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CHAPTER I

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

This chapter presents the introduction, objectives of the study,

significance of the study, scope, limitation and delimitation of the study, and

the definition of unfamiliar words for better understanding of the study.

Introduction

One of the most important parts on a vehicle is the muffler. Located

under the rear of the car, it is essentially the exhaust system of the vehicle’s

engine. The muffler helps reduce the amount of noise produced by the

engine as well as also controlling the backpressure of the engine, which

improves the endurance and performance of the engine. Backpressure is

created by the engine’s valves moving in all possible directions and colliding

and cancelling each other out, with an old or poorly maintained muffler, this

can have a considerable impact on the engine’s performance.

With such important jobs, keeping the muffler well maintained is

essential to preventing unnecessary stress and damages to the engine and

exhaust system. There are telltale signs to look for that a muffler may be in

need of repair or to be completely replaced and being able to recognize them

early is essential to preventing incidents. Some of the most common

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problems the muffler can encounter and the signs you can recognize to make

sure that a professional service center can have it looked at immediately-rust,

holes/loose parts, louder than usual, lower fuel efficiency, condensation in

the exhaust pipes, bad smells, etc.

With how important the muffler is to the exhaust system and the entire

engine, keeping the car well maintained with annual inspections and tune-

ups will keep the exhaust system functioning at a high performance level and

will make finding any wear and tear or holes and damages in the muffler

easier and sooner to prevent further or larger and more critical damages to

various components of a vehicle.

Regarding the mufflers, for most people, the louder their automobile is,

the better it is. This is why mufflers are usually modified to suit the taste of

the owner. But in recent years, an act has been passed that forbade the

modification of mufflers to increase the noise of an automobile’s engine.

But when vehicle owners remove or modify their mufflers, their engine

noise output reaches up to 120 decibels. This is harmful to the biker and the

person around them because it can lead to serious health problems.

A recently filed bill actually seeks to criminalize anyone that practices

modification of their mufflers. Also known as the Muffler Act of 2016, this

bill aims to prohibit vehicles—both in the public and private sector—that

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make use of muffler modifications to increase the noise output of their

engines.

This bill also sets a limit for the noise level that a vehicle can make; it

has a limit of 70 decibels, and whoever exceeds this limit will be penalized.

Those who use their vehicles for sports and auto shows, however, will be

exempted from this bill.

This study is conducted because the researchers have seen the need

for vehicle owners to constantly change the type of mufflers that they own for

reasons. Some opt to change their stock exhaust because the manufacturer

might have been unable to produce the best exhaust pipes possible for the

vehicle at the price it was purchased it for. They may have used a simpler or

easier-to-manufacture design rather than the best design. They are

constricted by emissions regulations and by having a broad base of

customers who may all be doing different things with their vehicles, leading to

an exhaust that may be a compromise.

For some, replacing, for example, a big, steel, dual exhaust system

with an aftermarket titanium unit with a single short muffler can yield 15

pounds or more of shed weight. Depending on the vehicle, that could be five

percent of the total machine! When it comes to handling and performance,

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dropping weight in the right places can be as good (if not better than)

increasing horsepower.

It is also hard to replace a component that has as big an effect on the

look, sound, and performance of the vehicle. Very few aftermarket parts do

so much for such a low cost. An exhaust system isn’t necessarily cheap, but

it is an excellent value. Aftermarket offerings are generally much more

affordable than a manufacturers’ one, if the original one is worn out or

broken.

Depending on what the vehicle is and what type of exhaust is

installed, one can really change how the bike sounds. A small-displacement

metric cruiser typically experiences an auditory change that could be

characterized as going from a sewing machine to a fire-breathing monster.

Mildly buzzy sport bikes turn into an unstoppable cacophony when

“uncorked.” While there are levels of sound available from quite tame to

vision-blurring, most motorcyclists will tell that the “bark” an aftermarket

exhaust adds is pleasurable.

With all these reasons, this study will be a great help for vehicle users

since it will be producing an intelligent muffler that is programmable as to

how the owner wants to have the muffler be converted specifically when it

comes to the sound it produces.

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Objectives of the Study

The main objective of the study is to design an intelligent muffler which

is programmable according to the type of sound that the owner prefers.

Specifically, the researchers aim:

1. To utilize locally available materials

2. To integrate microcontroller unit to monitor and control

2.1 vibration

2.2 volume

3. To test the functionality of the project in terms of:

3.1 product output

3.2 durability

3.3 safety

4. To produce an operation manual

Significance of the Study

The researchers believe that this study will be significant to the

following:

For car owners, the production of intelligent mufflers will be an

additional to the innovation of vehicle parts, as well as its performances.

Moreover, it will also be a great source of increase in income for them.

