Optimization of Intelligent Transport Systems Planning Energy Efficiency and Environmental Responsibility
This Special Issue of Energies, "Optimization of Intelligent Transport Systems Planning Energy Efficiency and Environmental Responsibility," will consist of manuscripts describing problems and challenges for transport systems. The modern approach to city planning generates new expectations for mobility. The geographic space is a type of limited resource. Currently, dynamic changes in land-use are being observed. During such processes, administrative units do not always prepare for land-use planning when considering sustainable development. Vehicle numbers are increasing, as are the number of trips being made. This results from changes in people's lifestyles, the habits created, and the increased convenience associated with personal transport. This development of individual transport, which contributes to the deterioration of road conditions (congestion), is harming the environment due to air and noise pollution and energy consumption and is causing the deterioration of residents' health (due to increased use of personal transport).
Insulating Materials for Future Power Systems
A wide variety of electrical materials, including polymeric insulating materials, energy storage materials, functional ceramics, semiconductive sensing materials, and high-conductive metallic materials, comprise the complex power transmission system. Recently, modern renewable energy systems are replacing traditional energy systems due to the more precise and controlled power stations. In this context, insulation materials, as one of the core components in electrical power equipment, will face unprecedented challenges and opportunities that may enhance operational complexity while reducing the power system's safety and reliability.The variations in operational conditions raise questions about the insulation strength of the numerous ultra-high voltage (UHV) assets that have been newly developed. Consequently, there is an essential need for a credible performance analysis, defect detection, and condition assessment of insulation materials in UHV equipment.Therefore, in this reprint, we discuss several interesting topics focusing on the fabrication, performance analysis, deterioration mechanisms, defect detection, and condition assessment of new electrical materials.
Advances in Boundary Lubrication
This Reprint summarises recent advancements in the science and application of boundary lubrication. The collection of articles addresses the fundamental mechanisms of friction and wear at contacting interfaces, including molecular dynamics simulations, predictive statistical models, and methodologies for tribological testing. Experimental studies emphasise the importance of advanced additives, such as MXenes and carbon quantum dots, alongside sustainable formulations derived from vegetable oils and esters. Contributions also investigate tribosystem robustness, forging processes utilising bio-based lubricants, and the integration of modelling with experimental validation. By combining theoretical insights, innovative materials research, and practical testing strategies, this Reprint provides a comprehensive overview of how boundary lubrication is evolving in response to the demands of modern machinery and sustainable engineering. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners seeking to understand and enhance lubricant performance under challenging contact conditions.
Zero-Carton Fuel Turbulent Combustion Flow Characteristics in Gas Turbine
Turbulent combustion is an extremely complex process, the core issues are the turbulence structure and the combustion flame structure as well as components, diffusion mixing of fuel and air, interactions between vortex and flame, flame propagation and stability, et al. To meet the future development requirements of gas turbine with high parameters, low emissions, wide load range, and multi-fuel capabilities (including hydrogen or ammonia fuels), advanced combustion technologies must be developed to match these needs. The issue of gas turbines adaptability to different zero-carbon fuels and variable loads urgently necessitates the updating of airflow/combustion organization modes and combustion methods. This book deals mainly with zero-carton fuel combustion flow characteristics in different combustors of gas turbine, such as swirl combustion, multiple direct-injection combustion, jet combustion coupling guide ring, and bidirectional vortex combustion, to reveal the core issues of turbulence combustion, and provide the theoretical insights for engineering applications.
Conceptual Design and Analysis of a Roller-Based Obstacle Deflector for Rail Safety
Revolutionizing Rail Safety with Roller-Based Obstacle Deflectors Introduction Train accidents involving animals and humans on railway tracks remain a significant safety issue, particularly in areas where railways intersect wildlife habitats or densely populated regions. Traditional obstacle deflectors focus primarily on clearing obstacles to maintain operational efficiency. However, these devices often disregard the impact they have on the lives of those involved, whether they are humans or animals. This project proposes an innovative solution: a roller-based obstacle deflector designed to minimize injuries while ensuring the smooth functioning of railways. This device aims to reduce the force of collisions and redirect obstacles safely, prioritizing safety and humane treatment. Conceptual Design Objectives The primary objectives of the roller-based obstacle deflector are: To minimize injuries to humans and animals during collisions. To ensure obstacles are safely redirected away from the tracks. To maintain railway operational efficiency without compromising safety. Design Features The obstacle deflector is equipped with cushioning polyethylene rollers that absorb impact energy and reduce the force of collisions. These rollers are strategically positioned to redirect obstacles sideways off the tracks. The design is tailored to handle collisions with humans, cattle, and even large animals like elephants, especially at speeds up to 30 km/h. The design process was carried out using CATIA software, adhering to the specifications of Indian Railways. The rollers are engineered to be durable, lightweight, and highly energy-absorbent, ensuring both efficiency and effectiveness.
