Validity and Test-Retest Reliability of a Novel Push Low-Cost Hand-Held Dynamometer for Knee Strength Assessment during Different Force Ranges

The objective was to assess the instrumental validity and the test–retest reliability of a low-cost hand-held push dynamometer adapted from a load-cell based hanging scale (tHHD) to collect compressive forces in different ranges of compressive forces. Three independent raters applied 50 pre-established compressions each on the tHHD centered on a force platform in three distinct ranges: ~70 N, ~160 N, ~250 N. Knee isometric strength was also assessed on 19 subjects in two sessions (48 h apart) using the tHHD anchored by an inelastic adjustable strap. Knee extension and flexion were assessed with the participant seated on a chair with the feet resting on the floor, knees, and hips flexed at 90°. The isometric force peaks were recorded and compared. The ICC and the Cronbach’s α showed excellent consistency and agreement for both instrumental validity and test–retest reliability (range: 0.89–0.99), as the correlation and determination coefficients (range: 0.80–0.99). The SEM and the MDC analysis returned adequate low values with a coefficient of variation less than 5%. The Bland–Altman results showed consistency and high levels of agreement. The tHHD is a valid method to assess the knee isometric strength, showing portability, cost-effectiveness, and user-friendly interface to provide an effective form to assess the knee isometric strength.

Comprehensive assessment of the strength of the composite fan blade of the main ventilation of the mine

The work is devoted to the development and calculation of the strength of a new composite fan blade of the main ventilation of the mine, including the static and modal analyzes, as well as the stability analysis. The studies took into account the pre-determined aerodynamic loads on the lateral surface of the blade airfoil. The research was carried out by means of the finite element analysis of the thin-walled airfoil structure using the theory of thick multilayer shells. Estimation of the static strength was performed using the Hashin strength criterion. Analysis of the airfoil shell buckling resistance under the action of bending aerodynamic loads was performed using the methods of the linear stability theory. The modal analysis was performed taking into account the prestressed state from the action of static loads. The analysis of the research results testifies to the sufficient static and dynamic strength of the composite airfoil and the possibility of its implementation in a real rotary machine with the correct design of the fastening between the metal part of the blade root and the composite airfoil. The method of designing and analyzing the strength of the fan blade composite airfoil can be used to create new composite elements of turbomachines: the correct selection of thicknesses of different parts of the airfoil allows obtaining a uniform design with rational use of material; the optimal location of the stiffeners inside the airfoil shell avoids its excessive displacement and stress and the buckling effects, as well as achieving the maximal detuning level from the bending natural frequencies of vibrations; the proposed integrated approach to the strength assessment, which takes into account the effect of aerodynamic loads on the blade airfoil in the static analysis and the prestressed state during the modal analysis can significantly improve the accuracy and correctness of calculations. The approach described in the paper is new for low-speed rotary machines, as at present there are no comprehensive methods for designing composite blades of fans and compressors, and there is no mention of specific examples of their implementation in the projects implemented by manufacturers.

Structural Health Monitoring of Existing Reinforced Cement Concrete Buildings and Bridge Using Nondestructive Evaluation with Repair Methodology

Sustainable development means the utilization of resources at a rate less than the rate at which they are renewing. In India infrastructure industry is growing rapidly due to globalization and raising awareness. In the present study, challenges faced by countries like India are to sustain the existing expectations with limited resources available. Reinforced Concrete (RC) structure may suffer several types of defects that may jeopardize their service life. This chapter deals with condition assessment and repair of RCC (G+3) building situated at Northern part of the country. There are various techniques available for repair and rehabilitation of reinforced concrete structures. From a maintenance point of view, it is essential to take up the strength assessment of an existing structure. So, to find out the reason behind the deterioration of the concrete structures some of the NDT and partially destructive technique are used. The NDT tests conducted during this study are Rebound Hammer, Ultra-sonic Pulse Velocity, Concrete resistivity Meter, Ferro-scanning and Carbonation, etc. This chapter helps to explains, how identified the different parameters of distress building like strength, density, level of corrosion and amount of reinforcement. On basis of these results, apply a repair methodology to revert back the strength parameters of the buildings.