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Showcase Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture

Coordinated Voltage Control for Conservation Voltage Reduction in Power Distribution Systems

Coordinated Voltage Control for Conservation Voltage Reduction in Power Distribution Systems

Primary Author: Rahul Jha

Faculty Sponsor: Anamika Dubey

 

Primary College/Unit: Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture

Category: Engineering and Environmental Science

Campus: Pullman

 

Abstract:

 

Principle Topic

An efficient operation of the distribution grid can be achieved using network-level optimization modeled as a distribution optimal power flow (D-OPF) problem. However, the variable power generation profiles of distributed energy resources (DERs) may render the optimal control decisions that are obtained in advance using D-OPF methods to sub-optimal.

 

Method

For conservation voltage reduction (CVR), a coordinated centralized and local control approach is developed that simultaneously achieves the network-level objective, while mitigating the impacts of DERs variability on optimal control set-points. The centralized controller solves a D-OPF problem for substation power reduction using a bi-level approach to control the system’s legacy voltage control devices (voltage regulator and capacitor banks) and smart inverters. A penalty successive linear programming (PSLP) approach is used to obtain a computationally tractable D-OPF model. Next, an adaptive volt-var droop control for the local control of smart inverters is proposed to minimize the voltage deviations (due to DERs variability) with respect to the centralized control set-points.

 

Results/Implications

The proposed coordinated control approach is validated using the modified IEEE 123-node test system which has four voltage regulators, four capacitor banks and twenty-six DERs.  The results show that the proposed control simultaneously reduces the power consumption from the substation to achieve CVR objective and voltage violations due to DERs variability.

 

Network Loss Analysis of Low-Voltage Low Power DC Microgrids for Rural Electrification

Network Loss Analysis of Low-Voltage Low Power DC Microgrids for Rural Electrification

Primary Author: Rabia Khan

Faculty Sponsor: Noel Schulz

 

Primary College/Unit: Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture

Category: Engineering and Environmental Science

Campus: Pullman

 

Abstract:

Principal topic

The topic is “Network Loss Analysis of Low-Voltage Low Power DC Microgrids for Rural Electrification”. Millions of people around the globe are suffering  from energy poverty, particularly the inhabitants of Africa  and South-East Asia. Electrification through national grids is cost-prohibitive with limited power generation sources in the  third world countries. The low voltage, low-power islanded DC microgrids are a practical option for rural electrification.

 

Method

In this research work, the detailed network loss analysis of four different microgrid architectures is performed using the modified Newton-Raphson power flow for DC systems. These architectures include, 1) Centralized generation centralized storage (CGCS), 2) Centralized generation distributed storage (CGDS), 3) Distributed generation centralized storage (DGCS), and 4) Distributed generation distributed storage (DGDS), which are implemented with both radial and ring interconnection schemes using time-varying load demand and PV generation.

 

Results/implications

Comparative performance analysis of these architectures is done using the modified Newton-Raphson power flow method at different low-voltage levels and conductor sizes. The DGDS architecture with ring interconnection is the most efficient and reliable with an advantage of scalability, usage diversity, and mutual resource sharing capability. However, ring interconnection requires extra conductors, which increase the cost. So, a tradeoff between conductor size, voltage level, cost, interconnection scheme, and reliability is to be made while selecting the components for the microgrid architecture. The efficiency of systems is higher for conductors with lower AWG sizes but it is more expensive. So, trade-off between conductor size, voltage level, cost, interconnection scheme, and reliability is important.

 

A Feasibility Study On 3D Printed Biopsy Needles: Pronged Tips And INternal Features Affect On Tissue Yield

A Feasibility Study On 3D Printed Biopsy Needles: Pronged Tips And INternal Features Affect On Tissue Yield

Primary Author: Anika VanDeen

Faculty Sponsor: Roland Chen

 

Primary College/Unit: Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture

Category: Engineering and Environmental Science

Campus: Pullman

 

Abstract:

 

Principal Topic

Cancer is an ever-prevalent disease accounting for a large portion of medical services. With an aging world population, it is imperative to have efficient and non-invasive diagnostics. Biopsy methods such as core needle biopsy (CNB) and fine needle aspiration (FNA) are some of the most common practices used to garner an accurate diagnosis.