Monitoring the Coagulation/Flocculation Mechanism and Process During Wastewater Treatment
The coagulation-flocculation process is an important step and operation, most often used as a pretreatment before separation processes of the liquid and solid phases. The fundamental mechanisms of this process have been the subject of several studies in recent years. However, it is still difficult to predict the required amounts of the coagulants as well as the flocculants to achieve these processes properly. Indeed, these amounts are can be considered as a crucial parameter because any execs can lead to generate a secondary pollution in addition to the cost of these products. In this context, a new approach was carried out to investigate the complex impedance Z*(ω) measurements as well as others dielectric/electrical characteristics including the complex permittivity ε*(ω), complex modulus M*(ω) and complex conductivity σ*(ω) were explored. It is revealed from our study that the analysis of the dielectric and electric properties could be very useful to address these criteria for estimating the optimal amount the coagulants and flocculants. This approach was employed to investigate these properties in the case for effluents from the textile industry. Calcium oxide and aluminum sulfate were used as coagulants, while a cationic polymer was used as a flocculants. For coagulation process: The analysis and modeling of the electrical dielectric properties of the samples exhibited a significant change the evolution of conductivity by decreasing and reaching a minimum value at (3%) of calcium oxide then started to increases. Moreover, the relaxation time and dielectric strength increased in the first phase up to (3%), indicating the formation of more compact aggregations during the coagulation process, and decreased in the second phase above (3%). These results were supported and revealed a good agreement by a complementary analysis of the rheological properties. The evolution of the viscosity exhibited a similar behavior to the evolution of conductivity by decreasing and reaching a minimum value at (3%).
FCH - Free Cooling and Heating
The author of this book has made a critical assessment of the state of CO2 emissions and solutions that have been implemented by 2025 and has shown a new direction by 2050, which should mobilize scientists and institutions around the world to work very intensively on the development and implementation of FCH HVAC technology. This technology is the only one that reduces the consumption of primary energy in existing infrastructure by using CO2 at a level not achieved so far, undermining the current very expensive ecological game. The author also asks the question why science, research institutes and universities around the world have not noticed these unlimited, full stores of free energy located under every building, which have been available for millions of years without any additional investment and have a power many times greater than the entire energy production in the world? The presented studies on profitability and environmental protection and the further increase in temperatures leave no illusions. The author presents in the book the results based on scientific research conducted since 2015. The analysis included the results of BMS FCH HVAC Buildings located throughout Poland from Gdansk through Warsaw to Sosnowiec, existing buildings, newly designed, historic and technical buildings. The author shows graphs from the period of operation, as well as simulations based on IX-CHART, Plus v.8.1., Design Builder v4.2.0.05 programs. The comparison of traditional HVAC installations, heat pumps and FCH is impressive and provides huge opportunities to reduce operating costs and CO2 emissions by at least 50%. Anyone who buys the book and introduces FCH in their own home with an area of up to 300 m⊃2; will receive a free license from the author, owner of the technology and patents, to perform and use the installation without time limits.
Advanced Insights into the Utilization of Oxidized Coal Residues in Coalfield Fire
Coalfield fires pose significant environmental, safety, and resource utilization challenges, generating vast quantities of oxidized coal residues with altered structural and chemical properties. This book delves into the scientific mechanisms, thermodynamic characteristics, and innovative catalytic strategies required to transform these residues into valuable resources. By addressing fundamental and applied aspects, the book presents a pathway for enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of coal utilization in fire-affected zones.
Enhanced Efficiency in Organic/ Inorganic Hybrid Silicon Solar Cells
It explores transformative innovations in hybrid solar cell technologies. This comprehensive resource highlights the convergence of organic and inorganic materials to create next-generation energy solutions, emphasizing cutting-edge approaches that revolutionize the performance of hybrid silicon solar cells. The book thoroughly examines the role of breakthrough technique in enhancing charge carrier mobility and reducing energy losses, resulting in significantly improved photovoltaic performance. Complementing this, the text delves into advanced surface engineering methods that optimize light capture, electron transport, and recombination processes. Through precise surface modifications, the challenges of energy conversion inefficiency are systematically mitigated. A core focus of the book is the donor-acceptor-donor (D-A-D) organic material design, an innovative approach that integrates strategically designed molecular structures into hybrid systems. These materials play a crucial role in enhancing optoelectronic properties and ensuring seamless integration within silicon-based substrates, unlocking new potentials in power conversion capabilities. By incorporating these methodologies, the book documents the progression of solar cell efficiency from 2.948% to a remarkable 17.5%. Rich with experimental data, theoretical models, and detailed case studies, this text bridges the gap between fundamental research and practical applications. It provides insights into fabrication techniques, characterization tools, and performance optimization strategies. Aimed at researchers, engineers, and students, it serves as both an advanced academic reference and a guide to practical implementation. With a strong emphasis on sustainable energy solutions, the book underscores the pivotal role of hybrid solar cells in meeting global energy demands. It invites readers to explore the future of renewable energy, where innovation transforms challenges into opportunities for a greener world.