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Through the implementation of the I-Muffler, BIT students can use the

information presented in the study as their reference especially in projects or

studies related to the said field.

To the faculty members of BatStateU, the implementation of this

project will help the university in developing initiatives to implement a more

developed project and/or assist students who are interested in the field.

For future researchers who will be inclined with the aforementioned

study, this can be their reference material for developing a modified or more

advance technology in the same field.

Scope, Limitations and Delimitations of the Study

This study is catered to design and develop an intelligent muffler (I.

Muffler) which will allow automobile owners to easily convert a single muffler

to produce three types of sounds-from quiet to loud type for the purpose of

enhancing the vehicles performance.

This will be possible by means of using a programmed remote control

which will process the modification of the sound produced by automobile

mufflers. C++ programming shall be utilized for the remote control.

The output is made of a flapper.

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The I – Muffler can modify the noise level to quiet and open with its

settings and sound of the can be adjustable by the use of a Bluetooth device.

Based on durability the I muffler can withstand a temperature of 60 degrees

Celsius.

Definition of Terms

Battery. It is a collection of one or more cells whose chemical

reactions create a flow of electrons in a circuit. (Hymel, 2003) In this study, it

refers to a 24 volts battery which will serve as the energy supply for the

intelligent muffler.

Catalytic Converter. It is a device that uses a catalyst to convert

three harmful compounds in car exhaust into harmless compounds. (Hunting,

2017) In this study, the term is a part of an intelligent muffler which

substantially reduces the amount of harmful pollutants by taking these gases

and converting them into water vapor and less harmful gases via a series of

chemical reactions.

Durability. It refers to the ability to endure expected conditions over

time. (Spacey, 2017) In this study, it is the ability of the intelligent muffler to

last a long time without significant deterioration.

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Exhaust Manifolds. This refers to a vehicle’s part linked directly to the

cylinders where gas and oxygen mix together before being ignited by a spark

plug. (Hunting, 2017) In this study, the term refers to first section of a

vehicle’s exhaust system that funnels exhaust gases from all the cylinders

and routes them to the car’s catalytic converter.

Flapper. This lays horizontally across the opening of the exhaust stack

when the exhaust stack is not emitting exhaust gas. (Craig, 2018) In this

study, it is the main material used for the production of the intelligent muffler.

Functionality. It is the presence of functional groups in a molecule.

(Ward, 2013) Throughout this paper, the term has been used to refer to the

verification if the software application performs and functions correctly

according to design specifications.

Headers. This refers to tuned exhaust pipes. (Byron, 2015) In this

paper, this part of the intelligent muffler is one of the easiest bolt-on

accessories that are used to improve the engine’s performance by making it

easier for the engine to push exhaust gases out of the cylinders.

Local Materials. These are materials and resources locally available

which efficiently meet one or more of the requirements relevant to the

production. (Matalkah, et. al, 2016) In this term, these are materials that are
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accessible to the proponents of the study including resonator, catalytic,

converter, exhaust manifold, and headers.

Mufflers. It is composed of simple set of tubes with some holes on

them designed to reflect the sound waves produced by the engine in such a

way that they partially cancel themselves out. (Nice, 2001) In this study, the

term is used as a convertible part of a motorcycle exhaust in terms of sound

produced by means of a programmable remote control.

Operational Manual. It is a comprehensive documentation of how

something functions. (MacNicoll, 2018). In this paper, this is a brochure type

of document that aims to give information regarding the use of the intelligent

muffler.

Product Output. It is the version of the product to be built depending

on the quality of input and the process for converting raw ideas and feedback

into effective solutions (Fuller, 2016). This study used this term to refer to the

intelligent muffler which is the product of the proponents’ thorough study.

Remote Control. It is a hardware device that allows a user to control a

device or object in another location. (Computer Hope, 2017) In this paper, it

is the device programmed using C++ in order to control the intelligent muffler.

Resonator. It is a part of the exhaust system that is sometimes known

as pre-muffler because it is installed in the exhaust system after the catalytic

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converter and before the muffler. (Wright, 2018) The researchers used this

term to refer to a part of the intelligent muffler that is used to cancel out a

certain range of sound frequencies.

Safety. It is the condition of being safe or protected. (Safeopedia,

2018). In this paper, it refers to the ability of the intelligent muffler to be

utilized without causing danger or harm to anyone.

Sound Vibration. It is defined as the energy things produce when they

vibrate or move back and forth quickly. (Woodford, 2018) In this paper, it is

the convertible sound produced by intelligent mufflers of automobiles.

Volume. It is the quantity of three-dimensional space occupied by a

liquid, solid, or gas. (Helmenstine, 2018) For this study, the term refers to the

adjustments an automobile owner can control from the intelligent muffler.

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CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter presents gathered information from books, other reading

materials, related unpublished materials, and information from the Internet. It

also covers conceptual literature and review of related literature.

