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Open AccessArticle

Design, Production, and Verification of a Switched-Reluctance Wheel Hub Drive Train for Battery Electric Vehicles

by

Martin Vosswinkel ,

Andreas Lohner ,

Volkmar Platte and

Tobias Hirche

World Electr. Veh. J. 2019, 10(4), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj10040082 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2019

Abstract

This contribution deals with the topic of the consistent further development of a wheel hub motor for battery electric vehicles (BEV) based on the principle of an outer rotor switched reluctance machine (SRM). The research work presented in this paper was founded by [...] Read more.

This contribution deals with the topic of the consistent further development of a wheel hub motor for battery electric vehicles (BEV) based on the principle of an outer rotor switched reluctance machine (SRM). The research work presented in this paper was founded by the ERDF.NRW program, Investment for Growth and Employment and the European Regional Development Fund. The R&D project was named Switched-Reluctance fo(u)r wheel (SR4Wheel). Based on the experience made by first prototype Evolution 0 (EVO 0), developed in the Laboratory for Automation Engineering, Power Electronics and Electrical Drives of the Cologne University of Applied Sciences (CUAS), the test results of EVO 1, as well as the redesign, EVO 2 is presented in this paper. The prototype EVO 0, a first proof of concept leads to several optimizations and lessons learned for the predecessor model EVO 1. The overall target of developing such a gearless outer rotor wheel hub motor is the full integration of the complete machine including its power electronics into the given space between the original friction brake and the rim. Furthermore, due to the additional integration of the power electronics, great opportunities in terms of new vehicle design as well as retrofitting capabilities of already existing vehicle platforms can be achieved. Thereby, further drive train assembly space like the engine compartment is no longer necessary. The SRM does not require magnets for torque production which leads to independence from the changeable commodity prices on the rare earth element markets. This paper presents the developing process, testing, and verification of the innovative drive train concept starting with the final CAD of EVO 1. During the testing and verification process a machine characteristic mapping is performed on a drive train test bench and subsequently the results of a finite element analysis (FEA) are plausibility checked by the test bench results. The process continues with energy conversion test scenarios of the project demonstrator vehicle on a roller test bench focused on noise vibration harshness (NVH) behavior and efficiency. As a conclusion, the gained knowledge by evaluating two EVO 1 prototypes on the rear axle of the test vehicle, and the design for the front axle drive train EVO 2 will be presented. As a major task on the front axle, the limited space due to the large disc brake can be identified and solved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A World of E MOTION—Selected Papers from the 32nd International Electric Vehicles Symposium and Exhibition (Lyon, France))

Open AccessFeature PaperCase Report

African Swine Fever in a Bulgarian Backyard Farm—A Case Report

by

Laura Zani ,

Klaus Depner and

Vet. Sci. 2019, 6(4), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci6040094 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2019

Abstract

African swine fever (ASF) is one of the most threatening diseases for the pig farming sector worldwide. As an effective vaccine is lacking, strict application of control measures is the only way to fight the disease in both industrial farms and backyard holdings. [...] Read more.

African swine fever (ASF) is one of the most threatening diseases for the pig farming sector worldwide. As an effective vaccine is lacking, strict application of control measures is the only way to fight the disease in both industrial farms and backyard holdings. With generally low biosecurity standards, the latter are at particular risk for disease introduction and offer challenging conditions for disease control. In the following case report, we describe the overall course of an ASF outbreak in a Bulgarian backyard farm and the implemented control measures. Farm facilities and available data have been investigated to estimate the possible source, spread and time point of virus introduction. Contact with contaminated fomites entering the stable via human activities was regarded to be the most likely introduction route. The slow disease spread within the farm contributes to the hypothesis of a moderate contagiosity. As no further ASF outbreaks have been detected in domestic pig farms in the region, it could be demonstrated that successful disease control in small-scale farms can be reached. Thus, the report contributes to a better understanding of ASF in the backyard sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue African Swine Fever (ASF))

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Recovery of Protein from Dairy Milk Waste Product Using Alcohol-Salt Liquid Biphasic Flotation

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Pei En Tham ,

Yan Jer Ng ,

Masnindah Malahubban ,

Fitri Abdul Aziz Zakry and

Pau Loke Show

Processes 2019, 7(12), 875; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr7120875 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2019

Abstract

Expired dairy products are often disposed of due to the potential health hazard they pose to living organisms. Lack of methods to recover valuable components from them are also a reason for manufactures to dispose of the expired dairy products. Milk encompasses several [...] Read more.

