Lightning Nerds and Gearheads
Rich in insight and gorgeously written, Lightning Nerds and Gearheads is a layperson's glimpse into engineering. Through author Bob Cowin's six conversations with people in the profession-including a marine engineer, an electrical engineer, and everything in between-Lightning Nerds and Gearheads touches on what makes engineers tick, what draws them into the profession, and perhaps most fascinating of all, how they facilitate the systems and processes which make our modern world possible.Incisive, thought-provoking, and written in captivating prose, this book is sure to make an original addition to the bookshelves of anyone interested in the subject of engineering-and, as it goes to show, we all should be.
The 2025 Suwon ITS Asia Pacific Forum
This Reprint features selected papers from the 2025 Suwon ITS AP Forum, held from May 28 to 30, 2025, at the Suwon Convention Center in South Korea. Gathering over 4,000 experts and practitioners in Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITSs), the Forum served as a leading platform for advancing innovation and collaboration in the field. Under the theme "Hyper-Connected Cities by ITS," it explored the transformative role of ITS in shaping smart and seamlessly connected urban environments. The articles in this Reprint highlight cutting-edge technologies, global leadership, and the integration of mobility, data, and infrastructure to promote efficient and sustainable urban development.
Use of Modern Materials in Technological Processes Accompanied by Frictional Heating (Volume II)
This reprint contains 9 articles published in the Special Issue "Use of Modern Materials in Technological Processes Accompanied by Frictional Heating (Volume II)". The contributions can be divided into five thematic groups: (1) analytical models of frictional heating in layered systems, including coatings made of functionally graded materials (FGMs) and their comparison with homogeneous materials; (2) experimental and theoretical studies on friction stir welding and the influence of residual stresses and microstructure on fatigue crack growth in welded joints, as well as stress concentration in cruciform joints; (3) the development and optimization of flame-retardant cellulose-based fabrics with potential applications in protective textiles; (4) the use of friction surfacing to produce high-performance coatings, with a comparative analysis against conventional deposition methods; (5) tribological behavior of graphite/copper composites under current-carrying conditions in marine environments, with a focus on wear mechanisms and electrochemical effects.
Computational Methods in Structural Engineering
This Reprint brings together nine contributions that showcase the latest advances in computational methods applied to structural engineering. It includes an introductory editorial and eight original research articles covering topics such as nonlinear finite element modeling under extreme loads, advanced plate and composite analysis, explainable machine learning for material characterization, predictive models for curved beams, stochastic approaches for uncertainty quantification, and data-driven signal processing for structural health monitoring. Collectively, these works demonstrate how computational tools, from high-precision numerical schemes to artificial intelligence, are shaping the analysis, design, and optimization of modern structures. The Reprint highlights both the opportunities and the challenges of integrating advanced computation into engineering practice, providing researchers and professionals with insights into methods that enhance safety, efficiency, and innovation in the built environment.
Sustainable Concrete Materials and Resilient Structures
The escalating climate crisis underscores the urgent need for construction practices that are both sustainable and resilient. As the most widely used construction material worldwide, concrete remains indispensable for enabling safer, stronger, and more durable infrastructures, from buildings and bridges to lifeline systems. Beyond its unmatched versatility, concrete offers unique potential to advance the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals by fostering disaster-resilient, low-maintenance, and cost-effective solutions that address global social, economic, and environmental challenges.This Reprint, originating from the Special Issue of Applied Sciences, presents a curated collection of innovative research on sustainable concrete technologies and resilient structural systems. Contributions span innovative material design, advanced performance assessment, durability enhancement, and eco-efficient applications, collectively pushing the boundaries of knowledge and practice in civil and structural engineering. By integrating sustainability with resilience, the Reprint highlights transformative pathways toward reducing the carbon footprint of construction while strengthening society's capacity to withstand natural and human-induced hazards.Serving as a timely reference for academics, researchers, graduate students, and practitioners, this Reprint provides both foundational insights and forward-looking strategies to inspire the next generation of sustainable and resilient infrastructure.
Reliability of Power Electronics Devices and Converter Systems
Power electronics, such as renewable energy generation systems, electric vehicles, and smart grids, are key in energy conversion and management. However, industrial experience indicates that the power converter is one of the weakest components in the system. Thus, there is a pressing need to improve the reliability of power converters and reduce the system downtime induced by the failure of power converters. The failure mechanism, thermal network model, junction temperature estimation, lifetime prediction, condition monitoring, and power electronics system thermal control are becoming increasingly important.
Advanced Fracturing Technology for Oil and Gas Reservoir Stimulation
Fossil energy-coal-bed methane, shale oil, shale gas, and natural gas hydrates-significantly contribute to the world's energy production. This Reprint aims to disseminate the latest research on how advanced fracturing technologies unlock these resources. It covers the characterization of pre-fracture reservoirs, fracture propagation mechanics across diverse geologies, hydraulic-natural fracture interaction, proppant transport and placement optimization, and the design of fracturing fluid systems and injection parameters. The studies herein provide a concise, state-of-the-art resource for researchers, engineers, and industry professionals seeking to maximize recovery from complex reservoirs, serving as a reference for research in related or relevant areas.
