Gear-shift execution is critical to power delivery, vehicle acceleration, and driver workload in Formula Student racing vehicles. Conventional shifting solutions for sequential gearboxes are often limited by driver-dependent operation, insufficient actuator authority, incomplete torque coordination, or the absence of closed-loop gear-state confirmation. This study develops and validates a clutchless electro-pneumatic gear-shifting system for a CF700-powered Formula Student vehicle equipped with an integrated sequential dog-engagement gearbox. The system is treated as a shift-assist form of automated manual transmission, in which the driver retains gear-selection authority while shift actuation and engine torque coordination are performed electronically. Although pneumatic shifting systems are already established in motorsport applications, the present work focuses on their vehicle-specific integration through measured shift-load characterization, geometry-based actuator design, gear-position-based closed-loop control, and electronic-throttle-assisted torque intervention. Vehicle tests were conducted under straight-line acceleration, high-speed obstacle-avoidance, and endurance-oriented training conditions. Across 76 recorded shift events, no failed gear transition or missed target-gear confirmation was observed. In straight-line acceleration tests, the mean target-gear confirmation time for recorded upshifts was 96 ± 5 ms, and the representative gear-position transition interval was approximately 20 ms. The full Engine Control Unit (ECU)-controlled upshift event was 0.50 ± 0.10 s because it included the calibrated low-torque dwell and torque-recovery phase, and should therefore be interpreted as a control-event window rather than the mechanical shift duration. After powertrain-specific actuation and torque-control calibration, the developed system provides an implementation basis for similar electronically controlled sequential-gearbox racing platforms, with potential to reduce shift time and driver workload and to support improved autocross drivability and performance.

Cao, Yuanyi

Design of a Four-Wheel Turning Tobacco Harvester Suitable for Hilly Areas

2026-99-0333

8/14/2026

To address the core requirement of “layered ripeness and non-destructive harvesting” in tobacco-growing hilly regions of China, a specialized tobacco leaf harvester was developed. Considering the challenges posed by scattered plots and complex terrain, a four-wheel steering chassis system was proposed. The platform adopts a four-wheel independent drive and steering (4WID-4WIS) configuration, powered by DC servo motors and integrated with a microcontroller-based ROS system. The resulting drive chain—comprising motors, gear reducers, and off-road tires—achieves a maximum operating speed of 0.5 m/s. A novel rotary cross-blade harvesting module was designed in conjunction with a conveyor-based transmission mechanism, enabling stratified harvesting and leaf transport. Full-condition field tests were conducted. In terms of mobility, the harvester achieved stable operation at 0.5 m/s on cement roads, 0.1–0.2 m/s in fields, and demonstrated slip-free climbing on 20° slopes. In terms of harvesting performance, the system’s adjustable modules accommodated varying plant heights; however, issues with blade grip were observed when handling irregularly slanted stalks, affecting collection efficiency. During continuous field entry and exit operations, no mechanical failures occurred, verifying the prototype’s operational stability. This study introduces an innovative combination of omnidirectional mobile chassis and stratified blade modules, offering technical support for the modernization of tobacco agriculture. Further refinement of the harvesting strategy will be pursued to enhance practicality.

Guo, Ting, Gu, Jin, Li, Wen, Tang, Xiaoming, Long, Chao, Yang, Dongchao

Research on the Fault Diagnosis Method for Key Components of Inertial Friction Welding Equipment

2026-99-0309

8/14/2026

Inertial Friction Welding (IFW) equipment is essential for the welding process of aircraft engine shaft components. However, the absence of comprehensive fault-handling standards for domestically produced inertial friction welding equipment has hindered its further development. This study focuses on the connecting rod and motor of the 30T-IFW equipment, employing a model-based fault detection method. Through simulation, the deformation of the connecting rod and the frequency response of motor vibration acceleration under different working conditions are obtained. Additionally, a monitoring platform is proposed to collect real-time data on connecting rod deformation and motor vibration from actual welding equipment. By establishing a quantitative correlation model of connecting rod deformation-force and revealing the coupling mechanism between motor eccentricity faults and modal frequency vibrations, a hybrid diagnostic framework that combines simulation of primitive warning and measurement of calibration is proposed. At last, the simulation and experimental results verify the effectiveness of the fault diagnosis method proposed in this paper.

