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Energy Efficiency Technologies and Policies for Productive Sectors
This Special Issue focused on a combination of technological and policy-related analyses of energy efficiency. Indeed, an interdisciplinary approach is adopted, not only by combining economic and technical information, but also by including an evaluation of environmental and social-related implications. According to energy efficiency gap, energy efficiency measures may not be adopted due to different barriers; thus, public policies are needed to sustain their implementation. The long-term energy targets foster innovation and investment opportunities, while simultaneously creating markets for clean technologies and strengthening company competitiveness. The quantitative analysis of the main trends in the development and application of energy efficiency technologies can usefully complement policy planning and monitoring. The articles included in this Special Issue address the topic of energy efficiency in productive sectors from different perspectives, namely overall policy analysis, sectoral case studies and technology development. In particular, the methodological policy-related articles focus on assessing energy and environmental impact of development policies in Kenya, and descriptive, devoted to energy and climate crisis in Europe and individual well-being in Poland. Another group of articles focuses on energy audits, examined at sectoral level, related to energy efficiency interventions, and looking at energy management maturity of companies. Finally, four articles examine different technologies in a wide range of productive sectors, from construction industry to electricity generation.
Nanofabrication Revolution
"Nanofabrication Revolution: Atomic Layer Deposition and Etching at the Nanoscale" explores the cutting-edge world of building things incredibly small. It delves into two transformative techniques: Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) and Atomic Layer Etching (ALE). Imagine building structures atom by atom, with incredible precision and control. That's the power of ALD and ALE, allowing scientists and engineers to create revolutionary materials and devices at the nanoscale, a billionth of a meter! The book dives into the unique processes behind these techniques, explaining how they use precise chemical reactions to meticulously add or remove material one atomic layer at a time. You'll learn about the vast applications of this technology, from creating ultra-thin films for transistors in next-generation computers to crafting intricate features for solar cells and medical implants. "Nanofabrication Revolution" unveils the exciting potential of ALD and ALE, ushering in a new era of miniaturization and innovation that will shape the future of technology.
Beyond the Limit
"Beyond the Limit: Pushing Boundaries of Miniaturization with Atomic Precision" takes you on a thrilling journey into the realm of the incredibly small. We're talking about miniaturization on an atomic level, where scientists and engineers are defying limitations to create structures smaller than ever before. This book explores the cutting-edge techniques that are pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Imagine building transistors for computers or intricate components for medical devices, atom by atom, with unparalleled control. That's the power of atomic precision! The book delves into specific methods like Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) and Etching (ALE), explaining how they use precise chemical reactions to meticulously manipulate materials one atomic layer at a time. You'll discover the vast potential applications of this technology, from revolutionizing computer chips and solar cells to creating next-generation medical implants with unmatched functionality. "Beyond the Limit" isn't just about shrinking things; it's about unlocking a new era of miniaturization with incredible precision, paving the way for a future filled with groundbreaking technological advancements.
Greening the Road
"Greening the Road" dives into the European Union's fight for cleaner cars. It explores how the EU is tackling road transport emissions, a major hurdle in achieving climate goals. The book examines the policies pushing car manufacturers towards electric, hydrogen, and other low-emission technologies. It also explores the technological advancements needed to make these vehicles mainstream. By analyzing the challenges and opportunities, "Greening the Road" equips readers to understand the future of automobiles in a Europe focused on sustainability.
Reducing Road Transport Emissions
"Reducing Road Transport Emissions" tackles a pressing issue for the European Union: curbing greenhouse gases from cars, trucks, and buses. Unlike past successes in other sectors, emissions from road transport keep rising. The book examines the challenges the EU faces in meeting its ambitious climate goals. It explores current policies that target car manufacturers and fuel suppliers, but proposes looking beyond them. By involving citizens and encouraging alternative transport options, the EU can achieve a cleaner, more sustainable transport system.
This Working-Day World
Originally published in 1994, This Working-Day World is lively collection of essays presenting a social, political and cultural view of British women's lives in the period 1914-45. The volume describes women's activities in many different areas, ranging from the weekly wash to the rescue of child refugees.
These Strange New Minds
An insider look at the Large Language Models (LLMs) that are revolutionizing our relationship to technology, exploring their surprising history, what they can and should do for us today, and where they will go in the future--from an AI pioneer and neuroscientist In this accessible, up-to-date, and authoritative examination of the world's most radical technology, neuroscientist and AI researcher Christopher Summerfield explores what it really takes to build a brain from scratch. We have entered a world in which disarmingly human-like chatbots, such as ChatGPT, Claude and Bard, appear to be able to talk and reason like us - and are beginning to transform everything we do. But can AI 'think', 'know' and 'understand'? What are its values? Whose biases is it perpetuating? Can it lie and if so, could we tell? Does their arrival threaten our very existence? These Strange New Minds charts the evolution of intelligent talking machines and provides us with the tools to understand how they work and how we can use them. Ultimately, armed with an understanding of AI's mysterious inner workings, we can begin to grapple with the existential question of our age: have we written ourselves out of history or is a technological utopia ahead?
