Engineering Proceedings

11 pages, 208 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Comprehensive Analysis on Computational Thinking in Education: Open Issues and Challenges

by Jethro Jarvis Roy Jyrwa, Chandra Jayaraman and Alwin Joseph

Eng. Proc. 2025, 107(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025107006 - 21 Aug 2025

Computational thinking (CT) is a cognitive approach for solving problems using the concepts of algorithmic thinking, decomposition of a problem into components, identifying patterns among commonly occurring activities, and abstraction. CT promotes interdisciplinary learning and enhances problem-solving and logical reasoning abilities. In this [...] Read more.

Computational thinking (CT) is a cognitive approach for solving problems using the concepts of algorithmic thinking, decomposition of a problem into components, identifying patterns among commonly occurring activities, and abstraction. CT promotes interdisciplinary learning and enhances problem-solving and logical reasoning abilities. In this study, a comprehensive analysis of the current issues and challenges of applying CT in the educational landscape is presented with a focus on the various assessment tools and their implementation in teaching methods. The study identifies the various techniques that can be used by educators to evaluate the skills of students based on their ability to solve problems that require CT. A systematic review of the available literature and related works was conducted to analyze their importance in CT, as well as their issues and challenges. This study finds that there is a need for a unified definition and implementation guidelines on CT. The available assessment tools mainly focus on programming constructs, leaving little room for evaluating abstract concepts as challenges in the field; hence, designing and developing assessment mechanisms are also required for effective implementation of CT in an academic context. Full article

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12 pages, 1341 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Lost by Over-Management: Adaptive Notification Model for Handling Weakly Planned Activities

by Angelita Gozaly and Evgeny Pyshkin

Eng. Proc. 2025, 107(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025107004 - 21 Aug 2025

Abstract

The study explores the scenarios and approach to the design of the software for managing notifications about the fuzzily planned activities. Though many such scenarios can be solved by using traditional time and activity management tools such as organizers, diaries, planners, or schedulers, [...] Read more.

The study explores the scenarios and approach to the design of the software for managing notifications about the fuzzily planned activities. Though many such scenarios can be solved by using traditional time and activity management tools such as organizers, diaries, planners, or schedulers, practical situations often arise when people tend to avoid overmanagement for real-life situations, when the plans might be flexible, and the planned activities might depend on location, contextual, and time information, which may not necessarily be well known or configured in advance. In this contribution, we describe examples of such situations and define the concept of soft planning. Following the principles of the human-driven design paradigm, we conducted a small-scale survey to gather insights into user preferences and identify drawbacks of existing digitalized activity planning and decision-making tools, often based on configurable notification management software. The findings reveal that while notifications are useful, users often encounter issues such as information overload, lack of contextual awareness, and disruptions caused by the notifications arriving at inconvenient or even inappropriate times. Full article

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12 pages, 1985 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Enhancing the Haar Cascade Algorithm for Robust Detection of Facial Features in Complex Conditions Using Area Analysis and Adaptive Thresholding

by Dayne Fradejas, Vince Harley Gaba, Analyn Yumang and Ericson Dimaunahan

Eng. Proc. 2025, 107(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025107003 - 21 Aug 2025

Abstract

Facial features are critical visual indicators for understanding what a person is experiencing, providing valuable insights into their emotions and physical states. However, accurately detecting these features under diverse conditions remains a significant challenge, especially in computationally constrained environments. This paper presents a [...] Read more.