Yang, Haifeng, Yuan, Mingqiang, Sun, Tao, Liang, Wu, Gong, Maolin, An, Xingyi, Wang, Qisong, Liu, Dan

Modeling Method of Aircraft Hydraulic Pipeline Cleaning Test Equipment Based on MBSE

2026-99-0331

8/14/2026

With the continuous improvement of performance requirements for aviation equipment, the importance and complexity of hydraulic systems as the core carrier of flight control are becoming increasingly prominent. The cleanliness of aircraft hydraulic pipelines directly affects the reliability and flight safety of hydraulic systems, and it is necessary to use specialized cleaning and testing equipment during design and manufacturing to achieve efficient cleaning. The design of traditional cleaning equipment relies on experience-driven development, with mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems developed independently. There are problems such as unclear requirement definitions, low efficiency of interdisciplinary collaboration, and lagging validation, making it difficult to achieve the goal of forward design. Therefore, this study introduces Model-based Systems Engineering (MBSE) method in the development process of pipeline cleaning test equipment, proposes a modeling process based on RFLP (Requirements-Function-Logical-Physical), and uses SysML system modeling language to construct a top down design model system for aircraft hydraulic pipeline cleaning equipment. Through requirement analysis modeling, functional behavior definition, and system architecture design, the significant advantages of MBSE method in the development of complex aviation test equipment have been verified, effectively improving the bold design capability and top down design efficiency. MBSE method can not only improve the design efficiency of equipment, but also promote the intelligent and efficient operation of equipment, which has important significance for the development of intelligent manufacturing and electromechanical integration technology.

Zhang, Yuxin, Ma, Zichen, Li, Qi, Song, Guoqiu, Li, Haiwei, Zhang, Jingjing

Research on Asymmetric Gear Stiffness

2026-99-0332

8/14/2026

To meet the need for optimizing the dynamic performance of asymmetric gear transmissions operating under high-speed and heavy-load conditions, this study presents a refined stiffness modeling approach. A tooth-surface contact stiffness model is formulated based on Hertzian contact theory. By integrating the energy method, a coupled stiffness model is established that incorporates bending, shear, axial compression, and foundation stiffness components. Stable curves depicting the variation of mesh stiffness with the path of contact are subsequently derived by leveraging the principle of stiffness superposition. The findings demonstrate that the proposed mathematical model accurately represents the stiffness behavior of asymmetric gears as governed by the changing contact length, thereby providing a theoretical foundation for enhancing gear dynamics and extending the service life of transmission systems.

Zhao, Zeyi, Sun, Xiaoyan, Wu, Ziheng, Tang, Xin, Liu, Yanxia, Li, Fajia

Numerical Simulation Study on Fire Prevention in Aero-Engine Fuel Tube

2026-99-0303

8/14/2026

Transient gas-liquid two-phase flow in aero-engine fuel pipelines was examined using numerical simulations, focusing on the influence of flow rate on phase change behavior. Under low-flow conditions, phase change occurred repeatedly near the pipe wall, where vapor layers formed and collapsed in an intermittent manner. These processes introduced noticeable unsteadiness in the local mass flow and pressure fields. When the flow rate was increased, vapor generation was largely confined to a narrow region adjacent to the wall, and the overall flow exhibited a more stable character. The results suggest that flow-rate-dependent phase change plays an important role in determining the stability of fuel transport and should be considered in the fire safety assessment of aircraft fuel systems.

Wu, Bin, Xin, Bo, Zeng, Tai, Su, Zhengliang

Modeling and Simulation of the Quick Discharge Hydraulic System of an Internal Mixer

2026-99-0305

8/14/2026

The hydraulic system of the mechanical lever locking device of the internal mixer and the hydraulic system of the gear rack swing hydraulic cylinder are developed. The AMESim simulation models of the two systems are established, and the simulation parameters of each hydraulic element are reasonably set. Firstly, the relationship between the opening time of the mechanical lever locking device of the internal mixer and the charging volume and pressure of the accumulator is analyzed. It is found that the locking time of the mechanical lever locking device of the internal mixer needs about 10 s, while the unlocking time is less than 0.05 s. The unlocking and rubber discharging speed is very fast, and the opening time of the mechanical lever locking device of the internal mixer will become shorter when the pressure or volume of the accumulator air bag becomes larger; Through the analysis of the hydraulic system of the rack and pinion swing hydraulic cylinder, it is obtained that when the air bag volume of the accumulator is 7.557 L, the displacement of the piston rod of the rack and pinion swing hydraulic cylinder rises fastest, which is shortened from 20 s to about 15 s; The greater the air bag pressure of the accumulator is, the faster the displacement of the piston rod of the gear rack swing hydraulic cylinder rises, which is shortened from 20 s to 18 s.

