Articles tagged with Mechanical Engineering
A new noninvasive imaging method developed by MIT researchers can penetrate deeper into living tissue than previous techniques, producing richer and more detailed images. This breakthrough enhances biological research capabilities, enabling scientists to study immune responses and develop new medicines with greater accuracy.
The researchers created a 'metasheet' with an elastic polymer and embedded magnetic microparticles that can move like a wave when controlled by a magnetic field. This technology has potential for use in confined spaces, allowing objects to be lifted and moved without physical contact.
The Center for Marine Autonomy and Robotics develops advanced underwater robots and autonomy algorithms, enabling intelligent operation without human oversight. The research team has received $7.4 million in grants to continue their mission, advancing unconventional marine platforms and enhancing AUV capabilities.
Researchers develop ultrasound-based method to control cell growth and orientation in cultured muscle cells. The technique uses ultrasonication to promote differentiation of myoblasts into myotubes, offering a promising alternative to current methods.
Researchers developed a soft robot with fins shaped like manta rays, capable of swimming up and down throughout the water column. The robot uses spontaneous snapping-induced jet flows to achieve high speeds and maneuverability.
Mechanical engineering professor Debora Lyn Porter is using a $990,000 grant to research growing fungi into patterns called biotemplating. The goal is to create materials with high strength-to-weight ratio and biodegradability, suitable for aerospace and clothing production.
A new type of gastric balloon has been designed to help people lose weight by making them feel too full to overeat. The balloon can be inflated and deflated as needed, and animal studies have shown that it can reduce food intake by 60 percent before meals.
Researchers found that female locust's digging valves wear down significantly despite being used only 3-4 times in a lifetime. The study demonstrates the 'good enough' principle in evolution, where extra resources are not invested in organs with specific purposes performed adequately.
The SNU researchers developed a comprehensive air purification system that removes fine dust, CO2, and volatile organic compounds using water-based purification. The system mimics the gas exchange principles of the human respiratory and circulatory systems, providing a sustainable alternative to existing filtration systems.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory have created a shape-shifting antenna that can change its shape based on temperature, transforming communications capabilities. The technology has transformative potential in military, scientific and commercial applications, enabling dynamic RF band adaptability.
Researchers developed a platform to produce mature, uniform organoids using a three-dimensional engineered membrane. This breakthrough enables consistent quality and improved efficiency for practical applications in clinical trials and drug development.
The MIT team fabricated a simple water filter modeled after the mobula ray's plankton-filtering features and studied its performance. They found that the ray's filtering features are broadly similar to industrial cross-flow filters, which could inform design of water treatment systems.
Researchers develop hybrid materials to enhance optical signal conversion in transceivers, increasing data transmission rates while reducing energy consumption. The ATHENS project combines silicon with other materials to overcome limitations in pure silicon components.
Researchers developed an ingestible capsule that releases a burst of drugs into the stomach or other organs, eliminating the need for injections. The capsule uses compressed carbon dioxide or tightly coiled springs to propel liquid drugs out, targeting specific parts of the digestive tract.
Stanford researchers developed a method to describe food texture with striking similarity to human taste testers using mechanical testing and machine learning. The study found that some plant-based products can already reproduce the whole texture spectrum of animal meats.
Team Bath Heart, a team of students from the University of Bath, has won the second world Heart Hackathon title with their innovative artificial heart device. The team's prototype, which uses wireless charging and 3D printing, was praised for its novelty, progress, and presentation.
Researchers created a new electrode design that increases the efficiency of converting CO2 into ethylene, a valuable chemical product. The electrochemical system can now be scaled up for industrial applications without significant energy or cost losses.
A new study by MIT engineers reveals that exercise can stimulate nerve growth, with neurons growing four times farther in the presence of myokines released during muscle contractions. Physical effects of exercise, such as repeated stretching and pulling, also promote nerve growth, challenging previous biochemical-only theories.
The university introduces Bachelor of Engineering in Robotics and Double Major Bachelor of Engineering Science in Process Engineering and Synthetic Chemistry to address global demand for roboticists. The programs incorporate AI-related elements and are designed to provide students with a unique skill set.
A new PACT system offers rapid imaging of living organisms, enabling the tracking of whole-body dynamics and disease progression. The system achieves spatial resolution of approximately 212 micrometers and enables the visualization of oxygen saturation across complex biological systems.
