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Copyright of Urban Mass Transit is the property of Urban Mass Transit Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective In the multi-level road network, junction stations of lines with different signal systems face quite a number of challenges. In order to meet the new demands of multi-network interoperation, it is necessary to conduct in-depth research and propose interlocking functions and interface configuration solutions for junction stations. Method By comparing the differences between interlocking systems under CBTC and CTCS-2 signal systems, signal control function, construction and operation demands are analyzed in detail, and functional requirements of the junction station interlocking system are clarified. On this basis, the interface objects and interface contents of the interlocking system are further analyzed. Finally, a configuration scheme for the interlocking interface of the junction station is constructed. Result & Conclusion The junction station interlocking system not only needs to complete the basic route safety protection function, but is also able to adapt to the requirements of various signal systems for basic information provision, capable of mobile blocking adaptability, as well as comprehensive functions such as section block combination, platform door control, over lap section protection, automatic return route processing, flexible operation adjustment and adaptation. At the same time, the junction station interlocking system should support multi-channel interfaces such as signal safety data network, wired ring network, wireless network, relay, etc. to ensure the compatibility and reliability of the system.

Nature offers a valuable source of inspiration when designing optimized structures. For instance, when two or more shells are joined during growth processes, Nature prefers to exploit interlocking paradigms to enhance the strength of the bond—cranial sutures are one example. Mimicking this distinctive characteristic when welding thin metallic elements may offer some structural benefits. The present study theoretically investigates the possibility of mitigating the detrimental tensile residual stress that always originated by welding processes, by exploiting Computational Welding Mechanics. Specifically, two plates joined by laser welding following sinusoidal paths (i.e., wave‐like), alongside a linear one, will be studied and compared. Thanks to the distinctive temporal and spatial heat distributions of sinusoidal welding, both welding stress and strain develop in dissimilar ways compared with linear path welding—this is reflected to the resulting weldment distortion too. The results show that geometrically optimized sinusoidal welding can effectively reduce residual stress magnitudes compared with the linear configuration counterpart. The implications of these findings are of particular interest when dealing with the structural performance of welded structures, especially in fatigue contexts. Highlights: The effect of sinusoidal path welding on residual stress is investigated.The welding path significantly modifies the thermal history of the weld bead.Sinusoidal path welding offers an effective capability of tuning residual stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weight reduction strategies are essential for the transportation sector to reduce greenhouse gas emissions or extend the range of electric vehicles. In the field of lightweight assembly strategies, multi-material design offers great potential. Joining materials typically used in the automotive sector, such as aluminum and steel, brings challenges as conventional processes such as fusion welding are unsuitable. Therefore, new technologies can extend the design options. In previous studies, a mechanical interlocking between cold-rolled surface structures with undercuts on a steel sheet and die-cast aluminum was presented. This method has now been extended to double-sided structures for more complex applications with a joint on both sheet surfaces. Numerical simulations and validation experiments were performed to investigate the manufacturing of the double-sided structures. Furthermore, the influence of the alignment of the upper and lower structures in relation to each other on the resulting structural geometry and the rolling forces were analyzed. More advantageous geometric parameters, e.g., 24% larger undercuts, and approx. 24.1% lower forming forces at 20% height reduction were observed for a shifted alignment. However, significantly higher wear of the structured rollers occurred in the corresponding experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on PET waste reduction worldwide by looking at the application of these polymeric materials in the construction and building industries. An effective application of PET wastes will reduce PET pollution, especially in water bodies. Due to its rising cost, it can partially replace the conventional binder used (cement).Bricks were made in the conventional cement-sand and PET-sand, and a total of 72 cubes were produced for different mix ratios of 1:1, 1.5:1, and 2:1. Their properties like particle size analysis, water absorption, slump testing, and compressive strength were investigated and compared.The particle size analysis showed that the sand was well-graded with a Cu of 3.41 and a Cc of 1.07. The results of the water absorption test showed that, in both series and different mix ratios, the PET-sand interlocking blocks had a lower sorptivity (percentages of 2.02, 2.72, and 4.20) than the cement-sand interlocking blocks (percentages of 0.91, 2.40, and 3.31). The mixtures produced a 70 mm, 50 mm, and 80 mm slump for 1:1, 1.5:1, and 2:1, respectively.The maximum compressive strengths in cement-sand interlocking blocks were 13.89 N/mm2, 17.34 N/mm2, and 21.06 N/mm2 in the 1:1, 1.5:1, and 2:1 respectively. Although the results showed that the compressive strength of PET-sand interlocking bricks was lower than that of cement-sand interlocking bricks, it can be useful in a low-density carriage road.

Abstract Suckermouth armoured catfish (Loricariidae) are a highly speciose and diverse freshwater fish family, which bear upper and lower lips forming an oral disc. Its hierarchical organisation allows the attachment to various natural surfaces. The discs can possess papillae of different shapes, which are supplemented, in many taxa, by small horny projections, i.e. unculi. Although these attachment structures and their working mechanisms, which include adhesion and interlocking, are rather well investigated in some selected species, the loricariid oral disc is unfortunately understudied in the majority of species, especially with regard to comparative aspects of the diverse oral structures and their relationship to the ecology of different species. In the present paper, we investigated the papilla and unculi morphologies in 67 loricariid species, which inhabit different currents and substrates. We determined four papilla types and eight unculi types differing by forms and sizes. Ancestral state reconstructions strongly suggest convergent evolution of traits. There is no obvious correlation between habitat shifts and the evolution of specific character states. From handling the structures and from drying artefacts we could infer some information about their material properties. This, together with their shape, enabled us to carefully propose hypotheses about mechanisms of interactions of oral disc structures with natural substrates typical for respective fish species.