Expired dairy products are often disposed of due to the potential health hazard they pose to living organisms. Lack of methods to recover valuable components from them are also a reason for manufactures to dispose of the expired dairy products. Milk encompasses several different components with their own functional properties that can be applied in production of food and non-food technical products. This study aims to investigate the novel approach of using liquid biphasic flotation (LBF) method for protein extraction from expired milk products and obtaining the optimal operating conditions for protein extraction. The optimized conditions were found at 80% concentration ethanol as top phase, 150 g/L dipotassium hydrogen phosphate along with 10% (w/v) milk as bottom phase, and a flotation time of 7.5 min. The protein recovery yield and separation efficiency after optimization were 94.97% and 86.289%, respectively. The experiment has been scaled up by 40 times to ensure it can be commercialized, and the protein recovery yield and separation efficiency were found to be 78.92% and 85.62%, respectively. This novel approach gives a chance for expired milk products to be changed from waste to raw materials which is beneficial for the environment and the economy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Technologies: Bridging Conventional Practices and Industry 4.0)

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Effect of CuO as Sintering Additive in Scandium Cerium and Gadolinium-Doped Zirconia-Based Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell for Steam Electrolysis

by

S. Peng-Ont ,

T. Sornchamni and

Processes 2019, 7(12), 868; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr7120868 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2019

Abstract

The effect of CuO as a sintering additive on the electrolyte of solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) was investigated. 0.5 wt% CuO was added into Sc_0.1Ce_0.05Gd_0.05Zr_0.89O₂(SCGZ) electrolyte as a sintering additive. An electrolyte-supported [...] Read more.

The effect of CuO as a sintering additive on the electrolyte of solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) was investigated. 0.5 wt% CuO was added into Sc_0.1Ce_0.05Gd_0.05Zr_0.89O₂(SCGZ) electrolyte as a sintering additive. An electrolyte-supported cell (Pt/SCGZ/Pt) was fabricated. Phase formation, relative density, and electrical conductivity were investigated. The cells were sintered at 1373 K to 1673 K for 4 h. The CuO significantly affected the sinterability of SCGZ. The SCGZ with 0.5 wt% CuO achieved 95% relative density at 1573 K while the SCGZ without CuO could not be densified even at 1673 K. Phase transformation and impurity after CuO addition were not detected from XRD patterns. Electrochemical performance was evaluated at the operating temperature from 873 K to 1173 K under steam to hydrogen ratio at 70:30. Adding 0.5 wt% CuO insignificantly affected the electrochemical performance of the cell. Activation energy of conduction (E_a) was 72.34 kJ mol⁻¹ and 74.93 kJ mol⁻¹ for SCGZ and SCGZ with CuO, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogen Production Technologies)

Open AccessArticle

On the Matrix Mittag–Leffler Function: Theoretical Properties and Numerical Computation

by

Marina Popolizio

Mathematics 2019, 7(12), 1140; https://doi.org/10.3390/math7121140 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2019

Abstract

Many situations, as for example within the context of Fractional Calculus theory, require computing the Mittag–Leffler (ML) function with matrix arguments. In this paper, we collect theoretical properties of the matrix ML function. Moreover, we describe the available numerical methods aimed at this [...] Read more.

Many situations, as for example within the context of Fractional Calculus theory, require computing the Mittag–Leffler (ML) function with matrix arguments. In this paper, we collect theoretical properties of the matrix ML function. Moreover, we describe the available numerical methods aimed at this purpose by stressing advantages and weaknesses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Mathematical Methods: Theory and Applications)

Open AccessArticle

On Jacobi-Type Vector Fields on Riemannian Manifolds

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Bang-Yen Chen ,

Sharief Deshmukh and

Amira A. Ishan

Mathematics 2019, 7(12), 1139; https://doi.org/10.3390/math7121139 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2019

Abstract

In this article, we study Jacobi-type vector fields on Riemannian manifolds. A Killing vector field is a Jacobi-type vector field while the converse is not true, leading to a natural question of finding conditions under which a Jacobi-type vector field is Killing. In [...] Read more.