Design, Modeling, Optimization and Control of Flotation Process
The ultimate goal of a flotation process is to achieve the economically optimum combination of the desired mineral grade and recovery in the final concentrate from a feed of varying composition. The industrial operation of froth flotation faces many challenges, such as sudden decreases in the recovery and grade of recovered materials. The quality of the final concentrate determines the success of the downstream processes, and achieving optimum metallurgical performance requires proper characterization, optimization, and control of the process. The efficiency of a flotation circuit operation relies on several factors that are pertinent to mineral nature and structure (variability of ore feed, particle size, mineralogy, and morphology) and the type of instrumentation and operational parameters (design parameters, reagents, quality of process water, air flow rate, and solid content) used, which require both advanced theoretical and practical studies. Hence, new techniques in the fields of design, modeling, optimization, and control of flotation processes have attracted much attention.This Special Issue is dedicated to the latest findings on methodologies, applications, and case studies regarding flotation to improve process efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and increase the sustainability of these processes. It provides a wide range of research and practical topics, including those related to design, simulation and instrumentation, and process control.
Recent Advances in Robotics and Intelligent Robots Applications
Research in robotics has witnessed a transformative evolution over the past decade, driven by unprecedented advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and material science. This reprint, "Recent Advances in Robotics and Intelligent Robot Applications", aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the latest research and developments that are shaping future robotics research in corresponding areas.
Modeling, Control and Diagnosis of Electrical Machines and Devices
At present, the growing use of electric machines and drives in more critical applications has driven research on condition monitoring and fault tolerance. The condition monitoring of electrical machines has a very important impact in the field of electrical systems maintenance, mainly for its potential functions of failure prediction, fault identification, and dynamic reliability estimation. The fault diagnosis of electrical machines and drives has received a great deal of attention due to its benefits in maintenance cost reduction, unscheduled downtime prevention, and, in many cases, harm prevention and failure disruption. Fault-tolerant design provides a solution combining fault occurrence conditions, failure detection and location tools, and the reconfiguration of control features. On the other hand, recent advancements in smart technology using artificial intelligence and advanced machine learning capabilities provide new perspectives for meaningful fault diagnostics and fault-tolerant control. These outstanding advancements enhance the performance of condition monitoring and have significant potential for the fault detection of electrical machines and devices. This reprint collected research and technological achievements related to the following topics: robust control strategies; failure detection and diagnosis; fault-tolerant control; and artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning techniques for control, fault diagnosis, and tolerant control of electrical machines and devices.
Modern Research of Gears and Power Transmission
This Special Issue is devoted to modern research on gears. To meet the need for better gear performance, a comprehensive understanding of all damage mechanisms and other related physical properties of the used materials and their behavior in real-life applications is required. The purpose of this Special Issue is to present the most recent insights related to the engineering properties of gear types, various materials, modern testing, and the use of sensors, including all aspects of their behavior during production and operation.
Buildings
Buildings celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2023. During this time, Buildings has achieved a lot. Indeed, its number of published papers, rejection rate, number of full-text downloads, number of citations received by published papers, Impact Factor, and submission-to-publication time have all consistently improved. The scope of the journal is comprehensive and includes almost every aspect of building design, construction, and operation. The Editorial Board is composed of a relatively small but wonderful mix of highly accomplished and well-established academics and practitioners, representing many countries in turn. Many members and non-members of the Editorial Board of Buildings contributed to the "10th Anniversary" Special Issue by writing papers in their respective areas of expertise, thus reflecting the scope of the journal and covering historical trends, current challenges, the state of the art, creative and innovative solutions, and future developments in building science, engineering, and management. With this Special Issue, Buildings is clearly an important player in the publication of high-quality research papers on diverse building-related issues.
Buildings
Buildings celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2023. During this time, Buildings has achieved a lot. Indeed, its number of published papers, rejection rate, number of full-text downloads, number of citations received by published papers, Impact Factor, and submission-to-publication time have all consistently improved. The scope of the journal is comprehensive and includes almost every aspect of building design, construction, and operation. The Editorial Board is composed of a relatively small but wonderful mix of highly accomplished and well-established academics and practitioners, representing many countries in turn. Many members and non-members of the Editorial Board of Buildings contributed to the "10th Anniversary" Special Issue by writing papers in their respective areas of expertise, thus reflecting the scope of the journal and covering historical trends, current challenges, the state of the art, creative and innovative solutions, and future developments in building science, engineering, and management. With this Special Issue, Buildings is clearly an important player in the publication of high-quality research papers on diverse building-related issues.
