Computers, Special purpose

A robotic ribbon fin with twelve independent fin rays, elastic fin membrane, and a body
of adjustable height was developed for this thesis specifically to test the 1990 theory put forth
by Lighthill and Blake that a multiplicative propulsive enhancement exists for Gymnotiform and
Balisiform swimmers based on the ratio of body and fin heights. Until now, the theory has not
been experimentally tested. Proof of such a momentum enhancement could have a profound effect
on unmanned underwater vehicle design and shed light on the evolutionary advantage to body-fin
ratios found in nature, shown as optimal for momentum enhancement in Lighthill and Blake’s theory.
Thrust tests for various body heights were conducted in a recirculating flow tank at different flow
speeds and fin flapping frequencies. When comparing different body heights at different frequencies
to a ’no-body’ thrust test case at each frequency no momentum enhancement factor was found. Data
in this thesis indicate there is no momentum enhancement factor due to the presence of a body on
top of an undulating fin.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the validity of linear position
transducers (LPTs), The Open Barbell System (OBS) and Tendo Weightlifting Analyzer
System (TWAS), in comparison to criterion measure Optotrak Certus (OC3D). Further,
we aimed to compare LPTs against each other. Twenty-five resistance-trained males were
recruited, and reported to the laboratory for one day of data collection. Subjects
performed one-repetition maximum (1 RM) testing of the squat, then had a standardized
rest before completing one set to failure with 70% 1 RM. There was no significant
difference in average velocity (AV) between either LPT vs. OC3D. T-tests revealed
significant differences between LPTs and OC3D peak velocity (PV) (OBS: p=0.02080;
TWAS: p<0.01). A significant difference was detected between OBS and TWAS PV
(p<0.01). OBS and TWAS demonstrated concurrent validity compared to OC3D for AV
(OBS: p=0.2014; TWAS: p=0.5466). Neither LPT was a valid measure ofPV (OBS:
p=0.0208; TWAS: p<0.01).

This report describes the development of a low cost open source semiautonomous
robotic car and a way to communicate with it. It is a continuation of
prior research done by other students at FAU and published in recent ASEE
conferences.
The objective of this project was the development of a new robotic
platform with improved precision over the original, while still keeping the cost
down. It was developed with the aim to allow a hands-on approach to the
teaching of mathematics topics that are taught in the K-12 syllabus.
Improved robustness and reliability of the robotic platform for visually
solving math problems was achieved using a combination of PID loops to keep
track of distance and rotation. The precision was increased by changing the
position of the encoders to the shafts of each motor. A mobile application was developed to allow the student to draw the
geometric shapes on the screen before the car draws them. The mobile
application consists of two parts, the canvas that the user uses to draw the figure
and the configure section that lets the user change the parameters of the
controller.
Results show that the robot can draw standard geometric and complex
geometric shapes. It has high precision and sufficient accuracy, the accuracy can
be improved with some mechanical adjustments. During testing a Pythagorean
triangle was drawn to show visually the key mathematics concept.
The eventual goal of this project will be a K-12 class room study to obtain
the feedback of the teachers and students on the feasibility of using a robotic car
to teach math. Subsequent to that necessary changes will be made to
manufacture a unit that is easy to assemble by the teacher.