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Appl. Sci., Volume 8, Issue 2 (February 2018) – 169 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): Ship-in-a-bottle integration technology was recently introduced to construct three-dimensional (3D) microcomponents of photosensitive polymer inside closed glass microfluidic structures using two-photon polymerization. We extended the ship-in-a-bottle integration to proteinaceous microcomponents made from bovine serum albumin and enhanced green fluorescent protein. We improved the fabrication resolution and quality by replacing the 100% water solution with glycerol–water solutions for refractive index matching. This replacement enabled us to integrate a 3D woodpile structure in a closed glass microfluidic channel. Ultimately, the integration of 3D proteinaceous microstructures, a versatile and diverse biomolecule group, has great potential to advance medical and analytical microfluidic devices. View this paper
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12 pages, 1771 KiB  
Article
Perceptual Image Hashing Using Latent Low-Rank Representation and Uniform LBP
by Hengfu Yang, Jianping Yin and Mingfang Jiang
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 317; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020317 - 24 Feb 2018
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4164
Abstract
Robustness and discriminability are the two most important features of perceptual image hashing (PIH) schemes. In order to achieve a good balance between perceptual robustness and discriminability, a novel PIH algorithm is proposed by combining latent low-rank representation (LLRR) and rotation invariant uniform [...] Read more.
Robustness and discriminability are the two most important features of perceptual image hashing (PIH) schemes. In order to achieve a good balance between perceptual robustness and discriminability, a novel PIH algorithm is proposed by combining latent low-rank representation (LLRR) and rotation invariant uniform local binary patterns (RiuLBP). LLRR is first applied on resized original images to the principal feature matrix and to the salient feature matrix, since it can automatically extract salient features from corrupted images. Following this, Riulocal bin features are extracted from each non-overlapping block of the principal feature matrix and of the salient feature matrix, respectively. All features are concatenated and scrambled to generate final binary hash code. Experimental results show that the proposed hashing algorithm is robust against many types of distortions and attacks, such as noise addition, low-pass filtering, rotation, scaling, and JPEG compression. It outperforms other local binary patterns (LBP) based image hashing schemes in terms of perceptual robustness and discriminability. Full article
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14 pages, 3193 KiB  
Article
A Multi-Usable Cloud Service Platform: A Case Study on Improved Development Pace and Efficiency
by John Lindström, Anders Hermanson, Fredrik Blomstedt and Petter Kyösti
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 316; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020316 - 24 Feb 2018
Cited by 32 | Viewed by 4837
Abstract
The case study, spanning three contexts, concerns a multi-usable cloud service platform for big data collection and analytics and how the development pace and efficiency of it has been improved by 50–75% by using the Arrowhead framework and changing development processes/practices. Furthermore, additional [...] Read more.
The case study, spanning three contexts, concerns a multi-usable cloud service platform for big data collection and analytics and how the development pace and efficiency of it has been improved by 50–75% by using the Arrowhead framework and changing development processes/practices. Furthermore, additional results captured during the case study are related to technology, competencies and skills, organization, management, infrastructure, and service and support. A conclusion is that when offering a complex offer such as an Industrial Product-Service System, comprising sensors, hardware, communications, software, cloud service platform, etc., it is necessary that the technology, business model, business setup, and organization all go hand in hand during the development and later operation, as all ‘components’ are required for a successful result. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Sustainable Manufacturing Systems)
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13 pages, 3503 KiB  
Article
Forecast for Artificial Muscle Tremor Behavior Based on Dynamic Additional Grey Catastrophe Prediction
by Yu Fu, Jianjun Yao, Honghao Zhao, Gang Zhao and Zhenshuai Wan
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 315; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020315 - 24 Feb 2018
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3918
Abstract
Recently, bio-inspired artificial muscles based on ionic polymers have shown a bright perspective in engineering and medical research, but the inherent tremor behavior can cause instability of output response. In this paper, dynamic additional grey catastrophe prediction (DAGCP) is proposed to forecast the [...] Read more.
Recently, bio-inspired artificial muscles based on ionic polymers have shown a bright perspective in engineering and medical research, but the inherent tremor behavior can cause instability of output response. In this paper, dynamic additional grey catastrophe prediction (DAGCP) is proposed to forecast the occurrence time of tremor behavior, providing adequate preparation time for the suppression of the chitosan-based artificial muscles. DAGCP constructs various dimensions of time subsequence models under different starting points based on the threshold of tremor occurrence times and peak-to-peak values in unit time. Next, the appropriate subsequence is selected according to grey correlation degree and prediction accuracy, then it is updated with the newly generated values to achieve a real-time forecast of forthcoming tremor time. Compared with conventional grey catastrophe prediction (GCP), the proposed method has the following advantages: (1) the degradation of prediction accuracy caused by the immobilization of original parameters is prevented; (2) the dynamic input, real-time update and gradual forecast of time sequence are incorporated into the model. The experiment results show that the novel DAGCP can predict forthcoming tremor time earlier and more accurately than the conventional GCP. The generation mechanism of tremor behavior is illustrated as well. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Materials Science and Engineering)
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23 pages, 22557 KiB  
Article
Geo-Proxy-Based Site Classification for Regional Zonation of Seismic Site Effects in South Korea
by Chang-Guk Sun, Han-Saem Kim and Hyung-Ik Cho
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 314; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020314 - 24 Feb 2018
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 6089
Abstract
Seismic site effects and topographic effects related to ground motion occur during an earthquake due to site-specific geotechnical or geological characteristics, including the geological or geographical structure and the characteristics of near-surface sub-soil layers. Site-specific site effects due to geological conditions have been [...] Read more.