Trends and Challenges in Power System Stability and Control
As the energy landscape transforms under mounting pressures of decarbonization, grid modernization, and climate resilience, the stability and control of power systems have come into sharper focus. This Special Issue collects works on recent advances that confront the key technical challenges posed by the increasing penetration of renewables, distributed generation, and real-time operational complexity.Under the leadership of Guest Editors Prof. Ke Xu (Nanjing Institute of Technology) and Prof. Yuan Liao (University of Kentucky), the Issue solicited contributions that push the frontier of power system control theory, stability analysis, and practical control strategies. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, the following: Frequency and voltage stability in hybrid and renewable-rich grids;Control coordination among multiple devices (e.g., energy storage, converter interfaces, FACTS);Advanced forecasting, system operation, and real-time control;Protection schemes and resilience under faults and disturbances;Optimization, intelligent techniques, and AI/ML methods in stabilization;Microgrid dynamics, islanding behavior, and distributed control;Integration of power system protection, stability, and control under uncertainty.This Special Issue aims to strengthen synergies between control theory and power system engineering practice, weaving a narrative that encourages new dialogues across academia, industry, and system operators.
Millimeter-Wave Antennas for 5G
Fifth generation (5G) wireless communication technology will revolutionize communication, enabling faster data transfer, lower latency, and increased capacity. The Special Issue focuses on the latest millimeter-wave antennas for 5G wireless communication, covering topics related to their design and application, including basic elements, antenna arrays, beamforming, and integration with other 5G system components. Antennas are essential parts of wireless communication systems, including sensor networks. Moreover, 5G technology is expected to revolutionize wireless sensor networks, and millimeter-wave antennas for 5G wireless communication play a crucial role in their development and deployment. The advancements in millimeter-wave antennas for 5G wireless communication can also have a significant impact on the development and deployment of RFID-based sensor systems.
Remote Sensing, Artificial Intelligence and Deep Learning in Hydraulic Structure Safety Monitoring
With the gradual transformation of hydraulic engineering from digitization and intelligence to WISDOM, remote sensing technology, artificial intelligence and deep learning methods have been widely used for automatic perception, processing, storage and analysis of hydraulic structure engineering monitoring data. The advent of remote sensing technologies such as three-dimensional tilt photography offers the opportunity to build an integrated hydraulic engineering monitoring and acquisition system that is capable of capturing all the details of hydraulic engineering. With the introduction of artificial intelligence and deep learning methods, hydraulic engineering information has been analyzed and exploited efficiently. Combined with traditional hydraulic structure behavior analysis methods, such as geotechnical testing and numerical simulation, artificial intelligence and deep learning methods can help solve more complex hydraulic engineering problems by providing more accurate and professional intelligent analysis and ubiquitous hydraulic engineering services of great theoretical importance and application value in order to achieve the general improvement of the safety monitoring of hydraulic structures.
Buildings' Thermal Performance and Energy Efficiency for a Sustainable Construction
This Reprint, Buildings' Thermal Performance and Energy Efficiency for a Sustainable Construction, addresses one of the most pressing challenges of our time: reducing the energy consumption and carbon emissions of the building sector while ensuring human comfort and resilience. Buildings account for a large share of global energy use, and their thermal performance plays a central role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. This Reprint brings together original research and reviews that explore the interplay between microclimatic conditions, building design, and energy-saving technologies. These contributions span a wide spectrum, including microclimatic evaluations of elevated open spaces, optimization of settlement layouts in cold climates, innovative fa癟ade strategies for outdoor comfort, and quantitative assessments of low-carbon technologies in urban environments. Further studies analyze solar-shading indicators, architectural morphology for ventilation efficiency, and the coordination between land urbanization, energy use, and carbon emissions. Finally, a user-centered approach highlights how participatory design can enhance age-friendly and socially sustainable public spaces. Collectively, these works demonstrate the importance of integrating thermal comfort, energy efficiency, and environmental adaptation in sustainable construction, serving as a valuable reference for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers seeking innovative strategies to foster climate-resilient and human-centered built environments.
The Body Digital
A dazzling tour of the history of technology and its complex relationship to the human body What is the relationship between our bodies and our senses and technology? In today's world of blinding technological change, of artificial intelligence and deepfakes and Chat GPT, it is easy to forget that we have always had complicated relations with technology--whether that technology is computers, player pianos, and even eyeglasses. In this wide-ranging and fascinating study, Vanessa Chang takes us on a historical tour of the interactions between our bodies and machines, showing that the advent of new technologies has always been met with varied reactions, from misplaced fear to tragic over-optimism. The result is cultural critique of the highest order and a profound demonstration of the eternal truth that in order to understand the future, we must look to the past.
The Culinary Traveler Volume 17
The Culinary Traveler Volume 17 is the essential strategic blueprint for achieving Margin Mastery in modern gastronomy, mandated to Drive maximum cash flow by delivering "HIGH WOW, HIGH PROFIT" scalable solutions. This volume teaches professional chefs to leverage technique and concept over expensive ingredients, employing Hyper-Margin strategies (such as using negligible-cost leek ash powder for a truffle-like effect) to achieve unprecedented financial results. It features the UK Heritage Luxe Kit, which includes the Welsh Leek Ash & Black Garlic Umami Broth, and details advanced methods for maximizing profit, exemplified by concepts like the Roasted Heirloom Carrot Tartare, which can achieve an Actual FCP of 3.84% on a high-end menu price.