Conceptual Literature

A muffler’s job is to moderate engine noise out of an exhaust system. If

you were to completely remove the mufflers from an exhaust system, let’s

just say that you’d have the cops attention pretty quickly. Mufflers are

designed with multiple chambers and baffles in which the exhaust gases

pass through. The way in which the chambers and baffles are aligned will

dictate what kind of exhaust note you will get.

Mufflers are an integral part of any cars exhaust system, ultimately

dictating the kind of exhaust note that car will create: used to soften overall

volume of exhaust note; functional at all RPM levels; a combination of

chambers and baffles aligned dictate volume and tone; and some mufflers

are high pitched, some are deep and throaty.

To further deaden sound, some mufflers are even packed with

fiberglass as a sound insulator. However, depending on the type of muffler

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you’re looking at, some may sound excellent from the outside, but have

annoying highway drone on the inside. That’s where resonators come in.

(Munjal, 2014)

If you have an annoying drone out of the aftermarket exhaust system

but really like the exhaust note, a resonator could fix the issue. Without really

affecting the overall volume or exhaust note, a well-placed resonator can

eliminate the drone that we all know and can’t stand. Resonators compliment

mufflers by reducing annoying drone and providing a smoother exhaust note.

So what does a resonator do? Resonators are designed to eliminate a sound

wave at a given frequency. A simple way to explain this would be that sound

waves are just that – a wave with a peak and trough. When these sound

waves of a particular frequency are bouncing off the interior of a resonator,

the peak of a wave would meet the trough of another wave of the same size

and essentially cancel each other out; thus eliminating that frequency or

drone. (David, 2018)

A muffler delete can do both advantages and disadvantages for those

who love to hear the puffing sound of one’s vehicle.

The following are the pros of a muffler delete. While talking about the

benefits out of muffler delete pros and cons, it is cost effective to use. This
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one device is enough to make sure that the exhaust pipe is performing well.

Moreover, you can replace this piece of work anywhere thanks to its easy

availability. An ideal muffler delete increases the car performance. The

horsepower would be increased when there is no crap in the car’s exhaust.

The most common reason for people opting for muffler delete is the sound. If

you love hearing the engine while driving, muffler delete is the one of a kind.

View from the rear would be clean when no muffler would hang below the

rear bumper. The appearance would be sleek and perfect, just as you

wanted. Discard a few weights from one’s vehicle by replacing with muffler

delete. You can shed more than 25 lbs extra weight that the car might be

bearing right now. (Pegg, et. al., 2014)

Meanwhile, the cons are as follows. The sound at 60 to 75 mph is quite

bursting. Besides, the fun could turn into hazard as such high-

frequency noise can even make you deaf. However, when you start the

engine, the noise could be annoying. Neighbors and friends might disaffect

with it. The amount of crap collected in the muffler needs to be cleaned. One

has to be careful while cleaning the muffler delete as it can take the paint off.

Well, this is what you don’t want to happen. Of course, maintenance tips are

always the best way to deal with any sort of vehicle issue. Therefore you can

use it for cleaning and maintain the muffler delete. (Nielsen, 2010)
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Knowing about muffler delete pros and cons, you must ensure that you

are buying only the right thing for the car. So, remember these benefits and

drawbacks while choosing a muffler delete for the vehicle.

For V6 Mustang exhaust, upgrading from stock or converting to dual

exhaust improves air flow, horsepower, and gas mileage while giving a

deeper tone. Replacing the exhaust is usually the first modification for most

V6 owners. Each part of this system can usually be replaced individually, and

each part of the exhaust system also holds unique sound and performance

characteristics. One can also replace everything in favor of a dual exit

conversion. Gases leave the engine through the two exhaust manifolds, but

get slowed down after the catalytic converters. The gases are then forced

through a single pipe to pass through the muffler and out of the tailpipe.

Looking at it like this makes it easy to see why the V6 setup restricts air flow

and limits power. (Azuma, 2018)

Headers attach to the exhaust ports on the cylinder heads and connect

to the mid pipe section of the exhaust. If you are a bit more concerned with

horsepower gains then understand the greatest gains will come from the

headers. The x-pipe and mufflers are only good for 5-10 HP at most. A full

exhaust system on a naturally aspirated Mustang will yield around 15-20 rear
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wheel HP while on a forced induction application those number would be

around 20 to 30 rear wheel HP. (Cilio, 2018)

Mini John Cooper also has their own take for exhaust system. It gives

drivers a freer flowing exhaust and remote control over the volume and

character of their engine. Two clicks on the Bluetooth remote opens a valve,

bypassing the rear muffler and accentuating engine acoustics. Made from

high quality stainless steel and with your choice of chrome or carbon tip it

adds serious track appeal. (Laud, 2016)

The catalytic converter has multiple sections, commonly referred to as

beds. Each contains specific catalyst elements that work at a temperature of at

least 400 degrees F to promote specific chemical reactions. This converts

harmful CO, HC, and NOx exhaust gases into less harmful CO2, H2O, and N

gases that are released from the vehicle's exhaust pipe. (Gudimella, 2018)

If the engine is running properly, the catalytic converter should last the

life of the vehicle. Failure is commonly caused by too much raw fuel entering

the converter, and example of which would be the result of an engine misfire.

