This book presents the development of SLAM-based mobile robot control systems as an integrated approach that combines the localization, mapping and motion control fields, and reviews several techniques that represent the basics of the mathematical description of wheeled robots, their navigation and path planning approaches, localization and map creating techniques. It examines SLAM paradigms and Bayesian recursive state and map estimation techniques, which include Kalman and particle filtering, and enable the development of a SLAM-based integrated system for the inspection task performed. The system's development is divided into two phases: a single-robot approach and multirobot inspection system. The book describes an original approach to 2D SLAM in multi-floor buildings that covers each 2D level map, as well as continuous 3D pose tracking, and views the multirobot inspection system as a group of homogeneous mobile robots. The last part of the book is dedicated to multirobot map creation and the development of path planning solutions, which allow the robots' homogeneous behavior and configuration to be used to develop a multirobot system without theoretical limitations on the number of robots used.

This book is the first monograph focusing on ellipsoidal heads, which are commonly used as an end closure of pressure vessels in chemical, petroleum, nuclear, marine, aerospace and food processing industries. It provides a comprehensive coverage of stress, failure, design and fabrication of ellipsoidal heads. This book investigates in detail buckling/plastic collapse behaviors of ellipsoidal heads using nonlinear finite element methods and experiments. Buckling/plastic collapse experiments are performed on 37 ellipsoidal heads which cover various geometric parameters, material and fabrication methods. In particular, modern measurement technologies, such as 3D laser scanning, are used in the experiments of these ellipsoidal heads including large heads with a diameter up to 5 metres. Moreover, this book presents new formulas for accurate prediction of buckling/plastic collapse pressures of ellipsoidal heads. Using elastic-plastic theory, this book proposes a new failure mechanism-based method for design of ellipsoidal heads. Compared to other methods in current codes and standards based on elastic or perfectly plastic theory, the new design method can fully develop the head's load-carrying capacity, which reduces head thickness and thus cost. Also, this book studies control on fabrication quality of ellipsoidal heads, including shape deviation, forming strain and forming temperature. It is useful as a technical reference for researchers and engineers in the fields of engineering mechanics, engineering design, manufacturing engineering and industrial engineering.

This book introduces the engineering application of the discrete element method (DEM), especially the simulation analysis of the typical equipment (scraper conveyor, coal silos, subsoiler) in the coal and agricultural machinery. In this book, the DEM is applied to build rigid and loose coupling model, and the kinematic effect of the bulk materials, the mechanical effect of the interaction between the bulk materials, and the mechanical equipment in the operation process of the relevant equipment are studied. On this basis, the optimization design strategy of the relevant structure is proposed. This book effectively promotes the application of DEM in engineering, analyzes the operation state, failure mechanism, and operation effect of related equipment in operation, and provides theoretical basis for the optimal design of equipment. The book is intended for undergraduate and graduate students who are interested in mechanical engineering, researchers investigating coal and agricultural machinery, and engineers working on designing related equipments.

This volume gathers the proceedings of the Joint International Conference of the XIII International Conference on Mechanisms and Mechanical Transmissions (MTM) and the XXIV International Conference on Robotics (Robotics), held in Timisoara, Romania. It addresses the applications of mechanisms and transmissions in several modern technical fields such as mechatronics, biomechanics, machines, micromachines, robotics and apparatus. In doing so, it combines theoretical findings and experimental testing. The book presents peer-reviewed papers written by researchers specialized in mechanism analysis and synthesis, dynamics of mechanisms and machines, mechanical transmissions, biomechanics, precision mechanics, mechatronics, micromechanisms and microactuators, computational and experimental methods, CAD in mechanism and machine design, mechanical design of robot architecture, parallel robots, mobile robots, micro and nano robots, sensors and actuators in robotics, intelligent control systems, biomedical engineering, teleoperation, haptics, and virtual reality.