Executing IT Project Management with Software Quality Assurance and Testing
As AI and digital transformation shape business success, IT project management and software quality directly impacts your strategic goals. Executing IT Project Management with Software Quality Assurance and Testing is a comprehensive guide designed specifically for CIOs, senior executives, project managers, and quality leaders who are determined to elevate their organization's approach to IT project execution.This book bridges the critical gap between project management and software quality assurance, offering actionable insights that empower leaders to embed quality into every phase of their programs and projects. Whether you're overseeing enterprise-level initiatives or refining the practices of your QA and testing teams, this guide delivers the tools, tips, techniques, and strategies needed to drive measurable improvement.Inside, you'll discover: How to integrate quality assurance seamlessly into IT project lifecycles.Proven QA and testing methods for influencing teams and stakeholders toward better outcomes.Practical project management techniques for managing risk, scope, and quality simultaneously.Guidance on aligning project management and quality goals with business objectives to meet customer and business expectations.Support for scholars and researchers exploring the evolving landscape of IT project management with software quality and testing.Written with clarity and purpose, this book is more than a technical guide it's a strategic companion for leaders who understand that quality is not just a department, but a mindset. Whether you're shaping process, developing a department, mentoring teams, or conducting academic research, the insights within these pages will help you implement smarter, more influential techniques that lead to stronger results.Use this guide to drive change; with quality as your focus, IT project management will succeed.
Charles Darwin
When Darwin announced his theory of evolution by natural selection, he did more than transform biology. Before his great work, humans were comfortably different from other life, a special creation. By showing how life on Earth evolved, Darwin told us that humans too are part of nature. His decisive experience - a five-year round-the-world voyage on the Beagle - set him thinking about the diversity of life, ideas that would challenge the scientific establishment and Victorian society. Darwin for years built his evidence for evolution, even as he realized that such ideas were leading him straight into controversy and dispute. This book gives a concise account of Darwin's life and work, and makes vividly clear why his work continues to influence us all. Stephen Webster is Director of the Science Communication Unit at Imperial College. He was educated in zoology at Bristol, and in the philosophy of science at Cambridge. His PhD thesis was a study of art-science collaborations. Stephen has a writing career that spans textbooks, BBC radio plays, an opera about Darwin, BBC radio documentaries about the nature of science, and contributions to the Guardian newspaper's weather column. His 1993 radio play about the clockmaker John Harrison was awarded an Association for British Science Writers prize; in 2003, with the composer Graham Treacher, Stephen was funded by the Wellcome Trust to write the libretto for Darwin's Dream, a piece of music theatre that received its premiere in the Royal Albert Hall.
A Brown & Sharpe Catalogue Collection, 1868-1899
Anyone who collects or studies 19th century machine tools and machinist s tools will be delighted with the three catalogs that are reprinted in this valuable book. They include the 1868 catalog, the first offered by the newly formed Brown & Sharpe Manufacturing Co. and also the first to offer products from its related company, Darling, Brown & Sharpe. The next catalog, issued in 1887, contains a much larger range of products, reflecting the company s rapid expansion. The last catalog, issued in 1899, is dedicated to machinist s tools only. No collector or industrial historian should be without this collection, unless, of course, he is fortunate enough to own the originals.
Applications of Fractional-Order Systems to Automatic Control
Fractional-order systems have been applied in diverse areas of science and engineering. Fractional-order calculus is a generalization of the integration and differentiation operators to non-integer order. Factional order provides additional flexibility and adjustments to operation specifications. In automatic control, fractional systems allow forms of response that are impossible to achieve with classical control, e.g., improvements in noise measurement attenuation without unnecessarily deteriorating the disturbance rejection properties and, consequently, the time response of the closed-loop system.The focus of this Special Issue is to showcase advances in research on topics related to the theory, design, implementation, and application of fractional-order systems in automatic control.
Structural Seismic Design and Evaluation
Due to significant structural damage resulting from the occurrence of strong earthquakes in recent decades, researchers worldwide have directed their attention to addressing various issues related to structural seismic design and evaluation (SSDE) for different types of structures, including bridges, dams, and steel and concrete buildings. In this Reprint, we present the results of several investigations in both traditional and emerging subdisciplines within this broader field, summarizing recent advancements in the improvement of SSDE.
Emerging Micro Manufacturing Technologies and Applications, 2nd Edition
Manufacturing micro-components has become a key area of interest for research, owing to the growing demand for miniaturized components and assemblies and a series of applications across multiple industrial sectors. The drive towards miniaturization is especially critical in industrial sectors like medical, consumer electronics, optics, and general engineering. These sectors drive the development of processes that can deliver components with sub-micron accuracy and flawless surface quality. Manufacturing processes like additive manufacturing, drawing, and electrochemical machining have been adapted to meet the requirements of microscale production, whilst on the other hand, processes like electrochemical deposition and electroforming have been developed with micromachining in mind. Research in the field, as in most manufacturing fields, has focused on the development of robust processes and simulation models that can lead to the optimization of micromanufacturing processes. Building upon the success of the first edition of the Emerging Micro Manufacturing Technologies and Applications Special Issue, this second edition will continue to explore recent advances in the field. This issue features eight original research papers covering topics including microelectronic device manufacturing, surface property modification, and additive manufacturing.
