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Selected Papers from the 12th International Multi-Conference on Engineering and Technology Innovation (IMETI 2023)

A special issue of Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2024 | Viewed by 17607

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Mathematical Modelling, Kaunas University of Technology, LT-51368 Kaunas, Lithuania
Interests: development of numerical methods; modelling of optical effects; visual cryptography; nonlinear dynamical systems and chaos
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

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Guest Editor
Department of Computer Science, National Taipei University of Education, Taipei, Taiwan
Interests: signal processing; pattern recognition and image processing; real time face recognition; embedded system
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The 12th International Multi-Conference on Engineering and Technology Innovation (IMETI 2023) will be held in Taichung, Taiwan, Oct. 27–31, 2023. It covers a wide range of fields in science and engineering innovation and aims to bring together engineering technology expertise. Professionals from = industry, academia, and government with an interest in discourse on research and development, professional practice, business, and management in the science and engineering fields are welcome to attend the event. IMETI2023 consists of the three sub-conferences (ICATI2023, ICBEI2023, ICECEI2023, ICSI2023) and more than 30 regular and special sessions (http://imeti.org/IMETI2023/).

The main goal of this Special Issue, “Selected Papers from the 12th International Multi-Conference on Engineering and Technology Innovation (IMETI 2023)”, is to present the latest advances in research and novel applications of engineering and technology, especially, on artificial intelligence (AI), materials science, civil engineering, industry 4.0, mechatronic engineering, intelligent computing and system, computer and information engineering, and green technology and new energy. Potential topics include, but are not limited to:

  • Artificial intelligence;
  • Materials science;
  • Mechatronic and robotics engineering;
  • Electrical and electronic engineering;
  • Optical engineering;
  • Civil engineering;
  • Chemical and biomedical engineering;
  • Computer and information engineering;
  • Green technology, new energy, and civil engineering;
  • Industry 4.0 and automation engineering;
  • Control engineering;
  • Mechanical engineering;
  • Nanotechnology;
  • Environmental, food, health science and technology;
  • Intelligent computing and system;
  • Technology management and innovation.

Prof. Dr. Wen-Hsiang Hsieh
Prof. Dr. Minvydas Ragulskis
Dr. Jia-Shing Sheu
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Applied Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • IMETI, ICATI, ICBEI, ICECEI, ICSI
  • artificial intelligence
  • Industry 4.0
  • intelligent computing and system
  • green technology
  • materials
  • mechatronic
  • new energy
  • sensor

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Published Papers (18 papers)

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Research

13 pages, 2318 KiB  
Article
Socioeconomic Impact on Urban Resilience against Flood Damage
by Hyung Jun Park, Su Min Song, Dong Hyun Kim and Seung Oh Lee
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(17), 7882; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14177882 - 4 Sep 2024
Viewed by 798
Abstract
While urban populations are rapidly increasing around the world, floods have been frequently and seriously occurring due to the climate crisis. As existing disaster prevention facilities have specific limitations in completely protecting against flood damages, the concept of resilience, which emphasizes the ability [...] Read more.
While urban populations are rapidly increasing around the world, floods have been frequently and seriously occurring due to the climate crisis. As existing disaster prevention facilities have specific limitations in completely protecting against flood damages, the concept of resilience, which emphasizes the ability to recover after becoming injured and harmed by a flood, is necessary to mitigate such damages. However, there is still a scarcity of studies that quantitatively show the relationship between the resilience and the socioeconomic costs, even though a variety of evaluation methods exist in the literature. This study aims to quantitively analyze the socioeconomic impact of flooding on the urban environment based on the concept of resilience. A method of evaluating four properties of resilience (redundancy, rapidity, resourcefulness, and robustness) through damage function and network analysis was used to measure changes in resilience against flood damages. In addition, to determine the socioeconomic impact of flooding, the costs incurred due to transportation delays and the lack of labor participation were evaluated. Differences in structural and social systems have led to variations in resilience and socioeconomic costs. As a future study, if the circumstances after flood events based on risk-based recovery can be evaluated, more effective urban flooding defense decisions would be expected. Full article
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14 pages, 10124 KiB  
Article
Research on the Effect of Planting Design on the Thermal Comfort of Campus Sidewalk in Tunghai University, Taiwan
by Pei-Ling Wu and Szu-Jin Wu
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(17), 7561; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14177561 - 27 Aug 2024
Viewed by 528
Abstract
The objective of this study is to elucidate the principal determinants influencing the thermal comfort of campus sidewalks, and to discern the nexus between sidewalk planting configurations and thermal comfort. Initially, thermal environment simulations are conducted across various temporal intervals, predicated upon the [...] Read more.