Too much unburned fuel can coat the catalyst causing the converter to stop

working, the converter can also overheat and break apart inside becoming

restricted or "plugged".
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The first section of the catalytic converter is called the reduction bed and

is coated with rhodium. It is called the reduction bed because its purpose is to

reduce the NOx gases back in to harmless nitrogen and oxygen.

The next section of the catalytic converter is the oxygen storage bed,

which is coated with cerium. Its purpose is to maintain an ideal level of oxygen

for use by the rear of the converter. It does this by storing and releasing the

oxygen that gets released from the reduction of NOx in the previous reduction

bed.

The oxygen is then available for use in the final oxidizing bed, which is

coated with platinum and palladium. The purpose of the oxidizing bed is to

complete the combustion of CO by adding oxygen. The oxidizing bed also

uses oxygen to burn any of the raw HCs that still remain in the exhaust gases.

(Correll, et. al., 2014)

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Research Literature

This presents few conducted studies which can help on the

visualization of this study, furtherance, and refinement of the intelligent

muffler.

The Study of Salazar, et al., 2005 entitled “Design and Construct

Modified Electronic Ballast,” discussed the natural lightning in museum. It

was believed at one time that the electric light being easy to switch to an

adaptable and unvarying in its affects and able to give a full value to

architecture features might provide not merely an alternative to the use of

daylight museum a substitute for it. But opened has forced us to recognize

the venation and difficulties placed. The building should therefore be so

planned as to make the best use of this source of light even of certain other

structural features have to be sacrificed as a result.

The study of Dok-ing MVD Mini Dozer (remote controlled machine)

Corporation is destroyed as a very low profile remote controlled machine for

multiple use such as underground mining application, building and

construction industry, military and defense mission. Because of its low profile

and RC operation, it is suitable for multi-purpose tasks and missions.

The study entitled “MCV Based Noise Sensor: by Calubat, et al., 2000

is a noise sensing device that can detect intensity of noise particular place
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according to the default levels or decibels. The noise sensor amount of noise

sensor triggers a warning or alarm signal if a certain amount of noise decibel

prohibited is attained.

In 2009, Manalo et, al,.2009 from Batangas State University decided to

design and develop an underwater ROV. Their design was from homebuilt

ROV named Seafox ROV. The resulting prototype was a 0.381m x 0.3048 m

x 0.3043 m design, basically made from common PVC pipe and fittings and

powered by 6 Bilge pumps and computer fans. They dabbled in the idea of

using bilge pumps for thruster when designing the first ROV. It has an easy

to build and it performed flawless in their few test dives they have been done

before. Some of their components have been found to be quite satisfactory;

however some did not meet the expected performance .

The study of Mbari 2014 entitled ROV Ventana was for the Monterey

Bay Aquarium Research Institute by International Submarine Engineering.

The specifications for Ventana were developed by David Packard and the

original core group of scientist and engineers at Mbari. The vehicle

instruments were delivered in 1988 with a standard suite of instruments and

cameras. Data collection sectors, a high definition camera, and animal

collection devices requests for tasks grew Ventana has evolved into its

present configuration. (Mbari, 2014)

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Synthesis

The related studies were found significant and substantial to

strengthen the objectives of the study. The differences and similarities were

noted and synthesized.

In the study of Salazar, et. al (2005), they designed modified

electronic ballast as an alternative source of light for museums. What makes

this similar to the intelligent muffler produced as an output in this study is that

it is also easy to switch and adaptable depending on its varying affects. The

intelligent muffler is also convertible when it comes to the sound produced as

preferred by the vehicle owner.

On the other hand, the study of Maligaya (2009) produced a device

which is capable of detecting noise according to the default level of decibels.

This study is related to the production of various sounds of the intelligent

muffler. The difference is that this device produces varied level of sounds due

to a programmed remote control.

The study of Dok-ing (2015), also utilizes a remote control in order to

manipulate a machine. The low profile design of the said machine makes it

suitable for varied purposes and missions. Like the intelligent muffler, it is
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also easy to utilize since it is low profile and controllable by the use of a

remote control.

Conceptual Framework/Paradigm of the Study

A conceptual scheme was formulated for the design of the device./ The

design considered both the input and the processes.