Zhang, Haoqiang, Cai, Liu

Influence of Roundness and Geometric Errors on Lubrication Performance of Engine Journal Bearings

2026-99-0321

8/14/2026

This paper focuses on the critical issue of lubrication performance in journal bearing manufacturing, employing numerical simulation techniques to investigate how manufacturing errors from processing accuracy impact lubrication behaviors. As core components in mechanical systems—especially diesel engine crankshaft bearings operating under complex conditions—journal bearings’ lubrication performance directly determines equipment stability, energy efficiency, and service life. Manufacturing deviations-induced poor lubrication can cause increased friction, severe wear, or even failures, underscoring the research’s practical value. The study constructs a refined numerical model based on the Navier-Stokes equations within the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) framework, ensuring it reliably depicts fluid flow in bearing clearances. It then systematically analyzes the lubrication responses of diesel engine crankshaft bearings under diverse operational scenarios, varying key manufacturing-related parameters: roundness degrees and clearance dimensions, which mimic real production discrepancies like tool wear or machining vibration. Additionally, the research explores shaft center trajectory variations under two extreme operating conditions, as shaft movement reflects the lubrication film’s loadbearing and stability capacities. Surface roundness and clearance are identified as pivotal to journal bearing performance: they significantly alter oil film thickness distribution—critical for avoiding metal contact—and determine the maximum fluid pressure within bearings, a key load-bearing indicator. Moreover, the amplitude and phase angle of roundness fluctuations (often overlooked) exert substantial impacts on lubrication stability and load-bearing properties, offering insights for optimizing manufacturing processes to mitigate such adverse effects: -Journal bearings. -hydrodynamic lubrication. -Form error.

Liu, Jun, Liu, Deliang

BOLT, MACHINE - DOUBLE HEXAGON EXTENDED WASHER HEAD, CLOSE TOLERANCE SHANK, NICKEL ALLOY (UNS N07001) 165 KSI MIN, .2500-28 UNJF-3A

AS9724F (Current)

8/10/2026

E-25 General Standards for Aerospace and Propulsion Systems

BOLT, MACHINE - DOUBLE HEXAGON, EXTENDED WASHER HEAD, CORROSION- AND HEAT-RESISTANT STEEL, UNS S66286, 130 KSI MIN, .4375-20 UNJF-3A

AS9560A (Current)

8/10/2026

E-25 General Standards for Aerospace and Propulsion Systems

BOLT, MACHINE - DOUBLE HEX EXTENDED WASHER HEAD, CLOSE TOLERANCE SHANK, AMS5643 (UNS S17400), 140 KSI, .5625-18, UNJF-3A

AS3173C (Current)

8/10/2026

E-25 General Standards for Aerospace and Propulsion Systems

SCREW, MACHINE - STEEL, DIFFUSED NICKEL-CADMIUM PLATED, DOUBLE HEXAGON EXTENDED WASHER HEAD, DRILLED, UNS K14675, 195 KSI MIN, .1640-36 UNJF-3A

AS9216D (Current)

8/10/2026

E-25 General Standards for Aerospace and Propulsion Systems

BOLT, MACHINE - DOUBLE HEX, EXTENDED WASHER HD, PD SHANK, CUP WASHER LOCKED, CADMIUM PLATED, STEEL, UNS G87400, 125 KSI MIN, .1900-32 UNJF-3A

AS9680C (Current)

8/10/2026

E-25 General Standards for Aerospace and Propulsion Systems

BOLT, MACHINE - DOUBLE HEXAGON EXTENDED WASHER HEAD, PD SHANK, AMS4967 (TI 6AL - 4V), .1900-32 UNJF-3A

AS9750C (Current)

8/10/2026

E-25 General Standards for Aerospace and Propulsion Systems

BOLT, MACHINE - DOUBLE HEXAGON EXTENDED WASHER HEAD, CLOSE TOLERANCE SHANK, UNS S66286, 130 KSI MIN, .1900-32 UNJF-3A

AS91101E (Current)

8/10/2026

E-25 General Standards for Aerospace and Propulsion Systems

BOLT, MACHINE - STEEL, DIFFUSED NICKEL-CADMIUM PLATED, DOUBLE HEXAGON EXTENDED WASHER HEAD, UNS K14675, 195 KSI MIN, .3125-24 UNJF-3A

AS9210D (Current)

8/10/2026

E-25 General Standards for Aerospace and Propulsion Systems

BOLT, MACHINE - DOUBLE HEXAGON EXTENDED WASHER HEAD, PD SHANK, CUP WASHER LOCKED, CRES UNS S66286, 130 KSI MIN, .3125-24 UNJF-3A

AS9678D (Current)

8/10/2026

E-25 General Standards for Aerospace and Propulsion Systems

BOLT, MACHINE - DOUBLE HEXAGON EXTENDED WASHER HEAD, PD SHANK AMS5616, .3125-24 UNJF-3A

AS9887B (Current)