The objective of this study is to elucidate the principal determinants influencing the thermal comfort of campus sidewalks, and to discern the nexus between sidewalk planting configurations and thermal comfort. Initially, thermal environment simulations are conducted across various temporal intervals, predicated upon the extant sidewalk planting configuration. Subsequently, an analysis is undertaken to delineate the causative factors contributing to suboptimal thermal comfort within the prevailing milieu. Finally, an evaluation of configurations conducive to enhancing campus thermal comfort through divergent planting design solutions is undertaken, thereby engendering discourse on sidewalk planting design. The findings show that impermeable pavement, encompassing sidewalks and driveways, emerges as the pre-eminent precipitant of diminished thermal comfort within the study locale. The implementation of a double-row staggered tree-planting approach, coupled with multi-layered shrub planting, emerges as the optimal solution for augmenting thermal comfort. Consequently, the outcomes of this study proffer discernibly superior alternatives for ameliorating the heat island effect and fostering the establishment of a sustainable campus paradigm. Full article
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18 pages, 3222 KiB  
Article
Early Diagnosis of Atrial Fibrillation Episodes: Comparative Analysis of Different Matrix Architectures
by Naseha Wafa Qammar, Alfonsas Vainoras, Zenonas Navickas, Gediminas Jaruševičius and Minvydas Ragulskis
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(14), 6191; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14146191 - 16 Jul 2024
Viewed by 597
Abstract
This study presents three different matrix architectures for the analysis of ECG parameters, aimed at detecting atrial fibrillation episodes. The evaluation involves a cohort of 15 individuals, utilizing these matrix architectures across various orders. The findings reveal that the matrix norm delivers significantly [...] Read more.
This study presents three different matrix architectures for the analysis of ECG parameters, aimed at detecting atrial fibrillation episodes. The evaluation involves a cohort of 15 individuals, utilizing these matrix architectures across various orders. The findings reveal that the matrix norm delivers significantly better results compared to the large discriminant of the matrix. Detailed analysis of the spatial expansion of each matrix structure indicates that the PMLD architecture excels in terms of expandability compared to the MA1 and MA2 matrices. Consequently, third- and fifth-order PMLD matrix architectures are employed for classification techniques, demonstrating enhanced sensitivity with increased matrix order. These results are validated through the classification of several test candidates, confirming the efficacy of the proposed method. The study suggests that the developed approach holds substantial potential for clinical diagnostics in the early detection of atrial fibrillation. Full article
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11 pages, 4312 KiB  
Article
Response and Fracture of EMT Carbon Steel Round-Hole Tubes with Different Hole Orientations and Different Hole Diameters under Cyclic Bending
by Wen-Fung Pan and Yu-An Chen
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(13), 5475; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14135475 - 24 Jun 2024
Viewed by 606
Abstract
This paper aims to investigate the response and fracture of EMT carbon steel round-hole tubes (EMT carbon steel RHTs) under cyclic bending loads. The study considers four different hole orientations (0°, 30°, 60°, and 90°) and five distinct hole diameters (2, 4, 6, [...] Read more.
