New Constant-force Mechanism Configurations

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Bart D. Frischknecht and Dr. Larry L. Howell, Mechanical Engineering In machine design it is often desirable to correlate output force with displacement. Incorporating a translational spring into the design creates a linear relationship between force and displacement. In contrast, if a constant output force is desired independent of displacement, solutions include pneumatic or hydraulic […]

Multi-Agent Communication Framework

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Ryan R. Falke and Dr. James Archibald, Electrical and Computer Engineering Multi-agent systems consisting of large numbers of autonomous robots are ideal candidates for tasks that could threaten human lives. However, the complexity and quantity of work required for precise coordination within such systems can be considerable. Our team developed a powerful but lightweight communication […]

The GraftSweep Tool: A Multi-Axis Multi-Sweep Tool for Creating an All-Hexahedral Finite Element Mesh

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Matthew Earp and Dr. Stephen E. Benzley, Civil and Environmental Engineering Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a method of performing mathematical analysis on complex geometry used extensively by both scientists and engineers. An important step in performing the analysis is the mesh generation process. This is the process of dividing a volume into small individual […]

Behavior of Stacked Ortho-Planar Springs in CVT’s

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Marc P. Christenson and Dr. Robert H. Todd, Mechanical Engineering Introduction Compliant mechanisms are mechanical devices that achieve their motion from the deflection of flexible members rather than rigid links and moveable joints. One such mechanism using compliant design is an ortho-planar spring. Ortho-Planar Springs Ortho-planar springs, or OP-springs, are thin circular or polygon shaped […]

Fatigue Testing a Laminated Compliant Clutch

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Daniel Brown and Dr. Robert H. Todd, Mechanical Engineering Compliant mechanisms derive motion from flexible segments, rather than from joints. A BYU student, Nathan Crane, used compliant design concepts to develop a prototype centrifugal clutch.1 Manufacturing considerations led to a design incorporating many layers rather than a single solid piece.2 Further testing verified the engagement […]

The Integration of Small Diameter IsoTrussÔ Structures to a Bicycle Frame

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Rodney B. Boynton and Dr. David W. Jensen, Civil and Environmental Engineering In order to fully explore the capabilities of the IsoTrussÔ Structure in a light weight application it was decided to replace not only the main tubes of a bicycle frame, but the rear tubing as well. Several of the initially proposed steps to […]

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Teaching Early Literacy Skills in a Dual-Language Program

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Melissa Willes and Dr. Barbara Culatta, Audiology and Speech Language Pathology Effective literacy skills are essential to success in life. In order to gain these skills, a strong literacy foundation must be established during childhood. Any impairment of this skill has a profound effect on the life of a child. Children with delayed literacy skills […]

Nonconformance in Children with Specific Language Impairment

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Kathryn S. Todd and Dr. Martin Fujiki, Audiology and Speech Language Pathology Children diagnosed with Specific Language Impairment (SLI) “exhibit significant limitations in language functioning that cannot be attributed to deficits in hearing, oral structure and function, or general intelligence” (Leonard, 1987). Recently, research revealed children with SLI also demonstrate difficulty in social interaction. As […]

Enhancing Socially Withdrawn Children’s Behavior Via Peer Monitoring and Social Skills Instruction

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Brock Rockwood Solano and Dr. Michelle Marchant, Counseling Psychology and Special Education Educations face the challenge of instructing socially disengaged children who come to the classroom lacking peer acceptance, social skills and positive feelings about themselves and school. Although the importance of good social relations and emotional health for effective learning has been recognized, efforts […]

Determinants of School Success: Performance in Secondary Schools in Mukono, Uganda

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Troy Smith and Dr. Julie Hite, Educational Leadership and Foundations In recent years, test scores and school performance have become hot topics in the United States. The US federal government recently set up school standards and established ways for students and parents to leave “failing” schools for better performing ones. While the United States has […]