Damage Analysis for Composite Materials
Composites are widely used in the production of parts for a large number of final products due to their unique characteristic properties such as high strength, stiffness, and low weight.Damage analysis for composite materials can be considered a multidisciplinary field that combines materials science, mechanics, numerical analysis, and experimental techniques to ensure the safe and efficient utilization of composite structures in various applications.With this reprint on Damage Analysis for Composite Materials, we have published a collection of research papers showing some of the most recent advanced contributions on the study of the outcomes of damage in composite parts, including modelling techniques, failure modes, damage initiation and propagation, durability and fatigue analysis, damage tolerance and repair, non-destructive evaluation, post-failure analysis, and environmental concerns, representing the diverse potential approaches to the study of composite materials.
From Passive to Active
Car accidents remain a terrifying reality. "From Passive to Active: How Technology Prevents Accidents" explores the evolution of safety features, from after-the-fact protection to cutting-edge technology that actively prevents collisions. Imagine a world where cars become partners in safety. Traditionally, airbags and seatbelts (passive safety) minimized injury after a crash. Now, technology is taking a proactive approach: - Eyes on the Road: Lane departure warnings and blind-spot detection systems alert drivers to potential hazards, preventing them from drifting or overlooking unseen vehicles. - Autonomy Assist: Adaptive cruise control maintains a safe distance, and automatic emergency braking can even bring the car to a complete stop to avoid a collision. - Enhanced Awareness: Rearview cameras and 360-degree parking sensors provide a wider view, reducing the risk of backing into objects or pedestrians. These advancements offer significant benefits: - Reduced Accidents: Active safety features can significantly reduce the number of accidents, saving lives and preventing injuries. - Increased Confidence: Drivers feel more secure with technology assisting them, promoting calmer and more focused driving. - Vulnerable Road User Protection: Active safety systems can especially benefit pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists, who are often more vulnerable in collisions. However, challenges remain: - Driver Dependence: Overreliance on technology can lead to complacency or inattention. Driver education on proper use of these features is crucial. - Cost Considerations: Advanced safety features can increase vehicle costs. Ensuring affordability and accessibility for all drivers is important. - System Limitations: While effective, these technologies may not function perfectly in all conditions. Driver awareness and attentiveness remain essential. Despite these considerations, the shift towards active safety represents a significant leap forward. By harnessing technology's pot
Unlocking Potential
The maturity of a KM strategy is a critical component of its effectiveness (Maqsood, Finegan and Walker, 2006). Kruger and Snyman (2007) broke down KM maturity into 7 levels with the 6th level of maturity stipulating that an organisation was able to extend its KM strategy beyond its organisational boundaries. It is from this 6th stage of KM maturity that many academics, researches and KM practi-tioners believe that the real value of KM can be achieved as the potential value of KM is maximised due to the increased availability of knowledge to be entered into the organisations KM strategy (Orange, Burke and Boam, 2000; Maqsood, Finegan and Walker, 2006; Kruger and Johnson, 2009; Rezgui, Hopfe and Vorakulpipat, 2010). With the implementation of mature KM strategies by multiple organisa-tions through several continuous improvement cycles the performance of the sector as a whole also has the potential to be uplifted (Orange, Burke and Boam, 2000). Kruger and Johnson (2009) found that the maturity of KM in South African construction organisations was being stunted as the KM strat-egies did not extend beyond organisational boundary. Therefore, KM in the sector is not as successful as it was hoped it would be.
Breaking Down the Barriers
"Breaking Down the Barriers: Electrokinetics for Bioremediation" tackles environmental clean-up with an innovative twist. This book delves into the exciting world of electrokinetics, a technology that harnesses electricity to break down and remove contaminants from soil and water. Imagine using low-level electric currents to mobilize pollutants, making them easier for natural cleanup crews - microbes - to tackle. "Breaking Down the Barriers" explains how electrokinetics works, exploring its effectiveness in removing pollutants like heavy metals and organic compounds. This book isn't just theory. It showcases real-world applications of electrokinetics in various contaminated sites. Readers will learn how this technology can be used for faster and more targeted clean-up efforts, minimizing disruption and environmental impact. "Breaking Down the Barriers" goes beyond simply a new technique. It explores how electrokinetics can be combined with existing bioremediation methods, creating a powerful one-two punch for tackling environmental challenges.