This paper aims to investigate the response and fracture of EMT carbon steel round-hole tubes (EMT carbon steel RHTs) under cyclic bending loads. The study considers four different hole orientations (0°, 30°, 60°, and 90°) and five distinct hole diameters (2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mm). The results reveal that hole orientation and diameter exert a minimal impact on the moment-curvature relationship, leading to the formation of stable loops. The ovalization-curvature graphs demonstrate a trend of asymmetry, serration, and growth with an increasing number of bending cycles. Additionally, larger hole orientations or smaller notch diameters result in reduced ovalization. Furthermore, the double logarithmic coordinates of the controlled curvature–number of cycles required to induce fracture reveal five parallel lines for different hole diameters when the hole orientation is fixed. Finally, in adopting the formulas for smooth tubes and for 6061-T6 aluminum alloy round-hole tubes (6061 aluminum alloy RHTs), this study adjusts the related material parameters. These modifications effectively describe the controlled curvature–number of cycles required to induce fracture for EMT carbon steel RHTs with different hole orientations and diameters under cyclic bending, demonstrating reasonable agreement with the experimental results. Full article
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22 pages, 6892 KiB  
Article
Research on Clustering-Based Fault Diagnosis during ROV Hovering Control
by Jung-Hyeun Park, Hyunjoon Cho, Sang-Min Gil, Ki-Beom Choo, Myungjun Kim, Jiafeng Huang, Dongwook Jung, ChiUng Yun and Hyeung-Sik Choi
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 5235; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14125235 - 17 Jun 2024
Viewed by 683
Abstract
The objective of this study was to perform fault diagnosis (FD) specific to various faults that can occur in the thrusters of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) during hovering control. Underwater thrusters are predominantly utilized as propulsion systems in the majority of ROVs and [...] Read more.
The objective of this study was to perform fault diagnosis (FD) specific to various faults that can occur in the thrusters of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) during hovering control. Underwater thrusters are predominantly utilized as propulsion systems in the majority of ROVs and are essential components for implementing motions such as trajectory tracking and hovering. Faults in the underwater thrusters can limit the operational capabilities of ROVs, leading to permanent damage. Therefore, this study focused on the FD for faults frequently caused by external factors such as entanglement with floating debris and propeller breakage. For diagnosing faults, a data-based technique that identifies patterns according to data characteristics was utilized. In imitation of the fault situations, data for normal, breakage and entangled conditions were acquired, and Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise (DBSCAN) was employed to differentiate between these fault conditions. The proposed methodology was validated by configuring an ROV and conducting experiments in an engineering water tank to verify the performance of the FD. Full article
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16 pages, 4459 KiB  
Article
Study on Fault Diagnosis Technology for Efficient Swarm Control Operation of Unmanned Surface Vehicles
by Sang Ki Jeong, Min Kyu Kim, Hae Yong Park, Yoon Chil Kim and Dae-Hyeong Ji
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4210; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104210 - 16 May 2024
Viewed by 621
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to design a Swarm Control algorithm for the effective mission performance of multiple unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) used for marine research purposes at sea. For this purpose, external force information was utilized for the control of multiple [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study is to design a Swarm Control algorithm for the effective mission performance of multiple unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) used for marine research purposes at sea. For this purpose, external force information was utilized for the control of multiple USV swarms using a lead–follow-formation technique. At this time, to efficiently control multiple USVs, the LSTM algorithm was used to learn ocean currents. Then, the predicted ocean currents were used to control USVs, and a study was conducted on behavioral-based control to manage USV formation. In this study, a control system model for several USVs, each equipped with two rear thrusters and a front lateral thruster, was designed. The LSTM algorithm was trained using historical ocean current data to predict the velocity of subsequent ocean currents. These predictions were subsequently utilized as system disturbances to adjust the controller’s thrust. To measure ocean currents at sea as each USV moves, velocity, azimuth, and position data (latitude, longitude) from the GPS units mounted on the USVs were utilized to determine the speed and direction of the hull’s movement. Furthermore, the flow rate was measured using a flow rate sensor on a small USV. The movement and position of the USV were regulated using an Artificial Neural Network-PID (ANN-PID) controller. Subsequently, this study involved a comparative analysis between the results obtained from the designed USV model and those simulated, encompassing the behavioral control rules of the USV swarm and the path traced by the actual USV swarm at sea. The effectiveness of the USV mathematical model and behavior control rules were verified. Through a comparison of the movement paths of the swarm USV with and without the disturbance learning algorithm and the ANN-PID control algorithm applied to the designed simulator, we analyzed the position error and maintenance performance of the swarm formation. Subsequently, we compared the application results. Full article
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18 pages, 5484 KiB  
Article
Transmission Line Fault Classification Using Conformer Convolution-Augmented Transformer Model
by Meng-Yun Lee, Yu-Shan Huang, Chia-Jui Chang, Jia-Yu Yang, Chih-Wen Liu, Tzu-Chiao Lin and Yen-Bor Lin
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4031; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104031 - 9 May 2024
Viewed by 981
Abstract
Ensuring a consistently reliable power supply is paramount in power systems. Researchers are engaged in the pursuit of categorizing transmission line failures to design countermeasures for mitigating the associated financial losses. Our study employs a machine learning-based methodology, specifically the Conformer Convolution-Augmented Transformer [...] Read more.