Facial features are critical visual indicators for understanding what a person is experiencing, providing valuable insights into their emotions and physical states. However, accurately detecting these features under diverse conditions remains a significant challenge, especially in computationally constrained environments. This paper presents a facial feature extraction method designed to identify regions of interest for detecting facial cues, with a focus on improving the accuracy of eye and mouth detection. Addressing the limitations of standard Haar cascade classifiers, particularly in challenging scenarios such as droopy eyes, red eyes, and droopy mouths, this method introduces a correction algorithm rooted in normal human facial anatomy, emphasizing symmetry and consistent feature placement. By integrating this correction algorithm with a feature-based refinement process, the proposed approach enhances detection accuracy from 67.22% to 96.11%. Through this method, the accurate detection of facial features like the eyes and mouth is significantly improved, offering a lightweight and efficient solution for real-time applications while maintaining computational efficiency. Full article

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10 pages, 1274 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

An Embedded Control System for a 3D-Printed Robot for Training

by Zhelyazko Terziyski, Nikolay Komitov and Margarita Terziyska

Eng. Proc. 2025, 104(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025104002 - 21 Aug 2025

Abstract

This study explores the application of 3D printing as a strategic tool in engineering education and robotics development. An embedded control system for a 3D-printed MK2 manipulator is implemented, including an Arduino microcontroller, servo motors, an analog joystick interface, and an LCD, with [...] Read more.

This study explores the application of 3D printing as a strategic tool in engineering education and robotics development. An embedded control system for a 3D-printed MK2 manipulator is implemented, including an Arduino microcontroller, servo motors, an analog joystick interface, and an LCD, with software developed in Arduino IDE. The design uses PLA material and a modular architecture for flexibility and extensibility. The platform is applied in laboratory training to develop algorithmic thinking and engineering creativity, demonstrating the potential of 3D printing as an integrated educational and engineering tool. Full article

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4876 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Permanent Train-Side GNSS Multipath Characterization Considering Time-Correlation for Safe Railway Localization

by Ana Kliman, Anja Grosch and Omar Garcia Crespillo

Eng. Proc. 2025, 88(1), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025088071 - 20 Aug 2025

Abstract

Railway transportation systems have high accuracy and high integrity demands for safe localization. In the future, railway signaling is expected to rely on onboard sensors like Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSSs) in order to reduce installation and maintenance costs. GNSS position determination can, [...] Read more.

Railway transportation systems have high accuracy and high integrity demands for safe localization. In the future, railway signaling is expected to rely on onboard sensors like Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSSs) in order to reduce installation and maintenance costs. GNSS position determination can, however, be highly degraded because of the presence of multipath on the train and railway environment. This paper tackles the characterization of multipath in code measurements caused exclusively by the antenna installation and derives a conservative error model of the antenna-installation-induced multipath and noise. First, we isolate multipath and noise from other GNSS errors using the Code-Minus-Carrier method. Second, an overbounding error model is derived. The limitation of modeling with restricted set of real data typically found in practice is discussed and we review methods that ensure the independence of samples. A new approach that creates separate data sets is ultimately proposed to derive an overbounding sigma. The presented methodology is supported by real measurements collected in an open-sky railway scenario. The derived models can be used as a reference nominal error models to build the null hypothesis of fault detection algorithms that detects the presence of excessive multipath in dynamic scenarios or as a part of a total error budget consideration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of European Navigation Conference 2024)

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11 pages, 816 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Mitigating GPS Spoofing Threats with Honeywell GPS-Aided Inertial Systems

by Matej Kucera, Radek Reznicek, Radek Baranek, Pavel Ptacek, Daniel Bertrand and Karl Keyzer

Eng. Proc. 2025, 88(1), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025088070 - 20 Aug 2025

Abstract

GNSS-Inertial integration brings great potential to detect and mitigate the effect of erroneous (spoofed) GNSS data. When a trajectory of an airplane diverges from (or is inconsistent with) inertial data, the integrated system may detect this erroneous GNSS trajectory and may be able [...] Read more.

