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Machines, Volume 6, Issue 1 (March 2018) – 11 articles

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17 pages, 4950 KiB  
Article
The Setup Design for Selective Laser Sintering of High-Temperature Polymer Materials with the Alignment Control System of Layer Deposition
by Alexey Nazarov, Innokentiy Skornyakov and Igor Shishkovsky
Machines 2018, 6(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines6010011 - 5 Mar 2018
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 7938
Abstract
This paper presents the design of an additive setup for the selective laser sintering (SLS) of high-temperature polymeric materials, which is distinguished by an original control system for aligning the device for depositing layers of polyether ether ketone (PEEK) powder. The kinematic and [...] Read more.
This paper presents the design of an additive setup for the selective laser sintering (SLS) of high-temperature polymeric materials, which is distinguished by an original control system for aligning the device for depositing layers of polyether ether ketone (PEEK) powder. The kinematic and laser-optical schemes are given. The main cooling circuits are described. The proposed technical and design solutions enable conducting the SLS process in different types of high-temperature polymer powders. The principles of the device adjustment for depositing powder layers based on an integral thermal analysis are disclosed. The PEEK sinterability was shown on the designed installation. The physic-mechanical properties of the tested 3D parts were evaluated in comparison with the known data and showed an acceptable quality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Process Innovation in Digital Manufacturing)
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14 pages, 4212 KiB  
Article
Precision CNC Machining of Femoral Component of Knee Implant: A Case Study
by Angelos P. Markopoulos, Nikolaos I. Galanis, Nikolaos E. Karkalos and Dimitrios E. Manolakos
Machines 2018, 6(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines6010010 - 2 Mar 2018
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 9658
Abstract
The design and manufacturing of medical implants constitutes an active and highly important field of research, both from a medical and an engineering point of view. From an engineering aspect, the machining of implants is undoubtedly challenging due to the complex shape of [...] Read more.
The design and manufacturing of medical implants constitutes an active and highly important field of research, both from a medical and an engineering point of view. From an engineering aspect, the machining of implants is undoubtedly challenging due to the complex shape of the implants and the associated restrictive geometrical and dimensional requirements. Furthermore, it is crucial to ensure that the surface integrity of the implant is not severely affected, in order for the implant to be durable and wear resistant. In the present work, the methodology of designing and machining the femoral component of total knee replacement using a 3-axis Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine is presented, and then, the results of the machining process, as well as the evaluation of implant surface quality are discussed in detail. At first, a preliminary design of the components of the knee implant is performed and the planning for the production of the femoral component is implemented in Computed Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software. Then, three femoral components are machined under different process conditions and the surface quality is evaluated in terms of surface roughness. Analysis of the results indicated the appropriate process conditions for each part of the implant surface and led to the determination of optimum machining strategy for the finishing stage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Precision Machining)
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10 pages, 4652 KiB  
Article
The Dimensional Precision of Forming Windows in Bearing Cages
by Marius Rîpanu, Gheorghe Nagîţ, Laurenţiu Slătineanu and Oana Dodun
Machines 2018, 6(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines6010009 - 1 Mar 2018
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 6351
Abstract
In the case of double row tapered roller bearings, the windows found in bearing cages could be obtained using various machining methods. Some such machining methods are based on the cold forming process. There are many factors that are able to affect the [...] Read more.
In the case of double row tapered roller bearings, the windows found in bearing cages could be obtained using various machining methods. Some such machining methods are based on the cold forming process. There are many factors that are able to affect the machining accuracy of the windows that exist in bearing cages. On the dimensional precision of windows, the clearance between punches and die, the work stroke length, and the workpiece thickness could exert influence. To evaluate this influence, experimental research was developed taking into consideration the height and the length of the cage window and the distance between the contact elements of the cage. By mathematical processing of the experimental results, empirical mathematical models were determined and analyzed. The empirical models highlighted the intensity of the influence exerted by the considered forming process input factors on the dimensional precision of the windows obtained in bearing cages. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Precision Machining)
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14 pages, 1432 KiB  
Article
Modal Coupling in Presence of Dry Friction
by Marco Claudio De Simone and Domenico Guida
Machines 2018, 6(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines6010008 - 27 Feb 2018
Cited by 61 | Viewed by 5022
Abstract
In this paper, we analyze the behavior of a single pad system in the presence of dry friction. The goal is to investigate the path that leads a stable mechanical system to unstable behavior. In doing so, we studied the behavior of a [...] Read more.