This article suggests a new waveguide design that utilizes a "walled" architecture. Instead of relying on conventional gap waveguide structures to create electronic bandgaps and prevent field leakage, the proposed design introduces a "walled" guiding mechanism. This technique preserves transmission while maintaining the multilayer approach and eliminates the need for nails or chemical bonds to attach the layers. Simulations were carried out in the W-band (75–110 GHz) and D-band (110–170 GHz) using several metals, and measurements were performed in the W-band using aluminum. The simulation results show that the reflection coefficient was less than −40 dB over the entire D-band. At the same time, the average insertion loss was around 0.0054 dB/mm and around 0.0065 dB/mm for silver and gold, respectively. Similarly, the reflection coefficient was less than −45 dB over the 75–110 GHz range, with an average insertion loss of 0.0018 dB/mm for silver and 0.003 dB/mm for gold, respectively. The aluminum model's reflection coefficient was less than −35 dB, and the average insertion loss was 0.0035 dB/mm. The experimental results achieved a reflection coefficient of less than –30 dB and the average transmission coefficient was −0.2 dB, with an insertion loss of 0.002 dB/mm. The simple stacking ability of the weightless walled metal plates and easy fabrication makes the proposed transmission line a promising technology in mmWave and Terahertz applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the geotechnical area, advances in diatomaceous soil research are laconic and mainly oriented towards understanding the primary soil response (typical characterization methods) considering observation and experience (failures in construction processes or unexpected laboratory results) more than following a scientific method. Coincident results have been evidenced in the correspondence between the content of frustules, the effective friction angle and the water retention capacity. However, the variables and processes that control some mechanical behaviors have yet to be documented in the literature, such as the level of fracturing of the frustules and its relation with interlocked behavior, compressibility and shear strength. In addition to the bibliographic background, SEM microscopy records are presented. These facilitate the understanding of the described phenomena. The images highlight the level of deterioration, the environment, the morphology and the pores present in diatoms of different origins. The morphology (as a function of the species) of intact or fractured frustules (depending on the stress record) affects the mechanical responses and volumetric variations of the diatomaceous deposits. Furthermore, this review presents some emerging research lines in diatomaceous soils, such as the subjection of structures to geotechnical centrifuge conditions, some constitutive models and the criteria for developing water retention curves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suckermouth armoured catfish (Loricariidae) are a highly speciose and diverse freshwater fish family, which bear upper and lower lips forming an oral disc. Its hierarchical organisation allows the attachment to various natural surfaces. The discs can possess papillae of different shapes, which are supplemented, in many taxa, by small horny projections, i.e. unculi. Although these attachment structures and their working mechanisms, which include adhesion and interlocking, are rather well investigated in some selected species, the loricariid oral disc is unfortunately understudied in the majority of species, especially with regard to comparative aspects of the diverse oral structures and their relationship to the ecology of different species. In the present paper, we investigated the papilla and unculi morphologies in 67 loricariid species, which inhabit different currents and substrates. We determined four papilla types and eight unculi types differing by forms and sizes. Ancestral state reconstructions strongly suggest convergent evolution of traits. There is no obvious correlation between habitat shifts and the evolution of specific character states. From handling the structures and from drying artefacts we could infer some information about their material properties. This, together with their shape, enabled us to carefully propose hypotheses about mechanisms of interactions of oral disc structures with natural substrates typical for respective fish species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weight reduction strategies are essential for the transportation sector to reduce greenhouse gas emissions or extend the range of electric vehicles. In the field of lightweight assembly strategies, multi-material design offers great potential. Joining materials typically used in the automotive sector, such as aluminum and steel, brings challenges as conventional processes such as fusion welding are unsuitable. Therefore, new technologies can extend the design options. In previous studies, a mechanical interlocking between cold-rolled surface structures with undercuts on a steel sheet and die-cast aluminum was presented. This method has now been extended to double-sided structures for more complex applications with a joint on both sheet surfaces. Numerical simulations and validation experiments were performed to investigate the manufacturing of the double-sided structures. Furthermore, the influence of the alignment of the upper and lower structures in relation to each other on the resulting structural geometry and the rolling forces were analyzed. More advantageous geometric parameters, e.g., 24% larger undercuts, and approx. 24.1% lower forming forces at 20% height reduction were observed for a shifted alignment. However, significantly higher wear of the structured rollers occurred in the corresponding experiments.