Seismic site effects and topographic effects related to ground motion occur during an earthquake due to site-specific geotechnical or geological characteristics, including the geological or geographical structure and the characteristics of near-surface sub-soil layers. Site-specific site effects due to geological conditions have been confirmed in recent earthquake events. Earthquake-induced damage has mainly occurred at accumulated soft soil layers under basins or along coasts and rivers. An alternative method has recently been proposed for evaluating regional seismic site effects and amplification factors using digital elevation models (DEM). High-quality DEMs at high resolutions may be employed to resolve finer-scale variations in topographic gradients and consequently, correlated site response parameters. Because there are many regions in South Korea lacking borehole datasets, which are insufficient for site classification only using borehole datasets, a DEM-based proxy for seismic zonation can be effective. Thus, in this study, geo-proxy-based site classification was proposed based on empirical correlations with site response parameters and conducted for regional zonation of seismic site effects to identify the amplification of characteristics in the western metropolitan areas of South Korea, depending on the site-specific geo-spatial conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seismic Metamaterials)
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15 pages, 4179 KiB  
Article
A Multi-Agent System for the Dynamic Emplacement of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
by Jaume Jordán, Javier Palanca, Elena Del Val, Vicente Julian and Vicente Botti
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 313; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020313 - 23 Feb 2018
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4483
Abstract
One of the main current challenges of electric vehicles (EVs) is the creation of a reliable, accessible and comfortable charging infrastructure for citizens in order to enhance demand. In this paper, a multi-agent system (MAS) is proposed to facilitate the analysis of different [...] Read more.
One of the main current challenges of electric vehicles (EVs) is the creation of a reliable, accessible and comfortable charging infrastructure for citizens in order to enhance demand. In this paper, a multi-agent system (MAS) is proposed to facilitate the analysis of different placement configurations for EV charging stations. The proposed MAS integrates information from heterogeneous data sources as a starting point to characterize the areas where charging stations could potentially be placed. Through a genetic algorithm, the MAS is able to analyze a large number of possible configurations, taking into account a set of criteria to be optimized. Finally, the MAS returns a configuration with the areas of the city that are considered most appropriate for the establishment of charging stations according to the specified criteria. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Agent Systems)
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15 pages, 3215 KiB  
Article
Thermal Characteristics of Plastic Film Tension in Roll-to-Roll Gravure Printed Electronics
by Kui He, Shanhui Liu, Kedian Wang and Xuesong Mei
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 312; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020312 - 23 Feb 2018
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4229
Abstract
In the printing section of a roll-to-roll gravure printed electronics machine, the plastic film tension is directly associated with the product quality. The temperature distribution of the plastic film in the printing section is non-uniform, because of the higher drying temperature and the [...] Read more.
In the printing section of a roll-to-roll gravure printed electronics machine, the plastic film tension is directly associated with the product quality. The temperature distribution of the plastic film in the printing section is non-uniform, because of the higher drying temperature and the lower room temperature. Furthermore, the drying temperature and the room temperature are not constants in industrial production. As the plastic film is sensitive to temperature, the temperature of the plastic film will affects the web tension in the printing section. In this paper, the thermal characteristics of the plastic film tension in roll-to-roll gravure printed electronics are studied in order to help to improve the product quality. First, the tension model including the factor of temperature is derived based on the law of mass conservation. Then, some simulations and experiments are carried out in order to in-depth research the effects of the drying temperature and room temperature based on the relations between system inputs and outputs. The results show that the drying temperature and room temperature have significant influences on the web tension. The research on the thermal characteristics of plastic film tension would benefit the tension control accuracy for further study. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Printed Electronics 2017)
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15 pages, 4342 KiB  
Article
Experimental Study on Streamwise Vortex-Induced Vibration of a Flexible, Slender Cylinder
by Wanhai Xu, Wenqi Qin and Xifeng Gao
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 311; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020311 - 22 Feb 2018
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3593
Abstract
Laboratory tests on streamwise vortex-induced vibration (VIV) of a flexible, slender cylinder were carried out in a towing tank. A cylinder model, 20 mm in diameter and 3.91 m in length, was towed horizontally to generate a uniform profile of relative velocity in [...] Read more.
Laboratory tests on streamwise vortex-induced vibration (VIV) of a flexible, slender cylinder were carried out in a towing tank. A cylinder model, 20 mm in diameter and 3.91 m in length, was towed horizontally to generate a uniform profile of relative velocity in calm water. The aspect ratio (length to diameter) and mass ratio (structural mass to displaced fluid mass) of the cylinder were 195.5 and 1.39, respectively. The Reynolds number was in the range of 1000–3000. The displacement amplitudes and vibration frequencies were investigated in order to examine the dynamic characteristics of the flexible cylinder undergoing streamwise VIV. Experimental results indicated that there were two detached branches in the streamwise response curve, i.e., the first excitation region (1.0 < Vr < 2.6) and the second excitation region (2.6 < Vr < 4.0). This phenomenon is similar to the streamwise VIV of an elastically-mounted rigid cylinder, except that a larger and shifted peak was observed in the second branch in this study. The cylinder’s linear orbits in the first excitation region indicated that the streamwise vibration frequency was equivalent to its transverse counterpart. However, in the second excitation region, the cylinder’s motion showed a figure-of-eight pattern, and the streamwise frequency was twice that in the transverse direction. In addition, two curve-fitted formulae of the maximum displacement amplitudes in the first and second excitation regions, versus the reduced mass-damping parameter, were proposed. This was accomplished by compiling the published streamwise VIV data and those in the present research work. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mechanical Engineering)
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15 pages, 3329 KiB  
Article
Effects of Post-Synthesis Activation and Relative Humidity on Adsorption Performance of ZIF-8 for Capturing Toluene from a Gas Phase in a Continuous Mode
by Saeed Jafari, Farshid Ghorbani-Shahna, Abdulrahman Bahrami and Hossein Kazemian
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 310; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020310 - 22 Feb 2018
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 7808
Abstract
Zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) was used as an adsorbent for the removal of toluene in its gas phase at different relative humidity (RH). High-purity ZIF-8 with an average particle size of 0.64 µm synthesized from an aqueous solution at room temperature, and then [...] Read more.
Zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) was used as an adsorbent for the removal of toluene in its gas phase at different relative humidity (RH). High-purity ZIF-8 with an average particle size of 0.64 µm synthesized from an aqueous solution at room temperature, and then characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. Dynamic adsorption (continuous mode) experiments of toluene on ZIF-8 were studied using breakthrough curves. The effects of thermal pretreatment (activation) under dry air and N2 atmospheres on the adsorbent performances was studied. ZIF-8 activated at 300 °C for 3 h under dry air showed the highest adsorption capacity of 562.17 mg∙g−1. Furthermore, it was observed that the adsorption of toluene on ZIF-8 was significantly decreased at 80% RH. The experimental data of dynamic adsorption well fitted into the Thomas and Yan mathematical models. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Environmental Remediation)
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10 pages, 3023 KiB  
Article
Synthesis of Aligned TiO2 Nanofibers Using Electrospinning
by Jae-Hun Kim, Jae-Hyoung Lee, Jin-Young Kim and Sang Sub Kim
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 309; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020309 - 21 Feb 2018
Cited by 38 | Viewed by 5265
Abstract
In this work, aligned TiO2 nanofibers (NFs) were synthesized using an electrospinning technique with a two-piece Al collector. The effects of processing parameters, including the calcination temperature, applied voltage, and needle-to-Al-collector distance, were studied. The final phase of TiO2 was determined [...] Read more.
In this work, aligned TiO2 nanofibers (NFs) were synthesized using an electrospinning technique with a two-piece Al collector. The effects of processing parameters, including the calcination temperature, applied voltage, and needle-to-Al-collector distance, were studied. The final phase of TiO2 was determined using the calcination temperature; calcination at 500 °C resulted in the formation of anatase phase, whereas calcination at 600 °C resulted in the formation of rutile phase. In addition, with the increase of calcination temperature, the diameter of the synthesized NFs decreased owing to the sintering and coalescence of nanograins existing in individual NFs. A specially designed collector configuration resulted in the parallel alignment of TiO2 NFs. The needle-to-collector distance and applied voltages caused the change in diameter and alignment of NFs. The diameter had an inverse relation with the needle-to-collector distance, and an optimal value of applied voltage was required to achieve TiO2 NFs with the smallest diameter. Furthermore, with the increase of applied voltage, the morphology of TiO2 NFs changed from an aligned to a disordered state. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanotechnology and Applied Nanosciences)
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15 pages, 5846 KiB  
Article
Excitation of Wet Perovskite Films by Ultrasonic Vibration Improves the Device Performance
by Mohammad-Reza Ahmadian-Yazdi, Mehran Habibi and Morteza Eslamian
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 308; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020308 - 21 Feb 2018
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 5627
Abstract
In this work, a novel, facile, and low-cost mechanical post treatment technique, i.e., ultrasonic substrate vibration post treatment (SVPT) is applied on wet spun perovskite layers. The effect of varying the time of the SVPT on the characteristics of the perovskite crystals and [...] Read more.
In this work, a novel, facile, and low-cost mechanical post treatment technique, i.e., ultrasonic substrate vibration post treatment (SVPT) is applied on wet spun perovskite layers. The effect of varying the time of the SVPT on the characteristics of the perovskite crystals and the perovskite film is studied, in order to achieve the optimum time duration of the SVPT. Among the results, it is found that the application of only three minutes of the SVPT (for the ultrasonic vibration assembly used in this study, operated at 40 kHz) brings about significant improvement in the film coverage, and the contact between the perovskite and the m-TiO2 layers, owing to the effective penetration of the perovskite solution into the pores, leading to a superior charge transfer, and a significant increase in the device power conversion efficiency (PCE), when compared to the control device. This unprecedented effect is repeatable when applied on both single and mixed halide perovskites, putting forward a reliable and low-cost mechanical technique for the fabrication of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) in the lab and beyond, which could reduce or eliminate the tedious and expensive chemical optimization treatments, commonly used to increase the PCE. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Acoustics and Vibrations)
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14 pages, 4204 KiB  
Article
From Thermal Inspection to Updating a Numerical Model of a Race Bicycle: Comparison with Structural Dynamics Approach
by Gunther Steenackers, Jeroen Peeters, Simon Verspeek and Bart Ribbens
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 307; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020307 - 21 Feb 2018
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3195
Abstract
Carbon fiber bicycle frames are complex-shaped structures and are prone to delaminations and difficult to inspect. The use of finite element model updating is common in structural dynamics but not so common in active thermography inspection. However, there are many advantages to using [...] Read more.
Carbon fiber bicycle frames are complex-shaped structures and are prone to delaminations and difficult to inspect. The use of finite element model updating is common in structural dynamics but not so common in active thermography inspection. However, there are many advantages to using thermography when inspecting bicycle frames. These include the fact that the inspection can be performed in situ, can cover large areas, and is a quantitative method. In this paper, a numerical model of a bicycle frame will be updated and optimized by the surface temperature distribution captured with pulsed thermography. These results will be compared and benchmarked against frequency response function (FRF) measurement data as a reference. The chosen temperature decay measurements to be used as reference data will be of key importance. The goal of this manuscript is to compare both measurement results and model predictabilities after performing finite element model updating with respect to accuracy and speed. Full article
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20 pages, 7562 KiB  
Review
Evaluation of Low-Temperature Cracking Performance of Asphalt Pavements Using Acoustic Emission: A Review
by Behzad Behnia, William Buttlar and Henrique Reis
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 306; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020306 - 21 Feb 2018
Cited by 38 | Viewed by 7007
Abstract
Low-temperature cracking is a major form of distress that can compromise the structural integrity of asphalt pavements located in cold regions. A review of an Acoustic Emission (AE)-based approach is presented that is capable of assessing the low-temperature cracking performance of asphalt binders [...] Read more.