In this paper, we analyze the behavior of a single pad system in the presence of dry friction. The goal is to investigate the path that leads a stable mechanical system to unstable behavior. In doing so, we studied the behavior of a discrete three DOF model, a continuous model and a finite element model of the pad. The numerical results are consistent with the experimental investigation conducted on a brake disk for railway application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vibration Control Systems)
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18 pages, 1566 KiB  
Article
Adaptive Synchronization for Heterogeneous Multi-Agent Systems with Switching Topologies
by Muhammad Ridho Rosa
Machines 2018, 6(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines6010007 - 22 Feb 2018
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4158
Abstract
This work provides a multi-agent extension of output-feedback model reference adaptive control (MRAC), designed to synchronize a network of heterogeneous uncertain agents. The implementation of this scheme is based on multi-agent matching conditions. The practical advantage of the proposed MRAC is the possibility [...] Read more.
This work provides a multi-agent extension of output-feedback model reference adaptive control (MRAC), designed to synchronize a network of heterogeneous uncertain agents. The implementation of this scheme is based on multi-agent matching conditions. The practical advantage of the proposed MRAC is the possibility of handling the case of the unknown dynamics of the agents only by using the output and the control input of its neighbors. In addition, it is reasonable to consider the case when the communication topology is time-varying. In this work, the time-varying communication leads to a switching control structure that depends on the number of the predecessor of the agents. By using the switching control structure to handle the time-varying topologies, we show that synchronization can be achieved. The multi-agent adaptive switching controller is first analyzed, and numerical simulations based on formation control of simplifier quadcopter dynamics are provided. Full article
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9 pages, 4195 KiB  
Article
Numerical and Experimental Characterization of a Railroad Switch Machine
by Dario Croccolo, Massimiliano De Agostinis, Stefano Fini, Giorgio Olmi and Francesco Robusto
Machines 2018, 6(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines6010006 - 17 Feb 2018
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4756
Abstract
This contribution deals with the numerical and experimental characterization of the structural behavior of a railroad switch machine. Railroad switch machines must meet a number of safety-related conditions such as, for instance, exhibiting the appropriate resistance against any undesired movements of the points [...] Read more.
This contribution deals with the numerical and experimental characterization of the structural behavior of a railroad switch machine. Railroad switch machines must meet a number of safety-related conditions such as, for instance, exhibiting the appropriate resistance against any undesired movements of the points due to the extreme forces exerted by a passing train. This occurrence can produce very high stress on the components, which has to be predicted by designers. In order to assist them in the development of new machines and in defining what the critical components are, FEA models have been built and stresses have been calculated on the internal components of the switch machine. The results have been validated by means of an ad-hoc designed experimental apparatus, now installed at the facilities of the Department of Industrial Engineering of the University of Bologna. This apparatus is particularly novel and original, as no Standards are available that provide recommendations for its design, and no previous studies have dealt with the development of similar rigs. Moreover, it has wide potential applications for lab tests aimed at assessing the safety of railroad switch machines and the fulfilment of the specifications by many railway companies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Precision Machining)
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17 pages, 5261 KiB  
Article
Design Procedure for High-Speed PM Motors Aided by Optimization Algorithms
by Francesco Cupertino, Riccardo Leuzzi, Vito Giuseppe Monopoli and Giuseppe Leonardo Cascella
Machines 2018, 6(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines6010005 - 11 Feb 2018
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5051
Abstract
This paper considers the electromagnetic and structural co-design of superficial permanent magnet synchronous machines for high-speed applications, with the aid of a Pareto optimization procedure. The aim of this work is to present a design procedure for the afore-mentioned machines that relies on [...] Read more.
This paper considers the electromagnetic and structural co-design of superficial permanent magnet synchronous machines for high-speed applications, with the aid of a Pareto optimization procedure. The aim of this work is to present a design procedure for the afore-mentioned machines that relies on the combined used of optimization algorithms and finite element analysis. The proposed approach allows easy analysis of the results and a lowering of the computational burden. The proposed design method is presented through a practical example starting from the specifications of an aeronautical actuator. The design procedure is based on static finite element simulations for electromagnetic analysis and on analytical formulas for structural design. The final results are validated through detailed transient finite element analysis to verify both electromagnetic and structural performance. The step-by-step presentation of the proposed design methodology allows the reader to easily adapt it to different specifications. Finally, a comparison between a distributed-winding (24 slots) and a concentrated-winding (6 slots) machine is presented demonstrating the advantages of the former winding arrangement for high-speed applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue High Speed Motors and Drives: Design, Challenges and Applications)
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12 pages, 10354 KiB  
Article
Characteristics Analysis and Comparison of High-Speed 4/2 and Hybrid 4/4 Poles Switched Reluctance Motor
by Grace Firsta Lukman, Pham Trung Hieu, Kwang-Il Jeong and Jin-Woo Ahn
Machines 2018, 6(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines6010004 - 26 Jan 2018
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5490
Abstract
This paper presents a characteristics analysis and performance comparison of high-speed two-phase 4/2 and hybrid single-phase 4/4 switched reluctance motors (SRMs). Although the motors are advantageous as high-speed drives, both conventional structures have high torque ripple as a result of the presence of [...] Read more.