Reducing the weight of parts through lightweight designs impacts CO2 emissions, especially in the automotive and transportation sectors, which have significant fuel and electric energy consumption. Using multi-material design approaches, specific material properties can be combined to achieve effective lightweighting. Commonly used metals include aluminum, which is known for its high specific strength, and steel, which is valued for its strength and structural integrity. However, joining aluminum and steel presents challenges given their different thermophysical properties and the potential formation of brittle intermetallic phases, making common joining techniques like fusion welding unsuitable. In this study, a hybrid casting process for the production of a complex workpiece from dissimilar materials was investigated. Aluminum was die-cast around a steel sheet insert. Surface structures with undercuts on the steel sheet were applied through modified cold rolling, allowing molten aluminum to flow into the channels and interlock during solidification. It was found that elevated temperatures of the melt and tool were beneficial for the interlocking, resulting in a 30% increase in compound strength. Furthermore, a reduction in both the piston position at the changeover point, between the pre-filling and cavity filling, and the melt velocity at the gate reduced the compound's strength by 41% and 30%. Up- and downstream processes did not show any significant influence on the conducted experiments. Based on this, two main detrimental effects were observed: pre-solidification of the aluminum melt and gas entrapment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a new gripping technique that merges the variable stiffness characteristics of conventional magnet-controlled and negative-pressure spherical grippers to produce a spherical gripper capable of securely grasping large and structurally diverse objects. The proposed method incorporates the smart rheological material from magnet-controlled grippers with the particle-jamming smart structure used in negative-pressure grippers. The gripper comprises a magnetic control device and a spherical variable stiffness body. Simulation analysis was used to optimize its structure and enhance the efficiency ratio of the magnetic control device. The flexible variable stiffness body was initially designed to be cylindrical to increase interlocking with objects. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the gripping efficiency and adaptability of the magnetron spherical gripper, which were designed to simulate real-world application requirements. These results suggest that the magnetically controlled spherical gripper can achieve a gripping efficiency of approximately five and securely grasp objects with a relative bladder diameter ranging from 20 % to 130 %. Furthermore, it can stably grip objects up to an offset distance of 15 mm without requiring sensor assistance. The enhanced magnetic field-powered spherical gripper exhibits superior adaptability and efficiency in gripping compared to its counterpart. In addition, it boasts robust resistance against environmental interference.

[Display omitted] Colloidal particles can be trapped at a liquid interface, which reduces the energetically costly interfacial area. Once at an interface, colloids undergo various self-assemblies and structural transitions due to shape-dependent interparticle interactions. Particles with rough surfaces receive increasing attention and have been applied in material design, such as Pickering emulsions and shear-thickening materials. However, the roughness effects on the interactions at a liquid interface remain less understood. Experimentally, particles with four surface roughnesses were designed and compared via isotherm measurements upon a uniaxial compression. At each stage of the compression, micrographic observations were conducted via the Blodgett method. Numerically, the compression of monolayer was simulated by using Langevin dynamics. Rough colloids were modelled as particles with capillary attraction and tangential constraints. Sufficiently rough systems exhibit a non-trivial intermediate state between a gas-like state and a close-packed jamming state. This state is understood as a gel state due to roughness-induced capillary attraction. Roughness-induced friction lowers the jamming point. Furthermore, the tangential contact force owing to surface asperities can cause a gradual off-plane collapse of the compressed monolayer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Formal methods are mathematically based techniques for the rigorous development of software-intensive systems. The railway signaling domain is a field in which formal methods have traditionally been applied, with several success stories. This article reports on a mapping study that surveys the landscape of research on applications of formal methods to the development of railway systems. Following the guidelines of systematic reviews, we identify 328 relevant primary studies, and extract information about their demographics, the characteristics of formal methods used and railway-specific aspects. Our main results are as follows: (i) we identify a total of 328 primary studies relevant to our scope published between 1989 and 2020, of which 44% published during the last 5 years and 24% involved industry; (ii) the majority of studies are evaluated through Examples (41%) and Experience Reports (38%), while full-fledged Case Studies are limited (1.5%); (iii) Model checking is the most commonly adopted technique (47%), followed by simulation (27%) and theorem proving (19.5%); (iv) the dominant languages are UML (18%) and B (15%), while frequently used tools are ProB (9%), NuSMV (8%), and UPPAAL (7%); however, a diverse landscape of languages and tools is employed; (v) the majority of systems are interlocking products (40%), followed by models of high-level control logic (27%); and (vi) most of the studies focus on the Architecture (66%) and Detailed Design (45%) development phases. Based on these findings, we highlight current research gaps and expected actions. In particular, the need to focus on more empirically sound research methods, such as Case Studies and Controlled Experiments, and to lower the degree of abstraction, by applying formal methods and tools to development phases that are closer to software development. Our study contributes with an empirically based perspective on the future of research and practice in formal methods applications for railways. It can be used by formal methods researchers to better focus their scientific inquiries, and by railway practitioners for an improved understanding of the interplay between formal methods and their specific application domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the geotechnical area, advances in diatomaceous soil research are laconic and mainly oriented towards understanding the primary soil response (typical characterization methods) considering observation and experience (failures in construction processes or unexpected laboratory results) more than following a scientific method. Coincident results have been evidenced in the correspondence between the content of frustules, the effective friction angle and the water retention capacity. However, the variables and processes that control some mechanical behaviors have yet to be documented in the literature, such as the level of fracturing of the frustules and its relation with interlocked behavior, compressibility and shear strength. In addition to the bibliographic background, SEM microscopy records are presented. These facilitate the understanding of the described phenomena. The images highlight the level of deterioration, the environment, the morphology and the pores present in diatoms of different origins. The morphology (as a function of the species) of intact or fractured frustules (depending on the stress record) affects the mechanical responses and volumetric variations of the diatomaceous deposits. Furthermore, this review presents some emerging research lines in diatomaceous soils, such as the subjection of structures to geotechnical centrifuge conditions, some constitutive models and the criteria for developing water retention curves.