8/10/2026

E-25 General Standards for Aerospace and Propulsion Systems

Mechanical Structure Design and Dynamics Simulation of an Exoskeleton Leg Rehabilitation Robot

2026-99-0902

8/7/2026

In response to the challenges of training and rehabilitation for patients with leg dysfunction, this research focuses on two core requirements: “bionic adaptation” and “safety assistance”. It introduces a novel exoskeleton leg rehabilitation robot designed to support diverse rehabilitation exercises for individuals with leg disabilities during therapy. The robot system consists of a lumbar support structure, thigh mechanical components, calf mechanical components, leg fixation straps, and foot mechanical structures, and achieves multi degree of freedom motion simulation through three main joints: hip joint, knee joint, and ankle joint. Each mechanical leg has three independent degrees of freedom, which can effectively simulate the natural movements of the human lower limb, such as flexion, extension, abduction, etc., during the gait cycle, thus meeting the functional needs of patients for different movement modes during rehabilitation training. On the basis of structural design, this study further utilizes multi-body dynamics simulation software ADAMS to conduct kinematic and dynamic analysis of the exoskeleton robot. By simulating the joint torque of the exoskeleton legs under ideal working conditions, the rationality and smoothness of the mechanism design are verified. The simulation results not only reflect the performance of the robot in typical rehabilitation actions, but also provide a theoretical basis and data support for the selection and parameter matching of key execution components (such as servo motors, reducers, etc.), laying an important foundation for the physical development and control strategy optimization of the robot system.

Mu, Xiaoqi, Ma, Chao, Li, Weijie, Pu, Shuai, Liu, Jiaqi, Wang, Ruiyin, Zhang, Xiaodong

Dynamic Response Analysis of RV Reducers with Time-Varying Stiffness

2026-99-0908

8/7/2026

As a high-precision transmission core component, the RV reducer’s performance depends on the time-varying stiffness of its core components. Building a time-varying stiffness model is essential for studying its dynamic characteristics. This paper addresses the lack of key factors in existing dynamic studies by creating a multi-factor coupled dynamic model. It analyzes the time-varying stiffness of the crankshaft bearing, involute gear, and cycloid gear-pin gear. The study also focuses on building a dynamic analysis model for the crankshaft bearing. By measuring changes in oil film thickness and initial assembly clearance caused by temperature rise, it explains how combined clearance affects bearing performance. To verify the model, a domestic RV reducer is modeled and assembled in SolidWorks. The simplified model is imported into ADAMS for simulation. Under set load and speed conditions, dynamic parameters like angular velocity and acceleration of core components are obtained. This provides a more scientific analysis method and data support for understanding the dynamic characteristics and improving the transmission performance of RV reducers.

Xuan, Liang, Teng, Shaowei, Huang, Ruizhe, Wan, Zefu, Shao, Mengqi, Yu, Zhishen, Wang, Ziyue

Research on Ventilation Performance of Slotted Honeycomb Panels for Civil aircraft

2026-99-0913

8/7/2026

Auxiliary fuel tank systems for civil aircraft are typically employed in extended-range aircraft. As a critical structure for fuel storage, the structural safety of auxiliary fuel tanks directly impacts aircraft safety. Such tanks are generally constructed from honeycomb sandwich composite panels. Owing to their outstanding advantages, including high specific strength, light weight, and corrosion resistance, honeycomb sandwich composite panels have become the material of choice for civil aircraft fuel tanks. However, to meet the safety requirements for ventilation and leakage drainage in the sandwich structure of fuel tanks, dedicated flow channels must be created by slotting inside the honeycomb composite panels to ensure timely discharge of fuel vapor and accumulated fluid from the tank sandwich. Conventional flow channels are symmetrically arranged on the end faces of the honeycomb core, making it difficult for ventilation airflow to penetrate the center of honeycomb cells. This results in ventilation and drainage blind spots within the cells, which tend to cause accumulation of fuel vapor and residual fluid over prolonged service. Consequently, the aging of the core layer is accelerated, compromising the structural integrity of the composite panel and the service life of the fuel tank. This paper proposes an asymmetric ventilation flow channel design. By optimizing the slotting position, size, and distribution pattern of the flow channels, the limitations of the traditional symmetric layout are overcome. To accurately investigate the effect of this design on the internal ventilation performance of honeycomb composite panels, a three-dimensional flow field model of the honeycomb sandwich composite panel is established using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The ventilation airflow distribution, velocity, and flow rate characteristics under different flow channel designs are simulated and compared with those of the conventional symmetric flow channel design. The results demonstrate that the asymmetric ventilation flow channel design improves the ventilation uniformity inside the honeycomb cells and completely eliminates the ventilation and drainage blind spots at the cell center inherent in the traditional design. Meanwhile, the design significantly enhances the ventilation gas velocity and flow rate at the center of honeycomb cells, accelerating the discharge of fuel vapor and drainage of accumulated fluid. The overall ventilation efficiency is considerably higher than that of the traditional symmetric design. This study provides a theoretical basis and technical support for the safety design of honeycomb composite panels used in auxiliary fuel tanks of civil aircraft.