The Art of Audio
Discover the Art of Audio In a world where technology continuously pushes the boundaries of creativity, ""The Art of Audio: Generating Text and Images"" offers an illuminating journey into the innovative intersection of sound, language, and visuals through machine learning. Explore how neural networks transform raw audio into meaningful text and captivating imagery, revealing the profound possibilities of multimodal artificial intelligence. From groundbreaking research to practical applications, this book delves into the methods, challenges, and triumphs of harnessing audio data to create a seamless bridge between different forms of expression. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a data scientist, or an AI researcher, this book offers: Insights into state-of-the-art machine learning techniques. Real-world applications of audio-to-text and text-to-image synthesis. A compelling vision of the future of multimodal AI. Join Krishnaja Jayan on this transformative exploration of how machines can redefine creativity and bring new dimensions to storytelling.
Advances in Grid-tied PV Inverters II
The renewable energy industry has grown dramatically in recent years as a result of global green missions. PVs are widely regarded as the most cost-effective renewable energy source. For PV-battery hybrid systems, the system operates in various scenarios depending on PV power, load power, and battery status, and the control loop may need to switch. Chapter 2 presents a generalized mode control method for avoiding loop switching in a variety of scenarios. PV DC arc-faults have the potential to start fires, damage property, and endanger people's lives. An AI-based DC arc detection technique is proposed in Chapter 3. High reliability and long lifespan are always the goals for power conversion systems, especially in PV applications. Chapter 4 investigates active low-frequency current absorbing method applied in PV systems to replace electrolytic capacitors with film capacitors.
Strain in Carbon Fiber Laminates
Carbon fiber composites have become the core material of modern industry with their lightweight and high strength properties, but their complex orthogonal anisotropy, multi-angle layup and multi-layer structural properties pose great challenges for accurate strain measurement and calculation. Breaking through the traditional research framework, this book presents a set of methods for internal strain assessment of carbon fiber laminates based on experimental measurement techniques, injecting new perspectives into this field. By selecting carbon fiber laminate samples with different layup angles and thicknesses, this book systematically compares the synergistic application of traditional measurement tools such as tensiometers and strain gauges with HyperMesh finite element simulation, and accurately analyzes the distribution of strain in the main direction of internal layers. The high agreement between experimental data and simulation results not only verifies the reliability of the method, but also reveals the mechanical response mechanism of multilayer composites. The methodology proposed in the book provides a set of quantifiable and reproducible practical framework for the structural optimization design, performance evaluation and engineering application of composite materials.
Fungal Enzymes
Existing circumstances demand a more sustainable, ecofriendly and cost-effective dealings worldwide to deal with the growing troubles of environmental issues. The main aspiration of this effort is to opt for such ideas and technologies which involve cleaner and greener procedures for utilizing waste materials for deriving value added products. The soil pertaining to areas of oil mills contains densely population of various microbes', especially fungal origin. These microbes are rich in lipase content (due to oil source). Isolation of fungal colonies from oil rich soil to ferment them under various conditions to extract fungal enzyme i.e. lipase and then used it for further applications. Lipases are highly versatile and industrially important enzymes. Deriving the lipases from waste soil is the main appeal of this work and is a venture strategizing the "best from waste" approach.
Study of Compressive Strength on Red Mud Concrete Using Rebound Hammer Test
Red mud, a by-product of the Bayer process used for refining bauxite into alumina, has become a major environmental concern due to its vast accumulation and disposal challenges. However, recent studies have explored the use of red mud as an alternative material in concrete production, given its availability, cost-effectiveness, and potential to enhance the properties of concrete. Red mud is typically rich in iron oxide, silica, and alumina, which can influence the mechanical properties of concrete.