Ensuring a consistently reliable power supply is paramount in power systems. Researchers are engaged in the pursuit of categorizing transmission line failures to design countermeasures for mitigating the associated financial losses. Our study employs a machine learning-based methodology, specifically the Conformer Convolution-Augmented Transformer model, to classify transmission line fault types. This model processes time series input data directly, eliminating the need for expert feature extraction. The training and validation datasets are generated through simulations conducted on a two-terminal transmission line, while testing is conducted on historical data consisting of 108 events that occurred in the Taiwan power system. Due to the limited availability of historical data, they are utilized solely for inference purposes. Our simulations are meticulously designed to encompass potential faults based on an analysis of historical data. A significant aspect of our investigation focuses on the impact of the sampling rate on input data, establishing that a rate of four samples per cycle is sufficient. This suggests that, for our specific classification tasks, relying on lower frequency data might be adequate, thereby challenging the conventional emphasis on high-frequency analysis. Eventually, our methodology achieves a validation accuracy of 100%, although the testing accuracy is lower at 88.88%. The discrepancy in testing accuracy can be attributed to the limited information and the small number of historical events, which pose challenges in bridging the gap between simulated data and real-world measurements. Furthermore, we benchmarked our method against the ELM model proposed in 2023, demonstrating significant improvements in testing accuracy. Full article
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15 pages, 7673 KiB  
Article
Five-Axis Finish Milling Machining for an Inconel 718 Alloy Monolithic Blisk
by Ming-Hsu Tsai, Teng-Hui Chen, Jeng-Nan Lee, Tai-Lin Hsu and Dong-Ke Huang
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 4015; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14104015 - 9 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 742
Abstract
Blisks subjected to rough machining for channel creation must undergo finishing processes, and such processes must achieve the required tolerance limits. A high-quality surface finish and predictable long tool life are critical for the finish milling of blisks. Accordingly, the aim of this [...] Read more.
Blisks subjected to rough machining for channel creation must undergo finishing processes, and such processes must achieve the required tolerance limits. A high-quality surface finish and predictable long tool life are critical for the finish milling of blisks. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to optimize parameters for the finish machining of an Inconel 718 alloy monolithic blisk. Ball-cone mills were used to machine the blade surface at a constant depth. A sensory tool holder was used to collect cutting force signals during machining, and a digital microscope was used to examine tool wear. The surface texture measuring instrument was used to measure blisk blade surface roughness to evaluate processing quality. This study manipulated two cutting parameters, namely cutting speed and feed per tooth, and investigated their effects. The relationship between cutting conditions and machining efficiency was analyzed. According to the experimental results, we identified a set of optimal parameters at effective cutting speeds of 46.53 m/min, feed per tooth of 0.1 mm/tooth, and depth of cut of 0.05 mm for marginal tool wear and fast cutting speeds. Then the corresponding tool life was estimated by using the derived parameters. Full article
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21 pages, 4853 KiB  
Article
Hybrid Centralized Training and Decentralized Execution Reinforcement Learning in Multi-Agent Path-Finding Simulations
by Hua-Ching Chen, Shih-An Li, Tsung-Han Chang, Hsuan-Ming Feng and Yun-Chien Chen
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 3960; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14103960 - 7 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1012
Abstract
In this paper, we propose a hybrid centralized training and decentralized execution neural network architecture with deep reinforcement learning (DRL) to complete the multi-agent path-finding simulation. In the training of physical robots, collisions and other unintended accidents are very likely to occur in [...] Read more.
