G. Kłapyta

Computer-Based Measurement System for Complex Investigation of Shape Memory Alloy Actuators Behavior

Shape Memory Alloys belong to group of so called “SMART” materials, which became more and more popular last years. The smartness of that kind of materials is defined as possibility of its particular properties stimulation using physical or chemical way. Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) is able to change its size (shape) when temperature is changing. Shape Memory Effect (SME) is macroscopic effect of martensitic transition which overlap inside the material. There are two characteristic states of SMA: low temperature – martensitic – state and high temperature – austenitic – state. Material can be easily plastically deformed by relatively small mechanical force in martensitic state. In opposite, material is strong and very hard to deform in austenitic state it is only elastic deformation viable. During martensitic transition internal crystal order changes, which causes change of material’s properties. Material returning to its natural shape during reverse martensitic transition (from austenitic to martensitic state) can put pressure or perform mechanical work. Complex behavior of SMA materials can be illustrated by thermo-mechanical characteristic (Fig.1).

Problem Solving in Mechatronic Competency Training Related to Field Practice

Global economy and growing competiveness on international market require consolidated approach in the Problem Solving process, that cover a variety of issues and functions in social life and economy; also in vocational education and industrial training [1]. The paper outlines a concept of Competence Based Problem Solving Training Protocol for modular mechatronic training by DATAMAS, developed to upgrade mechatronic competence of staff performing maintenance and repair jobs in automated plants in Poland. The concept presumes, that to achieve the very best training outcomes resulting in fast and effective diagnose and solving field problems, it is necessary to better adjust specialized training curricula and procedures to the problem of staff intellectual potential and capability. Such approach is reflected in the process of delivering DATAMAS training modules, flexible and adaptable to different production systems and conditions thus, able to effectively upgrade the maintenance staff competences and solve a variety of functional and other problems. Due to their didactic content combining knowledge and hard skills acquisition as well as soft skills, behaviors and attitudes advancement, the modules are the base training material, modified and applied for a variety of customized, on demand training courses “on the shop-floor”. They exercise how to more effectively solve real field problems by engaging trainees to some creative activity and emotional involvement. The modules are equipped with DATAMAS Training Protocol which provides methodological and organizational frame for the company’s trainers. DATAMAS Training Protocol was designed to follow the SSM approach [2]. The Protocol is mapping many functional features and training procedures that follow technical program saturated with the ongoing “mind storm” animation and argumentation. Since the DATAMAS Training Protocol concept has been under continuing scrutiny, only some limited data on its application are available. The paper outlines the concept, discus the problem solving cycle applied and explains some features of the Protocol. Problem solving cycle proposed by DATAMAS is outlined in Annex A, while a section of DATAMAS Training Protocol is shown in Annex B.Copyright

The idea of laboratory stand for rapid prototyping of robot control systems for remote operation via Internet

This paper presents the idea of the laboratory stand for rapid prototyping of control systems dedicated to remote control of robotic systems via Internet. Main components of the laboratory stand are: DSP card DS1104, two authors original applications (DSPvRobot and RoboControl), allowing for transmission between two Internet nodes and 4DoF manipulator with gripper. Paper presents the general idea of the research work, some actual results as well as the concept of further development of the stand.

Measurements of Shape Memory Alloy actuator for a self-switching electrical fuse

This paper describes chosen results of the measurements of various characteristics of Shape Memory Alloy wire in purpose of its usage as an actuator for self-switching electrical fuse. The experiments were performed by talented pupil of secondary school as a research project co-financed by Polish Ministry of Science and Higher Education. Measurement system consisting of power supply unit PSH-3620a and PC computer with running LabVIEW application is used to control the measurement procedures. Program of experiments consists of static measurements (static switching current), dynamic measurements (switching times) and exploitation measurements (switch off time). The paper presents chosen resultant characteristics.

Design and prototype of fuse activated by SMA wire

The paper presents the origin and general idea of a didactic project realized at the Department of Mechatronics at the Silesian University of Technology in Gliwice, Poland. Technical goal of the project is to design and examine a prototype of electrical fuse activated by Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) wire. Project is realized at the University by a schoolboy of a secondary school under the supervision of two PhDs. Educational goal of the project is to develop unique talents and abilities of extraordinarily talented pupil of secondary school - Kamil Swiatek. Problem Based Learning methodology as well as Learning by Doing is implemented. The article presents the measurement methodology and prototype measurement stand. PC controlled power supply unit changes SMA wire supply mode of operation among current control and voltage control in real time. Results and analysis of static measurement is done, as well as two steps of dynamic measurements. The waveforms of exemplary measurement routines show the results of investigations. Advantages and disadvantages of the proposed solution are discussed.

Mobile walking robot “GREG”: PBL project designed in accordance with BEAM philosophy

At the end of the 90s in XX century Mark W. Tilden presented innovatory philosophy for robots designing and proposed acronym BEAM (Biology, Electronics, Aesthetics, and Mechanics) to name it. According to the philosophy robot should have simple construction and behavioral control realized by neural network instead of algorithmic control system implemented in microprocessor. This approach makes robots similar to living creatures. The paper presents basics of BEAM philosophy and describes design of GREG robot, realized at Department of Mechatronics of Silesian University of Technology as an MSc project. GREG is small walking robot designed in accordance to BEAM philosophy. It can live autonomously, search for light source and avoid obstacles.

Role of the Centre for Education in Mechatronics — In networking polish and central European Academic Community

There are the main national and international fields of activities of the Centre for Education in Mechatronics CEM presented in the paper. There is also the short history of the establishment of the Centre for Education in Mechatronics presented.