1. Bioinspired design of 3D-printed cellular metamaterial prosthetic liners for enhanced comfort and stabilityVasja Plesec, Gregor Harih, 2024, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Traditional prosthetic liners are often limited in customization due to constraints in manufacturing processes and materials. Typically made from non-compressible elastomers, these liners
can cause discomfort through uneven contact pressures and inadequate adaptation to the complex
shape of the residual limb. This study explores the development of bioinspired cellular metamaterial
prosthetic liners, designed using additive manufacturing techniques to improve comfort by reducing
contact pressure and redistributing deformation at the limb–prosthesis interface. The gyroid unit
cell was selected due to its favorable isotropic properties, ease of manufacturing, and ability to
distribute loads efficiently. Following the initial unit cell identification analysis, the results from the
uniaxial compression test on the metamaterial cellular samples were used to develop a multilinear
material model, approximating the response of the metamaterial structure. Finite Element Analysis
(FEA) using a previously developed generic limb–liner–socket model was employed to simulate
and compare the biomechanical behavior of these novel liners against conventional silicone liners,
focusing on key parameters such as peak contact pressure and liner deformation during donning,
heel strike, and the push-off phase of the gait cycle. The results showed that while silicone liners
provide good overall contact pressure reduction, cellular liners offer superior customization and
performance optimization. The soft cellular liner significantly reduced peak contact pressure during
donning compared to silicone liners but exhibited higher deformation, making it more suitable for
sedentary individuals. In contrast, medium and hard cellular liners outperformed silicone liners for
active individuals by reducing both contact pressure and deformation during dynamic gait phases,
thereby enhancing stability. Specifically, a medium-density liner (10% infill) balanced contact pressure
reduction with low deformation, offering a balance of comfort and stability. The hard cellular liner,
ideal for high-impact activities, provided superior shape retention and support with lower liner
deformation and comparable contact pressures to silicone liners. The results show that customizable
stiffness in cellular metamaterial liners enables personalized design to address individual needs,
whether focusing on comfort, stability, or both. These findings suggest that 3D-printed metamaterial
liners could be a promising alternative to traditional prosthetic materials, warranting further research
and clinical validation Ključne besede: bioinspired design, metamaterial model, cellular structure, additive manufacturing, lower-limb prosthetic, 3D printing, finite element method Objavljeno v DKUM: 19.09.2024; Ogledov: 0; Prenosov: 0 Celotno besedilo (8,88 MB) Gradivo ima več datotek! Več... |
2. Experimental characterization and phase-field damage modeling of ductile fracture in AISI 316lVladimir Dunić, Nenad Gubeljak, Miroslav Živković, Vladimir Milovanović, Darko Jagarinec, Nenad Djordjevic, 2024, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: ) Modeling and characterization of ductile fracture in metals is still a challenging task in
the field of computational mechanics. Experimental testing offers specific responses in the form of
crack-mouth (CMOD) and crack-tip (CTOD) opening displacement related to applied force or crack
growth. The main aim of this paper is to develop a phase-field-based Finite Element Method (FEM)
implementation for modeling of ductile fracture in stainless steel. (2) A Phase-Field Damage Model
(PFDM) was coupled with von Mises plasticity and a work-densities-based criterion was employed,
with a threshold to propose a new relationship between critical fracture energy and critical total
strain value. In addition, the threshold value of potential internal energy—which controls damage
evolution—is defined from the critical fracture energy. (3) The material properties of AISI 316L steel
are determined by a uniaxial tensile test and the Compact Tension (CT) specimen crack growth test.
The PFDM model is validated against the experimental results obtained in the fracture toughness
characterization test, with the simulation results being within 8% of the experimental measurements. Ključne besede: phase-field damage modeling, ductile fracture, crack-tip opening displacement, crack growth, resistance curve, finite element method, simulations Objavljeno v DKUM: 19.09.2024; Ogledov: 0; Prenosov: 1 Celotno besedilo (3,84 MB) Gradivo ima več datotek! Več... |
3. Empowering educators to teach online reading, learning, and comprehension skills on the example of ecological problemsMaja Kerneža, Metka Kordigel Aberšek, Hakan Sari, Metin Kiliç, Emre Öztürk, Boris Aberšek, Dejan Zemljak, 2023, strokovni članek Opis: Reading and learning are changing rapidly in today's world, and educational systems sometimes fail to keep pace. To define the needs related to reading in the modern world, the Stavanger Declaration was written, stating that students should be taught online reading and learning strategies. Educators must also adapt to this. As part of the Learning, Teaching, and Training (LTT) activities, participants (21 individuals from different levels of education) were introduced to the Internet reciprocal teaching (IRT) method. The basis of this research was to find out whether we can empower educators to teach online reading, learning, and comprehension skills in a short training session using the ubiquitous topic of ecological problems as an example. We were also interested in whether a short program that empowers educators to use IRT in their classroom can influence teachers to develop students' digital literacy in their pedagogical work. The results show that the ecological issue, with its timeliness and universal presence in our lives, is an appropriate topic for educators to teach digital literacy. The participants were successful in solving the set tasks, and all of them answered that they would use the IRT method in their future pedagogical work. Ključne besede: digital literacy, ecological problems, internet reciprocal teaching method, problem solving, teacher trening Objavljeno v DKUM: 18.09.2024; Ogledov: 0; Prenosov: 1 Povezava na datoteko |