Critical Connections
The bombing of Pearl Harbor set off a chain of events that included the race to beat German scientists to build the atomic bomb. A tiny hamlet tucked away in the southern Appalachians proved an unlikely linchpin to win the race. The Manhattan Project required the combination of four secret sites--Clinton Laboratories, Y-12, K-25, and S-50--75,000 workers, and the nation's finest scientists to create the Secret City, Oak Ridge. From the beginning, the effort was aided by the nearby University of Tennessee, which provided expertise to make the weapon possible. Following World War II, it was not clear what role this huge research and development program would play, but pioneering scientists and administrators were determined that one option--dismantling the whole thing--would not happen. Critical Connections chronicles how Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), the Y-12 National Security Complex, and their partners became outstanding examples of the military-industrial-educational complex from the Cold War to the present day. At the beginning of the 1950s, Oak Ridge became a flourishing, less-secret city, and the authors show how, decade by decade, ORNL became the source of major breakthroughs in physics, biology, computing, and other fields--and how these achievements required ever-closer connections with UT. By the mid-1990s, after many successful joint initiatives between UT and ORNL, UT was poised to compete to become the manager of ORNL. In 2000, UT-Battelle LLC won the bid from the Department of Energy: UT was charged with providing scientific direction and key personnel; its partner Battelle would oversee ORNL's operations and chart its technology direction. The authors highlight the scientific developments these connections have brought, from nanotechnology to nuclear fission, from cryogenic experiments on mice to the world's fastest supercomputer. The partnerships between a university, a city, and federal facilities helped solve some of the greatest challenges of the twentieth century--and point toward how to deal with those of the twenty-first.
Occupational safety and health management system
Many companies today are willing to implement a management system that promotes safe and healthy work environments, reduce accidents, comply with the current legal framework and improve overall performance. Therefore, we intend to propose a plan to optimize safety and health management in a sanitation company. Occupational health and safety is a set of multidisciplinary activities aimed at improving, preserving and conserving the health of the working population, ensuring the highest physical, mental and social level in the different activities. The objective of this book is to transmit and propose the planning stage of an occupational health and safety management system in a sanitation company using risk control and prevention techniques, thus contributing to the well-being and performance of workers and continuous improvement, taking as a reference the International Standard OHSAS 18001.
Taming the Flame
In the fight against climate change, "Taming the Flame: Advancing Clean Combustion Technologies" explores the future of burning fuels. It delves into innovative methods for maximizing efficiency and minimizing harmful emissions from combustion processes. expand more This could involve capturing carbon dioxide before it enters the atmosphere, using cleaner burning fuels like hydrogen, or developing entirely new combustion systems that produce significantly less pollution. By "taming the flame," researchers aim to make fossil fuels a more sustainable option in the transition towards a clean energy future.
III-Nitride Semiconductors
III-Nitride Semiconductors: Lighting the Way to the Future dives into a revolutionary class of materials that are transforming how we see the world. Explore how these powerful semiconductors are creating the next generation of LEDs, bringing energy-efficient and long-lasting lighting solutions. The book delves into the science behind III-nitrides, explaining how their unique properties enable a brighter future for lighting technology, from general illumination to displays and beyond. Get ready to be illuminated by the potential of III-nitrides!
Computational Fluid Dynamics
Imagine the intricate choreography of fluids - air swirling around a speeding car, or blood coursing through intricate veins. "Computational Fluid Dynamics: A Powerful Tool for Understanding Complex Flows" explores a groundbreaking tool, CFD, that helps us decode these mysteries. Traditionally, understanding fluid behavior relied on physical experiments, a time-consuming and expensive endeavor. CFD offers a revolutionary alternative: - Virtual Laboratories: CFD software creates digital models of fluids and their interactions with objects. These models allow engineers to simulate complex scenarios at a fraction of the cost and time of physical experiments. - Seeing the Invisible: CFD simulations go beyond equations, providing detailed visualizations of fluid flow patterns, pressure distribution, and turbulence. These visuals offer insights impossible to capture through physical observation. - Optimizing Designs with Precision: By virtually testing and refining designs, engineers can identify and address potential flaws in aerodynamics, heat transfer, or fluid flow within a system before building physical prototypes. CFD empowers innovation across diverse fields: - Aerospace Engineering: Simulating aircraft performance to optimize fuel efficiency and ensure flight stability. - Automotive Industry: Designing cars with superior aerodynamics, minimizing drag, and improving engine cooling systems. - Biomedical Engineering: Modeling blood flow through heart valves or prosthetic limbs, leading to improved designs and reduced risks for patients. However, challenges remain: - Modeling Complexity: Accurately replicating real-world scenarios requires expertise in physics, mathematics, and CFD software. - Computational Demands: Complex simulations can be computationally intensive, requiring powerful computers and significant processing time. - Validation and Verification: Ensuring the accuracy of CFD simulations by comparing them with real-world data is crucial for reliable resu
United We Sense
In the age of driverless cars, seeing is believing - but not just for a single vehicle. "United We Sense: How Cars Talk to Each Other for Enhanced Perception" explores the revolutionary concept of collaborative sensing. Imagine a network of autonomous vehicles, each equipped with advanced sensors, working together. This book dives deep into how vehicles can share real-time data on road conditions, hazards, and traffic flow. Discover how this collective intelligence creates a more comprehensive picture of the environment, enhancing safety, efficiency, and navigation for all autonomous vehicles. "United We Sense: How Cars Talk to Each Other for Enhanced Perception" unveils the future of autonomous driving, where collaboration is key to unlocking a smoother, safer journey for everyone.