In this article, we study Jacobi-type vector fields on Riemannian manifolds. A Killing vector field is a Jacobi-type vector field while the converse is not true, leading to a natural question of finding conditions under which a Jacobi-type vector field is Killing. In this article, we first prove that every Jacobi-type vector field on a compact Riemannian manifold is Killing. Then, we find several necessary and sufficient conditions for a Jacobi-type vector field to be a Killing vector field on non-compact Riemannian manifolds. Further, we derive some characterizations of Euclidean spaces in terms of Jacobi-type vector fields. Finally, we provide examples of Jacobi-type vector fields on non-compact Riemannian manifolds, which are non-Killing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sasakian Space)

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

An Inverse Problem for a Generalized Fractional Derivative with an Application in Reconstruction of Time- and Space-Dependent Sources in Fractional Diffusion and Wave Equations

by

Nataliia Kinash and

Jaan Janno

Mathematics 2019, 7(12), 1138; https://doi.org/10.3390/math7121138 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2019

Abstract

In this article, we consider two inverse problems with a generalized fractional derivative. The first problem, IP1, is to reconstruct the function u based on its value and the value of its fractional derivative in the neighborhood of the final time. We prove [...] Read more.

In this article, we consider two inverse problems with a generalized fractional derivative. The first problem, IP1, is to reconstruct the function u based on its value and the value of its fractional derivative in the neighborhood of the final time. We prove the uniqueness of the solution to this problem. Afterwards, we investigate the IP2, which is to reconstruct a source term in an equation that generalizes fractional diffusion and wave equations, given measurements in a neighborhood of final time. The source to be determined depends on time and all space variables. The uniqueness is proved based on the results for IP1. Finally, we derive the explicit solution formulas to the IP1 and IP2 for some particular cases of the generalized fractional derivative. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inverse and Ill-posed Problems)

Open AccessArticle

Effective Receiver Design for MIMO Visible Light Communication with Quadrichromatic LEDs

by

Manh Le Tran and

Sunghwan Kim

Electronics 2019, 8(12), 1383; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics8121383 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2019

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a receiver designing principle for the multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) visible light communication (VLC) systems with quadrichromatic light emitting diodes (QLEDs). To simultaneously transmit multiple data streams, the system consists of multiple QLEDs and multiple receivers; each includes four [...] Read more.

In this paper, we propose a receiver designing principle for the multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) visible light communication (VLC) systems with quadrichromatic light emitting diodes (QLEDs). To simultaneously transmit multiple data streams, the system consists of multiple QLEDs and multiple receivers; each includes four photodiodes (PDs). We optimize the Euclidean distance of the received signal over some constraints by considering the normal vectors of the receivers. The numerical results show that our proposed receiver design has a better bit error rate (BER) performance in comparison with the conventional receiver. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Visible Light (VLC) and Camera Communication)

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Induction Motor Drives Fed by an NPC Inverter with Unbalanced DC-Link

by

Mauro Di Monaco and

Electronics 2019, 8(12), 1379; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics8121379 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2019

Abstract

Neutral Point Clamped (NPC) converters with n levels are traditionally controlled in such a way that the DC-link capacitors operate at 1/(

n -

1) of the total DC-link voltage level. The voltage level across the DC-link capacitors has to be properly regulated [...] Read more.

Neutral Point Clamped (NPC) converters with n levels are traditionally controlled in such a way that the DC-link capacitors operate at 1/(

n -

1) of the total DC-link voltage level. The voltage level across the DC-link capacitors has to be properly regulated by the capacitor unbalance control to contain the harmonic distortion of the converter output voltages. State-of-the-art modulation techniques address the problem of the DC-link voltage regulation for NPC inverters. However, they highly show reduced performance when unbalanced DC-link voltages are considered. In this paper, a novel Space Vector Modulation (SVM) is proposed for NPC converters with an unbalanced DC-link. At every modulation interval, the technique defines the optimal switching pattern by considering the actual unbalanced DC-link conditions. The proposed modulation allows improving the harmonic content of the NPC converter output voltage with respect to a traditional ML-SVM, when the same operating conditions are considered. As an extension, the proposed modulation technique will guarantee the same output voltage quality of a traditional ML-SVM with unbalanced DC-link, while improving the conversion efficiency thanks to a reduction of switching frequency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Power Electronics)