Refining Confined Space Safety in the Oil Industry
Refining Confined Space Safety in the Oil Industry: An Expert-Driven Approach to Risk Control Measures explores the persistent hazards of confined space work in the oil sector, despite strict regulations and safety protocols. While compliance is essential, accidents and fatalities continue to occur, highlighting the need for a more refined approach to risk control. This book builds upon prior research and applies a mixed Delphi-Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) methodology, engaging experienced safety professionals-including occupational safety technicians, engineers, and ergonomists. These experts leverage their field knowledge, literature reviews, and industry experience to identify the most critical risk factors in confined spaces and the most effective control measures to mitigate them. By combining research and real-world expertise, this book offers a comprehensive, expert-driven framework for improving safety in confined space operations. It serves as an essential resource for safety professionals, engineers, and decision-makers seeking to enhance risk management strategies in the oil industry.
Mechanical Properties and Engineering Applications of Special Soils
This reprint aims to immerse the reader in the latest advances in the study of special soils. Geotechnical design and construction all over the world are constantly challenged by a variety of special soils, including residual soil, loess, frozen soil, expansive soil, glacial till, and contaminated soil. The mechanical properties of special soils are significantly different from those of common sedimentary clays and sands, which pose great difficulties for engineering applications. The detailed characterizations of these special soils are of great importance if the related engineering is to be conducted in a secure and economical way. This reprint summarizes the most recent studies of special soils, involving laboratory, field, numerical, and theoretical investigations by scholars from all over the world.
Application of Microfluidics in Cell Manipulation and Biosensing
In recent years, point-of-care applications and high-throughput screening in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries have resulted in the rapid development of microfluidic systems for cell biology and disease diagnostics. The microfluidic method has attracted significant attention in biological and chemical applications, especially in cell manipulation, mixing, and biosensing, due to its distinctive advantages. This Special Issue brings together studies with the following research focuses: a paper-based device for detection purposes, cell concentration by a lamb wave resonator array, a micromixing chip for drug screening, a nano-doped hollow fiber for sensors, exosome separation via DLD and DEP, a trigger valve, an open microfluidic device, and reviews of single-cell sequencing and photonic microfluidic technologies.
Future of Work - AI Augmented Autonomous Decentralised
Who Should Read This Book?This book speaks directly to a diverse audience; management professionals navigating changing workplaces, industry leaders steering organizations through digital transformation, academic leaders guiding educational institutions through technological shifts, ambitious students preparing for AI-integrated careers, and intellectually curious individuals seeking to understand the technological forces reshaping our world.More than a conventional business guide, it offers a compelling exploration of the tech-augmented workplace where Artificial Intelligence transcends its role as a mere tool to become a transformative force fundamentally altering how we think, collaborate, make decisions, and lead. In this emerging era, understanding AI's capabilities, limitations, and implications has shifted from being optional knowledge to an essential competency.The book's foundation rests on more than 50 meticulously selected high-calibre essays, surveys, and research papers published in recent times, primarily during 2024-2025, creating a current and comprehensive intellectual framework that blends cutting-edge scholarship with grounded, actionable insight. Each carefully crafted chapter artfully integrates current data, expert commentary, and thoughtful personal reflection to present a nuanced, practical, and accessible view of AI's growing influence across professional domains and everyday life. Together with its forthcoming companion volume, the book aspires to provide a comprehensive yet deeply human-centered perspective on our rapidly evolving AI landscape-one that acknowledges both tremendous opportunities and meaningful challenges.
The AI Paradox
The AI Paradox: Innovation, Ethics, and the Future of Humanity explores the transformative power of artificial intelligence across industries, governance, and society while confronting the ethical dilemmas and unforeseen risks it presents. As AI revolutionizes automation, healthcare, finance, and public administration, it enhances efficiency, decision-making, and predictive capabilities-but at what cost? This book delves into the intricate balance between AI-driven innovation and the challenges of bias, data privacy, workforce displacement, and ethical accountability. From AI-powered diagnostics in medicine to predictive policing and algorithmic governance, each chapter examines how AI is reshaping our world while raising profound questions about human oversight, fairness, and long-term societal impact. Can AI truly operate without bias? Will automation displace more jobs than it creates? How do we ensure AI remains a tool for progress rather than control? The AI Paradox presents a compelling analysis of these pressing concerns, offering insights into responsible AI adoption, regulatory frameworks, and the evolving relationship between human intelligence and machine learning. A must-read for policymakers, researchers, business leaders, and tech enthusiasts, this book provides a forward-thinking perspective on navigating the AI-driven future-one where innovation and ethics must go hand in hand to shape a just and sustainable society.
Study on Building Energy Efficiency Related to Simulation Models
This Special Issue focuses on the need for advanced simulation techniques and computational methods in improving building energy efficiency. With increasing trends in global energy consumption and the escalating impact of climate change, reliable predictive modeling of building performance and energy consumption has become a critical part of sustainable construction. This Reprint gathers the state-of-the-art research that fills the gap between theoretical modeling and practice in the energy management and environmental performance of buildings. This collection includes a variety of methodological approaches, such as machine learning models for predicting thermal loads and advanced computation methods used to optimize an HVAC system. The presented studies have explored diverse building typologies in diverse climate regions, covering retrofit impact in various climatic regions, energy disaggregation for buildings, and improved methods of thermal bridge analysis. Collectively, these contributions extend the scientific understanding of optimizing building performance using advanced modeling approaches, facilitating the shift toward a net-zero energy future and sustainable development for the building sector.
