This experimental work was concerned with comparison of inlet valve actuation strategies in a thermodynamic single cylinder spark ignition research engine equipped with a mechanical fully variable valvetrain on both the inlet and exhaust. The research involved study of the effects of the valvetrain on combustion, fuel economy and emissions when used to achieve variable valve timing alone and wh...

In this paper the design of a biped robot actuated with Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) springs with minimum degrees of freedom is presented. SMA springs are a class of smart materials that are known for their high power to mass and volume ratios. It was shown that utilizing spring type of SMAs have many advantages as large deformation, smooth motion, silent and clean movement compared to ordinary typ...

In this paper, we report a cooperative manipulation method for non-contact robotic electromagnetic needle system. We employ two 3 degrees of freedom (DOF) needles to achieve an over-actuated manipulator, which can move the particle any position in planar workspace from direction. The redundant DOFs, combined with optimization-based control approach, enable manipulator accurate path following an...

BACKGROUND Image-guided endovascular interventions have gained increasing popularity in clinical practice, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is emerging as an attractive alternative to X-ray fluoroscopy for guiding such interventions. Steering catheters by remote control under MRI guidance offers unique challenges and opportunities. METHODS In this review, the benefits and limitations of M...

This paper presents a millimeters scale omni-directional mobile microrobot with special dual-wheel structure. The microrobot was actuated by three electromagnetic micromotors of 2mm diameter. Dynamic analysis of translational and steering movements presented the relationship between the sizes of the dual-wheel structure and the output torque of the micromotor. Genetic algorithm (GA) was employe...

The Feedback Cello is a new electroacoustic actuated instrument in which feedback can be induced independently on each string. Built from retro-fitted acoustic cellos, the signals from electromagnetic pickups sitting under each string are passed to a speaker built into the back of the instrument and to transducers clamped in varying places across the instrument body. Placement of acoustic and m...

In an electro-mechanical valve actuated engine, solenoid actuators drive the valves that control airflow into the cylinders, allowing elimination of the camshaft and flexible control of the valve timing. Individual control of the valves provides flexibility in valve timing over all engine operating conditions and fully enables the benefits of variable valve timing. This paper describes a closed...