Papers by Keyword: Simulation

Abstract: This paper presents the comprehensive design and integration of the charging system, power train, and control system for a solar-powered geared tricycle, aimed at providing a sustainable and energy-efficient mode of transport. The tricycle is powered by a photovoltaic (PV) charging system, which includes a solar panel array, charge controller, and battery storage system designed for optimal energy harvesting and utilization under variable solar conditions. The power train incorporates a DC motor in combination with a manually operated gear system, allowing both electric and human propulsion to enhance range and performance. The control system features a microcontroller-based unit that manages motor speed, power distribution, battery monitoring, and safety protocols through real-time feedback mechanisms.This hybrid configuration not only maximizes energy efficiency and reliability but also ensures ease of use and adaptability in urban and semi-urban environments. The incorporated solar charging indicates significant improvements in energy autonomy, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impact compared to conventional fuel-powered tricycles. The work demonstrates the viability of integrating renewable energy with smart control systems in low-speed electric tricycle for transportation.

Abstract: The increasing adoption of automation and robotics to ease the complexities and stress involved in the transportation sector of the world has given birth to autonomous driving vehicles. It began with automating some parts of the system, such as the brake system, the gear system, navigation, and the like; these have grown to full autonomous systems of automobiles. However, autonomous vehicle designs available to date were all designed for urban communities where there are paved roads with signs. There is therefore a need to extend the technology to rural environments. The unique challenges presented by rural areas, such as complex and dynamic terrains, varying road conditions, limited infrastructure, and sparse population density, necessitate a dedicated focus on simulation. This study aims to contribute by designing and implementing a 3D simulation platform tailored to Nigerian road challenges. The methodology involves the design and simulation of an autonomous vehicle (AV) in a 3D environment using Unity Engine technology and C# programming. It covers the creation of a virtual environment that accurately represents Nigerian landscapes, the design of the AV, including the integration of virtual components, and the programming of vehicle dynamics. The programming of the autonomous vehicle involves path finding through Unity's NavMesh, sensor detection using ray casting, and a system for adjusting speed and steering based on sensor data. The methodology also outlines the development of a user interface for real-time information display. The modeled autonomous driving vehicle was tested by introducing obstruction from a 1m to 5m range while the vehicle was at a steady speed of 50 mph, and it stopped within an average period of 0.3 s. The distance of the obstruction was also fixed at 5m, while the speed of the vehicle was varied as 10mph, 20mph, 30mph, 40 mph, and 50 mph, and it stopped at 0.1 0.1s, 0.18s, 0.26s, 0.29 s, and 0.31 s, respectively. This study has shown the possibility of using autonomous driving vehicles in rural communities and on unpaved roads, which are common in developing countries of the world.

Abstract: The global transition to renewable energy sources, notably solar power, significantly reduces carbon emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels. Powerwall systems have emerged as crucial components for optimizing solar energy utilization by providing reliable energy storage solutions. This research addresses the problematic issue of casing strength and durability in Powerwall applications. Employing a comprehensive methodology involving detailed 3D modeling using SolidWorks, material selection based on Aluminum 1100 for optimal thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance, and structural analysis via finite element simulations, the casing was rigorously tested. Simulation results under a 35 N load indicated a maximum stress of 12.88 MPa, yielding a safety factor of approximately 7.7, with the structure experiencing a maximum displacement of 0.105 mm at its base. These outcomes validate the robustness and suitability of the casing design for practical solar energy storage applications. However, further quantitative analysis of thermal performance and practical mounting considerations is recommended for comprehensive validation.

Abstract: Biosensors have become indispensable tools in modern diagnostics, offering high sensitivity and specificity for the detection of biological and chemical substances. Among various biosensing techniques, optical resonator-based biosensors provide a promising alternative because of their enhanced performance metrics, including high-quality factors and precise wavelength shift detection. This study presents a simulation-based investigation focused on the parametric optimization of optical ring resonator structures for biomedical applications. Although experimental validation with biomolecules has not yet been conducted, the simulated designs demonstrated high quality factors and sensitivity to refractive index changes. These results suggest the potential for integration into compact and efficient biosensing platforms in future implementation in biomedical diagnostics.

Abstract: To increase the safety of steels in high performance cases like crash energy absorption, even better properties of the materials are necessary. To advance this research, a TWIP and a TRIP steel were combined in a laminated composite via roll bonding at 450 °C with the goal of using accumulative roll bonding (ARB) in later research to further enhance the properties reaching an ultra-fine-grained material. Two different TWIP layer thicknesses (2 mm and 3 mm) were experimentally roll bonded with a 3 mm thick TRIP layer each using a 4-high rolling mill. A modular Python-based simulation incorporating coupled solving of ordinary differential equations of the temperatures and the horizontal stress changes of the layers were implemented to predict deformation and bonding behavior. Simulated results matched well with experimental data in terms of final geometry and temperature, while roll force deviations indicated the need for the refining of the used model. Furthermore, experimentally asymmetric layer relationships at the beginning and the addition of a thin (10 µm) Ni interlayer were found to enhance bond strength in high-strength steel laminates.