Wear-Resistant Coatings and Film Materials
Wear-resistant coatings and film materials are essential in many industries, such as manufacturing and aerospace. These coatings and materials provide protection against wear and tear, extending the lifespan and durability of various products.One of the key benefits of wear-resistant coatings, such as nanomaterials and polyurethane, is their ability to reduce friction. These coatings are commonly used in applications such as bearings. Another advantage of wear-resistant coatings is their ability to resist chemical and environmental degradation. This extends their lifespan and reduces maintenance costs in harsh environments. Moreover, wear-resistant coatings can also enhance the esthetic appeal of products with different colors or textures. This is particularly important for automotive and consumer electronics, where design plays a crucial role in customer perception. Despite the numerous benefits of wear-resistant coatings, there are also challenges and limitations.
Structural Identification and Damage Evaluation by Integrating Physics-Based Models with Data
This Reprint presents a comprehensive collection of cutting-edge research on structural identification and damage evaluation through the integration of physics-based models with data-driven approaches. The compilation addresses one of the most critical challenges in structural health monitoring: combining the theoretical rigor of physics-based numerical models with the adaptive capabilities of modern data science techniques.The featured studies demonstrate innovative methodologies that bridge traditional finite element model updating approaches with advanced machine learning algorithms, physics-informed neural networks, and Bayesian inference techniques. Researchers explore novel applications including deep learning-enhanced stress identification in prestressed structures, automated concrete crack detection using computer vision, and real-time structural assessment through digital twin technologies.Key contributions encompass deterministic and stochastic finite element model updating, physics-guided machine learning for damage detection, hybrid modeling frameworks for structural systems, and uncertainty quantification in structural assessment. The Reprint showcases practical implementations across diverse structural types, from high-rise buildings and bridge systems to specialized infrastructure components like lightning rod structures and prestressed concrete girders.
Recent Developments in Automatic Control and Systems Engineering
The industry's pursuit of digitalization, with a focus on automating solutions, is presently being complemented by efforts to develop autonomous systems, where artificial intelligence (AI), advanced control, modeling, and optimization play a significant role. In this context, this Special Issue presents some recent developments in automatic control and systems engineering, including practical and experimental applications in various areas, ranging from autonomous vehicles to industrial processes. A core aim of this Issue is to capture many of the important themes being pursued by researchers in this area, which in turn will allow other researchers to plan further research into these areas.
Contact Line Dynamics and Droplet Spreading
Contact line dynamics occurs when a liquid encounters a solid surface. The physics of the moving contact line and droplet spreading involves interfacial physics and fluid dynamics. Contact line dynamics and droplet spreading are important in various technologies including healthcare/medicine, energy, and electronics. This Special Issue provides the advances in the area of a moving contact line and droplet spreading and their applications in biotechnology, microfluidics, nanofluidics, printing and coating technologies, as well as heat transfer.
Advances in Grid-tied PV Inverters
The renewable energy industry has grown dramatically in recent years as a result of global green missions. PV energy is considered the most cost-effective and reliable renewable energy source. Power electronics, an important interface between PV renewables and the grid, has advanced rapidly in recent years. As the percentage of PV renewables integration increases, new challenges emerge, such as high-quality grid current controlling, potential induced degradation suppression, DC-bus voltage balancing, and so on. These new issues create new challenges for PV power electronic inverter. As a result, in-depth discussions on these issues are required in order to provide technical support for the global energy transition. It is simple to implement conventional current control with a PI controller. However, system stability and dynamic performance are not perfect, particularly when operating under unfavorable conditions. In Chapter 2, an improved control method is proposed by introducing a compensation unit. The compensation unit can effectively compensate the system's phase around the crossover frequency, greatly enhancing the system's phase margin and stability. It is also capable of handling weak-grid conditions. Researchers have discovered that there are various degradation mechanisms affecting PV module. One of the degradation mechanisms is the PID, which is regarded as one of the leading causes of PV module degradation. In Chapter 3, a PID suppression method is proposed, in which a PID suppression unit is added between DC negative bus and ground. The idea is to regulate the output voltage of the added power supply, and then correspondingly raise the voltage of the PV module to the ground to suppress the PID effect. Chapter 4 investigates the dc-bus voltage balancing for 3-level DC/DC converters. Based on duty cycle and operating modes, four different cases are illustrated, and the output voltages under four cases are detailed. The dc-bus voltage balancing situation becomes worse when the system is in the condition of D>0.5 and DCM. Therefore, three methods are proposed to solve the issue raised.