Advanced Optical Technologies for Communications, Perception, and Chips
With iterative upgrades and the frequent application of new information technologies such as 5G, cloud computing, big data, and artificial intelligence, the global data traffic and the demand for computing power have ushered in explosive growth. Traditional data transmission speeds, information capacity, and chip computing performance can no longer meet the processing needs of big data. Recent progress in optical technologies has highlighted a feasible development route for these contradictions. In particular, optical communication, optical perception, and optical chips are considered to be the most promising research directions. At present, optical communication focuses on core technical issues, including larger bandwidths, lower latency, and smaller packet loss rates, to ensure that high-quality networks meet and support the development of new industries, such as 4K/8K live broadcast, VR/AR, and free-view video; optical perception technology has the advantages of convenient acquisition, low costs, and a large amount of information.This Reprint focuses on the state-of-the-art advancements in optical technologies for communication, perception, and chips. Its scope encompasses digital, electrical, and optical signal processing theories, artificial intelligence, integrated chips, devices, and subsystems/systems, as well as future perspectives.
Flavor Dynamics and Evolution of Taste in Meat Processing
Dive into the savory world of meat science with "Flavor Dynamics and Evolution of Taste in Meat Processing". This compelling exploration unveils the intricate processes that transform raw meat into a culinary delight. From the basic principles of flavor chemistry to the latest innovations in processing techniques, Dr. Nurul Alam guides you through the science of taste enhancement. Discover how modern technology is reshaping our perception of meat quality, creating richer, more complex flavors that tantalize the palate. Whether you're a food scientist, culinary professional, or a curious home cook, this book offers valuable insights into the art and science of meat flavor development. Endorsed by leading experts and packed with practical applications, "Flavor Dynamics and Evolution of Taste in Meat Processing" is an essential read for anyone passionate about the future of food. Unlock the secrets to crafting the ultimate meat experience and elevate your culinary creations to new heights.
Future Analysis of Telecom Sector
The given book contains the analysis of the past and the future aspects of the telecom sector present in India. The book describes about the two of the most competitive industries and with the most popular competitors. Which one is Private entity, and the other one is controlled by the Government with a government-controlled entity with decades of experience. Through detailed market insights, financial evaluations, and strategic forecasts, it explores how these giants have shaped the industry and what lies ahead in the era of 5G and digital transformation. A must-read for industry professionals, analysts, and anyone curious about the future of Indian telecom.
Optimizing HR Processes with a Custom Web-Based System
In today's fast-paced digital world, traditional HR processes are no longer enough. HR God: Revolutionizing HR with Web-Based Systems unveils a cutting-edge approach to optimizing HR operations using technology. From streamlining recruitment to automating staff deployment and simplifying document management, this book provides actionable insights on leveraging web-based solutions-particularly WordPress-to transform HR efficiency. Whether you're an HR professional, business leader, or tech enthusiast, this book will equip you with the tools to enhance productivity, reduce manual workload, and future-proof your HR operations. Discover how to take HR to the next level with innovation, automation, and smart digital strategies. The future of HR is here. Are you ready to embrace it?
Nutritional and Phytochemical Analyses of Leafy Vegetables in Development of Value Added Products
Green leafy vegetables are not only packed with essential nutrients, but they also offer a variety of health benefits. From spinach and mustard to collard greens and Swiss chard, each leafy green brings its own unique combination of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Rich in fiber, these vegetables support digestion and help maintain a healthy heart. Many varieties are also loaded with iron, calcium, and vitamin K, which promote strong bones and blood circulation. Whether cooked, steamed, or enjoyed raw in salads, incorporating different green leafy vegetables into your diet is a great way to boost overall health and well-being.
Proximal Chemical Characterization of Fermented and Dried Beans for the Renovation of Criollo Cocoa
Criollo cocoa, revered as the ""Prince of Cocoa,"" is the cornerstone of fine chocolate. But cultivating this prized variety is not without its challenges. Evaluation of the Proximal Chemical Characterization of Fermented and Dried Beans for the Renovation of Criollo Cocoa Plantations in the Dominican Republic delves into the essential chemical makeup of Criollo cocoa beans, providing a scientific foundation for sustainable improvement. This book explores the intricate relationship between bean composition, post-harvest processing, and the unique sensory qualities of Criollo cocoa. Through detailed analysis of key chemical parameters, including moisture, protein, ash, fiber, and pH, the authors unveil the secrets to optimizing bean quality. Discover how this research informs strategic decisions in plantation renovation, from selecting superior genotypes to refining post-harvest protocols. A vital resource for cocoa researchers, producers, and chocolate aficionados, this book champions the preservation of Criollo cocoa and paves the way for a future of exceptional fine flavor production.
Solar Air Heater
This book is an essential resource for researchers focused on assessing the performance of solar flat plate collectors. It provides a comprehensive, step-by-step explanation of the evaluation process, allowing readers to easily follow the method and obtain the desired results.