Yao, Lijun, Chen, Jun

Research on Parameter Matching of Electric Vehicle Powertrain System

2026-99-0905

8/7/2026

This paper focuses on the parameter matching of key components and the improvement of overall vehicle performance for a certain front-wheel drive pure electric vehicle. Firstly, based on the target performance of the vehicle, the rated/peak power, speed, and torque of the permanent magnet synchronous drive motor, as well as the capacity, voltage, and series-parallel scheme of the LiFePO4 power battery, are systematically calculated. Meanwhile, the gear ratio of the transmission system is determined based on the dual constraints of the maximum speed and the maximum gradeability. Subsequently, the vehicle model is built using AVL Cruise, and the maximum speed, 0-100 Km/h acceleration time, maximum gradeability, and NEDC range are simulated and verified under steady-state and transient conditions. The results show that the maximum speed of the prototype vehicle reaches 139 Km/h, the 0-100 Km/h acceleration is 7.98 s, the maximum gradeability is 33.2%, the power consumption per 100 Km is 12.12 KWh, and the range is 485 Km, all of which are superior to the design indicators. The research verifies the rationality of the proposed parameter matching scheme and can provide a theoretical basis and engineering reference for the forward development of the power system of pure electric vehicles of the same level.

He, Yuefan, Zhang, Baoping, Tang, Shujian, Chen, Hanbang, Jin, Biao

Analysis of the Impact on Ride Comfort from Splitting the Unsprung Mass in Vehicle Modeling

2026-01-5057

8/6/2026

The study was conducted to investigate the differences in ride comfort analysis between treating the unsprung mass as a whole and modeling it separately. A classical two-degrees-of-freedom single-wheel vehicle vibration model and a three-degrees-of-freedom single-wheel vehicle vibration model with split unsprung mass were established, with their state-space descriptions determined. The fundamental vibration response quantities of both models were identified, and time-domain simulations under random road excitation were performed using MATLAB/Simulink. The results indicate that the two modeling approaches exhibit minimal differences in ride comfort analysis for the sprung mass, but there are certain differences for the unsprung mass. Additionally, for the three-degrees-of-freedom single-wheel vehicle vibration model with split unsprung mass, the axle-to-wheel mass ratio was introduced to analyze the changes in the fundamental vibration response quantities when the unsprung mass increases by a fixed value and is distributed differently between the axle and the wheel. The results show that variations in the axle-to-wheel mass ratio have no significant impact on the vibration characteristics of the sprung mass. Reducing the mass ratio, i.e., transferring part of the unsprung mass to the wheel, can somewhat reduce the vertical acceleration of the unsprung mass, but it will slightly increase the relative dynamic load on the wheel. Finally, the other two models were simplified by combining the two masses connected by the bearings.

Jie, Li, Wei, Deng, Chengyu, Li

Automotive Engineering: August 2026

26AUTP088/6/2026

2026 Toyota RAV4 just the first to benefit from Arlene and Toyota's Woven City A dispatch from the automaker's "let's just try it" city finds hydrogen fuel cells, automated parking robots, and a robust spirit of innovation. Go ahead, lean into AI and smart testing HBK and VI-grade's Smart Prototypes Summit shows again just how fast the auto industry is moving. Fastener specification for EVs: what engineers need to know Breaking down the critical differences in fastener selection for EV platforms. The missing layer of engineering The next generation of materials and automotive breakthroughs will depend on a better understanding and engineering of microstructure. Editorial ITF Summit 2026: Engineering resilience The Navigator Planning a trek across America with dogs in EVs Mercedes AMG EV has three electric motors and the sound of a V8 Glazing creatively at Sekurit Imagine Lab Slate's modem-free pickup brings privacy back to driving 1.5 million km later: How Huber+Suhner connects the gangway GM Energy places bets on sodium batteries Road Ready Four electric SUVs, five states, 16 beagles Product Briefs Spotlight: Noise & vibration tech, machine tools Q&A The changing value of in-car data

Delay-Compensated Active Anti-Roll Bar of Tractor-Trailers Using Two-Dimensional Piston Pump Electro-Hydrostatic Actuators