Tribology of Textured Surfaces
This reprint highlights the latest advances in tribology focused on textured surfaces, showcasing 14 peer-reviewed contributions that explore innovative strategies to reduce friction, enhance lubrication, and improve wear resistance. The volume spans a broad spectrum of texture scales, from micro-dimples as small as 5 μm to millimeter-sized grooves, and covers diverse fabrication methods including laser surface texturing, controlled grinding, and hybrid coatings. The studies demonstrate how precise surface engineering can dramatically enhance the performance of mechanical components such as bearings, seals, piston-cylinder systems, and biomedical implants.A significant portion of the contributions emphasize computational modeling and simulations, including non-linear optimization, computational fluid dynamics, and finite element methods, which complement experimental validation and provide predictive insights into tribological performance. By integrating theory, experiments, and practical applications, this reprint serves as a comprehensive resource for researchers and engineers seeking to design advanced textured surfaces.Together, these contributions underscore the transformative potential of surface texturing in extending component life, improving energy efficiency, and enabling next-generation engineering solutions across industrial and biomedical applications.
Non-Destructive Testing of Materials and Parts
Non-destructive testing (NDT) is the application of scientific principles of physics, chemistry, and mathematics for the development of adequate procedures and specific equipment that can be used to study a part, object, or complex structure, like a car, airplane, or railway bridge, without causing any harm to the object under examination. NDT is also used in many other industries, and in other non-industrial applications; for example, NDT is used to make sure that parts do not have defects that would make the customer unhappy or that passengers and luggage in an airport comply with the strict safety regulations. Some of the equipment and procedures used in NDT can also be found in the medical field, like with the use of X-rays in dental work or ultrasound in echography. Presently, there is no doubt about the importance of NDT, as it leads to a considerable amount of savings by not destroying parts, some of which are expensive, as it replaces the still too present destructive testing technique. Nowadays, there are many NDT techniques available. The field of quality control works to perfect these technologies year after year, allowing us to effectively replace destructive testing. So, we invite the reader to get acquainted with the themes within this Reprint, as they comprise an interesting set of contributions for the current state on recent NDT techniques and applications with some new insights on the use of methods like acoustic emission, ultrasound, electromagnetic waves, thermal imaging, nanoindentation, thermography, or enhanced radiography.
Design and Development of Metal Matrix Composites
This Special Issue presents recent advancements in the design, fabrication, and characterization of metal matrix composites (MMCs), highlighting their growing importance in high-performance structural and functional applications. It includes original research focused on innovative processing techniques such as powder metallurgy, additive manufacturing, and casting, as well as investigations into microstructural behavior, mechanical properties, and tribological performance. The contributions offer valuable insights into how MMCs can be tailored for demanding environments in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and energy. By addressing both theoretical developments and practical implementations, this Special Issue provides a comprehensive overview of current trends and future directions in the field of MMCs.
Advanced New Physical Layer Technologies for Next-Generation Wireless Communications
The objective of this Special Issue is to present groundbreaking research on the latest developments in physical-layer technologies that will form the foundation of next-generation 6G wireless communications. We have gathered original research articles that explore innovative solutions to meet the demanding requirements of global convergence, enhanced spectral/energy efficiency, extreme reliability, ultra-low latency, and intelligent security for next-generation wireless communication networks. Building upon established principles of wireless communication theory, this Special Issue pushes the boundaries of current knowledge to address the limitations of 5G technologies. While conventional approaches-such as OFDM and classical information theory-have proven inadequate, revolutionary techniques including new waveforms, advanced multiple-access approaches, novel channel-coding methods, and multi-antenna technologies are now emerging. These innovations are enabling the paradigm shift from conventional terrestrial-only networks to integrated space-air-ground networks. This Special Issue highlights transformative work in key areas: classical and multiuser information theory, electromagnetic information theory, semantic-aware transceiver designs, reconfigurable intelligent surfaces, native-AI-empowered architectures, and integrated sensing and communication systems.
Recent Progress in Biomass Pyrolysis and High Value Utilization of Pyrolytic Carbon
Multi-Sensor Technology for Target Tracking, Positioning and Navigation
Advanced Research on Heat Exchangers Networks and Heat Recovery
Vibration Prediction and Noise Assessment of Building Structures
Challenges and Perspectives of Social Networks within Social Computing
The Peck, Stow & Wilcox Company's Tinsmiths' Tools and Machines
Peck, Stow & Wilcox was probably the foremost manufacturer of tinsmith s tools and machines in the world. This reprint of its 1900 centennial catalog was designed to reflect this. Every imaginable piece of equipment from formers and stakes to double seamers, folding and wiring machines are listed, described and illustrated.
Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites for Building and Bridge Applications
Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) material, known for its high strength, light weight, and excellent durability under harsh conditions or in coastal environments, has been widely used as a popular material in the strengthening, repairing, and retrofitting of existing structures. Additionally, the combination of FRP and traditional construction materials has been increasingly employed in the construction of buildings and bridges. Recently, new fibers (such as flax) and new matrixes (such as geo-polymer matrixes) have shown great potential in lieu of traditional FRP composites in many engineering scenarios. For the safe and effective application of FRP composites in civil engineering, plausible approaches to aid in estimating the performances of such structures need to be developed. The three Guest Editors organized this Special Issue (SI) that aimed to present recent advances and emerging cross-disciplinary approaches in FRP composites by collecting predominantly integrated studies pertaining to the performance of FRP composite structures. Studies from experimental testing, analytical approaches, numerical simulation, and emerging algorithms on the performance of strengthening existing structures and new-built structures were published. Nine published articles covered the following directions: FRP-strengthened concrete structures, thin-walled FRP composites for building and bridge applications, and the structural behaviors of FRP under actions of fire or environmental factors.
Forecasting and Risk Management Techniques for Electricity Markets II
As renewable energy integration continues to expand, electricity market participants face growing uncertainty in both prices and volumes. These evolving conditions underscore the urgent need for advanced tools and strategies to support effective decision-making and ensure system reliability. Recognizing these challenges, the current Reprint presents a collection of innovative research on forecasting and risk management in electricity markets undergoing rapid transformation.The featured papers explore a range of approaches, including load forecasting under uncertainty, agent-based simulations for peer-to-peer trading, blockchain-based electricity market mechanisms, and the development of energy and weather derivatives to hedge market risks. Together, these contributions span both centralized and decentralized systems and offer practical insights for energy producers, grid operators, and financial engineers. Several studies also align risk-management strategies with broader policy goals such as carbon neutrality and sustainable electricity market design.In summary, this Reprint serves as a timely reference for researchers and practitioners seeking interdisciplinary methods to enhance forecasting accuracy and market resilience. The collection reflects the evolving nature of electricity markets and brings together perspectives from energy economics, finance, control theory, and data science to address pressing challenges and emerging opportunities worldwide.
Advances in Testing and Computation Methods for Disaster Mitigation of Engineering Structures
The safety of engineering structures against natural hazards (e.g., earthquakes, winds, fires, and tsunamis) is a subject of great interest to researchers and is important for protecting human life and reducing economic losses. In the last few decades, with advancing knowledge and technological development in relation to understanding and interpreting the mechanisms of natural hazards, new components, connections, devices, and structural systems have been proposed for mitigating the damage caused to engineering structures. New testing and computational methods are being developed to analyze and design this damage.This Special Issue is dedicated to current research on experimental, theoretical, computational, and relevant studies on advanced methods in the disaster mitigation of engineering structures, including the following: analyzing and simulating natural hazards; damage assessment of engineering structures under natural hazards; modeling and applications of new construction materials for structural engineering; design methodologies of newly developed structural components and systems; advanced testing and modeling technologies; maintenance, repair, and retrofit of existing structures; vulnerability, risk, and reliability assessment of engineering structures under earthquakes, winds, fires, and tsunamis; and advanced methods for the evaluation and design of the resistance and resilience of structural systems.
Electric Vehicles for Smart Cities
The concept of a smart city involves using modern information and communication technologies to improve quality of life and ensure the efficient functioning of urban systems. Its implementation covers traffic organization, urban infrastructure, energy, the environment and public health. A key element is promoting environmentally friendly transport, with the global shift from conventionally powered vehicles to electric mobility becoming an irreversible trend. This transformation requires appropriate infrastructure, effective operational strategies and the integration of diverse electric transport modes, including cars, buses, trolleybuses, trams, railways, e-scooters and e-bikes, into a coherent system.This Reprint presents recent research and practical insights into the role of electric vehicles in building smart, sustainable and energy-efficient urban transport systems. It addresses technological, organizational and policy aspects, exploring topics such as innovative charging tariff systems, vehicle-to-grid solutions, the optimization of cold-chain deliveries and GIS-based planning of charging infrastructure. It also examines traffic safety, risk management, fleet conversion strategies and the development of green mobility scenarios. By combining case studies, methodological frameworks and decision-support tools, this Reprint provides a comprehensive view of how electric mobility can be effectively implemented and managed in smart cities, supporting decarbonization, resilience and the enhanced quality of urban life.