Thermal Management of Low Concentrated Photovoltaics with Heat Sinks encapsulated NePCM
The demand for energy and pollution from fossil fuels are increasing in the 21st century. Research on renewable energies is accelerating to replace conventional energy sources due to energy scarcity and rising pollution levels. A 270 TWh power of photovoltaic (PV) capacity was produced globally in the year of 2023, while it was found to be unstable due to its negative temperature coefficient [0.5 %/oC]. The electrical conversion efficiency of PV is directly proportional to the irradiance level on its surface. Using optical concentrators on the PV surface can enhance the intensity of solar radiation, thereby increasing the power production of concentrated photovoltaics (CPV). Globally, the installed non-concentrated and concentrated capacity will increase to 660 GW and 100 GW, respectively, by the end of 2024. The concentration of solar irradiance on PV depends on the concentration ratio (CR), which refers to the ratio between the area of the concentrator and the area of the solar cell. Concentrated photovoltaic technologies (CPV) are classified into three categories, namely, low concentration ratio (CR 10), and high concentration ratio (CR > 100). The performance of the CPV is significantly influenced by its surface temperature, leading to a 5 % reduction in power output for every 10 ◦C increase in temperature, while increasing the CR. The use of CPV with more than 10CR requires a solar tracker, which increases the total cost and total weight of the system, while the cost and weight of the system can be minimized with the use of LCPV (CPV). This book will be useful for proposing an effective thermal management techniques.
Recent Advances in Sensor Array Signal Processing and its Applications in Future Communication and Radar
There have been remarkable advancements in sensor array signal processing in recent years, fueled by the growing demand for high-performance communication and radar systems. Sensor arrays, comprising multiple spatially distributed sensors, offer unique capabilities for signal detection, estimation, and spatial processing. Recently, new array signal processing techniques like coprime and nested array signal processing have garnered considerable attention owing to their ability to expand the aperture, enhance the spatial resolution, increase the degrees of freedom, and mitigate mutual coupling. These techniques have applications across diverse domains such as wireless communication, MIMO radar techniques, and satellite navigation.This Reprint aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in sensor array signal processing and their applications, including sparse array design in MIMO radar system, a wideband sparse array system, target localization using multiple arrays, array signal processing enhancement in a multipath environment, and an array-based wireless communication system, to name a few.
Renewable Energy Systems
Discover the future of energy with our groundbreaking book on Renewable-Based Distribution Systems! Explore how integrating renewable sources like solar, wind, and hydropower is reshaping the way we deliver electricity. This essential read provides in-depth insights into the design, challenges, and innovations driving sustainable energy solutions. Whether you're a professional in the field or an enthusiast of clean energy, this book offers valuable knowledge to help you understand and contribute to the evolution of modern, eco-friendly power distribution systems.
Advanced Control Techniques for Power Converter and Drives
This Reprint on Advanced Control Techniques for Power Converters and Drives brings together recent advances in controlling power electronic systems and electric drives, with a focus on strategies that improve efficiency, robustness, and real-time feasibility. The collected works cover a wide spectrum of topics, including model predictive and adaptive control, passivity-based approaches, robust PI-PD design, and EMI-aware modulation methods. Special attention is given to nonlinear device modeling, FPGA-based implementations, and the distributed coordination of converters in modern energy systems.Each contribution is supported by simulations and experimental validations, demonstrating how advanced algorithms can be deployed in practical applications ranging from motor drives and renewable integration to distribution networks and aircraft power systems. This Reprint not only summarizes state-of-the-art developments but also highlights the main challenges that remain unresolved, such as incorporating nonlinear and thermal effects into controllers, certifying learning-enabled methods, and ensuring scalable stability in converter-dominated grids.This Reprint serves as a reference for researchers, engineers, and practitioners interested in cutting-edge control solutions for power converters and electric drives, and in the pathways toward their future development and industrial adoption.
100 Mind-Blowing Engineering Feats
Discover more mind-blowing books and audiobooks at FelixGrayson.com100 Mind-Blowing Engineering Feats: 100 Jaw-Dropping Innovations That Defy LimitsEngineering isn't just about blueprints and equations-it's about bold ideas, impossible odds, and the relentless human drive to build what's never been built before. From underwater roundabouts to robot-built bridges, this book is packed with 100 incredible engineering feats that will leave you thinking, "How on Earth did they pull that off?"Inside, you'll discover: A bridge that rolls itself into a ballA 3D-printed house that builds itself in under 24 hoursA tunnel spiraling down inside a mountain like a corkscrewA ship that stands upright in the ocean to become a floating labSkyscrapers that breathe, twist, and harvest the windRoads that charge electric cars while they driveA stadium roof that opens like a giant camera lensA wall that pulls drinking water straight from the skyFrom ancient wonders to futuristic marvels, this book is a showcase of human creativity, courage, and boundary-breaking brilliance. Whether it's built from steel, stone, wood, or sheer imagination, each feat is a testament to what's possible when humans dare to dream-and engineer those dreams into reality.This book is perfect for: Curious readers fascinated by the extreme limits of what we can buildSTEM enthusiasts and future inventors looking for real-world inspirationTrivia lovers and fact collectors who enjoy mind-blowing true storiesEducators, parents, and gift-givers who want to spark wonder in young mindsAnyone who's ever looked at a building, bridge, or tunnel and thought, "How did they make that?"Whether you read it cover to cover or flip to a random page, each story is guaranteed to entertain, inspire, and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the brilliant minds shaping our world.Get ready to journey through 100 of the most astonishing engineering achievements ever imagined-and discover how far human innovation can truly go.