Methods

This study explores the feasibility of using 3D printing to fabricate biopsy needles with advanced designs that cannot be manufactured using traditional methods. We focus on enhancing the needle tip geometry as well as the addition of an internal feature to help improve tissue yield amounts. Four needle designs were tested, two with a bevel shaped tip, and two with a five-pronged tip, both with and without the internal feature.

 

Results/Implications

Average total yield for the beveled needle with no feature (n=10), was 3.217 mg (s=0.9104), and for the beveled needle with feature, five-pronged needle without feature, and the five-pronged needle with feature (n=22), measured 8.31 mg (s=3.07 mg), 16.16 mg (s=12.21), and 26.34 mg (s=12.94), respectively. There is a statistical difference in yield tissue amounts between the five-prong needle with and without feature (p=0.01). The pronged-tip design with the internal feature is shown to have a significant effect on tissue sampling efficiency. The 3D printed needles do create higher insertion force than that of the stainless-steel needles. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using 3D printing to fabricate biopsy needles with enhanced tissue sampling efficiency.

 

Optimizing the Production of Stem-cell-based Cartilage for Arthritis Treatment

Optimizing the Production of Stem-cell-based Cartilage for Arthritis Treatment

Primary Author: Olivia Reynolds

Faculty Sponsor: Bernard Van Wie

 

Primary College/Unit: Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture

Category: Engineering and Environmental Science

Campus: Pullman

 

Abstract:

 

Principle topic

Osteoarthritis (OA), the degradation of articular cartilage tissue which lines joints, affects 30 million adults in the United States. There are few effective treatment options for OA; however, stem-cell-based therapy is a promising emerging treatment as stem cells can form new healthy cartilage. The use of chemical growth factors and anti-inflammatory compounds, as well as the co-culture of stem cells with native cartilage cells can enhance cartilage formation and promote the production of critical structural proteins such as glycosaminoglycans (GAG) and collagen. However, the optimum combination of these factors is unknown. Thus, this work investigated the combined roles of the growth factor dexamethasone, the anti-inflammatory compound alpha-tocopherol, and the ratio of stem cells to cartilage cells in an effort to determine an optimum combination and improve the quality of engineered cartilage tissue.

 

Method

In this work, dexamethasone concentration, alpha-tocopherol concentration, and stem cell percentage were varied using a Box-Behnken fractional factorial design scheme. Following 21 days of cell culture, total collagen, GAG, and DNA were measured for each experimental group to quantify the amount of cartilage-specific proteins produced. Data were analyzed to determine the culture conditions which resulted in the maximum quantity of collagen and GAG as these proteins indicate cartilage formation.

 

Results/implications

The results of this study showed that the highest protein production occurred at low stem cell percentages, low to moderate anti-inflammatory concentrations, and moderate growth factor concentration. These results may be used to improve the production of cartilage for applications in OA treatment.

 

Effects of Garlic Extract Released from Calcium Phosphate Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering Applications

Effects of Garlic Extract Released from Calcium Phosphate Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering Applications

Primary Author: Ashley Vu

Faculty Sponsor: Susmita Bose

 

Primary College/Unit: Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture

Category: Medical and Life Sciences

Campus: Pullman

 

Abstract:

 

PRINCIPAL TOPIC

Bone is a constantly remodeling tissue comprised of osteoblast cells which form bone and osteoclast cells which remove old bone through resorption. Garlic is historically known for the prevention and treatment of diseases however knowledge is limited regarding bone health. Animal studies have shown garlic minimizes bone loss through increasing estrogen levels and reducing osteoclast bone resorption. Excessive bone loss can cause porous, brittle bones, commonly known as osteoporosis, which lead to high fracture risks. Utilizing natural alternatives to synthetic medicines can reduce physiological rejection while maintaining relief to ailments and diseases.

 

METHOD

One of the most well-known sulfur compounds extracted from garlic is allicin. The objective is to understand the effects of allicin release on the bone remodeling process. The hypothesis is allicin will show no cytotoxic effects to osteoblast cells and reduce osteoclast resorption. Allicin was extracted from pure garlic powder and loaded onto calcium phosphate scaffolds, mimicking bone tissue composition. Cellular and scaffold surface morphology were imaged post cell culture as well histological staining of an in vivo rat distal femur model.