Application of Artificial Intelligence in Industrial Process Modelling and Optimization
This Special Issue aims to enable readers to understand the latest technologies in artificial intelligence in industrial process modelling and optimization. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into industrial process modelling and optimization has emerged as a transformative force. This Special Issue aims to explore the application of AI approaches in industrial process modelling and optimization. This Special Issue collects research on AI and extraction of bioactive compounds, AI-driven maintenance optimization for natural gas-liquid pumps, sensor data imputation for industry reactor, domain-specific manufacturing analytics framework, machine learning predictions for various fibres, predicting and understanding emergency of pipeline incidents, energy-aware industrial internet of things, decision support system, biosensors for detecting food contaminants, intelligent modelling for sintering process, and intelligent monitoring for geological drilling processes. By sharing their practice and insights into the development and application of new AI technologies, the authors of the articles in this reprint have demonstrated the application value of artificial intelligence in industrial process modelling and optimization, thus providing readers with valuable ideological inspiration in this area.
Algorithms for PID Controller 2019
The reprint focuses on advanced PID controller-tuning algorithms in addition to conventional approaches based on mathematical controlled system analysis. Stavrov and al. proposed an improved version of a conventional PID controller based on a quadratic error model. De Moura Oliveira et al. proposed a PSO technique for PID controller design. Alimohammadi et al. introduced a multi-loop Model Reference Adaptive Control, leveraging a NARX model as the reference model, which was integrated with a Fractional Order PID. Alekseeva proposed a PD Steering Controller utilizing the predicted position on tracks for autonomous vehicles driven on slippery roads. A Neural PID controller for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles was presented by Avila et al., based on a Multilayer Perceptron trained with an Extended Kalman Filter. A study of six types of multi-loop model reference (ML-MR) control structures and design schemes for PID control loops is presented by Alagoz and al. Smeresky, Rizzo and Sands explore and analyze deterministic artificial intelligence composed of self-awareness statements along with a novel, optimal learning algorithm. Radac and Lala suggest a solution for the Output Reference Model tracking control problem, based on approximate dynamic programming and the Value Iteration (VI) algorithm for controller learning. A Kalman-Filter-Based tension control system for industrial Roll-to-Roll system is also presented by Hwang et al.
Transient Flows
Transient flows represent a field of research that has greatly advanced in the last few decades; however, there are still many aspects of this topic that require further research. Transient flows result from sudden changes in flow conditions in pipeline systems because of planned or accidental maneuvers. Failures related to the effects of these flows can lead to major accidents and significant damage to pipeline systems. At present, transient flow analysis is a fundamental part of the design of fluid systems.Transient flow analysis is a complex research topic. In recent years, considerable progress has been made due to developments in computer science, numerical models, and novel analysis techniques. This Special Issue focuses on all of the advancements which have been made in relation to the following aspects of this field: transient flows, mathematical simulations, new analysis techniques, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), laboratory tests, protection elements and systems against water hammer, innovative strategies for controlling water hammer, hydraulic transients with entrapped air, hydraulic transients with water column separation, the consequences and risks of hydraulic transients, etc.
Techniques of Control for Energy Optimization in Actuators, Motors and Power Generation Systems
The efficient and intelligent management of energy resources is widely recognized as a key strategy for promoting environmental sustainability, equitable resource distribution, and enhanced resource reutilization. In modern energy systems, control and optimization techniques, and advanced algorithms in particular, play a pivotal role. Energy optimization is a critical concern across a broad spectrum of applications, including smart grids and microgrids, renewable energy systems, electric and hybrid vehicles, conventional engines, energy storage solutions, electric motors, and various types of traditional and non-traditional actuators.From large-scale infrastructure to small-scale components, all systems contribute significantly to the overall energy landscape. Even small actuators and motors, whether electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic, are integral to the vision of intelligent energy management due to their widespread use in energy-to-motion conversion processes.This Reprint aims to highlight recent advances in intelligent control strategies and optimization techniques focused on the efficient management of energy. The contributions within address systems in which algorithms and control methodologies play crucial roles in improving energy performance and optimization.
Signal Processing and Artificial Intelligence Technology for High-End Equipment Fault Diagnosis
This Reprint presents the latest research progress of signal processing and artificial intelligence technologies for fault diagnosis of high-end mechanical equipment. It contains 13 original research papers, covering advanced dynamics modeling and mechanism analysis methods, novel signal processing and artificial intelligence methods for machine fault diagnosis using various sensing technologies, and their multi-field applications. These papers mainly report research outcomes in mechanical engineering and its interdisciplinary fields, covering different themes including fault mechanism analysis; structural health monitoring; fault diagnosis and remaining useful life prediction of rotating machinery; high-end mechanical equipment in different industrial fields including the railway, wind energy, machinery manufacturing, and aerospace industries; and different sensing technologies including vibration, temperature, thermal imaging, electrical signals, and force or torque. The Reprint highlights how different sensing technologies could be integrated with advanced signal processing and artificial intelligence technologies for fault diagnosis of industrial mechanical systems. The research results of these interdisciplinary applications will contribute to better understanding of the mechanisms of machine fault diagnosis and remaining useful life prediction, and the application of these advanced monitoring and diagnostic technologies will improve the safety and reliability of mechanical systems in various industrial fields.