GNSS-Inertial integration brings great potential to detect and mitigate the effect of erroneous (spoofed) GNSS data. When a trajectory of an airplane diverges from (or is inconsistent with) inertial data, the integrated system may detect this erroneous GNSS trajectory and may be able to maintain navigation integrity by rejecting this data. A GNSS-Aided Inertial System can provide both self-contained detection of a GNSS spoofing event as well as mitigation, where mitigation is hard to achieve globally with other commercial aviation systems relying on good ground system coverage. This paper provides an overview of the newly developed Inertial Spoofing Monitor for aviation grade navigation systems, which was designed to detect multiple simultaneous erroneous (spoofed) satellite measurements. The Inertial Spoofing Monitor was then thoroughly tested, and simulations were performed to evaluate and demonstrate the detection, mitigation, and recovery capability of the spoofing monitor. The performance validation followed the process prescribed by Appendix Q of the RTCA DO-384 MOPS (Minimum Operation Performance Standard). The results show great detection, mitigation, and recovery performance of the developed Inertial Spoofing Monitor, but also indicate constraints regarding the assumed sensor error model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of European Navigation Conference 2024)

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1118 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Internet-Enabled Collaborative Fixture Design

by Subramanian Vasanth, Earnest Hebron Jones, Hareendran Praveen and Francis Michael Thomas Rex

Eng. Proc. 2025, 93(1), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025093025 - 20 Aug 2025

Abstract

The design of fixtures is a complex and instinctive process. A proficient fixture design system customized for particular applications reduces manufacturing costs and lead times. Various computer-aided systems are available to assist in the many manufacturing stages in today’s industry. A fixture design [...] Read more.

The design of fixtures is a complex and instinctive process. A proficient fixture design system customized for particular applications reduces manufacturing costs and lead times. Various computer-aided systems are available to assist in the many manufacturing stages in today’s industry. A fixture design system should facilitate the seamless movement of information among several domains to enhance product design and production processes. The fixture design system should be easily transferable and compatible with many operating platforms. This study discusses creating an Internet-enabled interactive fixture design system that enables seamless communication among different disciplines in product development. Utilizing the Internet and Virtual Reality Modelling Language (VRML) allows for the exchange of information and expertise among computer-aided manufacturing systems. The CAD model of fixturing pieces is first turned into VRML coding. The VRML code for the model can be modified to vary the size and dimensions of the CAD model, facilitating alterations such as scaling fixture components, repositioning mounting points, and resizing clamping parts to align with specific design needs. The VRML model of the fixturing system was created with Java and built on an FTTP server architecture. It guarantees that the system performs consistently across different platforms. This work has also established a mechanism for comprehensive fixture design independent of a locating scheme. Establishing a library for storing previous fixture designs can prevent the need to recreate the current model. Full article

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958 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Exploring the Limits of LLMs in Simulating Partisan Polarization with Confirmation Bias Prompts

by Masashi Sakurai, Kento Ueta and Yasuhiro Hashimoto

Eng. Proc. 2025, 107(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025107002 - 20 Aug 2025

Abstract

In this study, we investigate the potential of large language models (LLMs) to simulate partisan political polarization through conversation experiments. While previous research has demonstrated that LLM agents fail to reproduce human-like partisan polarization due to their inherent biases, we hypothesized that incorporating [...] Read more.

In this study, we investigate the potential of large language models (LLMs) to simulate partisan political polarization through conversation experiments. While previous research has demonstrated that LLM agents fail to reproduce human-like partisan polarization due to their inherent biases, we hypothesized that incorporating confirmation bias prompts could help overcome these limitations. We conducted conversation simulations between LLM agents assigned Democratic and Republican ideologies, analyzing both intra-party and inter-party interactions. Results without confirmation bias prompts revealed that agents, particularly those with Republican ideologies, tended to shift toward Democratic positions, failing to replicate human partisan behavior. However, when confirmation bias prompts were introduced, agents maintained their initial political stances more consistently, especially in intra-party conversations. While some tendency toward moderation remained in cross-party discussions, the magnitude of position shifts was significantly reduced. These findings suggest that confirmation bias prompts can effectively mitigate LLMs’ inherent biases in partisan simulations, though additional refinements may be needed to fully replicate human polarization dynamics. Full article

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3 pages, 153 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Preface of the ETLTC 2025 Conference Series

by Debopriyo Roy, George Fragulis and Peter Ilic

Eng. Proc. 2025, 107(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025107001 - 20 Aug 2025