A team of researchers at Vanderbilt University has developed robotic sensory cilia that can monitor mucus conditions in human airways, detecting infection, obstruction, and disease severity. The technology leverages external magnetic fields to sense mucus viscosity and layer thickness, paving the way for real-time monitoring and early ...
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH) developed a smart insect screen-inspired film that regulates solar heat and lowers interior temperatures. The breakthrough, published in Advanced Functional Materials, achieves both transparency and radiative cooling performance.
Researchers have developed sensors that can detect changes in water flow, warning operators of hazardous conditions in the deep ocean. The technology has potential to save lives by giving technicians time to reach safety.
The University of Tennessee and Lockheed Martin have expanded their master research agreement to address national security challenges. The partnership will support advanced technologies such as hypersonics, materials, and energy systems, while also providing experiential learning opportunities for students.
Researchers successfully fabricate subwavelength nanostructures on Au nanofilm using laser direct-writing system, achieving minimum linewidth of 83.6 nm and repeatable linewidth of approximately 167.8 nm. The mechanism involves melting of the Au nanofilm due to locally excited surface plasmon polaritons.
The project aims to identify and fabricate optimized first-wall materials using advanced computer simulations enhanced by machine learning, accelerating the discovery of new materials by 100-fold. The research will leverage synthesis, irradiation, and testing facilities to conduct a high-impact materials discovery campaign.
Researchers investigated the effect of tool corner radius on chip formation in Zr-based bulk metallic glass (BMG) machining. The study found that increasing the corner radius leads to an increase in serrated frequency and secondary shear bands within individual sections, affecting surface quality.
Yihao Zheng and his team are developing a fiber-optic probe that analyzes artery blockages in the brain and guides procedures for blockage removal. The technology uses light and advanced calculations to determine the properties of blood clots, enabling doctors to make informed decisions about how to remove them.
University of Texas at Dallas researchers have designed a 3D-printed femur that can help doctors prepare for surgeries and develop treatments for bone tumors. The bone replica is made of polylactic acid, a bio-based polymer, and performed as well as a human femur in biomechanical tests.
Researchers developed a novel technique using liquid metal microdroplets to create stair-like structures forming vias that connect circuit layers without drilled holes. This approach enables rapid and parallel fabrication of soft electronic components, overcoming challenges in conventional rigid electronics.
The tube spinning process offers distinct advantages, including lower forming load, heightened accuracy, and surface finish. It has been applied to various materials, such as magnesium alloy, aluminum alloy, and composite materials, to form hollow rotary components.
A literature review identifies factors influencing material microstructure evolution during Arc wire-based DED. Novel techniques like interlayer forging and ultrasonic impact enhance material properties, reducing defects and improving microstructure.
High-performance manufacturing (HPM) is a solution to meet the challenges of loading, transmission, conduction, energy conversion and stealth requirements in critical sectors. HPM advocates for a design and manufacturing approach based on scientific modeling and precise control.
Brian Leard, a PhD student at Lehigh University, has been awarded a prestigious DOE grant to conduct research at the DIII-D National Fusion Facility. He aims to develop simulation codes that can optimize actuator operation and improve the accuracy of plasma physics predictions.
Researchers use tongue and groove technique inspired by ancient East Asian wooden structures to create advanced ceramic microparticles with unprecedented complexity and precision. These particles can be used in various applications across microelectronics, aerospace, energy, and medical engineering.
A team of scientists conducted a systematic review of tool wear monitoring based on audible sound signals, highlighting four promising research directions. They found that the use of microphone sensors presents a promising strategy due to its ease of installation and adaptability in measurement.
Researchers have developed functional interlocking metasurfaces that offer more structural strength and stability than traditional techniques like bolts and adhesives. These metasurfaces can selectively disengage and re-engage on demand while maintaining consistent joint strength.
Researchers have developed an octopus-inspired adhesive that can quickly grab and controllably release challenging underwater objects. The adhesive achieves high attachment strength on various surfaces, including rough and curved ones, within a fraction of a second.
A new study of bubbles on electrode surfaces could help improve the efficiency of electrochemical processes by understanding how blocking effects work. The findings show that only a smaller area of direct contact is blocked from its electrochemical activity, not the entire surface shadowed by each bubble.
