Browsing by Author "Seigler, Thomas Michael"

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    Analysis of a Rotary Ultrasonic Motor for Application in Force-Feel Systems
    Murphy, Devon Patrick (Virginia Tech, 2008-08-25)
    A qualitative analysis of a rotary traveling wave-type ultrasonic motor (USM) used to supply feedback forces in force-feel systems is carried out. Prior to simulation, the subsystems and contact mechanics needed to define the motor's equations of motion are discussed along with the pitfalls of modeling a USM. A mathematical model is assembled and simulated in MATLAB Simulink. Accompanying the dynamic model, a new reduced model is presented from which predictions of USM performance can be made without a complicated dynamic model. Outputs from the reduced model are compared with those of the dynamic model to show the differences in the transient solution, agreement in the steady state solution, and above all that it is an efficient tool for approximating a motor's steady state response as a function of varying the motor parameters. In addition, the reduced model provides the means of exploring the USMs response to additive loading, loads acting in the direction of motor motion, where only resistive loads, those opposite to the motor rotation, had been considered previously. Fundamental differences between force-feel systems comprising standard DC brushless motors as the feedback actuators and the proposed system using the USM are explained by referencing the USM contact mechanics. Outputs from USM model simulations are explored, and methods by which the motor can be implemented in the force-feel system are derived and proven through simulation. The results show that USMs, while capable of providing feedback forces in feel systems, are far from ideal for the task. The speed and position of the motor can be controlled through varying stator excitation parameters, but the transient motor output torque cannot; it is solely a function of the motor load, whether additive or resistive.
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    A Comparative Analysis of Air-inflated and Foam Seat Cushions for Truck Seats
    Seigler, Thomas Michael (Virginia Tech, 2002-05-03)
    A comprehensive comparison between an air-inflated seat cushion designed for truck seats and a commonly used foam cushion is provided, using a single-axis test rig designed for dynamic seat testing. Different types of tests are conducted in order to evaluate various aspects of each type of cushion; in terms of their response to narrow-band (single frequency) dynamics, broadband input of the type that is commonly used in the trucking industry for testing seats (ISO2), and a step input for assessing the damping characteristics of each cushion. The tests were conducted over a twelve-hour period -- in four-hour intervals -- measuring the changes that occur at the seat cushion over time and assessing how these changes can affect the metrics that are used for evaluating the cushions. The tests indicated a greater stiffening of the foam cushion over time, as compared with the air-inflated cushion that showed almost no change in stiffness when exposed to a static weight for twelve hours. Furthermore, pressure measurements at the seat showed higher-pressure concentrations for the foam cushion at the bony prominence of the seat profile -- namely, the ischial tuberosities -- as compared to the air-inflated cushion. A series of tests aimed at evaluating the damping properties of each cushion showed both cushions to have nearly identical damping properties. Other methods used for evaluating the dynamic properties of the two seat cushions included those recommended by studies in the past, as well as new techniques that were developed specifically for this study. The new techniques, named Seat Pressure Distribution (SPD%) and Area Pcrms (aPcrms) for the purpose of this study, are formulated such that they can best highlight the dynamic differences between different types of seat cushions, and their effect on driver comfort. The results show that the air-inflated seat cushion can provide significant improvements in pressure distribution between the seat cushion and the driver, therefore providing a more comfortable ride and causing less fatigue.
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    Dynamics and Control of Morphing Aircraft
    Seigler, Thomas Michael (Virginia Tech, 2005-08-02)
    The following work is directed towards an evaluation of aircraft that undergo structural shape change for the purpose of optimized flight and maneuvering control authority. Dynamical equations are derived for a morphing aircraft based on two primary representations; a general non-rigid model and a multi-rigid-body. A simplified model is then proposed by considering the altering structural portions to be composed of a small number of mass particles. The equations are then extended to consider atmospheric flight representations where the longitudinal and lateral equations are derived. Two aspects of morphing control are considered. The first is a regulation problem in which it is desired to maintain stability in the presence of large changes in both aerodynamic and inertial properties. From a baseline aircraft model various wing planform designs were constructed using Datcom to determine the required aerodynamic contributions. Based on nonlinear numerical evaluations adequate stabilization control was demonstrated using a robust linear control design. In maneuvering, divergent characteristics were observed at high structural transition rates. The second aspect considered is the use of structural changes for improved flight performance. A variable span aircraft is then considered in which asymmetric wing extension is used to effect the rolling moment. An evaluation of the variable span aircraft is performed in the context of bank-to-turn guidance in which an input-output control law is implemented.