 

RESULTS/IMPLICATIONS

Results show allicin has no cytotoxic effects on osteoblast morphology and a reduction of osteoclast resorption pit formation. Allicin also shows significantly enhanced collagen formation in vivo, indicating another avenue for improved bone healing. With these results, further knowledge is gained on the ability for garlic to improve bone health in bone tissue engineering applications.

 

Enhancing Mass Transfer of Nutraceuticals to Inflamed Cartilage Cells through Perfusion

Enhancing Mass Transfer of Nutraceuticals to Inflamed Cartilage Cells through Perfusion

Primary Author: Haneen Abusharkh

Faculty Sponsor: Bernard Van Wie

 

Primary College/Unit: Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture

Category: Engineering and Environmental Science

Campus: Pullman

 

Abstract:

Articular cartilage is a connective tissue that lacks blood vessels or sensory neurons. The lack of vascularity presents cartilage with diffusion-limited nutrient and oxygen supply and minimal intrinsic ability to regenerate after injury, leading to Osteoarthritis (OA). The aneural nature of cartilage makes injury difficult to diagnose due to lack of pain and therefore OA intervention has a tendency to be delayed. OA is the most common joint disease in the U.S. and was traditionally defined solely as the degradation of cartilage and was not considered an inflammatory disease. However, several recent studies have proven the presence of inflammatory markers, including interleukins, in the serum of OA joints. These findings have transformed how researches define and develop treatments for OA.

Nutraceuticals are food components that have medicinal benefits in addition to their nutritional value. They reduce inflammation by blocking the expression of interleukin-1 and scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals by their anti-oxidative characteristics.

In this study, inflammation was induced in bovine cartilage cells by the addition of interleukin-1β. Then, cells were cultured in two groups, a static micromass, and a perfusion bioreactor group. Both groups were supplied with a nutraceutical containing growth medium. We hypothesized that perfusion enhances the mass transfer of nutraceuticals to the grown cartilage tissue and reverses the inflammatory symptoms. Our results suggest that inflammation was reduced in the bioreactor samples, reflected by higher production of proteins indicative of healthy cartilage, collagen, and glycosaminoglycan, by more than 16-fold in comparison to static micromass cultures.

 

Impact identification on concrete panels using a surface-bonded smart piezoelectric module (SPM) system

Impact identification on concrete panels using a surface-bonded smart piezoelectric module (SPM) system

Primary author: Ayumi Manawadu
Faculty sponsor: Pizhong Qiao

Primary college/unit: Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture
Campus: Pullman

Abstract:

Structural damage assessment after a truck/barge collision is crucial to preserve the integrity of aging concrete bridges, even if there is no apparent damage on the surface. However, given the size of bridges, it would be expensive to analyze the whole structure at once. Therefore, the location and magnitude of the impact should be determined promptly to identify critical areas that require further damage assessment. Such systems help to determine timely corrective action to avoid catastrophic failure. Nevertheless, there is no in-situ cost-effective monitoring technique to carry out this task. Thus, wave-based piezoelectric sensor systems are a promising alternative for real-time impact detection of concrete structures.

Surface-bonded smart piezoelectric modules (SPM) are used to investigate the impact response on concrete panels regarding impact location, impact force, projectile mass, and projectile velocity. Theoretical models based on a spring-mass system and Reed’s model are developed and then validated using numerical and experimental investigations. The main parameters used in this approach are the time of flight and the amplitude of the propagating waves.

The method successfully determined the impact location and magnitude of impact, with an error of 6.40% and 2.73%, respectively. Further, the mass and velocity of the projectile were also successfully computed. Such an evaluation helps to prioritize impact events and to recognize more effective repair techniques. The results demonstrate that the surface-bonded SPMs provide a basis for the development of a cost-effective in-situ real-time non-destructive technique to analyze the impact-response of concrete members.