Abstract

We are pleased to present the proceedings of the ETLTC–ICETM2025 International Conference Series, held from January 20 to 26, 2025, in Aizuwakamatsu, Japan, and hosted in hybrid format by the University of Aizu [...] Full article

9 pages, 3679 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Enhancing GNSS Situational Awareness by Monitoring the New Galileo Services

by Toni Hammarberg, Fabricio S. Prol and Mohammad Zahidul H. Bhuiyan

Eng. Proc. 2025, 88(1), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025088069 - 19 Aug 2025

Abstract

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSSs) have become a critical service in modern society, and this has increased the need for GNSS situational awareness. On top of this, the GNSS field is rapidly changing. Increased signal interference has been observed in the last few [...] Read more.

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSSs) have become a critical service in modern society, and this has increased the need for GNSS situational awareness. On top of this, the GNSS field is rapidly changing. Increased signal interference has been observed in the last few decades, requiring more prominent GNSS services, in addition to flexibility and adaptability from GNSS monitoring systems. With the emergence of new Galileo features, such as Open Service Navigation Message Authentication (OSNMA) and the High Accuracy Service (HAS), monitoring systems have the opportunity to leverage these new services to enhance GNSS situational awareness. The Finnish Geospatial Research Institute (FGI) has developed an open GNSS situational awareness service called GNSS-Finland, which monitors signal quality, detects potential interference, and informs users of the expected level of performance of different services around 47 stations in the Finnish Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS) network (FinnRef). Recently GNSS-Finland’s capabilities have been extended to monitor and leverage OSNMA and the HAS around FinnRef stations. Due to the novelty of both OSNMA and the HAS, custom software solutions are needed to integrate these services into GNSS-Finland. We give an overview of GNSS-Finland and its flexible architecture, present the integration of the new Galileo services into GNSS-Finland, and finally discuss how these new services can be leveraged from a monitoring system point of view. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of European Navigation Conference 2024)

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1562 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Polymeric Ionic Liquids as Effective Biosensor Components

by Dmitry Kultin, Olga Lebedeva, Irina Kuznetsova and Leonid Kustov

Eng. Proc. 2025, 106(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025106004 - 19 Aug 2025

Abstract

The unique properties present great prospects for polymeric ionic liquids (PILs) research in these areas, where progress and breakthrough technologies can be expected in the coming years. This brief review examines the latest work (2024–2025) and the prospects for using PILs as an [...] Read more.

The unique properties present great prospects for polymeric ionic liquids (PILs) research in these areas, where progress and breakthrough technologies can be expected in the coming years. This brief review examines the latest work (2024–2025) and the prospects for using PILs as an effective component of sensor-related devices for medical or biological applications. Potentially, the PILs-based sensors can detect various movements in real time, which are necessary for high-performance wearable sensor platforms. The artificial electronic skin demonstrates high potential not only as a recording of body signals, but also as an effective wound dressing. The polymer actuators with PILs are indispensable in many applications. Full article

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2 pages, 151 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Preface of the 14th International Scientific Conference TechSys 2025—Engineering, Technologies and Systems

by Sevil Ahmed-Shieva, Nikolay Kakanakov, Nikola Shakev and Valyo Nikolov

Eng. Proc. 2025, 100(1), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025100068 - 15 Aug 2025

Abstract

The 14th International Scientific Conference TechSys 2025—Engineering, Technologies and Systems was organized by the Technical University of Sofia, Plovdiv Branch, within the frame of “Science Days of Technical University of Sofia” and supported by the University Scientific and Research Sector [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 14th International Scientific Conference TechSys 2025—Engineering, Technologies and Systems)

1 pages, 138 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Statement of Peer Review

by Nikolay Kakanakov and Sevil Ahmed-Shieva

Eng. Proc. 2025, 100(1), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025100067 - 15 Aug 2025

Abstract

In submitting conference proceedings to Engineering Proceedings, the volume editors of the proceedings certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review administered by the volume editors [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 14th International Scientific Conference TechSys 2025—Engineering, Technologies and Systems)

12 pages, 846 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluation of Cultural and Creative Products of Jinshan Farmer Painting Using Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process

by Chen Liu, Hong-Mei Dai, Yuan Shen and Yu-Xuan Liu

Eng. Proc. 2025, 98(1), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025098046 - 15 Aug 2025

Abstract

We evaluated the cultural and creative products of Jinshan Farmer Painting in Shanghai, utilizing the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) to determine the key evaluation indicators. Through a literature review, we constructed a hierarchical framework of evaluation indicators. A questionnaire survey was then [...] Read more.