The first box referred to the knowledge, ideas and skills employed for

the conceptualization of the features of the project. Also, availability of the

materials used for prototyping and the components incorporated were

considered and taken into utmost concern.

The second box referred to the processes undertaken for the

completion of the device. Thorough data gathering which led to

conceptualization of the design was significantly regarded as the first step.

Planning and designing constructively followed with incorporation of the

information obtained from efficient interviews with experts. Testing and

modifications were part of the process that determined the functionality and

general capacity of the device.

Lastly, the third box referred to the output which was the Intelligent

Muffler.
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Knowledge, skills, Planning

concepts and
Designing/Layout
principles
Canvassing

Purchasing Intelligent
Availability of
Muffler
Fabricating
materials, tools

and equipment Testing

Final Testing

Figure 1. Conceptual Paradigm of the Intelligent Muffler

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CHAPTER III

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

This chapter focuses on the method used to develop the project. It

includes the research design stages of the project development process,

construction procedure, supply and materials and time allotment for the

development of the study.

Research Design

Planning

In this stage, the researchers will evaluate all the needed materials

considering the cost, availability and the efficiency of using the chosen

materials. Further, this stage also has made the researchers knowledgeable

about the functions for which the desired output would serve.

Pre-Design Stages

In this stage, the researchers considered some standard procedures

with the help of the expert and browsing different researches that help for the

development of the device.

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Development Stages

In this stage, researchers will undergo extensive readings of different

reference such as books, journals, and other relevant resources.

Consultation with experts and research adviser was done to gather

suggestions and important inputs for the conceptualization of the device.

Design Stage

This stage will enable the researchers to conceptualize the major

features and components of the developed output. The most appropriate

electrical and electronic materials were also chosen very well just to ensure

that the desired design of the project will be achieved.

The actual design of the research project is observed in this stage.

Testing and Evaluating

In this stage, the researchers will conduct some tests and analysis, will

evaluate the process it requires for the prototype to function well. This stage

involved checking and modifying of the lapses observed in terms of durability

and safety of the device.

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PRE-DESIGNING

DESIGNING

FABRICATION AND ASSEMBLY

TESTING AND EVALUATING

FINAL TESTING

Figure 2. Developmental Stage

Figure 2. This shows the step by step procedures of the research

study. The first stage was pre-designing wherein the researchers will

carefully conceptualize the components included for the design. The second

stage was the designing that engaged the researchers to extensive planning

about the external and internal feature of the device. The third stage was the

fabrication and assembly stages which required for the installation and

incorporation of all the materials and components, to arrive at the desired

features of the output. The last stages were the testing and evaluation stages

which were considered to be the most important, because the process

determined the capacity of the device in doing the expected function.

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Data Gathering

The researchers had to read relevant materials and references to

strengthen the major intent of the research study. Interviews with experts and

professors were undertaken to ensure the relevance and significance of the

project.

Gathering of Materials

It involved the canvassing and purchasing of locally available materials

like resonator, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, headers, and battery.

Comparing materials from different suppliers will be consider to ensure the

best quality of the materials with most affordable price.

Fabrication Assembly

It involved the actual fabrication and assembly of the device. Testing

the compatibility of the components to the whole process will be consider. All

the components of the system will be tested individually to make sure that

each was appropriate and well suited for the design of the device. All these

components will be put together according to the design and to the reference

standard for the instrument under test. To achieve the desired output which is
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the Intelligent Muffler, it required the help of fabricators and field experts who

were well-versed on the whole process.

Table 1.

Chart of Activities

The table below shows the work sequence and the time spent in

developing the project which is summarized within eight (8) consecutive

months.

MONTHS

AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR

Planning

Canvassing

Designing/Layout

Purchasing

Fabricating

Testing

Modification

Final Testing

Table 1 shows the development of the research study from the month

it started until the month it was finished. The duration of the activity started

from August 2018 until March 2019. The finished project has been submitted

and tested on the same period.

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Figure 1. Isometric drawing of muffler

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Figure 2. Isometric drawing of flapper

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Figure 3. Front and back view

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Figure 4. Top and Bottom View

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Figure 5. Right side view

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Figure 6. Block Diagram

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CHAPTER IV

DEVELOPMENT OF PROTOTYPE RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

This chapter presents the summary of findings, methods and

procedures in developing the project, quality control, and cost analysis. It

sought to answer the following objectives.

1. To utilize locally available materials

The external and internal parts of the whole systems were made

of locally available materials. These components were carefully chosen

to ensure the efficiency and durability of the prototype. For safety

purposes, there were things considered in choosing the materials and

components for the construction of the device. For quality assurance,

the proponents chose well known suppliers and brands. Specifications of

the electrical components were also reviewed carefully to make sure that

every part suits with each other.