Low-temperature cracking is a major form of distress that can compromise the structural integrity of asphalt pavements located in cold regions. A review of an Acoustic Emission (AE)-based approach is presented that is capable of assessing the low-temperature cracking performance of asphalt binders and asphalt pavement materials through determining their embrittlement temperatures. A review of the background and fundamental aspects of the AE-based approach with a brief overview of its application to estimate low-temperature performance of unaged, short-term, and long-term aged binders, as well as asphalt materials, is presented. The application of asphalt pavements containing recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) and recycled asphalt shingles (RAS) materials to thermal cracking assessment is also presented and discussed. Using the Felicity effect, the approach is capable of evaluating the self-healing characteristics of asphalt pavements and the effect of cooling cycles upon their fracture behavior. Using an iterative AE source location technique, the approach is also used to evaluate the efficiency of rejuvenators, which can restore aged asphalt pavements to their original crack-resistant state. Results indicate that AE allows for relatively rapid and inexpensive characterization of pavement materials and can be used towards enhancing pavement sustainability and resiliency to thermal loading. Full article
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13 pages, 842 KiB  
Article
Predicting Human Behaviour with Recurrent Neural Networks
by Aitor Almeida and Gorka Azkune
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 305; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020305 - 20 Feb 2018
Cited by 76 | Viewed by 8036
Abstract
As the average age of the urban population increases, cities must adapt to improve the quality of life of their citizens. The City4Age H2020 project is working on the early detection of the risks related to mild cognitive impairment and frailty and on [...] Read more.
As the average age of the urban population increases, cities must adapt to improve the quality of life of their citizens. The City4Age H2020 project is working on the early detection of the risks related to mild cognitive impairment and frailty and on providing meaningful interventions that prevent these risks. As part of the risk detection process, we have developed a multilevel conceptual model that describes the user behaviour using actions, activities, and intra- and inter-activity behaviour. Using this conceptual model, we have created a deep learning architecture based on long short-term memory networks (LSTMs) that models the inter-activity behaviour. The presented architecture offers a probabilistic model that allows us to predict the user’s next actions and to identify anomalous user behaviours. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Socio-Cognitive and Affective Computing)
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18 pages, 5688 KiB  
Article
The Conversion of Wollastonite to CaCO3 Considering Its Use for CCS Application as Cementitious Material
by Kristoff Svensson, Andreas Neumann, Flora Feitosa Menezes, Christof Lempp and Herbert Pöllmann
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 304; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020304 - 20 Feb 2018
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 5768
Abstract
The reaction of wollastonite (CaSiO3) with CO2 in the presence of aqueous solutions (H2O) and varied temperature conditions (296 K, 323 K, and 333 K) was investigated. The educts (CaSiO3) and the products (CaCO3 and SiO2) were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), [...] Read more.
The reaction of wollastonite (CaSiO3) with CO2 in the presence of aqueous solutions (H2O) and varied temperature conditions (296 K, 323 K, and 333 K) was investigated. The educts (CaSiO3) and the products (CaCO3 and SiO2) were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), and differential scanning calorimetry with thermogravimetry coupled with a mass spectrometer and infrared spectrometer (DSC TG/MS/IR). The reaction rate increased significantly at higher temperatures and seemed less dependent on applied pressure. It could be shown that under the defined conditions wollastonite can be applied as a cementitious material for sealing wells considering CCS applications, because after 24 h the degree of conversion from CaSiO3 to CaCO3 at 333 K was very high (>90%). As anticipated, the most likely application of wollastonite as a cementitious material in CCS would be for sealing the well after injection of CO2 in the reservoir. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Chemical and Molecular Sciences)
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20 pages, 7116 KiB  
Article
Cloud Incubator Car: A Reliable Platform for Autonomous Driving
by Raúl Borraz, Pedro J. Navarro, Carlos Fernández and Pedro María Alcover
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 303; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020303 - 20 Feb 2018
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 6299
Abstract
It appears clear that the future of road transport is going through enormous changes (intelligent transport systems), the main one being the Intelligent Vehicle (IV). Automated driving requires a huge research effort in multiple technological areas: sensing, control, and driving algorithms. We present [...] Read more.
It appears clear that the future of road transport is going through enormous changes (intelligent transport systems), the main one being the Intelligent Vehicle (IV). Automated driving requires a huge research effort in multiple technological areas: sensing, control, and driving algorithms. We present a comprehensible and reliable platform for autonomous driving technology development as well as for testing purposes, developed in the Intelligent Vehicles Lab at the Technical University of Cartagena. We propose an open and modular architecture capable of easily integrating a wide variety of sensors and actuators which can be used for testing algorithms and control strategies. As a proof of concept, this paper presents a reliable and complete navigation application for a commercial vehicle (Renault Twizy). It comprises a complete perception system (2D LIDAR, 3D HD LIDAR, ToF cameras, Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) unit, Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU)), an automation of the driving elements of the vehicle (throttle, steering, brakes, and gearbox), a control system, and a decision-making system. Furthermore, two flexible and reliable algorithms are presented for carrying out global and local route planning on board autonomous vehicles. Full article
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18 pages, 8077 KiB  
Article
Designing the Mind of a Social Robot
by Nicole Lazzeri, Daniele Mazzei, Lorenzo Cominelli, Antonio Cisternino and Danilo Emilio De Rossi
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 302; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020302 - 19 Feb 2018
Cited by 30 | Viewed by 7579
Abstract
Humans have an innate tendency to anthropomorphize surrounding entities and have always been fascinated by the creation of machines endowed with human-inspired capabilities and traits. In the last few decades, this has become a reality with enormous advances in hardware performance, computer graphics, [...] Read more.