This book gathers the latest advances, innovations, and applications in the field of multibody and mechatronic systems. Topics addressed include the analysis and synthesis of mechanisms; dynamics of multibody systems; design algorithms for mechatronic systems; robots and micromachines; experimental validations; theory of mechatronic simulation; mechatronic systems for rehabilitation and assistive technologies; mechatronic systems for energy harvesting; virtual reality integration in multibody and mechatronic systems; multibody design in robotic systems; and control of mechatronic systems. The contents reflect the outcomes of the 7th International Symposium on Multibody Systems and Mechatronics (7th MuSMe) in 2020, within the framework of the FEIbIM Commission for Robotics and Mechanisms and IFToMM Technical Committees for Multibody Dynamics and for Robotics and Mechatronics.

This book describes the theoretical framework of parallel manipulators and presents examples of their application. The theoretical part begins with the theory of parallel manipulator synthesis. Working on this basis, various topology designs of one-loop and multiloop parallel manipulators are then obtained. The next section describes the zero parameters method for the analysis of mechanism (manipulator) structure with closed kinematic circuits, and includes examples of its application, highlighting its advantages compared to traditional methods. The book then presents the redundant parameters method for determining the position of special parallel manipulator links, and discusses its application in solving the direct problem of link position for multiloop manipulators. It also addresses one-loop and multiloop manipulators, and includes a solution for the direct and inverse link position problems of kinematics. In closing, the book presents a range of potential applications for parallel manipulator. These examples are intended to promote the development and implementation of new engineering solutions, e.g. in seismic protection systems, renewable energy and other areas. The book includes a wealth of material that can be used for teaching undergraduate, graduate and PhD students majoring in robotics, automation and related fields, and can also be used by researchers to solve problems in connection with introducing robotics technologies.

In today's global context, there has been extensive research conducted in reducing harmful emissions to conserve and protect our environment. In the automobile and power generation industries, diesel engines are being utilized due to their high level of performance and fuel economy. However, these engines are producing harmful pollutants that contribute to several global threats including greenhouse gases and ozone layer depletion. Professionals have begun developing techniques to improve the performance and reduce emissions of diesel engines, but significant research is lacking in this area. Recent Technologies for Enhancing Performance and Reducing Emissions in Diesel Engines is a pivotal reference source that provides vital research on technical and environmental enhancements to the emission and combustion characteristics of diesel engines. While highlighting topics such as biodiesel emulsions, nanoparticle additives, and mathematical modeling, this publication explores the potential additives that have been incorporated into the performance of diesel engines in order to positively affect the environment. This book is ideally designed for chemical and electrical engineers, developers, researchers, power generation professionals, mechanical practitioners, scholars, ecologists, scientists, graduate students, and academicians seeking current research on modern innovations in fuel processing and environmental pollution control.

This book is a practical account of pumping, piping and seals starting with basics and providing detailed but accessible information on all aspects of the pumping process and what can go wrong with it. Written by an acknowledged expert with years of teaching experience in the practical understanding of pumps and systems.
Aids understanding of pumps to minimize failures and time-out.
A practical handbook covering the basics of the pumping process.
Written by an acknowledged expert.

This book presents the proceedings of the 30th International Conference on Robotics in Alpe-Adria-Danube Region, RAAD 2021, held in Poitiers, France, 21-23 June 2021. It gathers contributions by researchers from several countries on all major areas of robotic research, development and innovation, as well as new applications and current trends. The topics covered include: novel designs and applications of robotic systems, intelligent cooperating and service robots, advanced robot control, human-robot interfaces, robot vision systems, mobile robots, humanoid and walking robots, bio-inspired and swarm robotic systems, aerial, underwater and spatial robots, robots for ambient assisted living, medical robots and bionic prostheses, cognitive robots, cloud robotics, ethical and social issues in robotics, etc. Given its scope, the book offers a source of information and inspiration for researchers seeking to improve their work and gather new ideas for future developments.