In this paper, we propose a hybrid centralized training and decentralized execution neural network architecture with deep reinforcement learning (DRL) to complete the multi-agent path-finding simulation. In the training of physical robots, collisions and other unintended accidents are very likely to occur in multi-agent cases, so it is required to train the networks within a deep deterministic policy gradient for the virtual environment of the simulator. The simple particle multi-agent simulator designed by OpenAI (Sacramento, CA, USA) for training platforms can easily obtain the state information of the environment. The overall system of the training cycle is designed with a self-designed reward function and is completed through a progressive learning approach from a simple to a complex environment. Finally, we carried out and presented the experiments of multi-agent path-finding simulations. The proposed methodology is better than the multi-agent model-based policy optimization (MAMBPO) and model-free multi-agent soft actor–critic models. Full article
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19 pages, 28815 KiB  
Article
The Impact of GCP Chip Distribution on Kompsat-3A RPC Bias Compensation
by Hyeonjeong Jo, Changno Lee and Jaehong Oh
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(8), 3482; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14083482 - 20 Apr 2024
Viewed by 794
Abstract
The vast potential of high-resolution satellite images, including Kompsat-3A, has been demonstrated across diverse applications, such as mapping and disaster monitoring. However, these images can only be utilized as reliable GIS (geographic information system) data when they possess precise geographical information. To achieve [...] Read more.
The vast potential of high-resolution satellite images, including Kompsat-3A, has been demonstrated across diverse applications, such as mapping and disaster monitoring. However, these images can only be utilized as reliable GIS (geographic information system) data when they possess precise geographical information. To achieve this, sensor model information, represented by RPCs (rational polynomial coefficients), requires bias compensation through GCPs (ground control points). Though having a substantial number of well-distributed GCPs across satellite images is ideal, the acquisition process is often restricted due to cost and inaccessibility. The uniform distribution of GCP chips is not guaranteed, necessitating an investigation into the impact of GCP distribution on the bias compensation process, which is the focus of this study. Experiments were meticulously conducted using Kompsat-3A data using dense GCP information. The dense GCP information was automatically generated from aerial orthoimages through a three-step process. Firstly, the GCP chips were extracted from the aerial images, focusing on feature points. Secondly, these chips were projected onto the target Kompsat-3A data to align them accurately. Lastly, precise satellite image coordinates of the chips were obtained through image matching between the chips and the target Kompsat-3A image. The dense GCPs enabled detailed bias analysis that exhibited skewness in most Kompsat-3A data. This necessitates the implementation of an affine model for proper bias compensation over the entire image space. Next, the study delved into the influence of GCP distribution on RPC bias compensation. To this end, each target satellite image space was divided into nine zones, with the dense GCPs assigned accordingly. The accuracy of bias compensation was analyzed across nine experimental cases, ranging from GCPs occupying only one zone to GCPs covering all nine zones. It was observed that GCPs covering at least four or five zones should be utilized for reliable RPC bias compensation of Kompsat-3A, especially when aiming for a high level of accuracy with an RMSE of one pixel. Finally, it was concluded that GCPs covering three zones yielded satisfactory results as a minimum GCP requirement, but this was contingent upon their distribution not following a straight zone pattern. Full article
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18 pages, 5671 KiB  
Article
Fault-Coping Algorithm for Improving Leader–Follower Swarm-Control Algorithm of Unmanned Surface Vehicles
by Jihyeong Lee, Daehyeong Ji, Hyunjoon Cho, Saehun Baeg and Sangki Jeong
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(8), 3444; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14083444 - 19 Apr 2024
Viewed by 967
Abstract
This study presents a swarm-control algorithm to overcome the limitations inherent to single-object systems. The leader–follower swarm-control method was selected for its ease of mathematical interpretation and theoretical potential for the unlimited expansion of followers. However, a known drawback of this method is [...] Read more.