02-19-04-0027

8/5/2026

As tractor-trailers are essential to global logistics, their roll stability during emergency maneuvers is a critical safety concern. This paper presents a novel delay-compensated active roll control strategy for tractor-trailers using a two-dimensional piston pump electro-hydrostatic actuator (EHA). Unlike existing advanced strategies that assume ideal actuator behavior, this approach specifically targets the inherent response delay in high-tonnage applications. A detailed EHA model, including pump flow characteristics and hydraulic mechanics, was developed and validated through step response experiments. A seven-degree-of-freedom vehicle dynamics model and a model predictive controller were also constructed to compute the required anti-roll moment under emergency driving conditions. In order to address the EHA actuator’s response delay, a delay feedforward controller (DFC) was designed, integrating acceleration feedforward, feedback regulation, and delay disturbance estimation. TruckSim–Simulink co-simulations under double lane-change (DLC) maneuvers at 40 km/h, 60 km/h, and 80 km/h show that DFC improves displacement tracking and reduces peak trailer roll angle by up to 15% compared to a velocity-feedforward proportional-integral-derivative (VFPID) controller. It also enhances control efficiency, as evidenced by lower average motor speeds and pressure response of EHA. The system demonstrates high power-to-weight ratio and efficient tracking capabilities under dynamic conditions. Although active control provides limited benefit at low speeds, the proposed strategy effectively improves roll stability and driving safety under dynamic conditions.

Chen, Lijie, Yin, Yuming, Zeng, Yuhang, Ruan, Jian, Li, Hangqi, Sun, Peng

683 Guidance for Electronic Shop Reports in Aviation Maintenance

ARINC683 (Current)8/4/2026

The purpose of this standard is to provide guidance for the content, format and two-way electronic exchange of data between a Service Provider and the Customer. The standard is focused on the production of an electronic Shop Findings Report by the Service Provider, and to promote automated electronic data exchange.

Aviation Maintenance Committee

Microwaves Enable 3D Printing of High-Performance Ceramics

TBMG-55544

8/1/2026

3D printing could change how we build parts for jet engines and power plants, but the process leaves microscopic holes that cause the materials to shatter. Published in International Journal of Extreme Manufacturing, Professor Fangyong Niu’s team in Dalian University of Technology have fixed the problem by doing something unconventional: They added a microwave.

Multi-Objective Optimization Design of Ship Propulsion Shaft System in Ice Area Based on NSWOA Algorithm

2026-99-0152

7/31/2026

Ship propulsion shaft systems are subjected to ice load excitation when ships are navigating in polar ice regions. Compared to conventional hydrodynamic effects, the ice load imposes higher requirements on the shaft system’s ability to withstand torsional stresses. To improve the power of the ship propulsion system when sailing in ice areas and reduce the power loss of the shaft system, while considering the vibration performance. In this paper, a multi-objective optimal design of the shaft system is carried out using the Non-dominated Sorted Whale Optimization Algorithm (NSWOA) to reduce stresses on both the motor shaft and the intermediate shaft. The coupled system model of motor-shaft system-propeller structural components is established, and the system dynamics response model is obtained by solving using the Newmark-β method. Based on the response model, a multi-objective whale optimization algorithm is used to optimize the power and vibration performance of the shaft system simultaneously. The optimized results show that the shaft system transfer efficiency is improved by 0.27%, and the stress at the shaft end is reduced by 11.8% and 12.3% respectively.

Hu, Chuanxi, Li, Yao, Pan, Shuxian, Liu, Zhiyong, Xie, Yuteng, Ye, Jun, Zhou, Ruiping

A Methodology for Assessing Inlet Swirl Distortion

AIR5686 (Current)

7/31/2026

This Aerospace Information Report (AIR) addresses the subject of aircraft inlet-swirl distortion. A structured methodology for characterizing steady-state swirl distortion in terms of swirl descriptors and for correlating the swirl descriptors with loss in stability pressure ratio is presented. The methodology is to be considered in conjunction with other SAE inlet distortion methodologies. In particular, the combined effects of swirl and total-pressure distortion on stability margin are considered. However, dynamic swirl, i.e., time-variant swirl, is not considered. The implementation of the swirl assessment methodology is shown through both computational and experimental examples. Different types of swirl distortion encountered in various engine installations and operations are described, and case studies which highlight the impact of swirl on engine stability are provided. Supplemental material is included in the appendices. This AIR is issued to bring together information and ideas required to address the inlet-swirl problem for which common industry practice has yet to be established. This document should foster the tests and analyses necessary to mature the ideas proposed by the committee to a recommended practice. These tests and analyses must include information that justifies three main features of the proposed swirl methodology: (1) swirl descriptors for correlating inlet swirl and stability pressure ratio loss, (2) computational techniques for analyzing compression systems (inlets, fans, compressors), and (3) test protocols (instrumentation and test techniques). The committee anticipates serving the industry by using such information to establish the consensus necessary for issuance of an SAE recommended practice.