Humans have an innate tendency to anthropomorphize surrounding entities and have always been fascinated by the creation of machines endowed with human-inspired capabilities and traits. In the last few decades, this has become a reality with enormous advances in hardware performance, computer graphics, robotics technology, and artificial intelligence. New interdisciplinary research fields have brought forth cognitive robotics aimed at building a new generation of control systems and providing robots with social, empathetic and affective capabilities. This paper presents the design, implementation, and test of a human-inspired cognitive architecture for social robots. State-of-the-art design approaches and methods are thoroughly analyzed and discussed, cases where the developed system has been successfully used are reported. The tests demonstrated the system’s ability to endow a social humanoid robot with human social behaviors and with in-silico robotic emotions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Robotics)
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12 pages, 5054 KiB  
Article
Infrared Thermography for Inline Monitoring of Glass/Epoxy under Impact and Quasi-Static Bending
by Carosena Meola, Simone Boccardi and Giovanni Maria Carlomagno
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 301; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020301 - 19 Feb 2018
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3311
Abstract
Abstract: In this work, glass/epoxy has been chosen as case study as it represents the most-used composite material, being appropriate for a vast variety of applications and a reasonable performance/cost compromise. This material has already been inline impact-monitored with infrared thermography, mostly for [...] Read more.
Abstract: In this work, glass/epoxy has been chosen as case study as it represents the most-used composite material, being appropriate for a vast variety of applications and a reasonable performance/cost compromise. This material has already been inline impact-monitored with infrared thermography, mostly for feasibility tests. Now, impact tests are repeated by changing some parameters and by inline monitoring simultaneously with two different infrared cameras to share a high frame rate and spatial resolution at the same time. In addition, glass/epoxy is monitored also while it is under quasi-static bending tests. The aim of this paper is to show what it is possible to learn from thermal signatures developing in the same material when it is either impacted or under quasi-static bending. Full article
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17 pages, 3821 KiB  
Article
Uncertainty Flow Facilitates Zero-Shot Multi-Label Learning in Affective Facial Analysis
by Wenjun Bai, Changqin Quan and Zhiwei Luo
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 300; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020300 - 19 Feb 2018
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3643
Abstract
Featured Application: The proposed Uncertainty Flow framework may benefit the facial analysis with its promised elevation in discriminability in multi-label affective classification tasks. Moreover, this framework also allows the efficient model training and between tasks knowledge transfer. The applications that rely heavily on [...] Read more.
Featured Application: The proposed Uncertainty Flow framework may benefit the facial analysis with its promised elevation in discriminability in multi-label affective classification tasks. Moreover, this framework also allows the efficient model training and between tasks knowledge transfer. The applications that rely heavily on continuous prediction on emotional valance, e.g., to monitor prisoners’ emotional stability in jail, can be directly benefited from our framework.

Abstract: To lower the single-label dependency on affective facial analysis, it urges the fruition of multi-label affective learning. The impediment to practical implementation of existing multi-label algorithms pertains to scarcity of scalable multi-label training datasets. To resolve this, an inductive transfer learning based framework, i.e.,Uncertainty Flow, is put forward in this research to allow knowledge transfer from a single labelled emotion recognition task to a multi-label affective recognition task. I.e., the model uncertainty—which can be quantified in Uncertainty Flow—is distilled from a single-label learning task. The distilled model uncertainty ensures the later efficient zero-shot multi-label affective learning. On the theoretical perspective, within our proposed Uncertainty Flow framework, the feasibility of applying weakly informative priors, e.g., uniform and Cauchy prior, is fully explored in this research. More importantly, based on the derived weight uncertainty, three sets of prediction related uncertainty indexes, i.e., soft-max uncertainty, pure uncertainty and uncertainty plus are proposed to produce reliable and accurate multi-label predictions. Validated on our manual annotated evaluation dataset, i.e., the multi-label annotated FER2013, our proposed Uncertainty Flow in multi-label facial expression analysis exhibited superiority to conventional multi-label learning algorithms and multi-label compatible neural networks. The success of our proposed Uncertainty Flow provides a glimpse of future in continuous, uncertain, and multi-label affective computing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Socio-Cognitive and Affective Computing)
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32 pages, 8530 KiB  
Review
Emergence of White Organic Light-Emitting Diodes Based on Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence
by Peng Xiao, Ting Dong, Jianing Xie, Dongxiang Luo, Jian Yuan and Baiquan Liu
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 299; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020299 - 19 Feb 2018
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 7873
Abstract
Recently, thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) have attracted both academic and industrial interest due to their extraordinary characteristics, such as high efficiency, low driving voltage, bright luminance, lower power consumption and potentially long lifetime. In this invited review, the [...] Read more.
Recently, thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) have attracted both academic and industrial interest due to their extraordinary characteristics, such as high efficiency, low driving voltage, bright luminance, lower power consumption and potentially long lifetime. In this invited review, the fundamental concepts of TADF have been firstly introduced. Then, main approaches to realize WOLEDs based on TADF have been summarized. More specifically, the recent development of WOLEDs based on all TADF emitters, WOLEDs based on TADF and conventional fluorescence emitters, hybrid WOLEDs based on blue TADF and phosphorescence emitters and WOLEDs based on TADF exciplex host and phosphorescence dopants is highlighted. In particular, design strategies, device structures, working mechanisms and electroluminescent processes of the representative WOLEDs based on TADF are reviewed. Finally, challenges and opportunities for further enhancement of the performance of WOLEDs based on TADF are presented. Full article
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14 pages, 2402 KiB  
Article
Depth Image Super Resolution Based on Edge-Guided Method
by Dongsheng Zhou, Ruyi Wang, Jian Lu and Qiang Zhang
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 298; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020298 - 18 Feb 2018
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3886
Abstract
Depth image super-resolution (SR) is a technique which can reconstruct a high-resolution (HR) depth image from a low-resolution (LR) depth image. Its purpose is to obtain HR details to meet the needs of various applications in computer vision. In general, conventional depth image [...] Read more.