Copyright of Turkish Journal of Trauma & Emergency Surgery / Ulusal Travma ve Acil Cerrahi Dergisi is the property of KARE Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Entirely grouted cable tendons are commonly used in mining engineering. They have superior working ability in reinforcing the excavated rocks and soils. During the working process of cable tendons, the force-transferring ability and the corresponding mechanism are significant in guaranteeing the safety of underground openings. To further understand the force-transferring mechanism of entirely grouted cable tendons, this paper provided a literature review on the force transfer of cable tendons. First, the force-transferring concept of entirely grouted cable tendons was summarised. The force-transferring process and failure modes of cable tendons were illustrated. Then, the experimental test program used in testing the entirely grouted cable tendons was summarised. The advantages and disadvantages of various test programs were illustrated. After that, the working ability of entirely grouted cable tendons was reviewed. The effect of various parameters on the working ability of cable tendons was summarised and compared. These parameters include the rock stiffness, embedment length, cement grout property, resin grout property, modified geometry, borehole size, rotation and pre-tensioning. Last, a discussion was provided to elaborate the working ability and force-transferring mechanism of entirely grouted cable bolts. This literature review is beneficial for researchers and engineers, furthering their understanding of the working ability of cable tendons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current mechanisms and factors influencing soil aging remain inconclusive and incomplete. Discrete element method (DEM) is adopted to investigate the responses of irregularly shaped granular assemblies subjected to creep and post-creep triaxial shear. The simulated creep and aging behaviours are generally in line with those observed in existing laboratory tests and numerical investigations. In addition to an increase in soil stiffness, the DEM analyses predict an enhanced soil strength as a result of the prolonged interlocking between sand particles during the relatively long creep duration. It is demonstrated that the creep-induced interlocking is directly manifested as a shear resistance above the minimum energy line. The development of interlocking explains the overshooting behaviour observed in post-creep shear. The microscopic responses do not support the aging mechanism based on the buckling of strong force chains. A new hypothesis, termed 'microstructure evolution by stability selection', is proposed to explain soil aging. This hypothesis suggests that interlocking between particles develops naturally during the creep process because interlocked particle clusters generally have a greater chance to survive the particle rearrangement induced by creep, leading to an increased number of interlocked particle clusters in aged soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combining interlocking structures and gradient design, this paper proposes a 2D biomimetic nacreous composite material with a gradient interlocked structure. Experimental and numerical simulation methods are employed to investigate the initiation and propagation behavior of cracks in the regular interlocking and gradient interlocked biomimetic nacreous composite materials. Samples of biomimetic nacreous composite materials with pre-existing cracks are manufactured using 3D printing technology, and uniaxial tensile tests are conducted to explore their crack propagation behavior. For biomimetic nacreous composite materials with periodic interlocking structures, the interlocking angle is found to play an important role in the toughening mechanism of composites. In biomimetic composite materials with large interlocking angles, crack inhibition effects are achieved through structural gradient design, effectively preventing catastrophic failure. Within the numerical analysis framework, a cohesive zone modeling approach is employed to represent the softer phase of the material, and the numerical simulation are validated by direct comparison with experimental results. In addition, a comprehensive numerical analysis is carried out to comprehend how the structural gradient affects the spread of cracks in these nacreous composites. This research not only illuminate the underlying deformation and toughening mechanisms intrinsic to interlocking nacreous composites but also pave the way for innovative strategies in the design of biomimetic materials through the incorporation of structural gradients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reducing the weight of parts through lightweight designs impacts CO2 emissions, especially in the automotive and transportation sectors, which have significant fuel and electric energy consumption. Using multi-material design approaches, specific material properties can be combined to achieve effective lightweighting. Commonly used metals include aluminum, which is known for its high specific strength, and steel, which is valued for its strength and structural integrity. However, joining aluminum and steel presents challenges given their different thermophysical properties and the potential formation of brittle intermetallic phases, making common joining techniques like fusion welding unsuitable. In this study, a hybrid casting process for the production of a complex workpiece from dissimilar materials was investigated. Aluminum was die-cast around a steel sheet insert. Surface structures with undercuts on the steel sheet were applied through modified cold rolling, allowing molten aluminum to flow into the channels and interlock during solidification. It was found that elevated temperatures of the melt and tool were beneficial for the interlocking, resulting in a 30% increase in compound strength. Furthermore, a reduction in both the piston position at the changeover point, between the pre-filling and cavity filling, and the melt velocity at the gate reduced the compound’s strength by 41% and 30%. Up- and downstream processes did not show any significant influence on the conducted experiments. Based on this, two main detrimental effects were observed: pre-solidification of the aluminum melt and gas entrapment.

