Materials Design - Towards a Functionally Graded Electrical Conductor

In this study, we discuss functionally graded (FG) materials as pulsed electrical conductors. These conductors can be designed to be more efficient and longer lasting by applying numerical modeling tools. One focus is on limiting the thermal fatigue damage in conductors caused by very high temperatures that develop during pulse heating. We have quantified the effect of various grading functions on the pulsed Joule heating generated and the peak temperature experienced in the conductors of an electromagnetic launcher by using a 1D numerical code and a state of the art 3D coupled finite element code, EMAP3D. Because FG materials incorporate applications-tailored compositions, structures, and dimensions, smoothly graded properties in lateral and longitudinal cross sections are obtainable. The Solid Freeform Fabrication (SFF) processing approach allows for architectures with a series of important features. These features include the selective use of high efficiency conducting materials in the core, preconditioned conductor/structure interfaces, and built-in features for enhanced cooling where necessary.Mechanical Engineerin

Special Reference to Handicraft and Cottage Industry in Odisha

Any country\u27s environmental problems are related to the level of its economic development, the availability of natural resources and the lifestyle of its population. In India, the rapid growth of population, poverty, urbanization, industrialization and several related factors are responsible for the rapid degradation of the environment. Environmental problems have become serious in many parts of the country, and hence cannot be ignored.  80% of the total population of Odisha, a state of Eastern India depends on agriculture. But most of them are small and marginal farmers. 48% farmer\u27s households are indebted. The state, in reality, is the second poorest state in India today, next only to Bihar. Industrialization is the only alternative to develop the economic status of the state but the darker side of it is environmental pollution. Hence if the growth of industry can be accelerated along with environmental protection then a balance can be maintained. So this paper examines the growth of cottage industries in the state of Odisha through different statistical analysis as this is an eco-friendly industry and simultaneously a prospective area for the growth of indigenous talent

Anthropometric considerations of farm tools/machinery design for tribal workers of northeastern India

Anthropometric body dimensions play a significant role in human-machine interaction.  The overall working efficiency of human-machine environment and resultant discomfort has severe impact while using farm tools and machinery in hills.  The northeastern region of India is predominantly hilly and inhabited by tribal population.  This study presents the anthropometric data of the agricultural workers of Meghalaya, which helps to develop/modify the tools and machinery suitable for the people of this Region.  In total 1027 subjects (566 male and 461 female) of five different tribes known as Khasi, Garo, Jaintia, Hajong and Koch from 35 different villages were selected randomly from seven districts.  Thirty-four body dimensions useful for agricultural equipment design were selected and measured.  The average weight of female workers was found to be about 10.1% lower than the male workers and the average stature of male was nearly 6.9% higher than the female. Similar trend was observed in most of the measured body dimension.  The collected data showed non-significant difference among various body dimensions while comparing with other northeastern states.  The efforts have been made to illustrate the application of anthropometric data in the design of farm equipments through some examples.Keywords: Anthropometry, farm machinery design, farm tools Citation: Agrawal K. N., R. K. P Singh, and K. K. Satapathy.  Anthropometric considerations of farm tools/machinery design for tribal workers of northeastern India.  Agric Eng Int: CIGR Journal, 2010, 12(1): 143-150. &nbsp