Tribology Laboratory
The Gear Transmission Laboratory is equipped with experimental stations with a closed power flow (Niemann gearboxes) for gear durability tests and short-term scuffing tests. The gear testing device with a closed power flow consists of an independent unit – a Niemann (FZG) gearbox. It is powered by an electric motor that is smoothly controlled by a Lenze phase converter, type 9325. The converter includes a small control panel. Another component of the setup is a torque sensor on the shaft. Its signal is displayed on a receiver with a display showing the torque value. A completely separate unit is a set of precise digital scales that operate independently of the above-mentioned equipment.
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Generative Design Laboratory
The laboratory was established in 2013 with the primary objective of researching new methods for the development of automobiles and their components. Currently, the laboratory focuses on generative design, which represents an innovative approach to product development in the automotive industry. The facility is equipped to the standard of top-tier design offices of leading car manufacturers, featuring 11 DELL workstations with CATIA V5 and V6 systems, including modules and extensions for vehicle development (P3 platform). The lab also includes an IBM backup server networked to the workstations, an optical 3D scanner with specialized software for data acquisition and processing, a vacuum casting device with two temperature-controlled furnaces for efficient silicone mold casting, an FDM 3D printer for producing durable and precise prototype models, an interactive whiteboard with software support, and 2 portable computers.
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Mobile Working Machines Laboratory
The Mobile Working Machines Laboratory is located in the heavy pavilion of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at STU in Bratislava. The laboratory includes an experimental device (test stand, Fig. 1) for measuring loads in loader working devices (designed for the LOCUST L903 type). This equipment allows for static load tests in accordance with ISO 14397-1 and ISO 14397-2 standards. The loader's working device can be loaded via a hydraulic unit (capable of delivering pressure and flow equivalent to a real machine, Fig. 2), and the force response is captured by strain gauge sensors and measurement equipment (NI Daq). Sensors are placed in preselected locations where the highest stress concentration is expected. The device is mainly used for verifying the stress state and kinematics of the working equipment in optimization tasks. The hydraulic unit can also be used to power other test devices, such as drive modules of mobile working machines.
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Internal Combustion Engines Laboratory
The Internal Combustion Engines Laboratory enables the measurement of performance, environmental, and emission characteristics of combustion engines. The laboratory can test engines with up to 230 kW/10000 rpm, or up to 400 kW/5000 rpm. Research is focused on applying alternative fuels from renewable energy sources in combustion engines, fuel mixture preparation and combustion issues, engine parameter tuning, emission reduction, including noise and vibration reduction, and electronic engine control. The laboratory is also used in the educational process, particularly in support of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral theses.
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