This paper presents a characteristics analysis and performance comparison of high-speed two-phase 4/2 and hybrid single-phase 4/4 switched reluctance motors (SRMs). Although the motors are advantageous as high-speed drives, both conventional structures have high torque ripple as a result of the presence of the torque dead zone. In this paper, solutions to the torque dead zone problem for each motor are discussed. For the 4/2 SRM, a wide-rotor stepper-type is adopted, while for the 4/4 SRM, the structure is changed to a hybrid by adding permanent magnets (PMs). Both motors have a non-uniform air gap to modify their inductance profile, which leads to the elimination of the torque dead zone. A finite-element method was used to analyze the characteristics of each motor. Then, the manufactured motors were tested through experiments, and lastly, their performance was compared. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue High Speed Motors and Drives: Design, Challenges and Applications)
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2 pages, 157 KiB  
Editorial
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Machines in 2017
by Machines Editorial Office
Machines 2018, 6(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines6010003 - 16 Jan 2018
Viewed by 2630
Abstract
The editors of Machines would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2017.[...] Full article
21 pages, 12022 KiB  
Article
A Methodology for the Lightweight Design of Modern Transfer Machine Tools
by Dario Croccolo, Omar Cavalli, Massimiliano De Agostinis, Stefano Fini, Giorgio Olmi, Francesco Robusto and Nicolò Vincenzi
Machines 2018, 6(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines6010002 - 14 Jan 2018
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5446
Abstract
This paper deals with a modern design approach via finite elements in the definition of the main structural elements (rotary table and working unit) of an innovative family of transfer machine tools. Using the concepts of green design and manufacture, as well as [...] Read more.
This paper deals with a modern design approach via finite elements in the definition of the main structural elements (rotary table and working unit) of an innovative family of transfer machine tools. Using the concepts of green design and manufacture, as well as sustainable development thinking, the paper highlights the advantages derived from their application in this specific field (i.e., the clever use of lightweight materials to allow ruling out high-consumption hydraulic pump systems). The design is conceived in a modular way, so that the final solution can cover transfers from four to 15 working stations. Two versions of the machines are examined. The first one has a rotary table with nine divisions, which can be considered as a prototype: this machine has been studied in order to set up the numerical predictive model, then validated by experimental tests. The second one, equipped with a rotary table with 15 divisions, is the biggest of the range: this machine has been entirely designed with the aid of the previously developed numerical model. The loading input forces for the analyses have been evaluated experimentally via drilling operations carried out on a three-axis CNC unit. The definition of the design force made it possible to accurately assess both the rotary table and the working units installed in the machine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Precision Machining)
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16 pages, 2663 KiB  
Article
A Minimal-Sensing Framework for Monitoring Multistage Manufacturing Processes Using Product Quality Measurements
by Hossein Davari Ardakani and Jay Lee
Machines 2018, 6(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines6010001 - 5 Jan 2018
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4543
Abstract
For implementing data analytic tools in real-world applications, researchers face major challenges such as the complexity of machines or processes, their dynamic operating regimes and the limitations on the availability, sufficiency and quality of the data measured by sensors. The limits on using [...] Read more.
For implementing data analytic tools in real-world applications, researchers face major challenges such as the complexity of machines or processes, their dynamic operating regimes and the limitations on the availability, sufficiency and quality of the data measured by sensors. The limits on using sensors are often related to the costs associated with them and the inaccessibility of critical locations within machines or processes. Manufacturing processes, as a large group of applications in which data analytics can bring significant value to, are the focus of this study. As the cost of instrumenting the machines in a manufacturing process is significant, an alternative solution which relies solely on product quality measurements is greatly desirable in the manufacturing industry. In this paper, a minimal-sensing framework for machine anomaly detection in multistage manufacturing processes based on product quality measurements is introduced. This framework, which relies on product quality data along with products’ manufacturing routes, allows the detection of variations in the quality of the products and is able to pinpoint the machine which is the cause of anomaly. A moving window is applied to the data, and a statistical metric is extracted by comparing the performance of a machine to its peers. This approach is expanded to work for multistage processes. The proposed method is validated using a dataset from a real-world manufacturing process and additional simulated datasets. Moreover, an alternative approach based on Bayesian Networks is provided and the performance of the two proposed methods is evaluated from an industrial implementation perspective. The results showed that the proposed similarity-based approach was able to successfully identify the root cause of the quality variations and pinpoint the machine that adversely impacted the product quality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Machinery Condition Monitoring and Industrial Analytics)
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