Depth image super-resolution (SR) is a technique which can reconstruct a high-resolution (HR) depth image from a low-resolution (LR) depth image. Its purpose is to obtain HR details to meet the needs of various applications in computer vision. In general, conventional depth image SR methods often cause edges in the final HR image to be blurred or ragged. To solve this problem, an edge-guided method for depth image SR is presented in this paper. To get high-quality edge information, a pair of sparse dictionaries was applied to reconstruct edges of depth image. Then, with the guidance of these high-quality edges, a depth image was interpolated by using a modified joint bilateral filter. Edge-guided method can preserve the sharpness of edges and effectively avoid generating blurry and ragged edges when SR is performed. Experiments showed that the proposed method can get better results on both subjective and objective evaluation, and the reconstructed performance was superior to conventional depth image SR methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Optics and Lasers)
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19 pages, 7265 KiB  
Article
Bias Impact Analysis and Calibration of UAV-Based Mobile LiDAR System with Spinning Multi-Beam Laser Scanner
by Radhika Ravi, Tamer Shamseldin, Magdy Elbahnasawy, Yun-Jou Lin and Ayman Habib
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 297; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020297 - 18 Feb 2018
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 6333
Abstract
Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) is a technology that uses laser beams to measure ranges and generates precise 3D information about the scanned area. It is rapidly gaining popularity due to its contribution to a variety of applications such as Digital Building Model [...] Read more.
Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) is a technology that uses laser beams to measure ranges and generates precise 3D information about the scanned area. It is rapidly gaining popularity due to its contribution to a variety of applications such as Digital Building Model (DBM) generation, telecommunications, infrastructure monitoring, transportation corridor asset management and crash/accident scene reconstruction. To derive point clouds with high positional accuracy, estimation of mounting parameters relating the laser scanners to the onboard Global Navigation Satellite System/Inertial Navigation System (GNSS/INS) unit, i.e., the lever-arm and boresight angles, is the foremost and necessary step. This paper proposes a LiDAR system calibration strategy for a Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)-based mobile mapping system that can directly estimate the mounting parameters for spinning multi-beam laser scanners through an outdoor calibration procedure. This approach is based on the use of conjugate planar/linear features in overlapping point clouds derived from different flight lines. Designing an optimal configuration for calibration is the first and foremost step in order to ensure the most accurate estimates of mounting parameters. This is achieved by conducting a rigorous theoretical analysis of the potential impact of bias in mounting parameters of a LiDAR unit on the resultant point cloud. The dependency of the impact on the orientation of target primitives and relative flight line configuration would help in deducing the configuration that would maximize as well as decouple the impact of bias in each mounting parameter so as to ensure their accurate estimation. Finally, the proposed analysis and calibration strategy are validated by calibrating a UAV-based LiDAR system using two different datasets—one acquired with flight lines at a single flying height and the other with flight lines at two different flying heights. The calibration performance is evaluated by analyzing correlation between the estimated system parameters, the a-posteriori variance factor of the Least Squares Adjustment (LSA) procedure and the quality of fit of the adjusted point cloud to planar/linear features before and after the calibration process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser Scanning)
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10 pages, 3333 KiB  
Article
Structure and Sound Absorption Properties of Spiral Vane Electrospun PVA/PEO Nanofiber Membranes
by Huan Liu and Baoqi Zuo
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 296; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020296 - 17 Feb 2018
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 4626
Abstract
Noise pollution has become one of the four major pollution issues in the world and has drawn much attention recently. Controlling the sound source and using sound-absorbing materials reasonably is considered an effective way to reduce noise. Due to the high porosity and [...] Read more.
Noise pollution has become one of the four major pollution issues in the world and has drawn much attention recently. Controlling the sound source and using sound-absorbing materials reasonably is considered an effective way to reduce noise. Due to the high porosity and specific surface area, nanofibers membrane is widely used in the field of the sound absorption. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and Polyethylene oxide (PEO) are both water-soluble polymers with good film-forming properties that can be mixed in any proportion. In this paper, nanofiber membranes were prepared by spiral vane electrospinning with different contents of PVA and PEO. The nanofibers membranes were characterized by Fourier Transform-Infrared (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), 3D-M, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The sound absorption property of nanofibers membranes and the compositions (nanofiber membranes and needle punched non-woven fabric) were tested with an impedance tube. The results demonstrate that the addition of PEO changed the morphological characteristics and construct of PVA, sound absorption properties had undergone great changes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acoustic Metamaterials)
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14 pages, 2897 KiB  
Article
Separation of Light Liquid Paraffin C5–C9 with Cuban Volcanic Glass Previously Used in Copper Elimination from Water Solutions
by Miguel Autie-Pérez, Antonia Infantes-Molina, Juan Antonio Cecilia, Juan M. Labadie-Suárez and Enrique Rodríguez-Castellón
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 295; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020295 - 17 Feb 2018
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4272
Abstract
Featured Application: In this work, an inexpensive and available material, as volcanic glass, is used to absorb metals from wastewater and then it is used to the separation of light liquid-olefins.

Abstract
: Raw porous volcanic glass from Cuba was used as an [...] Read more.
Featured Application: In this work, an inexpensive and available material, as volcanic glass, is used to absorb metals from wastewater and then it is used to the separation of light liquid-olefins.