The train platforming and routing (TPR) problem is to decide train operations within stations after the network-wise train schedules are determined. A feasible TPR plan requires both platform and route conflict-free, where the avoidance of route conflict is controlled according to three interlocking modes. Although the TPR problem is widely studied, none of them did a serious investigation on the optimality impacts of different interlocking modes in the TPR. Therefore, this paper introduced and formulated a space–time version of TPR considering three interlocking modes and subsequentially conducted numerical experiments to analyze the optimality differences under each mode. Based on the experimental findings, engineering practical suggestions are also provided. In summary, the experiment results showed that both route-locking sectional-release and sectional-locking sectional-release modes significantly outperform the route-locking route-release mode. And among them, using the route-locking sectional-release mode can bring notable benefits on large stations with high-density volumes while using the sectional-locking sectional-release mode can always provide outstanding outcomes over various station and traffic settings.

Interlocking concrete blocks (ICBs) have been recently used worldwide to be alternative conventional blocks. ICBs are more sustainable, low involve low production cost, and environment-friendly as they emit less carbon dioxide than normal ones. ICBs have been used particularly in war zones and places affected by natural disasters where the need for quick, sustainable, low-cost buildings and earthquake-resistant buildings is indispensable. This paper provides a comprehensive literature review about different types of ICBs. It aims to demonstrate different configurations of ICBs incorporated with recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) and other additive materials used for construction. To achieve this, the compares different related studies which analyse the compressive strength results of RCA mixtures with different RCA replacements, w/c ratio, and mix proportions. Additionally, the paper discusses several techniques and methods to improve the behaviour of ICBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rail interlocking systems follow the progress of technology and train speeds. Nowadays, new systems are designed based on microcontrollers and reliable software, requiring many hours of testing to ensure their proper functionality and bug-free coding. However, in many countries, there are still older relay solutions implemented that are not envisaged to be upgraded in the near future partially due to costs but mainly due to the fact they function very well, being based on a highly reliable element: the relay. However, specialized maintenance personnel are becoming more difficult to find, so automation systems that check the proper relay functionality are a key element to ensure a longer lifetime of existing systems. In this article, the authors present a monitoring solution based on magnetic sensors that proved capable of provide reliable information about the relays, hence revealing the first step in a relay automated control system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS plastic) is one of the most widely used thermoplastic resins for electroplating. In electroplating, a glossing metallic layer is coated on the ABS plastic surface. Yet, the electroplated coating has poor adhesion to ABS plastics. Thus, polymer producers strive to develop more adhesive electroplating grades of ABS plastic. Unfortunately, there is no reliable method to quantify the polymer chemistry-induced adhesion to electroplated coating separately from the interlocking. Herein, the chemical adhesion at the metal-polymer is measured via precision manipulation with the actual surface area of the ABS plastic, without introducing interlocking and chemical modifications. We fabricated 9 moulds with 2, 4 and 6 µm wide and 2, 4 and 6 µm deep pillars, hot-embossed the pillars into ABS plastic, electroplated the ABS plastic with a copper coating, peeled the copper coating to measure the adhesion strength, and observed the micro-textured ABS plastic/copper interface in SEM. We found that the adhesion strength at the ABS plastic/copper interface is linearly proportional to the actual surface area of the texture (1), independent of the non-interlocking texture size (2), and strongly depends on the grade of the ABS plastic (3). The method can be employed to compare the adhesivity of different polymers while developing a new electroplating grade of ABS plastic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deformation joint is a weak link in roof waterproofing, especially for the shallow-buried basement roof planting or landscaping buildings with flexible waterproofing method. The deformation joints of roof have not become a mature and effective practice. Therefore, a deformation joint structure with high waterproofing reliability and landscape continuity is urgently needed. By taking Beijing Metro Universal Studio Station as an objective for research and implementation, this paper analyzes the applicability and limitations of different deformation joint structures. On the basis of research conclusions, the deformation joint structure is optimized and an interlocking deformation joint structure suitable for planting roof is formed, The structure, provided with multiple waterproof and drainage measures, is highly reliable, and it solves the problems of high maintenance difficulty and poor landscape effect in the conventional practice, and can be widely used in roof engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rebar corrosion, which causes section loss of rebar, is one of the serious deterioration factors for RC structures. Section loss affects not only stiffness or load capacity but also interlock condition between lugs on deformed rebar and surrounding concrete. Interlock is a dominant factor of bond between rebar and concrete and interlock effects on structural behavior of RC member can be significant. This research focused on the influence of interlock loss on the structural behavior and bond performance of RC member from experimental and analytical investigations. The static loading test for the six beams and FE analysis were conducted for the investigation on the effects of residual interlock, with or without confinement effects from stirrups. In order to evaluate interlock effects precisely, a rebar shape including lugs was reproduced by fine hexahedron elements in the FE analysis. The authors also conducted FE analytical case studies for investigating the effects of non-uniform lug loss or partially interlocking condition due to section loss of rebar. Through these investigations, it was seen that interlock could work and keep sound bond as long as contact between a lug and concrete was maintained even when the rebar lug was flattened due to section loss. Furthermore, under the situation with non-uniform distribution of section loss, pull-out behavior of rebar was prevented by interlocking of parts in a member even when other regions completely lost their interlock due to serious section loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depending on the stator lamination manufacturing processes (e.g., punching, laser cutting, clamping, welding, interlocking, and bonding), the motor’s magnetic performance parameters, such as cogging torque, hysteresis torque, and iron losses, can vary significantly. In sub-fractional horsepower (SFHP) permanent magnet motors, the manufacturing influence is typically even more severe because, due to their small dimensions, practically, the whole stator material is likely to be affected. This article analyzes the magnetic performance parameters cogging torque, hysteresis torque, and iron losses of three different stator lamination stacks (i.e., M250-35A punched with interlocking, M250-35A laser cut with bonding, and NO10 laser cut with bonding) of an SFHP single-phase brushless permanent magnet motor often found in automotive fan applications. A rheometer is used for extremely accurate torque measurements in the sub-millinewton meter range, and electron backscatter diffraction measurements are performed to visualize changes in the grain morphology and crystal orientation. The findings reveal that the punched stator with interlocking is affected the most by the manufacturing process, showing the lowest cogging torque yet the highest average hysteresis torque and thus up to 40% higher iron losses. The results presented in this article allow for both making basic stator lamination design choices and translating the iron losses, as well as the hysteresis torque and cogging torque waveforms, of a laser cut and bonded prototype into those of its punched and interlocked mass-produced counterpart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The interlocking tandem clipping technique allows a surgeon to effectively obliterate the morphologically complex middle cerebral artery aneurysm. However, applying clips perpendicular to the M2 plane is sometimes challenging, even after meticulous arterial dissection and wide dissection of the Sylvian fissure. We present herein a surgical case of a middle cerebral artery aneurysm, and demonstrate a feasible method by which to rotate the M2 plane and apply the clip perpendicular to the M2 plane. Case illustration: A 44-year-old woman presenting with severe headache was admitted to our hospital. Cerebral digital subtraction angiography showed a small saccular aneurysm arising from the left M2 bifurcation. Due to aneurysm neck overhang of the posterior aspect of the bifurcation, the base of the aneurysm was likely to remain following simple parallel clipping of the efferent artery. Therefore, an interlocking tandem clipping technique was considered. Clip application was needed perpendicular to the M2 plane, but the M2 plane was not perpendicular in the line of sight, even after meticulous arterial dissection. We pushed the superior division of the middle cerebral artery inferiorly and pulled the artery medially using an aspiration tube, which allowed the M2 plane to be rotated medially. This allowed application of both a straight mini-clip and an angled fenestrated mini-clip perpendicular to the M2 plane, resulting in successful aneurysm obliteration without a remnant. Conclusion: The presented feasible method allows easy rotation of the M2 plane and application of the clip perpendicular to the M2 plane.