Intelligent Sensors for Structural Health Monitoring and Mechanical Fault Diagnosis
The aim of this Reprint is to educate the readers on the advanced fault or defect detection and diagnosis methods of machines and structures, even including a few advanced sensing techniques. We aim to uncover cutting-edge methodologies for mechanical and structural fault detection and diagnosis, with a focus on bearing diagnosis and signal processing innovation. Key advances include adaptive signal denoising and enhancement through utilizing noise, precision sensing hardware, AI-based diagnostics and data analysis. This Reprint would provide abundant and systemic content, from precise measurement, to signal processing-based signature extraction, to AI-empowered diagnosis frameworks.
Geomechanics and Geotechnical Engineering Problems in the Design and Construction of Underground Buildings
This Reprint aims to showcase the recent advances in research related to geomechanics and geotechnical engineering problems in the design and construction of underground buildings and present some scientific issues and solutions encountered in tunnel engineering, foundation pit engineering, subway construction and other projects. As the geotechnical problems of underground engineering remain persistent throughout the entire process and are relevant to environmental protection, it is essential to consider the mechanical characteristics of geotechnical engineering and its interaction with structure when solving related engineering problems such as underground building structures. The contributions of this collection explore issues in geotechnical engineering related to different types of building structures. The topics include the seismic response of induced joints in subway stations; the shock absorption and energy dissipation effects of improved foundations, the stability, support effects, and seismic response laws of tunnels in different rock and soil masses; the stability and support methods of deep foundation pits in different environments; and the mechanical characteristics of different types of rock and soil foundations, etc. This Reprint provides valuable resources for researchers and practitioners for the design and construction of underground building structures.
Radiation Effects of Advanced Electronic Devices and Circuits
Responding to the critical demands for radiation-hardened space electronics, this Reprint synthesizes cutting-edge advances in radiation effects research across advanced semiconductor technologies. It addresses dual industry challenges posed by escalating radiation susceptibility from device scaling and the urgent need for new evaluation paradigms in radiation hardness assurance for complex electronic systems. The Reprint features pioneering research on CNN accelerators for aerospace computing, gallium nitride (GaN) High Electron Mobility Transistors (HEMTs), high-barrier beta-gallium oxide (β-Ga₂O₃) Schottky Barrier Diodes (SBDs), silicon MOSFETs, and indium phosphide Heterojunction Bipolar Transistors (InP HBTs), collectively advancing radiation hardening methodologies and reliability assessment. By presenting novel hardening strategies with breakthrough radiation mitigation solutions, it delivers essential insights for navigating evolving challenges while positioning itself as a vital resource for advancing radiation tolerance electronics innovation.
The Paradox of Progress
With opportunity comes uncertainty.An industrial revolution has begun: artificial intelligence is creating a cultural upheaval.But is this progress or peril? Is the potential really worth the risk?In The Paradox of Progress, Dr. Michael M. Karch delves into the ethical complexities of AI's rapid evolution. Drawing from a career spanning three decades in robotics, orthopedic surgery, and international disaster response, Dr. Karch investigates AI's far-reaching impact and initiates critical discussion about its duality. This is a compelling exploration through historical precedents of progress and AI's challenges today, including fears of data bias, deep fakes, technological hegemony, and job displacement. The Paradox of Progress is a thought-provoking analysis and must-read perspective for discovering how to harness the power of AI, reflect on collective responsibility, and safeguard the future for ourselves and the next generation.
The Paradox of Progress
With opportunity comes uncertainty.An industrial revolution has begun: artificial intelligence is creating a cultural upheaval.But is this progress or peril? Is the potential really worth the risk?In The Paradox of Progress, Dr. Michael M. Karch delves into the ethical complexities of AI's rapid evolution. Drawing from a career spanning three decades in robotics, orthopedic surgery, and international disaster response, Dr. Karch investigates AI's far-reaching impact and initiates critical discussion about its duality. This is a compelling exploration through historical precedents of progress and AI's challenges today, including fears of data bias, deep fakes, technological hegemony, and job displacement. The Paradox of Progress is a thought-provoking analysis and must-read perspective for discovering how to harness the power of AI, reflect on collective responsibility, and safeguard the future for ourselves and the next generation.