This study presents a swarm-control algorithm to overcome the limitations inherent to single-object systems. The leader–follower swarm-control method was selected for its ease of mathematical interpretation and theoretical potential for the unlimited expansion of followers. However, a known drawback of this method is the risk of swarm collapse when the leader breaks down. To address this, a fault-coping algorithm was developed and supplemented to the leader–follower swarm-control method, which enabled the detection and responsive handling of failures, thereby ensuring mission continuity. Comprehensive data, including voltage, current, thruster speed, position, and heading angle were acquired and analyzed using sensors on unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) to monitor potential failures. In the case of a failure, such as thruster malfunction, the nearest USV seamlessly takes charge of the mission under the guidance of the fault-coping algorithm. The leader–follower swarm-control and fault-coping algorithms were successfully validated through actual sea area tests, which confirmed their operational efficacy. This study affirms the well-formed nature of the USV swarm formation and demonstrates the effectiveness of the fault-coping algorithm in ensuring normal mission performance under the virtual failure scenarios applied to the leader USV. Full article
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24 pages, 3103 KiB  
Article
Tidal Effects on the Schumann Resonance Amplitudes Recorded by the Global Coherence Monitoring System
by Ugnė Orinaitė, Darius Petronaitis, Arvydas Jokimaitis, Mantas Landauskas, Minvydas Ragulskis, Alfonsas Vainoras, Rollin McCarty, Mike Atkinson and Nachum Plonka
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(8), 3332; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14083332 - 15 Apr 2024
Viewed by 991
Abstract
The main scientific result of this paper is the demonstration of the fact that tidal effects induced by the Moon affect the Schumann resonance amplitudes measured at magnetometers located at different geographical locations of the Global Coherence Monitoring System. Each magnetometer is paired [...] Read more.
The main scientific result of this paper is the demonstration of the fact that tidal effects induced by the Moon affect the Schumann resonance amplitudes measured at magnetometers located at different geographical locations of the Global Coherence Monitoring System. Each magnetometer is paired with the closest monitoring station of the global tidal wave measurement network. This paper introduces the Schumann Resonance Complexity Index (SRCI), computed by using the calibrated H-rank algorithm on the local magnetic field data recorded by each magnetometer of the Global Coherence Monitoring System. Tidal wave data recorded at each monitoring station are also used to compute the Tidal Wave Complexity Index (TWCI). Eliminating diel cycles from the SRCI data yields significant statistical correlations between the SRCI and TWCI data, proving the hypothesis of tidal effects on the global network of magnetometers. Full article
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13 pages, 5655 KiB  
Article
Study on Oscillatory and Undulatory Motion of Robotic Fish
by Phan Huy Nam Anh, Hyeung-Sik Choi, Jiafeng Huang, Ruochen Zhang and Jihoon Kim
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(8), 3239; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14083239 - 11 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1454
Abstract
This paper conducts a comprehensive analysis of undulating and oscillatory movements in fish, utilizing numerical simulations to explore correlations among fin thrust and swimming speed. The study distinguishes itself through a unique approach by employing kinematic equations of motion control, specifically in oscillation [...] Read more.