Smarter Solar
Traditional solar suffers when shaded, dropping your energy output. But what if your panels could adapt? Introducing smarter solar, powered by cost-effective algorithms. These brains behind the panels constantly analyze real-time conditions, adjusting for shade, clouds, or even dust. They unlock the Global Maximum Power Point (GMPP), maximizing energy harvest regardless of the environment. Think of it as automatic optimization. No expensive hardware, just intelligent software ensuring peak power, all day, every day. Smarter solar keeps your energy flowing and your wallet happy
Beyond Strength
Concrete, the ubiquitous building block of our civilization, is often lauded for its strength. However, true success lies in its ability to withstand the test of time. Here's the crux: ensuring concrete's durability goes beyond mere strength. The real challenge lies in constructing structures that resist environmental assault, chemical attack, and internal stresses. Factors like water infiltration, freeze-thaw cycles, and aggressive chemicals can wreak havoc, causing cracks, corrosion, and ultimately, structural failure. Addressing this challenge demands a multi-pronged approach. Optimizing mix designs, incorporating specialized admixtures, and implementing effective curing practices are all crucial steps. New research explores innovative materials like self-healing concrete and advanced monitoring systems to detect problems early. By focusing on durability, we can build structures that not only stand tall but stand the test of time. This translates to reduced maintenance costs, increased safety, and a more sustainable future for our built environment
The Rising Tide of Energy Consumption
Global development is like a rising tide, lifting living standards and fueling progress. But just as a rising sea demands strong levees, this development surge demands a sustainable energy solution. Our current energy consumption, heavily reliant on fossil fuels, threatens to overwhelm the environment. The answer lies in a multi-pronged approach. We must harness renewable sources like wind and solar, their power constantly replenished by nature. Simultaneously, innovation in energy efficiency can dramatically reduce consumption without compromising development. This can range from smarter appliances to energy-efficient buildings. By embracing these solutions, we can navigate the rising tide of energy consumption. We can power development while ensuring a cleaner, more secure future for generations to come
Spool Knitting
Spool Knitting, a classical book, was published more than a century ago and has been considered important throughout the human history, and so that this work is never forgotten we at Alpha Editions have made efforts in its preservation by republishing this book in a modern format for present and future generations. This whole book has been reformatted, retyped and designed. These books are not made of scanned copies of their original work and hence the text is clear and readable.
Flow and Heat Transfer Research in Multiphase Flow and Porous Media
Research on the flow and heat transfer characteristics of multiphase flow has received great attention due to its widespread applications in various fields of engineering and science, such as agricultural engineering, petrochemical engineering, biomedical engineering, chemistry processes, nuclear engineering, ocean engineering, and energy storage technologies, etc. This reprint aims to provide an effective platform and demonstrate the latest progress in the area of flow and heat transfer in multiphase flow and porous media; it contains experimental studies, numerical simulation, theoretical derivation and analysis, and engineering applications.
Sensors Data Processing Using Machine Learning
The main aim of this reprint was to collect research focusing on data processing using machine learning and deep learning. We invited investigators to contribute both original and review articles, covering the research and development in the areas of data processing using machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL). These areas include solutions that are designed for smart devices. In this reprint, leading experts in the field share their insights, research findings, and visions for the future. Together, we embark on a journey to unlock the potential of effective data processing that involves transforming data from a given format into a more usable and desirable form, rendering them more meaningful and informative. Machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), and artificial intelligence (AI) have proven to be effective methods for this purpose. Through the utilization of machine learning algorithms, mathematical modeling, or various statistical techniques, the entire process can be automated.
Concrete Structures
The use of concrete has played a leading role in the construction sector from the last quarter of the 19th century to today. Therefore, the main trends in the research in the concrete field are related to maintenance, safety assessment, and repairing of the existing buildings and/or infrastructures and the design of new and environmentally innovative concrete composites. This Special Issue aims to contribute to this discussion by means of experimental, numerical, and theoretical approaches. In detail, this reprint is focused on four challenges connected to concrete as a construction material. The first topic is related to the assessment of mechanical behavior of structural concrete in existing structures. The second topic deals with the advances in cement and concrete chemistry with special attention provided to sustainable development. Moreover, the Special Issue provides experimental and numerical tests for the evaluation of the structural behavior due to seismic events in order to achieve resilient design. Furthermore, the reprint includes application of artificial intelligence algorithms for assessing the optimal design concrete dosage parameters and estimating mechanical properties.