Several structural failures occur in the column due to the lack of confinement. The circular column is not popular for regular buildings. The use of circular spiral is only familiar to the circular column. Many design engineers use square columns with hoops and cross ties as confinement. As far as the authors’ knowledge, there was only a study carried out on square columns with circular spirals as confinement. For this reason, the authors propose and introduce a new type of innovative confinement system for square columns using square spirals as confinement and a combination thereof, which has never been carried out in the previous studies. No code’s provision is also applicable to this type of confinement. This research was conducted to investigate the performance of each of these new confinement systems as a promising option in the future instead of the traditional confinement. To achieve the objective of the research, a two-phase study was conducted. The first phase was to analyze the potential, design, formation, and assembly of the new confinement system consisting of a combination of square and circular spirals (SPIL), a combination of octagonal and square spirals (SS8I), an interlocking among square spirals (SPIP), and a plain concrete specimen (PC) as a benchmark. The second phase was an experimental program that involves a mix-design of the concrete, preparation of the column specimens with various confinement systems, and the compression tests of the column specimens using a 3500-kN UTM. The test results indicate that the SPIP specimen has higher initial stiffness, peak stress, and strain ductility compared with others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological structural systems such as plant seedcoats, beak of woodpeckers or ammonites shells are characterized by complex wavy and re-entrant interlocking features. This allows to mitigate large deformations and deflect or arrest cracks, providing remarkable mechanical performances, much higher than those of the constituent materials. Nature-inspired engineering interlocking joints has been recently proved to be an effective and novel design strategy. However, currently the design space of interlocking interfaces relies on relatively simple geometries, often built as a composition of symmetric circular or elliptical sutured lines. In the present contribution it is shown that deep-learning (DL) methods can be leveraged to enlarge the design space. Accurate and fast assessments of stiffness, strength and toughness of interlocking interfaces, generated through a cellular automaton-like method, can be obtained using a convolutional neural network trained on a limited number of finite element results. A simple application of a DL model for the recognition of interlocking mechanisms in 2-D interfaces is introduced. It is also shown that DL models, pre-trained on small resolution geometries, can accurately predict structural properties on larger design spaces with relatively small amounts of new training data. This work is addressed to give new insights into the study and design of a new generation of advanced and novel interlocked structures through data-driven methods.

