In the design activity, part geometry is assembled to create an assembly model. The number of parts may range from a few tens to a few million and typically the relationship among them constructs closed-loops with under-constrained states. In this paper, a 3D constraint solving method is proposed for closed-loop assemblies with under-constrained states. The proposed constraint solving method determines assembly configurations by applying the following procedures: 1. Transform the geometric mating relations into the kinematic joint relations, 2. Convert the closed-chain kinematic assembly to an open kinematic assembly by removing a joint, 3. Compute an open kinematic configuration by solving the open kinematic problem and 4. Obtain the closed-loop kinematic configuration by pasting the 'cut' links of the open assembly. The cut and paste operations minimise the number of constraint variables that have to be solved simultaneously. Thus, it can maximise the efficiency and robustness of an assembly constraint solver. The proposed constraint solving method combines the simplicity of a sequential solving approach with the universality of a simultaneous solving approach.

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ABSTRCTThe nested primers designed to amplify a 222-base pair portion of the hemolysin gene, vvhA, were specific for all V. vulnificus strains tested. The nested PCR amplification, coupled with direct extraction of template DNA, revealed improved sensitivity sufficient for detection of 1 to 10 CFU V. vulnificus in 1 mL of seafood homogenates, and eliminated the need for enrichment culturing. Thereby, the nested PCR method achieved a broader applicability, making it effective for extensive use in identification of the pathogen in natural samples such as raw seafoods, seawater and sediments.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the biocompatibility of studied binary magnesium-calcium (Mg-Ca) alloys for biodegradable intraosseous implants. Mg is necessary for health and is a non-toxic biodegradable material that decomposes naturally in the body. Nevertheless, Mg has been implicated in problems including diminished physical properties and corrosion resistance when degradation is too rapid prior to bone healing. This study has explored the effect of Ca on the corrosion resistance and biological evaluation after anodizing treatment with different contents of Ca alloy. Binary Mg-0.5Ca, Mg-1Ca and Mg-5Ca alloys were prepared by the casting method under an argon atmosphere and cut into disc-shaped pieces. Pure Mg alloy was used as the control. Anodic oxidation was performed for 15 minutes at a voltage of 120 V using an electrolyte solution containing Ca gluconate, sodium hexametaphosphate, and sodium hydroxide at room temperature. Corrosion resistance was analyzed using a corrosion tester. After a hydrogen evolution test, the surface pattern and phase changes were observed on a scanning electron microscop (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscop (EDS). Microscopic evaluation of the adhesion and cell biological functions of Mg was conducted by observing the response of human fetal osteoblastic 1.19 cells with regard to changes in surface film properties, depending on the amount of Ca. Our results support the view that in Mg-xCa alloys (x = 0.5, 1, 5 wt.%) treated using anodic oxidation, the increasing Ca content controls the rate of decomposition and improves corrosion resistance.