The system removes salt from water at a pace that closely follows changes in solar energy, maximizing the utility of solar power. It produces large quantities of clean water despite variations in sunlight throughout the day, making it an attractive solution for communities with limited access to seawater and grid power.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have developed a promising solid electrolyte for all-solid-state batteries, showing high conductivity and formability. The new electrolyte, Na2.25TaCl4.75O1.25, also exhibits superior mechanical properties and electrochemical stability.
A Carnegie Mellon-led team has secured a $42 million grant to develop implantable, cell-based bioelectronic devices for real-time therapy and disease monitoring in patients with thyroid disorders. The devices will offer adjustable, low-cost treatment and continuous biomarker measurement.
A literature review on fracture prediction of incremental forming process based on uncoupled and coupled damage models was conducted. The paper discusses research studies for various damage models, simulations based on these models were carefully analyzed and compared with experiments.
A University of Virginia engineer developed a workflow to combine advanced imaging technologies for improved understanding of porous bone, which could inform disease detection. The method allows for three-dimensional rendering of bone structure across various length scales.
A recent review paper provides a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art in silicon carbide processing, highlighting key areas requiring further research. The study identifies critical aspects of grinding, lapping, and polishing techniques to overcome the challenges of processing high-quality SiC wafers.
A new, low-cost cathode material developed by Georgia Tech's Hailong Chen could transform the electric vehicle (EV) market and large-scale energy storage systems. The iron chloride (FeCl3) cathode costs a mere 1-2% of typical cathode materials and can store the same amount of electricity.
Researchers create interlocking glass bricks that can withstand pressures similar to concrete blocks, aiming to reduce embodied carbon in construction. The 3D-printed bricks are designed to be reused and repurposed, promoting a circular construction method.
A University of Houston team developed non-invasive, comfortable, and safe wearable sensors to monitor eyeball movements, providing early warning signs of brain-related disorders. The new sensors have potential applications in diagnosing conditions like ADHD, autism, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and traumatic brain injuries.
A team of UBC Okanagan researchers has created a new mechanical heart valve that combines the strengths of both mechanical and tissue replacement technologies, offering improved performance and durability.
Researchers at UW have created a flexible, durable electronic prototype that converts body heat into electricity, powering small electronics like batteries or sensors. The device is also resilient and can be used in various applications, including wearables and data centers.
A new framework uses multiphysics and machine learning models to predict lithium-ion battery overheating and prevent thermal runaway. This could be integrated into an electric vehicle's battery management system to stop a battery from overheating, protecting drivers and passengers.
Researchers engineered miniature linear and split-belt treadmills to study insect locomotion, gaining insights into proprioception's role in natural activities like walking. The study showed that flies can modify their steps to continue walking straight despite rotational perturbations.
Researchers found metal bats produce exit speeds 5% faster than wood bats, especially on optimal hits. The USA Baseball standard bats offer a similar performance to wood, making them acceptable for leagues.
Researchers will create versatile and easy-to-integrate robots capable of intelligent grasping, fine motor skills, and hand-eye coordination. The goal is to empower diverse workforces with robotic solutions, improving worker productivity and job opportunities.
Researchers will develop an AI-driven system for photo-identification and tracking of Florida manatees, optimizing the cost-precision trade-off in traditional tracking methods. The project aims to streamline conservation efforts while providing essential information on population dynamics, health, risks, and vulnerability.
A new textured heart valve implant has been shown to be less likely to cause clotting, improving health outcomes for patients who receive the implant. Certain conditions such as cancer and smoking elevate the risk of blood clots after heart surgery.
The BBEX exosuit provides multidimensional force assistance, reduces muscle fatigue, and decreases compression forces on spinal joints, suggesting a significant reduction in lower back injuries. The device is designed to mimic human biomechanics, offering comprehensive support during lifting tasks.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are developing a new technology using magnetic nanoparticles to deliver medications directly to the inner ear, where hearing loss occurs. The goal is to create an effective and minimally invasive treatment option for various types of hearing loss.
A new SERS microfluidic system was developed by Shanghai Jiao Tong University researchers, achieving a detection limit lower than 10 ppt of harmful substances. The system uses femtosecond laser-induced nanoparticle implantation into flexible substrate for sensitive and reusable microfluidics detection.
Researchers at PolyU have invented a unique fluidic processor called Connected Polyhedral Frames (CPFs), which enables reversible switching between liquid capture and release. CPFs offer a versatile platform for various applications, including controlled multidrug release, biomaterial encapsulation, and air conditioning.