Abstract
: Raw porous volcanic glass from Cuba was used as an adsorbent for Cu2+ removal from dyes after activation with an acid solution. After Cu2+ adsorption, it was also evaluated its capacity to separate n-paraffins from a mixture by inverse gas chromatography (IGC), and the results were compared with those obtained with bare volcanic glass without copper. The main goal of this work is to highlight the great applicability of natural volcanic glass, which can be reused without pretreatment as an adsorbent. The results from copper adsorption were quite promising, considering the availability and low cost of this material; the sample without acid treatment turned out to be the most adequate to remove copper. Moreover, the results from IGC revealed that the separation of paraffins from the mixture was achieved with both bare volcanic glass and glass containing Cu, although greater heat adsorption values were obtained when copper was present in the sample due to the stronger interaction between paraffin and copper. The high availability and low cost of this porous material make it a potential and attractive candidate to be used in both heavy metal removal and paraffin separation for industrial purposes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoporous Materials and Their Applications)
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20 pages, 9229 KiB  
Article
Numerical Study on the Seismic Performance of a Steel–Concrete Hybrid Supporting Structure in Thermal Power Plants
by Bo Wang, Tao Wu, Huijuan Dai and Guoliang Bai
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 294; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020294 - 16 Feb 2018
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5387
Abstract
This paper presents the numerical investigation on the seismic performance of a steel–concrete hybrid structure consisting of reinforced concrete (RC) tubular columns and steel braced truss with A-shaped steel frames, which is a novel supporting structural system to house air-cooled condensers (ACC) in [...] Read more.
This paper presents the numerical investigation on the seismic performance of a steel–concrete hybrid structure consisting of reinforced concrete (RC) tubular columns and steel braced truss with A-shaped steel frames, which is a novel supporting structural system to house air-cooled condensers (ACC) in large-capacity thermal power plants (TPPs). First, the finite element (FE) modeling approach for this hybrid structure using the software ABAQUS was validated by a range of pseudo-dynamic tests (PDTs) performed on a 1/8-scaled sub-structure. The failure process, lateral displacement responses, changing rules of dynamic characteristic parameters and lateral stiffness with increase of peak ground acceleration (PGA) were presented here. Then, nonlinear time-history analysis of the prototype structure was carried out. The dynamic characteristics, base shear force, lateral deformation capacity, stiffness deterioration and damage characteristics were investigated. Despite the structural complexity and irregularity, both experimental and numerical results indicate that the overall seismic performance of this steel–concrete hybrid supporting structure meets the seismic design requirements with respect to the high-intensity earthquakes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mechanical Engineering)
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25 pages, 445 KiB  
Article
Parallel Technique for the Metaheuristic Algorithms Using Devoted Local Search and Manipulating the Solutions Space
by Dawid Połap, Karolina Kęsik, Marcin Woźniak and Robertas Damaševičius
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 293; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020293 - 16 Feb 2018
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 3809
Abstract
The increasing exploration of alternative methods for solving optimization problems causes that parallelization and modification of the existing algorithms are necessary. Obtaining the right solution using the meta-heuristic algorithm may require long operating time or a large number of iterations or individuals in [...] Read more.
The increasing exploration of alternative methods for solving optimization problems causes that parallelization and modification of the existing algorithms are necessary. Obtaining the right solution using the meta-heuristic algorithm may require long operating time or a large number of iterations or individuals in a population. The higher the number, the longer the operation time. In order to minimize not only the time, but also the value of the parameters we suggest three proposition to increase the efficiency of classical methods. The first one is to use the method of searching through the neighborhood in order to minimize the solution space exploration. Moreover, task distribution between threads and CPU cores can affect the speed of the algorithm and therefore make it work more efficiently. The second proposition involves manipulating the solutions space to minimize the number of calculations. In addition, the third proposition is the combination of the previous two. All propositions has been described, tested and analyzed due to the use of various test functions. Experimental research results show that the proposed methodology for parallelization and manipulation of solution space is efficient (increasing the accuracy of solutions and reducing performance time) and it is possible to apply it also to other optimization methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Swarm Robotics)
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15 pages, 7153 KiB  
Article
Sodium Acetate Orientated Hollow/Mesoporous Magnetite Nanoparticles: Facile Synthesis, Characterization and Formation Mechanism
by Quanguo He, Jun Liu, Jing Liang, Xiaopeng Liu, Ziyu Ding, Du Tuo and Wen Li
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 292; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020292 - 16 Feb 2018
Cited by 44 | Viewed by 6954
Abstract
Monodispersed magnetite (Fe3O4) nanospheres with hollow or porous interior structures were synthesized by a facile one-pot solvothermal route. The facile synthetic process was carried out by using iron (III) chloride hexahydrate (FeCl3·6H2O) as only ferric [...] Read more.
Monodispersed magnetite (Fe3O4) nanospheres with hollow or porous interior structures were synthesized by a facile one-pot solvothermal route. The facile synthetic process was carried out by using iron (III) chloride hexahydrate (FeCl3·6H2O) as only ferric ion resource, and anhydrous sodium acetate (NaAc) as structure-directing agent in an ethylene glycol solution without any templates or surfactants involved. The sizes, morphologies, crystal structures and magnetic properties of hollow Fe3O4 NPs are characterized via Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) techniques. The influences of reaction time, molar ratio of reactants on the morphologies and magnetic performances are also investigated. The different morphologies of magnetite (Fe3O4) particles were presented with tunable size ranging from 85 to 250 nm and controllable structures including porous and hollow construction by using different amount of anhydrous NaAc. A plausible mechanism based on sodium acetate assistant local Ostwald ripening is proposed for acquiring the tailorable morphology and magnetic performance. Such a design conception of anhydrous NaAc assisted Ostwald ripening applied here is a significant alternative for synthesizing hollow magnetic particles, and it could elucidate some light to understand and construct other novel hollow/mesoporous nanostructures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Chemical and Molecular Sciences)
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20 pages, 6242 KiB  
Article
Competitive Time Marching Solution Methods for Systems with Friction-Induced Nonlinearities
by Chiara Gastaldi and Teresa M. Berruti
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 291; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020291 - 15 Feb 2018
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3042
Abstract
Finding efficient and accurate solution methods for nonlinear equilibrium equations is a challenging task. This is the case of systems with friction-induced nonlinearities, e.g., friction-damped turbomachinery assemblies and automotive applications such as brakes. In order to tackle this strategic task, several methods have [...] Read more.