Disaster Mitigation, Risk Reduction, and Resilience Design of Engineering Structures
The disaster mitigation, risk reduction, and resilience design of engineering structures under natural hazards are topics of great interest, as well as being crucial for protecting human life and reducing economic losses. In recent decades, with the help of emerging knowledge regarding the mechanisms of natural hazards, new methods and facilities for disaster mitigation and risk reduction are being developed. Furthermore, resilience designs have been proposed for the improvement of post-disaster retrofits and repairs for modern engineering structures. This Special Issue is dedicated, but not limited, to current research on theoretical, computational, experimental, and relevant research works regarding advanced methods in the disaster mitigation, risk reduction, and resilience design of engineering structures, including methodologies and innovations on mechanical performance evaluation; modeling technologies and simulations of failure mechanisms; methodologies regarding vulnerability, risk, reliability, and resilience assessment; applications of disaster mitigation and risk reduction; and innovative and advanced design methodologies for the resilience design of engineering structures under earthquakes, fires, winds, and tsunamis.
Advanced Technologies in Agricultural Engineering and Energy Optimization
The use of renewable energy plays an important role in agriculture, where technologies are also being improved from year to year; agricultural production is growing, and machinery and systems are becoming more autonomous and robotic, which is no longer possible without complex computing, optimization, planning, and working with large amounts of data. Nowadays, a large amount of unstructured heterogeneous data fuels the demand to extract useful insights in an automatic, reliable, and scalable way. The agriculture sector, however, is historically less receptive to innovation and lags behind the implementation of contemporary solutions, which defines the relevance of this Special Issue. This reprint covers high-quality papers from academics and industry-related researchers in the areas of power supply in rural areas, biofuels and renewable energies used in agriculture, energy efficiency and conservation in agriculture, agricultural robotic applications, livestock production, application of electrophysical impact on agricultural objects, technologies in harvesting and seed machinery, solutions for digital and precision agriculture, applied mathematics, environmental bioengineering, machine learning, artificial intelligence, pattern recognition, data mining, multimedia processing, and big data to show the most recently advanced methods.
Application of Computational Electromagnetics Techniques and Artificial Intelligence in the Engineering
This Special Issue introduces the latest developments in electromagnetic computing and artificial intelligence technology. Artificial intelligence technology can be applied to the modeling, analysis, and optimization design of microwave equipment, solving the routing problem of self-organizing networks in small unmanned aerial vehicle systems, calculating the radiation characteristics of antenna arrays on large electrical platforms, analyzing the impact of electromagnetic wave coupling on electronic devices, simulating the field distribution characteristics of electronic devices, and so on. With the help of artificial intelligence, designers can more conveniently, quickly, and accurately solve engineering problems.
Kinematics and Robot Design VI, KaRD2023
Kinematics is central to nearly all design aspects of robotic/mechatronic systems.The series of Special Issues on "Kinematics and Robot Design" (KaRD) offers, to the vast community of scientists of this field, a virtual agora where new ideas and new applications can be presented and discussed.The KaRD series started in 2018 and, in 2023, reached its sixth edition (KaRD2023). KaRD2023 has collected fifteen submissions and, after a rigorous review process, accepted and published ten papers.This reprint collects KaRD2023's published papers.
Offshore Renewable Energy
Offshore renewable energy is an abundant clean energy source. Its development and utilization will be beneficial for the development of a low-carbon economy and the achievement of energy-saving and emission-reduction goals. It can aid in achieving a complementary energy supply between land and sea, reducing the pressure on the conventional fossil energy supply in economically developed and energy-intensive coastal areas. The development of offshore renewable energy is a long-term process; however, it is worth noting that, with the development and gradual maturity of various technologies, offshore renewable energy will become the mainstream new energy in the future. This Special Issue aims to provide updates regarding the development and utilization of offshore renewable energy. Potential topics include but are not limited to novel concepts, control strategies, modelling methods, intelligent equipment, and monitoring technology applications.
Thermal Comfort in Built Environment
To achieve the objectives of low-carbon and sustainable buildings, human thermal comfort and its related technologies are gaining increasing attention in recent years. This reprint focuses on two key issues of human thermal comfort: (1) a comprehensive scientific understanding of the intricate interplay between indoor occupants and their thermal environments, and (2) the technological advancements stemming from novel scientific breakthroughs. Special attention is given to thermal comfort in special spaces, of diverse groups, and with advanced technologies.