S-16 Turbine Engine Inlet Flow Distortion Committee

Design of an Automatic Device for Snow Clearing of Solar Greenhouses

2026-99-0146

7/31/2026

Solar greenhouses in winter or mountainous areas can be at risk of roof snow accumulation, leading to collapse, poor lighting, and sudden drops in temperature. The snow removal technologies presently employed on these greenhouses have the disadvantages of being cumbersome to adjust, being intricately structured, having a high cost, having high energy consumption, and being poorly adaptable to the curvature of the plastic. An intelligent snow removal device for removing snow on a northern solar greenhouse roof, and an automatic alarm safety system were designed to solve the problems. The device consists of a snow-clearing mechanism, a traversing mechanism, and detection-alarm modules. The mechanism for snow removal consists of a crank-slider with a curved guide rail. The snow removal rod is driven by the gear motor, which goes back and forth on the arched top. A bevel gear transmission system drives the gear motor mechanism. Due to this, the transverse mechanism moves with an interrupting jump-action on transverse rails around many different zones. The system for monitoring snow pressure has a distributed sensor that is programmed as a shield using an Arduino software system. The sensors detect the pressure of the snow in real-time. When the snow pressure hits the threshold, it activates the mechanism for coordinated functioning. This mechanism triggers snow clearing when the pressure threshold is achieved to avoid energy consumed through “premature clearing”. It also fits well on the curved surfaces of the greenhouse without any jamming. The snow removal machine’s various components and operations would accomplish full span snow removal and make it possible to overcome high labour intensity, slow manual response, energy waste, and others. The technology can enhance the safety of winter production of northern greenhouse crops and improve the disaster-resistant capacity of modern agriculture facilities. This technology has been granted a patent for invention.

Fu, Chengguo, Wei, Shanxiang, Zhang, Rongxian, Ding, Xuefeng, Gao, Yulan

Design and Optimization of Hollow Rotating Traveling Wave Ultrasonic Motor Based on Laser Beam Expander

2026-99-0154

7/31/2026

To meet the critical need for rapid response and miniaturization in laser beam expander drive systems, this study proposes an innovative actuation solution based on a hollow rotary traveling-wave ultrasonic motor. By thoroughly analyzing the optical adjustment mechanism of laser beam expanders and the electromechanical coupling behavior of ultrasonic motors, the motor structure was systematically optimized. Using a multiphysics coupling approach, the performance of stators fabricated from three distinct materials was compared, and parametric optimization was conducted. Experimental verification confirms that the developed ultrasonic motor precisely matches the load characteristics of beam-expanding optics while fulfilling the stringent requirements for both fast response and compact design. This research provides a reference for the miniaturization drive of high-precision optical systems, with promising applications in space optics and precision instrumentation.

Qiu, Haihui, Niu, Chuanhu, Xiao, Zhong, Xu, Zhangfan, Li, Jialiang, Pan, Song

Study on the Adaptability of Underwater Propeller-Driven Bernoulli Adsorption Device on Irregular Walls

2026-99-0172

7/31/2026

The propeller-driven Bernoulli adsorption device (PBD) has both propulsion and adsorption functions, being suitable for dual-mode underwater robots. Currently, there have been studies on the adsorption performance of PBD on the flat surface. However, the surface morphology of underwater engineering structures is different, and PBD’s adsorption performance on irregular walls still remains unknown. In this letter, based on the potential application scenarios of underwater dual-mode robots, we established four types of irregular wall models to investigate PBD’s adsorption performance on irregular walls. Through CFD simulations and experiments, the adsorption state was analyzed, and the adsorption performance was quantitatively studied.