This paper conducts a comprehensive analysis of undulating and oscillatory movements in fish, utilizing numerical simulations to explore correlations among fin thrust and swimming speed. The study distinguishes itself through a unique approach by employing kinematic equations of motion control, specifically in oscillation and undulation, for computational fluid dynamics. Despite increasing energy loss with undulation, the study reveals a reduction in power demand with oscillation, underscoring its effectiveness in achieving desired speeds. The dynamics of undulating fins in aquatic and aerial locomotion remain insufficiently understood. The trade-off between more energy-consuming but highly propulsive movements or simpler and faster movements requires sophisticated design techniques to reduce volume. The geometry, developed using Rhino 6 software, incorporates precise fluid resistance calculations conducted with Ansys Fluent 19. Spanning flow velocities from 1 to 4 m/s were used for the simulation condition. Critical factors such as flexibility, viscosity, and shape change were meticulously examined for their impact on efficiency enhancement. Full article
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14 pages, 6681 KiB  
Article
Structural Performance of Reinforced Concrete Beams Retrofitted Using Modularized Steel Plates in Precast Concrete with Bolted Connections
by Kyong Min Ro, Min Sook Kim and Young Hak Lee
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(8), 3137; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14083137 - 9 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1319
Abstract
The previous research introduced an innovative retrofitting technique for reinforced concrete beams using modularized steel plates. This technique enhances structural performance, offering a lightweight solution compared to conventional retrofitting methods using steel plates, and accommodates construction errors. However, a challenge arises due to [...] Read more.
The previous research introduced an innovative retrofitting technique for reinforced concrete beams using modularized steel plates. This technique enhances structural performance, offering a lightweight solution compared to conventional retrofitting methods using steel plates, and accommodates construction errors. However, a challenge arises due to the lack of integrity between unit steel plates. To address this, this study proposes a novel method of connecting each steel plate with bolts. The experimental results show that retrofitted beams achieved a maximum load of 311.9 kN, roughly 1.6 times that of non-retrofitted specimens, with the ductility of retrofitted beams being 3.3 times that of the non-retrofitted beams. Additionally, there was a 25% increase in load capacity for beams retrofitted with interconnected steel plates compared to those without connections between unit steel plates. Full article
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21 pages, 13187 KiB  
Article
An Experimental Study on the Seismic Performance of a Replaceable Steel Link System Acting as a Structural Fuse
by Kyong Min Ro, Min Sook Kim and Young Hak Lee
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(6), 2358; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14062358 - 11 Mar 2024
Viewed by 832
Abstract
This study investigated the seismic performance of reinforced concrete columns retrofitted with Replaceable Steel Links (RSLs), focusing on the effects of varying sliding slot lengths and torsional loads. The RSL system, known for its simple construction and effective seismic performance, was analyzed to [...] Read more.
This study investigated the seismic performance of reinforced concrete columns retrofitted with Replaceable Steel Links (RSLs), focusing on the effects of varying sliding slot lengths and torsional loads. The RSL system, known for its simple construction and effective seismic performance, was analyzed to assess the feasibility of substituting damaged steel links post-earthquake, using the system as a structural fuse. The experimental results highlighted the role of sliding slot lengths in delaying the initiation of shear cracks, especially under eccentric lateral loads. The RSL system exhibited notable torsional resistance, showing only a 10% decrease in maximum load capacity, even with a two-fold increase in the eccentric distance. Furthermore, with an increase in sliding slot length, the difference in cumulative energy dissipation attributable to augmented eccentric distances reached approximately 50%, indicating a notable impact of sliding slot length on the system’s ability to resist torsion. Consequently, it is recommended that the length of the sliding slot be based on the specific seismic design objectives when employing the RSL system as a structural fuse. The post-experiment inspection revealed no deformation in the steel plates, and the buckled steel links could be effortlessly replaced by loosening the high-tensile bolts in the slots. These findings demonstrate the RSL system’s efficiency as a structural fuse. Full article
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17 pages, 946 KiB  
Article
Approximation of Cognitive Performance Using an Elastic Net Regression Model Trained on Gait, Visual, Auditory, Postural, and Olfactory Function Features
by Emilija Kostic, Kiyoung Kwak, Shinyoung Lee and Dongwook Kim
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 2098; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14052098 - 2 Mar 2024
Viewed by 855
Abstract
When dementia is diagnosed, it is most often already past the point of irreversible neuronal deterioration. Neuropsychological tests are frequently used in clinical settings; however, they must be administered properly and are oftentimes conducted after cognitive impairment becomes apparent or is raised as [...] Read more.