4. Developing an integrated framework for supplier evaluation based on relevant attributes and performance measuresMohsen Cheshmberah, 2020, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Supplier evaluation and selection is essential to any organization, and planning an effective and comprehensive approach to that end seems inevitable. Meanwhile, determining the requisite criteria for evaluating and selecting suppliers is probably one of the most important steps to be taken towards developing an evaluation and selection model in the organization. In this article, first a review of the literature on the criteria and the field of supplier evaluation and selection are provided. These criteria are then placed into proper categories. In order to formulate a supplier evaluation and selection framework for the manufacturing organization under study, the implemented categorization is applied where a list of fifteen attributes and performance criteria is created; where upon it is secured with the help of a designated panel (project team). These features are then screened using Lawshe's method the "social attribute" is removed from the list of fifteen. The remaining 14 other criteria are configured within the SEAP (Suppliers Evaluation based on Attributes and Performances) framework. The framework follows the objective of continually evaluating suppliers, both potential and actual ones through incorporating their performances into their qualification ratings. Based on the proposed framework, suppliers are evaluated on the basis of two types of criteria, - feature (attribute) and performance. Ključne besede: framework, supplier evaluation, supplier selection, criteria, performance measurement, attributes, Lawshe's method Objavljeno v DKUM: 22.08.2024; Ogledov: 73; Prenosov: 2 Celotno besedilo (617,06 KB) Gradivo ima več datotek! Več... |
5. Chelation of iron(II) ions by ellagitannins - effects of hexahydroxydiphenoyl and nonahydroxytriphenoyl groupsFranjo Frešer, Urban Bren, Gregor Hostnik, 2024, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Tannins represent secondary plant metabolites that are used to control bacterial populations by chelation of essential metal ions. Their presence in food also affects the bioavailability of iron. This study investigates the influence of ellagitannins (vescalin, castalin, vescalagin, castalagin) structure and pH on the stoichiometry and formation constants of ellagitannin-Fe(II) coordination compounds. We demonstrated that ellagitannins are stable for at least one hour at pH values lower than 7.25. The spectra of neutral compounds were measured and explained with the help of TDDFT calculations. Furthermore, the pH-dependence of the ellagitannins UV–Vis spectra was examined to obtain insight into their protolytic equilibrium. Using Job’s method in the pH range 3.50–5.51, the stoichiometry of the formed ellagitannin-Fe(II) ions complexes was determined. A model explaining interactions between ellagitannins and Fe(II) ions, that took into account the protolytic equilibrium of ellagitannins, was fitted globally to all four Job plots, whereby the corresponding formation constants were obtained. Ključne besede: Ellagitannins, Fe(II) ions chelation, protolytic equilibrium, Job’s method, model fitting Objavljeno v DKUM: 22.08.2024; Ogledov: 52; Prenosov: 1 Celotno besedilo (3,98 MB) |
6. Workpiece placement optimization for robot machining based on the evaluation of feasible kinematic directional capabilitiesSaša Stradovnik, Aleš Hace, 2024, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Workpiece placement plays a crucial role when performing complex surface machining task robotically. If the feasibility of a robotic task needs to be guaranteed, the maximum available capabilities should be higher than the joint capabilities required for task execution. This can be challenging, especially when performing a complex surface machining task with a collaborative robot, which tend to have lower motion capabilities than conventional industrial robots. Therefore, the kinematic and dynamic capabilities within the robot workspace should be evaluated prior to task execution and optimized considering specific task requirements. In order to estimate maximum directional kinematic capabilities considering the requirements of the surface machining task in a physically consistent and accurate way, the Decomposed Twist Feasibility (DTF) method will be used in this paper. Estimation of the total kinematic performance capabilities can be determined accurately and simply using this method, adjusted specifically for robotic surface machining purposes. In this study, we present the numerical results that prove the effectiveness of the DTF method in identifying the optimal placement of predetermined machining tasks within the robot’s workspace that requires lowest possible joint velocities for task execution. These findings highlight the practicality of the DTF method in enhancing the feasibility of complex robotic surface machining operations. Ključne besede: workpiece placement optimization, robotic surface machining, feasible kinematic directional capabilities, decomposed twist feasibility (DTF) method, manipulability, non-linear optimization Objavljeno v DKUM: 12.08.2024; Ogledov: 64; Prenosov: 3 Celotno besedilo (5,96 MB) |