System Components and Their Functions

The parts and functions of the project were presented and technically

described below. It discusses the specifications and uses of each part.

Generally the specifications of each material were determined and described.

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Table 3 shows the parts, materials and their functions of the Intelligent

Muffler (I-Muffler). This includes the components needed.

Table 3

System and their Functions

Parts Functions
Arduino Uno Controls all system by programming
Wires Used to connect each components
Bluetooth Module The Arduino Bluetooth module at the
other end receives the data and
sends it to the Arduino through the
TX pin of the Bluetooth module
Servo Motor Control the shaft position very
precisely.
Stainless Muffler Controls the loudness of the sound
pressure created by the engine.
Flapper Reduce the sound coming from the
engine.

The table below shows the tools, equipment and their uses in the
fabrication of the parts for the completion of the prototype.

Table 4

Tools, Equipment and their Uses

Tools Uses

Welding Machine/Welding Rod Used for fabricating.

Grinder Used for cutting and polishing the
edges of the steel.
Meter Serves as measuring tool in
fabricating.
Hand Drill Used for making wholes.
Screw Driver Used for tightening the screws.
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Wrench Used for tighten the bolts and nuts.

Bolt and Nuts Used to connect the flapper/

The description of parts and function of the project are described below, it

discusses the specification of each part and its operation to the whole project.

Figure 8 shows the Arduino Uno. It is encoded with the program that will

be used in controlling the system.

Figure 8. Arduino Uno

Figure 9 shows the Jumper Wires. Jumper wires are used for making

connections between items on your breadboard and your Arduino.

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Figure 9. Wires

Figure 10 shows the Bluetooth Module. It receives the data and sends it to

the Arduino through the TX pin of the Bluetooth module.

Figure 10. Bluetooth Module

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Figure 11 shows the Servo Motor. It is responsible to control the shaft

position very precisely.

Figure 11. Servo Motor

Figure 12 shows the Muffler which controls the loudness of the sound

pressure created by the engine.

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Figure 12. Muffler

Figure 13 shows the flapper. It reduces the sound coming from the

engine.

Figure 13. Flapper

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2. Integration of microcontroller unit to monitor and control of the

system:

Integration of arduino as the main operating system of the prototype was

effective as a basic electronic flat form available. Arduino is a component for

providing the program which will manage the volume of the prototype. It is

designed for easily modification, for beginners bit also to ensure flexibility for

the experts to design and develop much complicates projects.

2.1 Vibration

Internal combustion engines produce exhaust gases in uneven flows. As a

result of the pulsing production of exhaust gases through the exhaust system,

vibration is transferred to the vehicle. Exhaust vibration is produced through

sound vibration and mechanical vibration.

2.2 Volume

Volume produced by the muffler is controlled or reduced by means of the

flapper attached to the stainless muffler. The program used controls the sound

and mechanical energy produced by the prototype.

Construction Procedure
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Preparation of Materials

The first step in the construction procedure was to prepare all the

materials, tools, and components that were needed to develop the prototype.

The researchers carefully chose all the materials needed based on the best

quality, requirement and the most affordable prize. After choosing the

materials, they were carefully tested to ensure that all materials are functioning

well.

After preparation of all the materials needed, the proponents proceeded

with the construction of the prototype. Figure below demonstrates the step by

step procedure done in constructing the project prototype.

Figure 14. Original stainless muffler

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The figure above shows how the stainless muffler looks like upon

purchase. This is the conventional type of muffler used by most cars.

Safety precaution. Make sure that quality brand of muffler will be used.

Figure 15. Attaching of additional dimension to the muffler

This figure shows how an additional dimension to the original stainless

muffler was attached by means of welding.

Safety precaution. Observe the use of appropriate personal protective

equipment when doing a welding task.

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Figure 16. Servo motor and flapper attached to the muffler

This figure shows the final step in the construction procedure wherein the

servo motor was attached to control the loudness produced by the engine of

the vehicle.

Safety precaution. Be careful in handling wires to avoid possible hazards.

All of the device and components were monitored operationally.

Monitoring was done to determine if all the components are functioning well

also to determine if there are defective components to be replaced

immediately based on the results of the testing.

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3. Testing the Projects Functionality

Testing stage refers to the process wherein the prototype was tested

based on its functions. The device underwent different tests and trials. To

ensure its accuracy and also the safety of using the device, efficient checking

of the device operation was recommended.

Preliminary Testing Before Modification

The researchers conducted series of testing and found that the device

functionality and performance were under normal conditions. All the

components of the device were carefully monitored during the operation, to

ensure that the device is safe when in use. To ensure its accuracy, the

researchers recorded and evaluated all the data gathered all throughout the

testing process.