Next Generation Energy and Propulsion Systems for Transportation Electrification
Electrified transportation has been an urgent undertaking for enabling a carbon-neutral society in the near future. The revolution of e-mobility has witnessed the booming development of emerging technologies such as new-energy vehicles, electric aircraft, electric ships, etc.; therefore, cutting-edge products are frequently available for next-generation energy and propulsion systems of e-mobility, including solid-state batteries, hydrogen fuel cells, and new structural electric machines. This way, the advanced design and energy management of next-generation energy and propulsion systems will definitely benefit the transportation electrification process. Within this scope, battery, fuel cell, and electric motor technologies, as well as their applications, are critical for the transportation revolution. This Special Issue collected papers on new research achievements in the recently emerging and cross-disciplinary field of enabling energy management and propulsion system control for e-mobilities.
Advanced Structures, Fault Diagnosis and Tolerant Control of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors
The application of fault diagnosis techniques in PMSMs involves the identification and localization of faults such as stator winding, rotor, and sensor faults. Various methods, including model-based approaches, signal processing techniques, and machine learning algorithms, are employed for fault detection and diagnosis. These techniques analyze motor currents, voltages, and other operational parameters to detect deviations from normal behavior, enabling timely intervention and maintenance. Moreover, fault-tolerant control strategies play a crucial role in ensuring the continued operation of PMSMs even in the presence of faults. By intelligently reconfiguring the motor operation and redistributing currents among healthy windings, fault-tolerant control systems can mitigate the effects of faults and maintain satisfactory performance levels. The significance of applying fault diagnosis and fault-tolerant control in PMSMs lies in their ability to minimize downtime, reduce maintenance costs, and extend the operational lifespan of electromechanical systems. By proactively detecting and mitigating faults, these techniques contribute to enhanced system safety and performance, ensuring uninterrupted operation in critical applications such as electric vehicles, industrial machinery, and renewable energy systems. Furthermore, the integration of advanced diagnostic and control algorithms enables continuous monitoring and optimization of PMSM performance, facilitating the transition towards more intelligent and autonomous electromechanical systems.
Power System Analysis, Operation and Control
The Special Issue includes a collection of papers that present new methods for analyzing, operating, controlling, and protecting future power grids with increasing renewable energy utilization. Specific topics include voltage and var optimization, hardware-in-the-loop testing, the control of wind power systems, distribution system reconfiguration, optimal power flow, load dynamic forecasting, current-limiting reactor operation, risk management for energy markets, resilience maximization, and the control of photovoltaic inverters.
Material Modeling in Multiphysics Simulation
Virtual prototyping techniques, generally based on numerical methods, are widely used in the process of designing an industrial product. In recent decades, the demand for strong improvements in terms of productivity, reliability, and cost reduction have been fundamental considerations in this form of design, often requiring more than one simultaneously occurring physical field (thermal, mechanical, electrical, metallurgical, etc.) to be taken into account. At present, a huge amount of commercial code and a huge number of new algorithms have been developed to perform multiphysics simulations; nevertheless, the availability of a suitable material model often presents a bottleneck in obtaining reliable results. This reprint brought together a series of recent scientific contributions addressing several topics in the field of the physical-based modeling of material behavior and manufacturing processes. The quality of scientific contributions in this reprint can aid scholars and scientists in their research activity.
Advances in Dam-Break Modeling for Flood Hazard Mitigation
Dam-break modeling is still an important field of theoretical and applied research of great interest to hydraulic engineers. Indeed, floods induced by the collapse of dams may have catastrophic consequences for downstream lands, both in terms of human and economic losses. Moreover, the vulnerability of older dams to hydrological extreme events is increasing due to structural deterioration or inadequate spillway capacity, as well as the exposure of floodable areas as a result of urban development. Robust and efficient numerical models are needed to accurately reproduce dam-break flows on real topographies. The availability of real experiences and knowledge based on historical events, together with physical model data and sensitivity analysis, allows such modeling tools to be validated, constantly improved, and used with confidence in flood hazard mapping. The availability of robust and reliable predictive models will also represent a strategic resource in defining future hydrologic scenarios due to climate change. Therefore, the aims of this Special Issue were to present recent advances in the theoretical analysis of dam-break flows; to present recent advances in numerical modeling of dam-break flows on real topographies; to present laboratory experiments and new case studies useful to validate numerical models; and to showcase the applications of dam-break numerical models to flood hazard assessments.
Advances in Vehicle Dynamics and Road Safety
The research and implementation of technological solutions for the dynamics and safety of vehicles ensures greater road safety and the development of the transport sector, while at the same time contributing to the sustainable solution of environmental, economic, and social problems. This reprint consists of studies related to vehicle dynamics and road safety, including science-based technological solutions, simulations, and practical applications. Issues related to road traffic accidents and their analysis, vehicle design, road safety, autonomous transport, and related topics are examined.