This book investigates the time-dependent behavior of fiber-reinforced ceramic-matrix composites (CMCs) at elevated temperatures. The author combines the time-dependent damage mechanisms of interface and fiber oxidation and fracture with the micromechanical approach to establish the relationships between the first matrix cracking stress, matrix multiple cracking evolution, tensile strength, tensile stress-strain curves and tensile fatigue of fiber-reinforced CMCs and time. Then, using damage models of energy balance, the fracture mechanics approach, critical matrix strain energy criterion, Global Load Sharing criterion, and hysteresis loops he determines the first matrix cracking stress, interface debonded length, matrix cracking density, fibers failure probability, tensile strength, tensile stress-strain curves and fatigue hysteresis loops. Lastly, he predicts the time-dependent mechanical behavior of different fiber-reinforced CMCs, i.e., C/SiC and SiC/SiC, using the developed approaches, in order to reduce the failure risk during the operation of aero engines. The book is intended for undergraduate and graduate students who are interested in the mechanical behavior of CMCs, researchers investigating the damage evolution of CMCs at elevated temperatures, and designers responsible for hot-section CMC components in aero engines.

This book gathers the proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Mechanical Engineering and Applied Composite Materials (MEACM), held in Beijing, China on October 24-25, 2020. The conference brought together researchers from several countries and covered all major areas of mechanical engineering and applied composite materials, new applications and current trends. The topics covered include: structure and design, mechanical manufacturing and automation, robotics and mechatronics, mechanical behavior of nanomaterials, nanocomposites, and composite mechanics. Given its scope, the book offers a source of information and inspiration for researchers seeking to improve their work and gather new ideas for future developments.

This book provides a concise introduction to the physical foundations of the electro-discharge technology and applies it to the drilling of wells, the demolition of reinforced concrete objects, and the cutting of cracks in rocks and concrete. The electro-physical basis of this technology and the technical implementation of using spark discharge as a "working tool" in the above-mentioned contexts are also briefly considered. The book is intended for all scientists and experts working in the field of resource exploration and extraction, those engaged in building new objects, and in reconstructing or demolishing old ones. It can also be used as a textbook by students and postgraduates, deepening their knowledge of these innovative technologies.

This book comprises state-of-the-art advances in energy, combustion, power, propulsion, environment, focusing on the production and utilization of fossil fuels, alternative fuels and biofuels. It is written by internationally renowned experts who provide the latest fundamental and applied research innovations on cleaner energy production as well as utilization for a wide range of devices extending from micro scale energy conversion to hypersonic propulsion using hydrocarbon fuels. The tailored technical tracks and contributions are portrayed in the respective field to highlight different but complementary views on fuels, combustion, power and propulsion and air toxins with special focus on current and future R&D needs and activities. This book will serve as a useful reference for practicing engineers, research engineers and managers in industry and research labs, academic institutions, graduate students, and final year undergraduate students in mechanical, chemical, aerospace, energy, and environmental engineering.

The volume includes 30 contributions from the 3rd International Workshop on Advanced Dynamics and Model Based Control of Structures and Machines representing the frontiers in the mechanics of controlled machines and structures. The Workshop, held in Perm, Russia in September 2017 continued a series of international workshops, starting in with the Japan - Austria Joint Workshop on Mechanics and Model Based Control of Smart Materials and Structures, the Russia - Austria Joint Workshop on Advanced Dynamics and Model Based Control of Structures and Machines and the first two editions of the International Workshop on Advanced Dynamics and Model Based Control of Structures and Machines. The previous workshops took place in Linz, Austria in September 2008 and April 2010, in St. Petersburg, Russia in July 2012 and in Vienna, Austria in September 2015. The up-to-date contributions are authored by internationally re-known leading experts in dynamics and control representing a broad spectrum of topics in the field of Advanced Structures and Machines; both, with respect to theoretical aspects as well as applications to contemporary engineering problems.