Modification Setup of Prototype

Modification comes after the testing of the prototype, to secure much

better performance of the prototype. The researchers did some changes with

the prototype to improve its performance for much better result.

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Final Set-up of Prototype

Figure 17. Final Set-Up of I-Muffler

The figure shows the complete and final set-up of the proposed project

which is I-Muffler. After some modification, the device was tested again. The

project is a device that could control the volume of the usual muffler used in

cars. This was made possible because of the program created and used in the

Arduino.

The dimension of the device is 3 inches by 14 inches by 4 inches. The

final component includes Arduino, Bluetooth module, Servo motor, stainless

muffler and flapper.

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Final Performance Testing Results

After the final modification of the prototype and the final set-up was done,

the device underwent the final testing of its performance. The researchers

used a power source to measure the functionality of the project.

Final Performance Testing Survey Results

The performance of the prototype is evaluated in terms of its durability

and safety. The survey test was conducted with 20 random respondents using

five-point liker scale for the questions. The respondents graded the device with

questionnaires made with the total performance of the project.

Tables 5 and 6 show the question for the evaluation of the device

performance with the weighted mean (WM) and its corresponding verbal

interpretation computed based on five point ration scale:

Ratio Scale Model

5-4.5 Strongly Agree (SA)

4.4-3.5 Agree (A)

3.4-2.5 Undecided (U)

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2.4-1.5 Disagree (DA)

1.4-1 Strongly Disagree (SDA)

Table 5.

Durability of the project

Criteria WM Verbal Interpretation

1. Good quality of 4.05 Agree
materials were used.
2. Components are 3.6 Agree
properly and strongly
attached.
Average WM 3.83 Agree

3.2 Durability. The table shows the durability of the project in terms of

some criteria. It can be noted from the above results that the respondents

agreed with the criteria mentioned in the questionnaire, with the average

weighted mean of 3.83, it revealed that the respondents agreed on the device

durability based on the standard criteria.

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Table 6.

Safety of the project

Criteria WM Verbal Interpretation

1. Free from electric 4.8 Strongly Agree
shock
2. Absence of 4.6 Strongly Agree
overheating
3. Ease of use for 4.7 Strongly Agree
beneficiaties
Average WM 4.7 Strongly Agree

3.3 Safety. The table above presents the safety of the project and the

respondents strongly agreed that it is safe for use. It is free from electric shock

and does not overheat even for a long period of time. It is also easy to use

because of a provided manual.

Table 7.

Cost of Material

Qty. Unit Description Unit Price Total Price

1 piece Arduino Uno 400.00 400.00
1 piece Bluetooth Module 500.00 500.00
1 piece Servo Motor 500.00 500.00
1 piece Stainless Muffler with Flapper 6500.00 6500.00
TOTAL P7900.00
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Table 7 shows all the materials, quantity and price needed for

constructing the project.

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CHAPTER V

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

This chapter presents the summary of findings, conclusions and

recommendations based in the analysis of data, and the series of testing and

evaluation undertaken.

Summary of Findings

The study yields the following findings:

1. Locally available materials were used to fabricate the device. These

materials were carefully chosen to ensure that they will function well.

Arduino uno, wires, Bluetooth module, servo motor, stainless muffler,

and flapper were the locally available materials used.

2. The researchers integrated Arduino to control the process of the whole

system operation, including:

2.1 Vibration, As a result of the pulsing production of exhaust gases

through the exhaust system, vibration is transferred to the

vehicle. Exhaust vibration is produced through sound vibration

and mechanical vibration.

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2.2 Volume produced by the muffler is controlled or reduced by

means of the flapper attached to the stainless muffler. The

program used controls the sound and mechanical energy

produced by the prototype.

3. The developed device passed several test in terms of durability and

safety.

3.1 Durability was proven and tested with the used of durable

materials and running test of the device.

3.2 Safety for the users were secured by checking the device

constructive appearance and secured the use of user friendly

materials.

4. An operational manual of the device was provided.

Conclusions

Based on the overall findings, the following conclusions were formulated:

1. It was feasible to develop a device by utilizing locally available

materials, at reasonable cost.

2. The device that was integrated with Arduino and servo motor operates

efficiently to control the volume and the vibration of the muffler.

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3. The developed I-muffler was durable and safe for the users based on

the survey and conducted test.

4. The operational manual provided for the users was helpful and

effective.

Recommendations

Based on the findings and conclusions presented, the following

recommendations were suggested by the researchers:

1. For additional options to control the volume of the I-muffler, future

researchers may incorporate or modify the original structure.

2. Other important modifications may be conducted to further improve the

study.

3. Future researchers may upgrade the microcontroller unit from Arduino

Uno to Raspberry PI to enhance and acquire efficient outputs.