Liu, Siyue, Hua, Zhong, Yang, Canjun

Development and Technical Verification of A Lunar Dust Environment Simulation Mechanism

2026-99-0175

7/31/2026

Lunar dust consists of extremely fine particles and exhibits electrostatic charging properties and electrostatic adhesion. These characteristics cause lunar dust to be highly susceptible to mobilization during lander touchdowns, rover traversals, and human activities, forming widely distributed dust clouds. Lunar dust contamination not only abrades spacecraft and equipment to impair their performance but also poses a threat to astronauts’ safety. To verify the impact of the lunar dust environment on exploration equipment components, a simulation mechanism adaptable to the thermal vacuum test environment was designed. This mechanism is integrated into the lunar environment simulation system and uses a vacuum stepper motor to drive a ratchet mechanism, enabling precise vibrational injection of simulated lunar dust. It mainly consists of a pretreatment mechanism, a particle sedimentation mechanism, a shielding mechanism, and an ultraviolet (UV) irradiation system. Considering the vacuum operating environment, alternating high and low temperature conditions, as well as the strict requirements for the mechanism’s compact size and high reliability, this paper analyzes in detail a series of problems encountered during the development of the mechanism and their corresponding solutions. Stainless steel and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) were selected as the main materials for the mechanism. Meanwhile, active temperature control measures were adopted to actively regulate the temperature of components such as the motor. Ultimately, the mechanism can withstand alternating high and low temperatures ranging from -150°C to 150°C and a vacuum environment of 5 × 10^–6 Pa. Under this environment, the mechanism can achieve vibration frequency adjustment within the range of 1-5 Hz, and realize the sedimentation of simulated lunar dust particles with a particle size of less than 200 μm over an area of 150 mm × 150 mm. After sedimentation, the simulated lunar dust particles can be charged through the photoelectric effect.

Xu, Menglong, Lv, Shizeng, Li, Guohua, Gong, Jie

Research on Electromagnetic Characteristics Calculation of Small Lead Bismuth Ring Linear Induction Electromagnetic Pump Device

2026-99-0201

7/31/2026

Compared to traditional reactors, lead-bismuth eutectic reactors (LBE) have higher neutron economy and stability. As a device for driving the coolant, the electromagnetic pump features non-contact operation, simplifying the sealing apparatus and achieving complete sealing inside the pump. It meets the requirements of miniaturization and modularity, while offering excellent flow regulation performance. Its input parameters determine the output performance in both performance analysis and structural design of lead-bismuth electromagnetic pumps . This article focuses on a small-scale annular linear induction electromagnetic pump (ALIP) as the simulation object and establishes an electromagnetic pump model. Based on Maxwell’s equations and N-S equations, and with the background of three-dimensional multiphysics coupling of electromagnetic field, flow field and heat transfer field, the coupling mechanism between the flow velocity of LBE and the Lorentz force was studied in detail. From the perspective of electromagnetic-flow coupling, the influence of different coil turns, input currents, and excitation frequencies on the Magnetic flux density and pressure of electromagnetic pumps was analyzed. Finally, a comprehensive analysis of the output characteristics of ALIP under various input parameters is performed, and the research results provide a theoretical reference for the design and optimization of lead-bismuth ALIP.

Peng, Chunyu, Xiao, Changzhi

Effects of Arrangement Patterns on Static Stability and Leakage Characteristics in Hybrid Labyrinth-Honeycomb Seals

2026-99-0166

7/31/2026

In this work, three-dimensional models of axial hole labyrinth-honeycomb seals (AHLHS) and circumferential hole labyrinth-honeycomb seals (CHLHS) were established by CFD to investigate the influence of different arrangement patterns on the static stability and leakage characteristics of two seals under choked and unchoked flow conditions and various eccentricities with different values. The results show that the two configurations have different advantageous ranges, and the hole arrangement pattern will not significantly change the pressure difference distribution between the two seals. Under most studied conditions, AHLHS maintains lower absolute values of stiffness coefficients, pressure difference groove, and negative cross-coupled stiffness coefficients, resulting in higher stability.

Li, Qing’an, Gao, Tongxin, Li, Zeze, Pang, Shuai, Lü, Yanjun, Zhang, Yongfang

Design and Analysis of a Large Hydraulic Cylinder Maintenance Device

2026-99-0214

7/31/2026

Addressing the challenges in maintaining large hydraulic cylinders and the lack of specialized equipment, this study presents a dedicated maintenance system developed through a case study of a large hydraulic lifting cylinder. Through a comprehensive analysis of maintenance requirements, we developed a six-component maintenance system comprising a foundation base, a mounting bracket, a cylinder support frame, a piston rod bracket, a drive cylinder bracket, and hydraulic components. The paper systematically explains the structural configurations and functional specifications of each component, details the operational workflow of the maintenance system, and conducts theoretical design and strength verification for critical load-bearing brackets using principles from theoretical mechanics and structural mechanics. A static analysis module from ANSYS Workbench finite element software was employed to validate the overall structure. Results demonstrate that the key components meet operational strength requirements. This innovative maintenance system proves highly feasible and serves as a valuable reference for designing similar hydraulic cylinder systems.

Qiao, Xiaodong, Du, Chao, Long, Yuheng

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