Analysis of alternative concepts has a significant impact on design project outcomes, and yet many design teams fail to consider a significantly broad range of conceptual solutions. Within the realm of conceptual design exists a technique called design by analogy (DBA) -- the practice of reapplying old solutions to new...
The relative role of cospeciation and host switching in the phylogenetic history of
ascomycete foliar symbionts is addressed in the orders Leotiales and Rhytismatales, fungi
associated predominantly with Pinaceae (Coniferales). Emphasis is placed on comparing
the evolution of the sister genera Pseudotsuga and Larix (Pinaceae) with that of the
pathogenic...
A number of computational tools now exist to aid in developing conceptual solutions based on a functional description of a design problem. A key limitation of these tools is the way results are organized for presentation to the user. In general, results are an undifferentiated mass of potential solutions. Analysis...
Solutions to the variable permeability magnetostatic field
problem are achieved in both rectangular and cylindrical coordinates
for a wide variety of magnet geometries. The resulting
difference equations are solved iteratively and a method is
provided which substantially increases the rate of convergence
for these type of problems. Magnetization curves for...
A static analysis of quadruped biomechanics, combined with
observations of longitudinal postural movement, has revealed important functional attributes of the postural control system. Since
posture is an outward expression of central nervous system (CNS)
behavior, these results may contribute to an understanding of integrative
functions of the CNS.
Beginning from...
This dissertation focuses on defining underlying mechanisms to enable the bio-inspired design of aerodynamic and/or hydrodynamic vehicles that operate within complex environments. This dissertation introduces four overarching research gaps found in current bio-inspired design research and four corresponding approach questions that guide the framework of the presented research. This research...
The concept of combining arithmetic and memory capability on
a single semiconductor chip has become practical from a system's
viewpoint through the decreased cost of semiconductor memories and
high circuit densities achieved through large scale integration. This
paper describes a model for studying the feasibility of such systems.
An arithmetic-memory...
Biological organisms, phenomena and strategies, herein referred to as biological systems, provide a rich set of analogies that can be used to inspire engineering innovation. Biologically-inspired, or biomimetic, designs are publicly viewed as creative and novel solutions to human problems. Moreover, some biomimetic designs have become so commonplace that it...
Since the Industrial Revolution, automated systems have increasingly become a part of everyday life. Automated systems range in scale and scope from simple assists to complete robotic replacements. Inexpensive integrated circuits, sensors and microprocessors have allowed automated systems to become smaller, cheaper and more prevalent. Identifying appropriate opportunities for automation,...