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BIBILIOGRAPHY
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A. Books

Azuma, D.S. (2018). “Auto Repair for Dummies” John Wiley & Sons

Bell, M. A., (2013). “Industrial Noise Control: Fundamentals and

Applications Second Edition” CRC Press.

Bies, D. A., Hansen, C. & Howard, C. (2017). “Engineering Noise Control,

Fifth Edition” CRC Press.

Cilio, A. G. (2018) “Air Commerce Bulletin” U.S. Government Printing Press

Correll, T. C. & Polk, P. A. (2015). “Muffler Men” University Press of

Mississipi, Mississipi.

David, DF. (2018). “Automotive Automatic Transmission and Transaxles”

Jones & Barlett Learning.

Gudimella, SH. G. (2018). “Acoustic Breakout Noise from Non-Circular

Muffler Shells” CSFML Publications.

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Laud, C. G. (2016) “Welding Design & Fabrication” Industrial Publications.

Munjal, M.L. (2012). “Acoustics of Ducts and Mufflers with Application to

Exhaust and Ventilation System Design” John Wiley & Sons.

Munjal, M.L. (2014). “Acoustics of Ducts and Mufflers” John Wiley & Sons.

Nielsen, D. C. (2010). “Cycle and Automobile Trade Journal” Chilton

Company.

Pegg, R. J. & Hilton, D. A. (2014). “Comparison of Acoustic Performance of

Five Muffler Configurations on a Small Helicopter” National

Aeronautics and Space Administration.

Seume, K. (2015). “Aircooled VW Engine Interchange Manual: The User’s

Guide to Original and Aftermarket Parts for Tuning” MotorBooks

International.
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B. Unpublished Material

Calubat, E., Salazar, V., Sartmiento, J. (2000). “MCV Based Noise Sensor”

Unpublished Thesis. Batangas State University

Manalo R.S., Catapang, T.J., Coz, C.J. (2009) “Vibration and Noise in

Reactive Muffler: A Project Development Study” Unpublished Thesis.

Batangas State University

Mbari, M., Estole, M., Umali, A. (2014) “ROV Ventana was for the Monterey

Bay Aquarium Research Institute” Unpublished Thesis. International

Submarine Engineering.

Salazar, D., Almendras, R., Magnaye, A. (2005) “Design and Construct

Modified Electronic Ballast” Unpublished Thesis. Batangas State

University
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C. Electronic References

“What Do Mufflers Do?” (2014). Retrieved January 16, 2019 from

https://www.autoaccessoriesgarage.com/Exhaust/What-Do-Mufflers-Do

Ellis, R. (2018). “Muffler Methodology: Getting the Sound you’re After”

Retrieved December 18, 2018 from

https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/r/advice/car-truck-mods/muffler-

methodology-getting-the-sound-youre-after

Johnston, V. (2015). “How Does a Muffler Work” Retrieved from January 5,

2019 from https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-does-a-muffler-

work

Kimbrough, B. (2013). “Understanding Muffler Design and Sound

Absorption Strategies” Retrieved February 9, 2019 from

https://www.dragzine.com/tech-stories/exhaust/understanding-muffler-

design-and-sound-absorption-strategies/
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Nice, K. (2016). “How Mufflers Work” Retrieved October 23, 2018, from

https://auto.howstuffworks.com/muffler.htm

Sorokanich, B. (2018) “What is Exhaust Backpressure, and Why Is it Bad

for Horsepower” Retrieved October 23, 2018 from

https://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/car-technology/a14530205/what-

is-exhaust-backpressure-and-why-is-it-bad-for-horsepower/
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APPENDICES
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I-Muffler

Survey Sheet

Name (Optional): _______________ Age: ____

Course/Occupation: ____________ Gender: _______________

Date:_______________

Direction: Please rate the device performance by putting a check mark with

your corresponding score scaled from 1-5.

5-Strongly Agree (SA)

4- Agree (A)

3-Undecided (U)

2-Disagree (D)

1-Strongly Disagree (SD)

A. Durability of the Project 5 4 3 2 1

1. Good quality of materials were used.

2. Components are properly and strongly

attached.
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B. Safety of the Project 5 4 3 2 1

1. Free from electric shock

2. Absence of overheating parts

Comments and Suggestions:

______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________

_________________________

Signature over printed name

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APPENDIX A

Figure 1. Isometric drawing of muffler

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Figure 2. Isometric drawing of flapper

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Figure 3. Front and back view

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Figure 4. Top and Bottom View

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Figure 5. Right side view

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Figure 6. Block Diagram

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CURRICULUM VITAE
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SOURCE CODE

#include <Servo.h>

Servo servo1;

int pos = 0;

int pin = 11;

void setup()

Serial.begin(9600);

servo1.attach(pin);

void loop()

if(Serial.available() >

0)
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{ pos = Serial.read();

servo1.write(pos);

}
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