When dementia is diagnosed, it is most often already past the point of irreversible neuronal deterioration. Neuropsychological tests are frequently used in clinical settings; however, they must be administered properly and are oftentimes conducted after cognitive impairment becomes apparent or is raised as a concern by the patient or a family member. It would be beneficial to develop a non-invasive system for approximating cognitive scores which can be utilized by a general practitioner without the need for cognitive testing. To this end, gait, visual, auditory, postural, and olfactory function parameters, reported history of illness, and personal habits were used to train an elastic-net regression model in predicting the cognitive score. Community-dwelling men (N = 104) above the age of sixty-five participated in the current study. Both individual variables and principal components of the motor and sensory functions were included in the elastic-net regression model, which was trained on 70% of the dataset. The years of education, limits of stability testing time, regular ophthalmological exams, postural testing time principal component, better ear score on the sentence recognition test, and olfactory discrimination score largely contributed to explaining over 40% of the variance in the cognitive score. Full article
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21 pages, 8249 KiB  
Article
Effect of Ambient Temperature on Impedance-Based Physiological Activity Evaluation of Zelkova Tree
by Jounghoon Lim, Jinkee Kim and Jong Pal Kim
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(3), 1305; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14031305 - 5 Feb 2024
Viewed by 1001
Abstract
A system has been developed to remotely, continuously, and quantitatively measure the physiological activity of trees. The developed tree physiological activity monitoring (TPAM) system is equipped with electrical impedance, temperature, and light intensity measurement functions. In the two-contact impedance measurement method used in [...] Read more.
A system has been developed to remotely, continuously, and quantitatively measure the physiological activity of trees. The developed tree physiological activity monitoring (TPAM) system is equipped with electrical impedance, temperature, and light intensity measurement functions. In the two-contact impedance measurement method used in the previous plant impedance measurement, errors due to the polarization impedance of the electrodes could not be avoided. The developed TPAM system adopted a four-contact measurement method that could avoid polarization impedance errors, and, with it, the long-term monitoring of zelkova trees was performed. The monitoring of seasonal changes was conducted from July to November, and an impedance change pattern that repeated on a daily basis was observed in the short term, and an overall increase in the impedance was observed in the long term. Impedance changes related to daily temperature changes were observed even after all the tree leaves had fallen, meaning that this effect should be excluded when using impedance to evaluate tree vitality. For this reason, the influence of temperature fluctuations was excluded by using only the impedance values at the same daily temperature of 25 degrees from July to November. The analysis results at 25 degrees showed that the tree impedance value increased linearly by 8.7 Ω per day. The results of this series of long-term monitoring and analysis revealed that the ambient temperature must be taken into account in the evaluation of tree physiological activity based on electrical impedance. Full article
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15 pages, 7046 KiB  
Article
Design and Analysis of the High-Speed Underwater Glider with a Bladder-Type Buoyancy Engine
by Dae-Hyeong Ji, Jung-Han Lee, Sung-Hyub Ko, Jong-Wu Hyeon, Ji-Hyeong Lee, Hyeung-Sik Choi and Sang-Ki Jeong
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(20), 11367; https://doi.org/10.3390/app132011367 - 16 Oct 2023
Viewed by 1573
Abstract
This study entailed the design and analysis of a 400 m class underwater glider operated by a bladder-type buoyancy engine. The underwater glider was designed for high-speed movement with a maximum velocity of 2 knots. The shape of the hull was designed to [...] Read more.
This study entailed the design and analysis of a 400 m class underwater glider operated by a bladder-type buoyancy engine. The underwater glider was designed for high-speed movement with a maximum velocity of 2 knots. The shape of the hull was designed to reduce water resistance using the Myring hull profile equation. The reliability was verified by performing simulations using resistance coefficients. The relationship between the control value of the ballast discharged from the buoyancy engine and the glider’s speed according to the path angle was analyzed. Further, the relationship between the optimal glide angle and the design control value of the ballast was derived, and the optimal glider speed was estimated accordingly. Based on the analysis results, a bladder-type buoyancy engine was developed, and the maximum speed of the tested underwater glider was measured via sea trials. Full article
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