Smart Home Residents’ Behavior Analysis

Smart Home Residents’ Behavior Analysis

Primary author: Beiyu Lin
Faculty sponsor: Diane Cook

Primary college/unit: Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture
Campus: Pullman

Abstract:

In 2030, 19 percent of the population in the United States will be aged 65 and older. In 2050, it will be 22 percent. With population growth and aging problems, we anticipate that there will be increasing healthcare needs of seniors for their physical and mental health problems. We want to design technology to help them live independently as long as possible at home and help them have a positive quality of life.

With decades of behavioral data from over 100 smart homes, we now can design new approaches to model human behavior from smart home sensors for extracting insights about our health. We design a new approach based on inverse reinforcement learning, which considers a house plan as a grid and each cell in the grid includes spatial-temporal features of a resident. For example, we design methods to study a resident’s in-home trajectory during the time s/he is healthy and then use deviations from this learned function to predict abnormal behaviors which may indicate potential health problems. Residents who make changes in their routine, such as sleeping in a living room recliner rather than a bed, are due to their health deterioration, such as increased breathing difficulties.

We are the first group to utilize inverse reinforcement learning to study indoor behavior patterns and its indication of health conditions. This model will help researchers having a greater understanding of human routine behavior and its variations that can transform how healthcare services are delivered to millions of homes.

Three-dimensional(3D) printing conductive martial on fabric

Three-dimensional(3D) printing conductive material on fabric

Primary author: Dan Liang
Faculty sponsor: Hang Liu

Primary college/unit: Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture
Campus: Pullman

Abstract:

3D printing is an additive manufacture technology, which prints material in a layer by layer mode. Because 3D printing technology has lots of advantages, such as personalized customization, lower parts cost, accurate production, increasing material utilization rate, and accelerating prototyping and manufacturing by eliminating costly model, it becomes a fashionable technology in various industries. In the textile industry, there is great potential to impart advanced functions to traditional textile materials by 3D printing, such as electrical conductivity, sensitivity in heat and chemicals, and shape memory. FDM (fused deposition modeling) is the most used type of 3D printing. However, FDM printed part will increase stiffness and decrease adhesion to textiles. Direct inkjet writing (DIW) has better adhesion and flexibility to fabric than FDM. In this research, the DIW of conductive polymers on three textile fabrics (100% cotton, 100% polyester, and 50%cotton/50% polyester blend) was explored. The resistivity change with tensile stretching was evaluated and compared to FDM. The electricity resistivity change of printed fabrics with abrasion test were measured. The research adopts the PLA, PEO, and PCL as part of the printing material and carbon nanotube as the conductive material. Resistivity measurement, tensile test, abrasion test, FTIR, and TGA are implemented in the research. Overall, FDM printed fabrics had lower resistivity (high conductivity) compared to DIW printed ones. However, the FDM samples are more brittle than DIW. The resistivity of DIW printed fabric is more stable compared to FDM during the tensile test. DIW printed samples performed better during abrasion test.

Co-Design Process Used to Determine Best Library and Park Site

Co-Design Process Used to Determine Best Library and Park Site

Primary author: Robert Krikac
Co-author(s): Michael Sanchez

Primary college/unit: Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture
Campus: Pullman

Abstract:

Royal City, Washington is a rural community located in central Washington with a young and growing population. It also has many challenges that are associated with growth, two of which are outgrowing its small library and the need for increased park space. The City of Royal City requested the Rural Communities Development Initiative (RCDI) at WSU work with them to determine which of two sites for a park and new library would best serve the needs of the community.

The RCDI, using faculty and students from the design disciplines of the School of Design and Construction, led a series of two co-design workshops where community stakeholders provided input as to the community’s specific needs and wants of their park and library site. Co-design is “designing with” rather than “designing for”. The major issues identified were ease of access, safety, challenges and opportunities posed by the geography of each location.

The RCDI developed plans that gave the community graphic views of how each site could be designed to accommodate a new library and serve the recreational needs of the town. The first workshop was documented and design possibilities and challenges were presented back to the community in a second workshop where stakeholders decided that one site’s features clearly made it the best choice for park and library expansion. Feedback from the second workshop was used to develop final conceptual plans that the city is using to proceed with more detailed designs and future construction.