The purpose of this article is to inform the reader about the results of an experimental investigation into the appropriate manifold geometry for an air-cooled inverter, which is manufactured from an AlSi10Mg powder material using SLM technology. The best approach is to optimize the part geometry for SLM technology so that the placement of support structures required for model fabrication is eliminated as much as possible. A suitable solution was selected based on the design of the most appropriate cross-sectional shape of the openings with the smallest dimensional accuracy deviation and shape deformation. In the experiment, three test specimens were designed; each of them contained eight holes of different shapes, particularly square, rhombic, and circular, with a given range of sizes. The results of the experimental study can help designers select the optimal design of vents and cavities for the chosen AM technology, e.g., for conformal cooling systems.
The presented article familiarizes the reader with optimizing the workplaces of ultrasonic welding machines. The essential part of the article deals with prototypes, the construction of which does not meet the requirements for production, economy, and functionality. The experimental analysis runs pointed out shortcomings and inaccuracies. The developer’s team used one of the well-known optimization and design methods to solve this issue. It is the TRIZ method (Creating and solving creative assignments). The mentioned method combines two powerful tools into one whole. Specifically, it is the Function and Cost Analysis (FNA) and the algorithm for solving creative assignments (ARIZ). The manuscript describes the use of the method for a more straightforward solution to problematic parts of the structure. The result of the optimization process is a new, improved structure whose properties were confirmed in terms of stiffness by simulation in the ANSYS Workbench program. The applications of optimized parts will also be used in other similar devices. The research will follow up with the design of a new series of ultrasonic welding machines in the future.
Drowsy driving and sudden medical emergencies are major contributors to traffic accidents, necessitating continuous, non-intrusive driver monitoring. Since current technologies often struggle to balance accuracy with practicality, this study presents the design, fabrication, and validation of a smart steering wheel prototype. The device integrates dry-contact electrocardiogram (ECG), photoplethysmography (PPG), and inertial sensors to facilitate multimodal physiological monitoring. The system underwent a two-stage evaluation involving a single participant: laboratory validation benchmarking acquired signals against medical-grade equipment, followed by real-world testing in a custom electric research vehicle to assess performance under dynamic conditions. Laboratory results demonstrated that the prototype captured high-quality signals suitable for reliable heart rate variability analysis. Furthermore, on-road evaluation confirmed the system’s operational functionality; despite increased noise from motion artifacts, the ECG signal remained sufficiently robust for continuous R-peak detection. These findings confirm that the multimodal smart steering wheel is a feasible solution for unobtrusive driver monitoring. This integrated platform provides a solid foundation for developing sophisticated machine-learning algorithms to enhance road safety by predicting fatigue and detecting adverse health events.
This manuscript aims to familiarise readers with the development of a device for the construction of a mobile disinfection chamber for small communication devices and small objects. The conceptual design and the material of the new device play essential roles in the design process of a new device. The manuscript presents concepts based primarily on previous experience and different perspectives. The concept design is created in the 3D modelling program CREO Parametric 8.0. A multi-criteria team evaluation determined the most suitable version of the idea. For dimensioning and shape adaptation of the device was used EinScan SP device (3D scanning method). The article's aim was also to establish a suitable way of producing a prototype using tribological research in available production methods and materials within rapid prototyping. Using the ALICONA Infinite Focus G5 device, experimentally investigated the parameters characterising the surface of the parts. The end of the manuscript focused on the mechanical structure and subjecting them to FEM analysis in the program ANSYS Workbench. The design of the concept disinfection device was also for extreme cases of use. Within this issue was optimising shapes, wall thicknesses, reinforcement design and other necessary modifications using the FEM analysis. From the results, the most suitable material to produce a more significant number of parts may not be the most suitable material to create prototype devices. Tools such as 3D scanning, rapid prototyping, and FEM analysis can "significantly" help reduce mistakes before testing the device.
Used plastics are all around us. Their production is excessive and presents a big problem today and an even bigger problem for the future. They are used very often for their positive qualities. Just as the pros also have their negatives. One of the biggest drawbacks is the decomposition time of this kind of a waste. Separation, collection, and recycling should be taken for granted, but they are not. Plastic waste management is a very inefficient process because plastics take up a lot of space at low weight. The use of crushers, the reduction of waste should play a major role; especially in reducing the logistical costs of plastic handling and preparation for further recycling steps. This article describes the possible design of a plastic waste shredder, with key parts and visualization of a machine. An important part is the solution of the crushing mechanism itself, which plays a key role in the operation of the equipment. This project was solved at the Department of Design and Machine Elements.