Abstract: Given the growing importance of simulation in engineering and its increasing adoption by SMEs, it's crucial to find ways for these smaller enterprises to use simulation tools efficiently, despite having fewer experts than larger organizations. After reviewing literature on how knowledge-based engineering can involve non-expert users and examining simulation workflows. A system has been proposed that will allow non users to conduct certain FEA analysis. This system enables non-expert users to adjust parameters within templates created by a simulation expert. It was found that the system could produce results that were very similar to the results of the expert users initial analysis.

Abstract: In the aerospace industry, hot forming processes, using materials like Ti-6Al-4V titanium, are known for their complexity and cost. Senior Aerospace Thermal Engineering (SATE) has traditionally relied on a trial-and-error approach for new product introductions (NPIs), which, while effective, has led to significant time and resource expenditures. This paper examines the transition of SATE's NPI processes to a more efficient digital approach using AutoForm Forming simulation software. By doing so, SATE has been able to accurately predict forming outcomes, optimize tooling designs, and significantly reduce both the number of physical tryouts and the overall project costs. Two case studies are presented to demonstrate the practical applications of this digitalization, highlighting how important engineering decisions were taken. The paper concludes with an assessment of the impact on SATE's operations, noting improvements in development time, feasibility assessments, and overall production efficiency.

Abstract: This paper explores the application of Abrasive Flow Machining (AFM) as an innovative technique to enhance the finishing process of fracture plate implants. The study aims to deepen the understanding of AFM machining dynamics, optimize process parameters, and assess the effectiveness of AFM through advanced modeling and simulation. The major contributions include detailed simulation frameworks and validation through practical applications on SS316L implants, highlighting AFM’s effectiveness in achieving high-precision finishes essential for biomedical applications.

Abstract: “Gbogbonise” Polyherb (GP) is one of the traditional medicines used in Nigeria to cure various ailments as professed by Nigerian folks. However, no scientific work, including laboratory-proof-of-concept experiment, has been documented in the literature regarding total phenolic content of extract recovery from GP. Therefore, this study reports High-Performance-Liquid-Chromatography (HPLC) finger-profiling, process modelling, scale-up process simulation and manufacturing cost of phenolic extract production from GP. The poly-herbal extraction experiment and analyses were performed using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) at extraction time (2.79-4.21hours), extraction temperature (33.79-76.21°C), and solid-liquid ratio (0.007929- 0.018355 g/ml) with yield, Total Phenolic Content (TPC), Total Flavonoid Content (TFC) and Antioxidant Activity (AA) as dependent variables. RSM models compared with the developed Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) models in Matlab software. ASPEN software was used for process simulation and cost of manufacturing. RSM and ANFIS models for predicting the extraction responses showed coefficients of determination (R²) of 0.99152 (RSM) and 0.999 (ANFIS) for yield, 0.981766 (RSM) and 0.9999 (ANFIS) for TFC, 0.986031 (RSM) and 0.999 (ANFIS) for AA, 0.842463 (RSM) and 0.999 (ANFIS) for TPC. HPLC results showed presence of betulinic acid (0.028 µg/g.dw), gallic acid (0.034 µg/g.dw), caffeic acid (0.051 µg/g.dw), erulic (0.0826 µg/g.dw) and ellagic acid (0.064 µg/g.dw) in the extract. The scale-up simulation results gave batch size (3.99 kg/batch) and number of batches (1,751 batches) for the annual production target (7,000 kg); while 339.1 USD/kg was obtained as product cost of manufacturing. The technical-economic-parameters obtained from this study are precursors to poly-herbal extraction plant design construction.

Abstract: Water pollution by heavy metals constitutes a significant environmental and health risk, necessitating efficient and reusable adsorbents. The current study investigates the application of inexpensive biopolymer chitosan to extract Ni²⁺ and Cd²⁺ ions from aqueous solutions. Material characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD) showed the amorphous nature (absence of peak at 10°), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis exhibited the mesoporous surface area of 302.12 m²/g, suitable for the adsorption of metal ions. The Swan model was parameterized with batch-derived adsorption parameters (i.e., Qₘₐₓ = 220 mg/g for Ni²⁺, 226 mg/g for Cd²⁺) and successfully predicted packed-bed breakthrough curves at optimum pH (7 for Ni²⁺, 6 for Cd²⁺), with transport rates of 3.65 × 10^-11 m²/s (Ni²⁺) and 3.14 × 10^-11 m²⁺/s (Cd²⁺) for a 1.2 m column. The material retained over 95% removal efficiency after five regeneration cycles. These findings show the potential of chitosan for large-scale water treatment with high efficiency, model-driven design, and strong reusability.