The book presents novel Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) techniques to compute offshore wind and tidal applications. The papers in this volume are based on a mini-symposium held at ECCOMAS 2018. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) techniques are regarded as the main design tool to explore the new engineering challenges presented by offshore wind and tidal turbines for energy generation. The difficulty and costs of undertaking experimental tests in offshore environments have increased the interest in CFD which is used to design appropriate turbines and blades, understand fluid flow physical phenomena associated with offshore environments, predict power production or characterise offshore environments amongst other topics.

This thesis investigates the tribological viability of bio-based base stock to which different nanoparticles were incorporated for engine piston-ring-cylinder-liner interaction. It determines experimentally the effects of lubricating oil conditions (new and engine-aged) on the friction and wear of the materials used for piston rings and cylinder liners. The specific base stock examined was a trimethylolpropane (TMP) ester derived from palm oil, and the nanoparticles were used as additives to obtain tribologically enhanced bio-based lubricants. The overall analysis of the results demonstrated the potential of nanoparticles to improve the tribological behavior of bio-based base stock for piston-ring-cylinder-liner interaction.

This book provides engineers and scientists with practical fundamentals for turbomachinery design. It presents a detailed analysis of existing procedures for the analysis of rotor and structure dynamics, while keeping mathematical equations to a minimum. Specific terminologies are used for rotors and structures, respectively, allowing the readers to clearly distinguish between the two. Further, the book describes the essential concepts needed to understand rotor failure modes due to lateral and torsional oscillations. It guides the reader from simple single-degree-of-freedom models to the most complex multi-degree-of-freedom systems, and provides useful information concerning steel pedestal stiffness degradation and other structural issues. Fluid-film bearing types and their dynamical behavior are extensively covered and discussed in the context of various turbomachinery applications. The book also discusses shaft alignment and rotor balancing from a practical point of view, providing readers with essential information to help them solve practical problems. As the main body of the book focuses on the diagnostics and description of case studies addressing the most pressing practical issues, together with their successful solutions, it offers a valuable reference guide, helping field engineers manage day-to-day issues with turbomachinery.

This is the second revised and enhanced edition of the book Gas Turbine Design, Components and System Integration written by a world-renowned expert with more than forty years of active gas turbine R&D experience. It comprehensively treats the design of gas turbine components and their integration into a complete system. Unlike many currently available gas turbine handbooks that provide the reader with an overview without in-depth treatment of the subject, the current book is concentrated on a detailed aero-thermodynamics, design and off-deign performance aspects of individual components as well as the system integration and its dynamic operation. This new book provides practicing gas turbine designers and young engineers working in the industry with design material that the manufacturers would keep proprietary. The book is also intended to provide instructors of turbomachinery courses around the world with a powerful tool to assign gas turbine components as project and individual modules that are integrated into a complete system. Quoting many statements by the gas turbine industry professionals, the young engineers graduated from the turbomachinery courses offered by the author, had the competency of engineers equivalent to three to four years of industrial experience.

This book covers recent developments in practically all spheres of mechanical engineering related to different kinds of gears and transmissions. Topics treated range from fundamental research to the advanced applications of gears in various practical fields, prospects of manufacturing development, results and trends of numerical and experimental research of gears, new approaches to gear design and aspects of their optimization synthesis.

The text describes the main features of currently available heat pumps, focusing on system operation and interactions with external heat sources. In fact, before choosing a heat pump, several aspects must be assessed in detail: the actual climate of the installation site, the building's energy requirements, the heating system, the type of operation etc. After discussing the general working principles, the book describes the main components of compression machines - for EHPs, GHPs and CO2 heat pumps. It then addresses absorption heat pumps and provides additional details on the behavior of two-fluid mixtures. The book presents a performance comparison for the different types, helping designers choose the right one for their needs, and discusses the main refrigerants. Notes on helpful additional literature, websites and videos, also concerning relevant European regulations, round out the coverage. This book will be of interest to all engineers and technicians whose work involves heat pumps. It will also benefit students in energy engineering degree programs who want to deepen their understanding of heat pumps.