7. Implementation of the modern immersive learning model CPLMMatej Veber, Igor Pesek, Boris Aberšek, 2022, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: The digitalization of industrial processes is being driven forward worldwide. In parallel, the education system must also be transformed. Currently, education does not follow the opportunities and development of technologies. We can ask ourselves how we can integrate technologies into a traditional learning process or how we can adapt the learning process to these technologies. We focused on robotics education in secondary vocational education. The paper contains research results from a modern learning model that addresses student problem-solving using cyber-physical systems. We proposed a reference model for industrial robotics education in the 21st century based on an innovative cyber-physical didactic model (CPLM). We conducted procedure time measurements, questionnaire evaluations, and EEG evaluations. We could use VR to influence the improvement of spatial and visual memory. The more intense representation of the given information influences multiple centers in the brain and, thus, the formation of multiple neural connections. We can influence knowledge, learning more effectively with short-term training in the virtual world than with classical learning methods. From the studied resources, we can conclude that the newer approach to teaching robotics is not yet available in this form. The emerging modern technologies and the possibility of developing training in this area should be investigated further. Ključne besede: VR technologies, educational robotics, education, innovative learning method development, evaluation Objavljeno v DKUM: 08.07.2024; Ogledov: 105; Prenosov: 3 Celotno besedilo (2,43 MB) Gradivo ima več datotek! Več... |
8. Reputation and reciprocity : reviewChengyi Xia, Juan Wang, Matjaž Perc, Zhen Wang, 2023, pregledni znanstveni članek Opis: Reputation and reciprocity are key mechanisms for cooperation in human societies, often going hand in hand to favor prosocial behavior over selfish actions. Here we review recent researches at the interface of physics and evolutionary game theory that explored these two mechanisms. We focus on image scoring as the bearer of reputation, as well as on various types of reciprocity, including direct, indirect, and network reciprocity. We review different definitions of reputation and reciprocity dynamics, and we show how these affect the evolution of cooperation in social dilemmas. We consider first-order, second-order, as well as higherorder models in well-mixed and structured populations, and we review experimental works that support and inform the results of mathematical modeling and simulations. We also provide a synthesis of the reviewed researches along with an outlook in terms of six directions that seem particularly promising to explore in the future. Ključne besede: pattern formation, Monte Carlo method, complex network, evolutionary game theory, cooperation, social physics Objavljeno v DKUM: 20.06.2024; Ogledov: 154; Prenosov: 10 Celotno besedilo (4,71 MB) Gradivo ima več datotek! Več... |
9. Fluorescence based dopamine detectionValeriia V. Sliesarenko, Urban Bren, Aleksandra Lobnik, 2024, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Dopamine is an important hormone and neurotransmitter, and its levels in human fluids can indicate stress, depression, and various mental disorders. Food products, as well as medications, affect its level in the human body greatly. Therefore, dopamine monitoring is crucial, and necessary for improving the quality of life. The priority is to search for simple and environmentally friendly sensor systems for the in vitro detection of dopamine, enabling mass utilization. In this study, we explored the use of o-phthalaldehyde (OPA) as an indicator for the detection of dopamine, with fluorescence in the visible range (λex/λem = 390/455 nm), while direct dopamine fluorescence measurement was in the UV range (λex/λem = 280/320 nm). The longer excitation/emission wavelengths of dopamine-OPA complex, as well as lower detection limits, are useful for developing a simple detection method using LEDs. Three types of poloxamers were tested as additives to improve the fluorescence signal from the reaction between dopamine and OPA. Pluronic F127 led to a 16-fold increase in the fluorescence. Utilizing 4% Pluronic F127 with OPA at pH 7 resulted in a linear response within concentration ranges of dopamine (0.5–3 µM), achieving a limit of detection of 0.015 µM. In contrast, a direct detection of dopamine within the same range exhibited a detection limit of 0.13 µM. Ključne besede: fluorometric method, dopamine, O-phthalaldehyde, Pluronic F127 Objavljeno v DKUM: 28.05.2024; Ogledov: 317; Prenosov: 11 Celotno besedilo (3,51 MB) Gradivo ima več datotek! Več... |
10. Design and optimization of a spherical magnetorheological actuatorJakob Vizjak, Anton Hamler, Marko Jesenik, 2023, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Recently, an increasing number of electromagnetic devices have been using smart fluids. These include ferrofluids, electrorheological fluids, and magnetorheological (MR) fluids. In the paper, magnetorheological fluids are considered for use in a spherical actuator for haptic applications. An approach is presented to the design and optimization of such a device, using finite element method modelling linked with differential evolution (DE). Much consideration was given to the construction of the objective function to be minimized. A novel approach to objective function assembly was used, using reference values based on the model design and created with parameters set to the midpoint values of the selected range. It was found to be a useful strategy when the reference values are unknown. There were four parameters to be optimized. Three of them gravitated towards the boundary value, and the fourth (actuator radius) was somewhere in between. The value of the objective function reached a minimum in the range of actuator radius between 42.9880 mm and 45.0831 mm, which is about a 5% difference in regard to the actuator radius. Three passes of optimization were performed with similar results, proving the robustness of the algorithm. Ključne besede: magnetorheological fluid, finite element method, FEM, optimization, differntial evolution, DE, actuator Objavljeno v DKUM: 22.05.2024; Ogledov: 173; Prenosov: 11 Celotno besedilo (4,69 MB) Gradivo ima več datotek! Več... |