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Hardware, Volume 2, Issue 4 (December 2024) – 4 articles

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14 pages, 5243 KiB  
Article
A Low-Cost Open-Source Uniaxial Tensile System for Soft Tissue Testing
by Adham Salih, Navit Roth, Oshri Buganim and Avishag Deborah Pelosi
Hardware 2024, 2(4), 292-305; https://doi.org/10.3390/hardware2040015 - 3 Dec 2024
Viewed by 782
Abstract
The evaluation of soft tissue biomechanical properties is of paramount importance not only for a comprehensive understanding of human physiology and physiopathology, but also in the research and development of bio-compatible artificial tissues with viscoelastic properties. Contrarily to standard tensile testing devices, a [...] Read more.
The evaluation of soft tissue biomechanical properties is of paramount importance not only for a comprehensive understanding of human physiology and physiopathology, but also in the research and development of bio-compatible artificial tissues with viscoelastic properties. Contrarily to standard tensile testing devices, a system intended for biomaterials testing should consider low stress and high strain ranges, characteristic of human tissues; moreover, such a system should enable the ex vivo simulation of biological environmental conditions. Commercial solutions address these challenges, although they are expensive for most academic and research institutions. This study presents a low-cost open-source design solution for soft tissue tensile testing, offering an affordable solution, yet without compromising the high quality and precision of the results. The proposed uniaxial tensile system allows for sample testing at room temperature as well as in a temperature-controlled liquid environment. Moreover, custom clamps ensure the fixation of tissue samples without slipping or tearing. System validation is performed using the tensile testing of springs and 3D-printed soft polymeric samples, demonstrating accurate results compared to the available data. The system is suitable for educational, research, and development applications. Full article
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13 pages, 4993 KiB  
Article
The Development of a 3D Magnetic Field Scanner Using Additive Technologies
by Artem Sobko, Nikolai Yudanov, Larissa V. Panina and Valeriya Rodionova
Hardware 2024, 2(4), 279-291; https://doi.org/10.3390/hardware2040014 - 11 Nov 2024
Viewed by 829
Abstract
Visualizing magnetic fields is essential for studying the operation of electromagnetic systems and devices that use permanent magnets or magnetic particles. However, commercial devices for this purpose are often expensive due to their complex designs, which may not always be necessary for specific [...] Read more.
Visualizing magnetic fields is essential for studying the operation of electromagnetic systems and devices that use permanent magnets or magnetic particles. However, commercial devices for this purpose are often expensive due to their complex designs, which may not always be necessary for specific research needs. This work presents a method for designing an automated laboratory setup for magnetic cartography, utilizing a 3D printer to produce structural plastic components for the scanner. The assembly process is thoroughly described, covering both the hardware and software aspects. Spatial resolution and mapping parameters, such as the number of data points and the collection time, were configured through software. Multiple tests were conducted on samples featuring flat inductive coils on a printed circuit board, providing a reliable model for comparing calculated and measured results. The scanner offers several advantages, including a straightforward design, readily available materials and components, a large scanning area (100 mm × 100 mm × 100 mm), a user-friendly interface, and adaptability for specific tasks. Additionally, the integration of a pre-built macro enables connection to any PC running Windows, while the open-source microcontroller code allows users to customize the scanner’s functionality to meet their specific requirements. Full article
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6 pages, 1972 KiB  
Communication
High Impedance Active Probe for High Voltages
by Marc-Aurèle Boillat and Peter C. Hauser
Hardware 2024, 2(4), 273-278; https://doi.org/10.3390/hardware2040013 - 8 Oct 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1105
Abstract
The probe was designed for the measurement of DC voltages of up to 30 kV from high impedance sources. It is based on a resistive divider with a total resistance of 200 GΩ and a step-down factor of 10’000. In order to allow [...] Read more.
The probe was designed for the measurement of DC voltages of up to 30 kV from high impedance sources. It is based on a resistive divider with a total resistance of 200 GΩ and a step-down factor of 10’000. In order to allow the measurement of the stepped down voltage with a conventional multimeter without loading, the signal was buffered with an operational amplifier. The device was calibrated against a commercial probe using a low impedance high voltage source. A linear relationship was obtained for a high impedance resistive ladder for voltages between 3 and 30 kV, with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.9999. The low-cost device (ca. US $200) fills an application niche not addressed by commercial products. Full article
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17 pages, 6147 KiB  
Article
Tactile Simultaneous Localization and Mapping Using Low-Cost, Wearable LiDAR
by John LaRocco, Qudsia Tahmina, John Simonis, Taylor Liang and Yiyao Zhang
Hardware 2024, 2(4), 256-272; https://doi.org/10.3390/hardware2040012 - 29 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1105
Abstract
Tactile maps are widely recognized as useful tools for mobility training and the rehabilitation of visually impaired individuals. However, current tactile maps lack real-time versatility and are limited because of high manufacturing and design costs. In this study, we introduce a device (i.e., [...] Read more.
Tactile maps are widely recognized as useful tools for mobility training and the rehabilitation of visually impaired individuals. However, current tactile maps lack real-time versatility and are limited because of high manufacturing and design costs. In this study, we introduce a device (i.e., ClaySight) that enhances the creation of automatic tactile map generation, as well as a model for wearable devices that use low-cost laser imaging, detection, and ranging (LiDAR,) used to improve the immediate spatial knowledge of visually impaired individuals. Our system uses LiDAR sensors to (1) produce affordable, low-latency tactile maps, (2) function as a day-to-day wayfinding aid, and (3) provide interactivity using a wearable device. The system comprises a dynamic mapping and scanning algorithm and an interactive handheld 3D-printed device that houses the hardware. Our algorithm accommodates user specifications to dynamically interact with objects in the surrounding area and create map models that can be represented with haptic feedback or alternative tactile systems. Using economical components and open-source software, the ClaySight system has significant potential to enhance independence and quality of life for the visually impaired. Full article
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