Nutshells achieve remarkable properties by optimizing structure and chemistry at different hierarchical levels. Probing nutshells from the cellular down to the nano- and molecular level by microchemical and nanomechanical imaging techniques reveals insights into nature's packing concepts. In walnut and pistachio shells, carbohydrate and lignin polymers assemble to form thick-walled puzzle cells, which interlock three-dimensionally and show high tissue strength. Pistachio additionally achieves high-energy absorption by numerous lobes interconnected via ball-joint-like structures. By contrast, the three times more lignified walnut shells show brittle LEGO-brick failure, often along the numerous pit channels. In both species, cell walls (CWs) show distinct lamellar structures. These lamellae involve a helicoidal arrangement of cellulose macrofibrils as a recurring motif. Between the two nutshell species, these lamellae show differences in thickness and pitch angle, which can explain the different mechanical properties on the nanolevel. Our in-depth study of the two nutshell tissues highlights the role of cell form and their interlocking as well as plant CW composition and structure for mechanical protection. Understanding these plant shell concepts might inspire biomimetic material developments as well as using walnut and pistachio shell waste as sustainable raw material in future applications.

Walnut (Juglans regia) kernels are protected by a tough shell consisting of polylobate sclereids that interlock into a 3D puzzle. The shape transformations from isodiametric to lobed cells is well documented for 2D pavement cells, but not for 3D puzzle sclereids. Here, we study the morphogenesis of these cells by using a combination of different imaging techniques. Serial face-microtomy enabled us to reconstruct tissue growth of whole walnut fruits in 3D, and serial block face-scanning electron microscopy exposed cell shapes and their transformation in 3D during shell tissue development. In combination with Raman and fluorescence microscopy, we revealed multiple loops of cellulosic thickenings in cell walls, acting as stiff restrictions during cell growth and leading to the lobed cell shape. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the 3D shape transformation of polylobate sclereids and the role of pectin and cellulose within this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rail interlocking systems follow the progress of technology and train speeds. Nowadays, new systems are designed based on microcontrollers and reliable software, requiring many hours of testing to ensure their proper functionality and bug-free coding. However, in many countries, there are still older relay solutions implemented that are not envisaged to be upgraded in the near future partially due to costs but mainly due to the fact they function very well, being based on a highly reliable element: the relay. However, specialized maintenance personnel are becoming more difficult to find, so automation systems that check the proper relay functionality are a key element to ensure a longer lifetime of existing systems. In this article, the authors present a monitoring solution based on magnetic sensors that proved capable of provide reliable information about the relays, hence revealing the first step in a relay automated control system.

This paper presents the laboratory investigation of the mechanical and physical properties of interlocking compressed earth brick (ICEB) units. Both mechanical and physical properties of a masonry unit are essential to understand the performance and behaviors of the masonry structures. This paper also discussed the factors and causes that influenced the non-uniform properties of ICEB units. Four types of ICEB are tested in terms of compressive strength, density, water absorption, flexural strength, and splitting tensile strength. From the results obtained, parameters such as shape and manufacturing process are found to significantly affect the mechanical properties of ICEB. Yet, high depth of the groove and low compression rate lead to the decreased in compressive strength, flexural strength, and splitting tensile strength of the ICEB units. The results of mechanical and physical properties of ICEB units are exceeded the minimum requirement for masonry and load-bearing bricks.

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El interlocking y las participaciones minoritarias son vínculos entre empresas que, en ocasiones, podrían implicar riesgos para la libre competencia (unilaterales o coordinados) y que, hasta el año 2016, no se encontraban expresamente regulados en la normativa chilena, aunque igualmente podrían ser sancionados si atentaban contra la libre competencia dada la tipificación marcadamente general de las prácticas restrictivas. De hecho, el interlocking no es una figura comúnmente regulada en los diversos sistemas jurídicos a nivel mundial. En el presente artículo, el autor desarrolla, de forma esquemática, el interlocking y las participaciones minoritarias, con la finalidad de dar un marco general de estas figuras en relación a su situación actual en la normativa chilena. Asimismo, el autor desarrolla las clases de interlocking comprendidos, los posibles efectos anticompetitivos de esta figura, sus medidas de mitigación, su evolución en el derecho comparado y los sujetos pasivos a una infracción.

Rebar corrosion, which causes section loss of rebar, is one of the serious deterioration factors for RC structures. Section loss affects not only stiffness or load capacity but also interlock condition between lugs on deformed rebar and surrounding concrete. Interlock is a dominant factor of bond between rebar and concrete and interlock effects on structural behavior of RC member can be significant. This research focused on the influence of interlock loss on the structural behavior and bond performance of RC member from experimental and analytical investigations. The static loading test for the six beams and FE analysis were conducted for the investigation on the effects of residual interlock, with or without confinement effects from stirrups. In order to evaluate interlock effects precisely, a rebar shape including lugs was reproduced by fine hexahedron elements in the FE analysis. The authors also conducted FE analytical case studies for investigating the effects of non-uniform lug loss or partially interlocking condition due to section loss of rebar. Through these investigations, it was seen that interlock could work and keep sound bond as long as contact between a lug and concrete was maintained even when the rebar lug was flattened due to section loss. Furthermore, under the situation with non-uniform distribution of section loss, pull-out behavior of rebar was prevented by interlocking of parts in a member even when other regions completely lost their interlock due to serious section loss.

