An Investigation into the Effect of the Shell on SALM Processed Parts

Shell Assisted Layer Manufacturing (SALM) is a novel process for rapid prototyping/ tooling/ manufacture (RP/RT/RM) which is presently undergoing feasibility studies. SALM is based on layered manufacturing technology (LMT). Initially it develops the shell (boundaries) of a selected layer using a technique similar to fused deposition modelling (FDM). The developed shell is filled with a UV curable resin and is exposed to UV radiation for curing. This procedure is repeated until the complete part is built. This paper compares and contrasts properties of parts made using two options available with the SALM technique: building the part using a soluble shell (FDM support structure material, finally dissolved to recover the part); or using a polymer material such as ABS that is bonded with the resin whilst making the part.Mechanical Engineerin

Relativistic Kinetic Equations for Finite Domains and Freeze-out Problem

The relativistic kinetic equations for the two domains separated by the hypersurface with both space- and time-like parts are derived. The particle exchange between the domains separated by the time-like boundaries generates source terms and modifies the collision term of the kinetic equation. The correct hydrodynamic equations for the ``hydro+cascade'' models are obtained and their differences from existing freeze-out models of the hadronic matter are discussed

Phase diagram and phonon-induced backscattering in topological insulator nanowires

We present an effective low-energy theory of electron-phonon coupling effects for clean cylindrical topological insulator nanowires. Acoustic phonons are modelled by isotropic elastic continuum theory with stress-free boundary conditions. We take into account the deformation potential coupling between phonons and helical surface Dirac fermions, and also include electron-electron interactions within the bosonization approach. For half-integer values of the magnetic flux $\Phi_B$ along the wire, the low-energy theory admits an exact solution since a topological protection mechanism then rules out phonon-induced $2k_F$-backscattering processes. We determine the zero-temperature phase diagram and identify a regime dominated by superconducting pairing of surface states. As example, we consider the phase diagram of HgTe nanowires. We also determine the phonon-induced electrical resistivity, where we find a quadratic dependence on the flux deviation $\delta\Phi_B$ from the nearest half-integer value

COOPER-framework: A Unified Standard Process for Non-parametric Projects

Practitioners assess performance of entities in increasingly large and complicated datasets. If non-parametric models, such as Data Envelopment Analysis, were ever considered as simple push-button technologies, this is impossible when many variables are available or when data have to be compiled from several sources. This paper introduces by the ‘COOPER-framework’ a comprehensive model for carrying out non-parametric projects. The framework consists of six interrelated phases: Concepts and objectives, On structuring data, Operational models, Performance comparison model, Evaluation, and Result and deployment. Each of the phases describes some necessary steps a researcher should examine for a well defined and repeatable analysis. The COOPER-framework provides for the novice analyst guidance, structure and advice for a sound non-parametric analysis. The more experienced analyst benefits from a check list such that important issues are not forgotten. In addition, by the use of a standardized framework non-parametric assessments will be more reliable, more repeatable, more manageable, faster and less costly.DEA, non-parametric efficiency, unified standard process, COOPER-framework.