This book presents experimental and numerical findings on reducing shock-induced separation by applying transition upstream the shock wave. The purpose is to find out how close to the shock wave the transition should be located in order to obtain favorable turbulent boundary layer interaction. The book shares findings obtained using advanced flow measurement methods and concerning e.g. the transition location, boundary layer characteristics, and the detection of shock wave configurations. It includes a number of experimental case studies and CFD simulations that offer valuable insights into the flow structure. It covers RANS/URANS methods for the experimental test section design, as well as more advanced techniques, such as LES, hybrid methods and DNS for studying the transition and shock wave interaction in detail. The experimental and numerical investigations presented here were conducted by sixteen different partners in the context of the TFAST Project. The general focus is on determining if and how it is possible to improve flow performance in comparison to laminar interaction. The book mainly addresses academics and professionals whose work involves the aerodynamics of internal and external flows, as well as experimentalists working with compressible flows. It will also be of benefit for CFD developers and users, and for students of aviation and propulsion systems alike.

This book provides a compact history of gears, by summarizing the main stages of their development and the corresponding gradual acquisition of engineering expertise, from the antiquity to the Renaissance and the twentieth century. This brief history makes no claim to be exhaustive, since the topic is so extensive, complex and fascinating that it deserves an entire encyclopedia. Despite its brevity, the book debunks a number of popular misconceptions, such as the belief that the first literary description of a gear was supplied by Aristotle. It disproves not only this myth, but also other peremptory statements and/or axiomatic assumptions that have no basis in written documents, archaeological findings or other factual evidence. The book is chiefly intended for students and lecturers, historians of science and scientists, and all those who want to learn about the genesis and evolution of this topic.

The book summarizes the results of the European research project "Intelligent fixtures for the manufacturing of low rigidity components" (INTEFIX). The structure of the book follows the sub-projects which are dedicated to case studies within the scenarios "vibrations", "deformations" and "positioning". The INTEFIX project deals with the development and analysis of several exemplary types of intelligent, sensor and actuator integrated fixtures for the clamping of sensitive workpieces in cutting machine tools. Thus, the book gives a representative overview about this innovative field of technology. The demands of the case studies are described and the technological approaches and solutions are introduced. Furthermore, innovative methods for the design and optimization of intelligent fixtures are presented.

This book describes the feasibility and status of the use of alternative fuels in marine engineering, as well as the application of liquefied natural gas, biodiesel and their blends as marine fuels, and the combustion of synthetic coal-based fuels. Each chapter in the book ends with a summary, which gives the reader a quick and clear understanding of the main contents of the chapter. The book gives a lot of advice on the selection of equipment and parameters, fuel reserves and preparation for scholars related to alternative fuels in ships, and points them in the way. It contains lots of illustrations and tables and explains it in the form of chart comparison. The authors have developed mathematical models and methods for calculating the parameters of fuel systems for biodiesel fuels and liquefied natural gas. Recommendations for choosing the rational parameters of these systems are given, as are schematic solutions of the fuel systems, recommendations for selecting equipment, storing, and preparing the fuels. Application of the materials described in the book provides the SPP designers with a reliable tool for choosing rational characteristics of the fuel systems operating on alternative fuels and improving the efficiency of their application on ships.

This book provides readers with a timely snapshot of the potential offered by and challenges posed by signal processing methods in the field of machine diagnostics and condition monitoring. It gathers contributions to the first Workshop on Signal Processing Applied to Rotating Machinery Diagnostics, held in Setif, Algeria, on April 9-10, 2017, and organized by the Applied Precision Mechanics Laboratory (LMPA) at the Institute of Precision Mechanics, University of Setif, Algeria and the Laboratory of Mechanics, Modeling and Manufacturing (LA2MP) at the National School of Engineers of Sfax. The respective chapters highlight research conducted by the two laboratories on the following main topics: noise and vibration in machines; condition monitoring in non-stationary operations; vibro-acoustic diagnosis of machinery; signal processing and pattern recognition methods; monitoring and diagnostic systems; and dynamic modeling and fault detection.