Finding efficient and accurate solution methods for nonlinear equilibrium equations is a challenging task. This is the case of systems with friction-induced nonlinearities, e.g., friction-damped turbomachinery assemblies and automotive applications such as brakes. In order to tackle this strategic task, several methods have been developed, both in the time and in the frequency domains. Time marching methods are regarded as the most accurate option, but their computational cost becomes prohibitive when friction nonlinearities are present. This poses a problem in all those cases where alternative frequency domain methods cannot be applied effectively, e.g., if transients, non-periodic excitation/solution, or highly nonlinear systems are of interest. The purpose of this paper is to propose three independent methods to make time-marching more competitive. Two of these methods can be applied to any existing direct integration scheme with minimal adjustments, but the computational time cut they introduce is significant. The last method is instead tailored for systems where the inertia force contribution is negligible. All methods are thoroughly validated numerically using a standard Newmark- β integration scheme as a reference. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mechanical Engineering)
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13 pages, 2562 KiB  
Article
Seabed Sediment as an Annually Renewable Heat Source
by Anne Mäkiranta, Birgitta Martinkauppi, Erkki Hiltunen and Mauri Lieskoski
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 290; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020290 - 15 Feb 2018
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2941
Abstract
Thermal energy collected from the sediment layer under a water body has been suggested for use as a renewable heat source for a low energy network. A prototype system for using this sediment energy was installed in Suvilahti, Vaasa, in 2008 and is [...] Read more.
Thermal energy collected from the sediment layer under a water body has been suggested for use as a renewable heat source for a low energy network. A prototype system for using this sediment energy was installed in Suvilahti, Vaasa, in 2008 and is still in use. It provides a carbon-free heating and cooling solution as well as savings in energy costs for 42 houses. To be a real, renewable heat source, the thermal energy of the sediment layer needs to replenish annually. The goal of this paper is to verify the possible cooling or annual heat regeneration. The sediment temperatures were measured and analyzed in the years 2013–2015. The data were compared to the same period in 2008–2009. All measurements were taken in the same place. This paper also confirms the potential of the sediment heat, especially in the seabed sediment, using the temperature differences between the lowest and the highest values for the year. The results demonstrate that the collection of the heat energy does not cause permanent cooling of the sediment. This result was obtained by calculating the temperature difference between measurements in the warmest month and the month with the coldest temperatures. This indicates the extracted energy. The difference was found to be around 9.5 °C in 2008–2009, rising to around 11 °C for the years 2013–2014 and 2014–2015. This indicates the loaded energy. The energy utilization is sustainable: the sediment temperature has not permanently decreased despite the full use of the network for the heating and cooling of houses between 2008 and 2015. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Heating and Cooling Concepts)
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26 pages, 16765 KiB  
Article
Numerical Investigation into Effects of Viscous Flux Vectors on Hydrofoil Cavitation Flow and Its Radiated Flow Noise
by Sanghyeon Kim, Cheolung Cheong and Warn-Gyu Park
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 289; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020289 - 15 Feb 2018
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 4111
Abstract
In this study, cavitation flow around a hydrofoil and its radiated hydro-acoustic fields were numerically investigated, with an emphasis on the effects of viscous flux vectors. The full three-dimensional unsteady compressible Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations were numerically solved. The mass transfer model was adopted [...] Read more.
In this study, cavitation flow around a hydrofoil and its radiated hydro-acoustic fields were numerically investigated, with an emphasis on the effects of viscous flux vectors. The full three-dimensional unsteady compressible Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations were numerically solved. The mass transfer model was adopted to model phase changes between liquid water and vapor. To resolve the numerical instability problem arising from the rapid changes in local density and speed of sound of the mixture, the preconditioning and dual-time stepping methods were employed. The filter-based turbulent model was applied to resolve the unstable cavitation flow field more accurately. In splitting the viscous terms, three approaches for dealing with viscous flux vectors were considered: the so-called viscous lagging, full viscous, and thin-layer models. Radiated hydro-acoustic waves were predicted by applying the Ffowcs Williams and Hawkings equations. The effects of the viscous flux vectors on the predicted flow fields and its radiated noise were then examined by comparing the hydro-dynamic forces, velocity distribution, volume fraction, far-field sound directivities, and sound spectrum of the three approaches. The results revealed that the thin-layer model can provide predictions as accurate as the full viscous model, but required less computational time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Underwater Acoustics, Communications and Information Processing)
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16 pages, 2249 KiB  
Review
Inkjet-Printed and Paper-Based Electrochemical Sensors
by Ryan P. Tortorich, Hamed Shamkhalichenar and Jin-Woo Choi
Appl. Sci. 2018, 8(2), 288; https://doi.org/10.3390/app8020288 - 14 Feb 2018
Cited by 97 | Viewed by 12044
Abstract
It is becoming increasingly more important to provide a low-cost point-of-care diagnostic device with the ability to detect and monitor various biological and chemical compounds. Traditional laboratories can be time-consuming and very costly. Through the combination of well-established materials and fabrication methods, it [...] Read more.
It is becoming increasingly more important to provide a low-cost point-of-care diagnostic device with the ability to detect and monitor various biological and chemical compounds. Traditional laboratories can be time-consuming and very costly. Through the combination of well-established materials and fabrication methods, it is possible to produce devices that meet the needs of many patients, healthcare and medical professionals, and environmental specialists. Existing research has demonstrated that inkjet-printed and paper-based electrochemical sensors are suitable for this application due to advantages provided by the carefully selected materials and fabrication method. Inkjet printing provides a low cost fabrication method with incredible control over the material deposition process, while paper-based substrates enable pump-free microfluidic devices due to their natural wicking ability. Furthermore, electrochemical sensing is incredibly selective and provides accurate and repeatable quantitative results without expensive measurement equipment. By merging each of these favorable techniques and materials and continuing to innovate, the production of low-cost point-of-care sensors is certainly within reach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Printed Electronics 2017)
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