Design, Manufacturing and Properties of Refractory Materials
This reprint aims to immerse the reader into the latest developments in the technology of refractory materials. From the application of Artificial Intelligence and computer-aided methods, like machine learning or image analysis and the simulation of refractories' properties and corrosion phenomena, to tailoring the properties of refractories to be more environmentally friendly, we aim to elucidate the current global trends and progress being made in refractories technology. This reprint has been created by world-recognized researchers, representing both academia and industry, striving jointly to make refractories safer and working for longer periods of time. Through this reprint, we demonstrate our major collaborative efforts to shift the technology to be more effective for the producers of refractory materials, more efficient for end-users, and, primarily, more sustainable in the interest of protecting our most precious shared asset-the safe planet Earth.
Recent Progress in Robot Control Systems
Explore the latest strides in robot control systems through "Recent Progress in Robot Control Systems: Theory and Applications." This curated collection of original research and survey papers delves into the intricacies of control system design, addressing challenges in precision-controlled objects. From electronic rotors to spacecraft flywheels, discover how sophisticated algorithms maintain elegance amidst industry growth. Join us in advancing the fusion of theory and practical application.
Advances in Non-Destructive Testing Methods
Non-destructive testing is a group of surface and volumetric diagnostic tests, which provide information about the functional properties of the tested object. They allow the determination the condition of micro- and macrostructures without causing any interference to their structures . This basic feature results in the main purpose of non-destructive testing to be the detection of material defects and the evaluation of tested objects for discontinuity and lack of uniformity. Thanks to NDT, it is possible to detect corrosion and erosion defects or cracks. Non-destructive testing can be carried out at various stages of production, operation, or repair. They are used to perform the quality control of production and to determine the technical condition of the object. Due to all this, non-destructive testing finds a wide range of applications in various branches of industry. The purpose of this Topic is to present both the development of various non-destructive testing methods, as well as the examples of applications of this group of tests in various branches of industry.
Characterization, Applications and New Technologies of Civil Engineering Materials and Structures
With the continuous development of large-scale maintenance of infrastructure, accurate, reasonable, and efficient mechanical behavior evaluation and performance prediction of civil materials and structures have become the keys to improving service durability and intelligent maintenance management for infrastructure. The multi-component composition, multi-scale characteristics, and multi-field dependence of civil materials lead to extremely complex mechanical behaviors. The phenomenological method based on empirical tests is an important means to understand and evaluate civil materials, but its low efficiency and high consumption cannot meet the design and application requirements of civil materials. Numerical simulation has gradually become an important tool to study and understand the mechanical behavior of civil materials and structures, including the finite element method, discrete element method, molecular dynamics simulation, etc. In addition, the rapid development of numerical simulations has greatly promoted the modeling and simulation of civil materials. Considering the above, the aim of this Special Issue is to bring together cutting-edge research and application. To share, present, and discuss innovative materials, structures, and characterization methods may help us further develop the technology used in civil engineering.
Designs and Drive Control of Electromechanical Machines
This is a topic reprint of articles from the Topic published online in the open access journals Applied Sciences, Designs, Electronics, Energies, Machines. It has finally accepted 29 articles which have potential applications in industrial sectors such as electric vehicles, servo controls, electro-hydralic systems, and robotics. It will be a useful guidance for researchers who want to work in above research topics and industrial sectors.
Autodesk 3ds Max 2024
Autodesk 3ds Max 2024: A Comprehensive Guide textbook aims at harnessing the power of Autodesk 3ds Max for modelers, animators, and designers. The book caters to the needs of both the novice and the advanced users of 3ds Max. Keeping in view the varied requirements of the users, the book first introduces the basic features of 3ds Max 2024 and then gradually progresses to cover the advanced 3D models and animations. One project based on the tools and concepts covered in the book has been added to enhance the knowledge of the users. Additionally, in this edition, the readers will be able to learn about some new and enhanced modifiers introduced in 3ds Max 2024 such as Array, Boolean, and so on.Salient featuresConsists of 18 chapters and 1 project that are organized in a pedagogical sequence covering various aspects of modeling, texturing, lighting, and animation.The first page of every chapter summarizes the topics that are covered in it.Step-by-step instructions that guide the users through the learning process.Additional information is provided throughout the book in the form of notes and tips.Self-Evaluation Tests and Review Questions at the end of each chapter to help the users assess their knowledge.Free Teaching and Learning ResourcesCADCIM Technologies provides the following free teaching and learning resources with this book: Technical support by contacting techsupport@cadcim.comAll 3ds Max and Media files used in tutorials, exercises *, and illustrationsInstructor Guide with solution to all review questions and instructions to create the models for exercises *Additional learning resources at https: //3dsmaxexperts.blogspot.com and youtube.com/cadcimtech ( * For faculty only)