Open AccessReview

Lipoprotein(a) as Orchestrator of Calcific Aortic Valve Stenosis

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Johan G. Schnitzler ,

Lubna Ali ,

Anouk G. Groenen ,

Yannick Kaiser and

Jeffrey Kroon

Biomolecules 2019, 9(12), 760; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom9120760 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2019

Abstract

Aortic valve stenosis (AVS) is the most prevalent disease in the Western World with exponentially increased incidence with age. If left untreated, the yearly mortality rates increase up to 25%. Currently, no effective pharmacological interventions have been established to treat or prevent AVS. [...] Read more.

Aortic valve stenosis (AVS) is the most prevalent disease in the Western World with exponentially increased incidence with age. If left untreated, the yearly mortality rates increase up to 25%. Currently, no effective pharmacological interventions have been established to treat or prevent AVS. The only treatment modality so far is surgical or transcatheter aortic valve replacement (AVR). Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] has been implicated as a pivotal player in the pathophysiology of calcification of the valves. Patients with elevated levels of Lp(a) have a higher risk of hospitalization or mortality due to the presence of AVS. Multiple studies indicated Lp(a) as a likely causal and independent risk factor for AVS. This review discusses the most important findings and mechanisms related to Lp(a) and AVS in detail. During the progression of AVS, Lp(a) enters the aortic valve tissue at damaged sites of the valves. Subsequently, autotaxin converts lysophosphatidylcholine in lysophosphatidic acid (LysoPA) which in turn acts as a ligand for the LysoPA receptor. This triggers a nuclear factor-κB cascade leading to increased transcripts of interleukin 6, bone morphogenetic protein 2, and runt-related transcription factor 2. This progresses to the actual calcification of the valves through production of alkaline phosphatase and calcium depositions. Furthermore, this review briefly mentions potentially interesting therapies that may play a role in the treatment or prevention of AVS in the near future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Atherosclerosis and Related Diseases: Particular Focus on Molecular Biology)

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Open AccessArticle

Study on Friction and Lubrication Characteristics of Surface with Unidirectional Convergence Texture

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Chenchen Li ,

Xuefeng Yang ,

Shouren Wang ,

Yanjun Wang ,

Chongyang Lu and

Jinlong Cao

Coatings 2019, 9(12), 780; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings9120780 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2019

Abstract

In order to study the influence of texture on the wear and lubrication performance of the surface of the tools, three kinds of textures with unidirectional convergence morphology were processed on the surface of the samples, and each texture was designed with different [...] Read more.

In order to study the influence of texture on the wear and lubrication performance of the surface of the tools, three kinds of textures with unidirectional convergence morphology were processed on the surface of the samples, and each texture was designed with different area occupancy ratios. Simulation analysis shows that, owing to the reflow and convection effect of liquid in the texture, the lubricating film flowing through the textured surface has a high hydrodynamic pressure value, and the semicircular ring texture is the most prominent. By comparing the friction coefficient, when the area occupancy ratio of texture on the surface is 10%, the surface of the samples with different morphology has the lowest coefficient of friction; the friction coefficient of the semicircular ring textured surface is especially very low. Surface textures reduce the direct contact area between the friction pairs, and generate dynamic pressure lubrication and secondary lubrication, so that the surface friction coefficient of the samples is obviously reduced. The surfaces of the non-textured samples have abrasive wear and contact fatigue wear, and the surfaces of the textured samples have adhesive wear, abrasive wear, and cavitation. Full article

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Lithium-Doped Biological-Derived Hydroxyapatite Coatings Sustain In Vitro Differentiation of Human Primary Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Osteoblasts

by

Paula E. Florian ,

Liviu Duta ,

Valentina Grumezescu ,

Gianina Popescu-Pelin ,

Andrei C. Popescu ,

Faik N. Oktar ,

Robert W. Evans and

Anca Roseanu Constantinescu

Coatings 2019, 9(12), 781; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings9120781 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2019

Abstract

This study is focused on the adhesion and differentiation of the human primary mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) to osteoblasts lineage on biological-derived hydroxyapatite (BHA) and lithium-doped BHA (BHA:LiP) coatings synthesized by Pulsed Laser Deposition. An optimum adhesion of the cells on the surface [...] Read more.