The applicability of glass in structures is continuously ascending, as the transparency and high compressive strength of the material render it the optimum choice for realizing diaphanous structural components that allow for light transmittance and space continuity. The fabrication boundaries of the material are constantly stretching: visible metal connections are minimized and glass surfaces are maximized, resulting to pure all-glass structures. Still, due to the prevalence of the float glass industry, all-glass structures are currently confined to the limited forms and shapes that can be generated by planar, 2D glass elements. Moreover, despite the fact that glass is fully recyclable, most of the glass currently employed in buildings is neither reused nor recycled due to its perplexed disassembly and its contamination from coatings and adhesives. Cast glass can be the answer to the above restraints, as it can escape the design limitations generated from the 2-dimensional nature of float glass. By pouring molten glass into moulds, solid 3-dimensional glass components can be attained of considerably larger cross-sections and of virtually any shape. These monolithic glass objects can form repetitive units for large all glass-structures that do not buckle due to slender proportions and thus can take full advantage of the stated compressive strength of glass. Such components can be accordingly shaped to interlock towards easily assembled structures that do not require the use of adhesives for further bonding. In addition, cast glass units–due to their increased cross section– can tolerate a higher degree of impurities and thus can be produced by using waste glass as a raw source.

Purpose: of this paper is to investigate the durability and the mechanical properties, including compressive and flexural strengths, of the locally compressed earth blocks manufactured from soil in Irbid, Jordan. Moreover, effect of volcanic tuff as new stabilizer material on properties of compressed earth block (CEB). Compressed earth block is a technique that was created to solve environmental and economic problems in construction sector. It is widespread in many countries around the world but hasn't been used in Jordan yet. Design/methodology/approach: 9 mixtures were carried out. One of this mixture is the control mix, beside other mixtures were performed by replacing soil with 40%, 10%, 10%, of sand, volcanic tuff, and lime respectively. In addition, polypropylene fibre was used. After 28 days of curing, the CEB were dried in oven at 105°C for 24 hours then tested. Findings: Show that absorption and erosion were decreased when the lime used in the soil. On the other hand, the fibres presence significantly improved the durability and mechanical properties in all mixtures. Moreover, the higher compressive strength was obtained in the mixtures which contain lime only while the higher tensile strength was obtained in the mixtures which contain lime with sand replacement. The using of volcanic tuffs produced average compressive strength values. The reason is that in the presence of lime and pozzolana (volcanic tuff) reactions take place at low and slow rate at early ages. Research limitations/implications: volcanic tuff can produce favourable compressive strengths at later ages and this is a point of interest in the future work. Originality/value: Searching for a new material as stabilizer material that improves the properties of the compressed earth block (CEB). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Tactile interactions with product surfaces are essential to how such products are used and the value that users ascribe to them. It has been shown that contact mechanisms and frictional interactions are central to the haptic attributes perceived by the users. While there are established and well-studied models that describe the adhesive and deformation components of friction, interlocking behavior—while shown to be dominant in some tactile applications—has not been thoroughly studied as a frictional mechanism for soft materials such as skin, partly because of the complex contact mechanics involved. This investigation involved a computational parametric study of interlocking behavior between a soft material and a parallel-ridge surface texture, across a range of ridge widths, spacing and applied pressure. The goal of the work was to determine if a relatively simple contact model could be developed to predict the number of potential points of interlocking between the soft body and the ridge features. The results showed that a standard Hertzian approach predicted the number of ridge edge contacts (potential interlocking locations) with acceptable accuracy, so long as the ratio of ridge width to ridge spacing was large. However, a hybrid model that also incorporated the ridge width performed remarkably well across a wide range of ridge widths and spacing. This model may provide utility as an input into various proposed models of frictional interlocking to explain haptic perception of textured surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of a geogrid-stabilized structure affected by dynamic loadings is significant. This study investigates the microscale deformation mechanism of the geogrid–aggregate interface cyclic shear behavior using the discrete element method (DEM). Spheres and nonspherical clumps are generated to form aggregate samples. The DEM models are able to capture the macroscopic dynamic shear laws of the aggregate layers stabilized with a geogrid in a similar way to those tested experimentally. The microscale mechanical responses of the cyclic shear tests (e.g., shear strain, fabric evolution, and confined zone), which vary with the particle shape as well as the measurement volume, are analyzed. The rib flexural rigidity has a minor influence on the peak shear strength of the geogrid–aggregate interface cyclic shear test, but is a key factor influencing the shape of the hysteretic loop, which is closely related to the micromechanical responses at the geogrid–aggregate interface. The particles in the upper and lower shear boxes show different motion patterns in response to the aperture ratio. In the case of A / D 50 = 2.53, the cumulative plastic deformation of the soil layers extending beyond the interface during the loading and reversal loading process is effectively restrained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract Material flow rates at the horizontal and vertical directions were markedly increased by a taper-screwed pin with triple facets. A stationary shoulder could prevent plasticized materials overflowing out of the weld and make them backflow into the nugget zone, achieving good surface integrity. The short carbon fiber-reinforced poly-ether-ether-ketone and the AA2060-T8 were tightly joined, and the carbon fibers were dispersedly distributed at the nugget zone, which attributed to the effective load transfer effects and then improved the joint strength. The tensile shear strength reached 18 MPa. The combination of the stationary shoulder tool system and plunging the taper-screwed pin with triple facets into the composite was feasible and effective to improving mechanical properties of composite/metal friction stir lap welding joints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]