated by machine learning models. The findings of these analyses offer insights into the ways in which different types of activities can be classified and quantified as part of an overall physical activity level, which is recognized as an important indicator of frailty. The results provide the foundations for a new generation of affordable and non-intrusive systems able to detect and assess early signs of frailty.

Using A Rotary Spring-Driven Gripper to Manipulate Objects of Diverse Sizes and Shapes

This paper introduces a new gripper mechanism that is capable of grasping objects of various sizes and shapes without the need for a closed-loop control system. Industries such as the food and beverage industry are seeking innovative soft grippers with a simplified control system. The proposed design utilizes a rotary mechanism with springs to achieve both force-closure and form-closure grasping. The design sets itself apart from most soft grippers with its ability to offer grasping forces in all lateral directions. The gripper is designed in a cylindrical shape and is actuated by a stepper motor with a gearbox to enhance the torque. Three stacked curvilinear and linear rails convert the motor’s rotational motion into linear motion. The grasping component consists of three curved parts, each incorporating numerous compression springs. Currently, the gripper can effectively grasp objects ranging from five to nine centimeters in diameter, with a maximum height of ten centimeters. However, the design is scalable based on specific application requirements. A comprehensive CAD model of the mechanism was developed, and multiple analyses were conducted, including motion, topology, and stress analyses. Finally, a functional prototype of the gripper was constructed and successfully tested for grasping fruits and vegetables of different sizes and shapes. This research can be further expanded to explore the application of the gripper in space exploration with its novel and completely electro-mechanical foundation.

Next-Generation Pedal: Integration of Sensors in a Braking Pedal for a Full Brake-by-Wire System.

This article presents a novel approach to designing and validating a fully electronic braking pedal, addressing the growing integration of electronics in vehicles. With the imminent rise of brake-by-wire (BBW) technology, the brake pedal requires electronification to keep pace with industry advancements. This research explores technologies and features for the next-generation pedal, including low-power consumption electronics, cost-effective sensors, active adjustable pedals, and a retractable pedal for autonomous vehicles. Furthermore, this research brings the benefits of the water injection technique (WIT) as the base for manufacturing plastic pedal brakes towards reducing cost and weight while enhancing torsional stiffness. Communication with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) has provided valuable insights and feedback, facilitating a productive exchange of ideas. The findings include two sensor prototypes utilizing inductive technology and printed-ink gauges. Significantly, reduced power consumption was achieved in a Hall-effect sensor already in production. Additionally, a functional BBW prototype was developed and validated. This research presents an innovative approach to pedal design that aligns with current electrification trends and autonomous vehicles. It positions the braking pedal as an advanced component that has the potential to redefine industry standards. In summary, this research significantly contributes to the electronic braking pedal technology presenting the critical industry needs that have driven technical studies and progress in the field of sensors, electronics, and materials, highlighting the challenges that component manufacturers will inevitably face in the forthcoming years.

Assistive feeding robot for upper limb impairment—Testing and validation

A personal care robotic system has been developed that can provide feeding assistance to those suffering from upper limb impairment. The system introduces a novel approach for feeding that prioritizes two ideas: generalized functionality to encompass multiple feeding tasks and seamless user interaction. Additionally, the system leveraged novel computer vision ideas to incorporate functionality that was not reported in the literature. For the functional prototype, the system was comprised of an off-the-shelf six degrees of freedom robotic manipulator, two depth cameras, and an electric gripper. Furthermore, various tools used during the operation were designed and constructed using a 3D printer. The system’s software has three main operation phases: food identification, acquisition, and delivery. One of the novel features of this system is that instead of attempting to identify the food, the robot identifies the method required for acquiring the food. During testing and validation, it was found that the system had minimal identification errors, high success rates for acquisition and delivery, and a fast safety response time.