This study is focused on the adhesion and differentiation of the human primary mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) to osteoblasts lineage on biological-derived hydroxyapatite (BHA) and lithium-doped BHA (BHA:LiP) coatings synthesized by Pulsed Laser Deposition. An optimum adhesion of the cells on the surface of BHA:LiP coatings compared to control (uncoated Ti) was demonstrated using immunofluorescence labelling of actin and vinculin, two proteins involved in the initiation of the cell adhesion process. BHA:LiP coatings were also found to favor the differentiation of the hMSC towards an osteoblastic phenotype in the presence of osteoinductive medium, as revealed by the evaluation of osteoblast-specific markers, osteocalcin and alkaline phosphatase. Numerous nodules of mineralization secreted from osteoblast cells grown on the surface of BHA:LiP coatings and a 3D network-like organization of cells interconnected into the extracellular matrix were evidenced. These findings highlight the good biocompatibility of the BHA coatings and demonstrate that the use of lithium as a doping agent results in an enhanced osteointegration potential of the synthesized biomaterials, which might therefore represent viable candidates for future in vivo applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthetic and Biological-Derived Hydroxyapatite Implant Coatings)

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Open AccessArticle

Effect of Heat Treatment on the Microstructure and Phase Composition of ZrB₂–MoSi₂ Coating

by

Olga Vagina ,

Yuri Tyurin and

Coatings 2019, 9(12), 779; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings9120779 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2019

Abstract

Composite ZrB₂–MoSi₂ coating modified by Y₂O₃ and Al was prepared by a new multi-chamber detonation accelerator (MCDS) on carbon/carbon composites. Postdeposition heat treatment of the samples at 1500 °C for 1 and 6 h was carried out [...] Read more.

Composite ZrB₂–MoSi₂ coating modified by Y₂O₃ and Al was prepared by a new multi-chamber detonation accelerator (MCDS) on carbon/carbon composites. Postdeposition heat treatment of the samples at 1500 °C for 1 and 6 h was carried out in air. The effect of heat treatment on the microstructure and phase composition of the ZrB₂–MoSi₂ coating was investigated by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction phase analysis. The as-sprayed coating presented as a dense lamellar structure, composed of m-ZrO₂, t-ZrO₂, some hexagonal ZrB₂, and cubic Al phases. The m-ZrO₂, c-ZrO₂, and h-(α-Al₂O₃) formed at 1500 °C. The coatings after heat treatment (1 and 6 h) exhibited a structure without cracks. The porosity (~1%) of the coating did not change after heat treatment. Thin, continuous, silica-rich film covered the surfaces of ZrO₂ and Al₂O₃ particles, and could have played a role during heat treatment by acting as a grain lubricant for particle rearrangement. Full article

Open AccessArticle

Extreme High-Speed Laser Material Deposition (EHLA) of AISI 4340 Steel

by

Tianci Li ,

Lele Zhang ,

Gregor Gilles Pierre Bultel ,

Thomas Schopphoven ,

Andres Gasser ,

Johannes Henrich Schleifenbaum and

Reinhart Poprawe

Coatings 2019, 9(12), 778; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings9120778 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2019

Abstract

A variant of conventional laser material deposition (LMD), extreme high-speed laser material deposition (German acronym: EHLA) is characterized by elevated process speeds of up to 200 m/min, increased cooling rates, and a significantly reduced heat affected zone. This study focuses on the feasibility [...] Read more.

A variant of conventional laser material deposition (LMD), extreme high-speed laser material deposition (German acronym: EHLA) is characterized by elevated process speeds of up to 200 m/min, increased cooling rates, and a significantly reduced heat affected zone. This study focuses on the feasibility of using EHLA to apply material onto Fe-based substrate materials with AISI 4340 as a filler material. We studied how three different build-up strategies—consisting of one, three, and five consecutive deposited layers and hence, different thermal evolutions of the build-up volume—influence the metallurgical characteristics such as microstructure, porosity, hardness, and static mechanical properties. We propose a thermo-metallurgical scheme to help understand the effects of the build-up strategy and the thermal evolution on the microstructure and hardness. The tensile strength of the build-up volume was determined and is higher than the ones of forged AISI 4340 material. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Metallic Coatings to Additive Manufacturing)

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