Wild Weave
A guide to incorporating natural materials and fostering experimentation in woven projects. In Wild Weave, textile artist Alice Fox encourages an open-minded and playful approach to creating beautiful and innovative woven artworks. Fox promotes the idea of engaging with simple tools and technology, as well as making use of locally sourced and unconventional materials, all of which can produce exciting results. In this book, packed full of introductory information, Fox covers everything from the historical background of weaving to how weaving crosses boundaries among textiles, basketry, art, and craft. She includes an introduction to frames, heddles, and other simple tools, explaining how you can use the most basic equipment including found, homemade, and repurposed structures. Chock-full of practical advice and beautiful photography of the artist's own work, Wild Weave covers: - Sourcing materials and an introduction to equipment. - Weaving on frames, in the round, three-dimensionally, and ephemerally. - Examples of weave-based ideas for recording landscape and "spirit of place." - Techniques for working with alternative materials, which may be rigid or fragile. This book is ideal for anyone wanting to develop their textile art practice, or for newcomers seeking inspiration without the requirements of expensive tools or materials.
Tyres in Mining and Allied Sectors
The mining and allied industries are now fully geared to meet the challenges of the user industries commensurate with the overall industrial growth in the country. In this context, the earthmoving machines play a dominant role to maximize the production capacity. The tyres are the critical elements contributing significantly to the operation and maintenance cost of mobile earthmoving machines. Selection, application, and effective management of tyres are therefore the important issues in relation to the day-to-day operation of the tyre-mounted machines deployed in these industries. The problems associated with the use of Off-the-Road (OTR) tyres are largely different from those linked to other transportation systems, given their harsh operating environments.In view of the above, the first National Seminar on "Tyres in Mining and Allied Sectors-Status and Outlook" was organized by the Indian School of Mines, Dhanbad. Delegates from prominent tyre manufacturing companies, major mining and allied industries, leading educational institutions, and national R&D laboratories attended the seminar. The Seminar Volume contains twenty-two selected technical papers to comprehensively cover the various critical aspects of tyres, including advanced design and manufacturing techniques, performance testing, failure analysis, proactive maintenance strategies, and the sustainable disposal of scrap tyres. This compilation serves as a vital resource for industry professionals.
Advanced Technologies in Power Quality and Power Disturbance Data Application
This Reprint compiles research from the closed Special Issue "Symmetry in Advanced Technologies in Power Quality and Power Disturbance Data Application" published in the journal Symmetry. It explores the electrical power system as a complex symmetrical network balancing supply and consumption, emphasizing the critical role of power quality (PQ). Key PQ disturbances-including voltage sags, harmonics, transients, and asymmetrical variations-are examined for their impact on system stability and end-user reliability. The volume addresses advanced methods for PQ monitoring, mitigation, and prevention, highlighting the evolving challenge of analyzing these phenomena. Significantly, it investigates how disturbances, leveraged through power-related big data analytics, can provide valuable insights into system health and equipment conditions, transforming traditional PQ management into an opportunity for intelligent diagnostics.
Transforming Tomorrow
The International Conference on Transforming Tomorrow: Innovative Solutions and Global Trends in Electrical and Electronics Engineering-Pragyata-2025-is scheduled to be held on May 5-6, 2025, at Shri Vaishnav Vidyapeeth Vishwavidyalaya, Indore (Madhya Pradesh), India. This prestigious event aims to provide a dynamic platform for researchers, academicians, industry professionals, and students to exchange knowledge, showcase cutting-edge innovations, and discuss global trends shaping the future of Electrical and Electronics Engineering.Pragyata-2025 will feature sessions and presentations on key emerging areas including Robotics, Renewable Energy, Smart Grids, Mechatronics, 5G Communications, Artificial Intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT). The conference is designed to foster meaningful dialogue, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and engagement with leading experts from academia and industry.In line with its theme of Transforming Tomorrow, the conference emphasizes clarity, innovation, and sustainable development. It will serve as a catalyst for forward-looking discussions and solutions that address modern engineering challenges and contribute to building a smarter, greener, and more connected world.With a commitment to being Concise, Clear, and Cohesive, Pragyata-2025 is set to become a significant academic and professional milestone in advancing technological progress and inspiring future innovation across the Electrical and Electronics Engineering spectrum.
Design Process for Additive Manufacturing
This Reprint presents eleven contributions related to the design process for Additive Manufacturing (AM), gathered during the 2024-2025 period from experts in engineering and science from Germany, the USA, Hungary, Italy, China, Indonesia, Poland, and Ireland. It includes four articles that focus on traditional CAD modeling, four that explore Reverse Engineering (RE) design, and two that analyze the optimization processes involved in 3D printer construction and the materials used. Additionally, this Reprint contains a review that provides information about 4D printing. The articles presented here discuss essential aspects of AM. They emphasize that the AM process, which involves layer-by-layer material deposition, requires careful optimization during both the design and manufacturing stages to achieve the desired properties in the final model, such as strength, accuracy, and surface quality.
Qualitative-Environmental Aspects to Improve Materials and Processes of Their Formation
Materials is an area of research which spans many fields. Studies on this topic aim to develop innovative materials and detail the specifics of their use. For this reason, new technologies to produce these materials are being developed, which have the specific features of needing both control and to take the right actions to ensure the material's stabilization. Studies mainly refer to the qualitative aspects of the produced materials, and also the processes by which they occur. However, in the age of climate change, these processes should aim not solely to achieve expected quality, but also to ensure environmental protection. For this purpose, it is necessary to search for such solutions which align with the rules of continuous improvement and the philosophy of sustainable development. Dynamic market changes and turbulent areas that both include qualitative-environmental aspects are difficult to control; therefore, it is crucial to make decisions that will ensure the development and improvement of materials and processes in an environmentally safe manner that will, at the same time, meet the expectations of the market. It is this dilemma to which this Special Issue is devoted.
Advanced Biologically Inspired Vision and Its Application
This Special Issue Reprint focuses on advanced biologically inspired vision and its cutting-edge applications, covering interdisciplinary research integrating bionics, computer vision, and engineering. It collects high-quality papers that explore novel bionic vision models, image processing algorithms inspired by biological visual systems, and practical applications in fields such as robotics, medical imaging, and intelligent detection. These studies provide valuable insights for addressing key challenges in artificial vision, promoting the development of bionic vision technology and its industrial transformation. The Reprint will serve as a reference for researchers, engineers, and graduate students in the fields of bionics, computer science, and related engineering disciplines.
Recent Trends in Instrumentation and Control (RTIC-2024)
This book, "Recent Trends in Instrumentation and Control," offers a comprehensive exploration of the latest progress in Electronics, Instrumentation, and Control. It delivers critical insights into current developments, prevailing challenges, and promising future directions within this dynamic field.The text covers a diverse range of pivotal topics. These include recent advancements in biomedical instrumentation, which are revolutionizing medical diagnostics and patient monitoring systems. It also details significant advances in wireless communication technologies, highlighting their role in robust data transmission and control for numerous industrial applications.Furthermore, the book examines the vital integration of instrumentation systems with the Internet of Things (IoT), creating smarter, interconnected environments. Finally, it discusses various sophisticated control strategies designed to optimize industrial processes, ensuring greater efficiency and automation. This volume serves as an essential resource for understanding the cutting edge of these interconnected disciplines.
Future of Work - AI Augmented Autonomous Decentralised
Who Should Read This Book?This book speaks directly to a diverse audience; management professionals navigating changing workplaces, industry leaders steering organizations through digital transformation, academic leaders guiding educational institutions through technological shifts, ambitious students preparing for AI-integrated careers, and intellectually curious individuals seeking to understand the technological forces reshaping our world.More than a conventional business guide, it offers a compelling exploration of the tech-augmented workplace where Artificial Intelligence transcends its role as a mere tool to become a transformative force fundamentally altering how we think, collaborate, make decisions, and lead. In this emerging era, understanding AI's capabilities, limitations, and implications has shifted from being optional knowledge to an essential competency.The book's foundation rests on more than 50 meticulously selected high-calibre essays, surveys, and research papers published in recent times, primarily during 2024-2025, creating a current and comprehensive intellectual framework that blends cutting-edge scholarship with grounded, actionable insight. Each carefully crafted chapter artfully integrates current data, expert commentary, and thoughtful personal reflection to present a nuanced, practical, and accessible view of AI's growing influence across professional domains and everyday life. Together with its forthcoming companion volume, the book aspires to provide a comprehensive yet deeply human-centered perspective on our rapidly evolving AI landscape-one that acknowledges both tremendous opportunities and meaningful challenges.Future of Work: The Great Organizational Shift1. FROM Centralized Hierarchies TO Decentralized Networks (DAOs)2. FROM Managing People TO Orchestrating Human-AI Hybrids3. FROM Static Job Titles TO Dynamic Skill Portfolios4. FROM Automated Tasks TO Autonomous Decisions5. FROM Tech Speculation TO Grounded Strategy
The Inventions, Researches, and Writings of Nikola Tesla
The early works of famed inventor Nikola Tesla have been a source of inspiration for generations of innovators. At the time it was first published in 1893, The Inventions, Researches, and Writings of Nikola Tesla was considered to be the bible of electrical engineering and inspired generations of inventors. This volume--compiled and edited by Tesla's contemporary, Thomas Commerford Martin--includes extensive discussion of Tesla's early research and inventions, and it contains more than 300 illustrations that demonstrate the practical application of his ideas. Tesla, who was born in what is now Croatia, is best known for his research into the use of high-frequency alternating currents and wireless transmission. Many of his ideas have found practical application in the modern world, and he continues to be a source of inspiration and fascination to this day. Featuring a heat-burnished cover and gilded edges, this stylish volume makes for a vibrant addition to your bookshelf.
Technology
Technology: The Game Changer presents the case that technology should be seen as an essential feature of the human condition.Technology is defined as extending the capabilities of life processes, harnessing and regulating natural phenomena, enabling complex life-forms, such as humans, to build societies which step up through a series of gears.It is argued that humans are not only animals that make technology, but also animals made by technology. Nothing in history, it is proposed, makes sense except in the light of technology. It is contended that a technological perspective provides a satisfying and inclusive account of where we came from, who and what we are, and the various contingent futures that may face us.Taking a universal view, technology is presented as a basic feature of nature, necessarily central to the evolution and history of intelligent beings, whenever and wherever in the cosmos they might arise.