We evaluated the cultural and creative products of Jinshan Farmer Painting in Shanghai, utilizing the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) to determine the key evaluation indicators. Through a literature review, we constructed a hierarchical framework of evaluation indicators. A questionnaire survey was then conducted to collect expert opinions, followed by FAHP weight calculation and analysis. Finally, the consistency of the evaluation results was verified. The results revealed that market demand, design innovation, and traditional cultural inheritance are the key indicators influencing the success of Jinshan Farmer Painting cultural products. Among these, market demand and design innovation have the highest weights in the overall evaluation, highlighting the critical role of market acceptance and product innovation in the success of cultural products. Additionally, the emphasis on traditional cultural inheritance and cultural symbolism in cultural value underscores the importance of cultural content and artistic expression in a product’s success. These results provide practical information for the development of Jinshan Farmer Painting cultural products and offer a theoretical basis for future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 2024 4th International Conference on Social Sciences and Intelligence Management (SSIM 2024))

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7 pages, 1684 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Investigation on Transverse Loading of Auxetic Beams Using Finite Element Methods

by Navneeth Sanjeev and M. P. Hariprasad

Eng. Proc. 2025, 93(1), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025093024 - 15 Aug 2025

Abstract

Structures that possess negative Poisson’s ratio are termed “Auxetic” structures. They elongate laterally on longitudinal–tensile loading and compress laterally on longitudinal–compressive loading. Auxetic structures are a composition of unit cells that are available in various geometries, which include triangular, hexa-triangular, re-entrant, chiral, star, [...] Read more.

Structures that possess negative Poisson’s ratio are termed “Auxetic” structures. They elongate laterally on longitudinal–tensile loading and compress laterally on longitudinal–compressive loading. Auxetic structures are a composition of unit cells that are available in various geometries, which include triangular, hexa-triangular, re-entrant, chiral, star, arrowhead, etc. Due to their unique shape, these structures possess remarkably good mechanical properties such as shear resistance, indentation resistance, fracture resistance, synclastic behavior, energy absorption capacity, etc. However, they have poor load-bearing capacity. To improve the load bearing strength of these structures, this paper presents a numerical analysis of oriented re-entrant structured (ORS) beams with auxetic clusters aligned at various angles (0°, 45° and 90°), using Finite Element Methods. Oriented re-entrant unit cell clusters enclosed by a bounded frame were modeled and a three-point bending test was conducted to perform a comparison study on deformation mechanisms of the different oriented re-entrant honeycomb structures with honeycomb beams. The computational analysis of ORS beams revealed that the directional deformation and normal strain along the x-axis were the lowest in ORS45, followed by ORS90, ORS0, and honeycomb. Among all the beams, ORS45 displayed the best load-bearing capacity with comparably low mass density. Full article

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12 pages, 1838 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Edge IoT-Enabled Cyber–Physical Systems with Paper-Based Biosensors and Temporal Convolutional Networks for Real-Time Water Contamination Monitoring

by Jothi Akshya, Munusamy Sundarrajan and Rajesh Kumar Dhanaraj

Eng. Proc. 2025, 106(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025106003 - 15 Aug 2025

Abstract

Water pollution poses serious threats to public health and the environment, therefore requiring efficient and scalable monitoring solutions. This paper presents a cyber–physical system (CPS) that integrates paper-based biosensors with an edge IoT architecture and long-range wide area network (LoRaWAN) for real-time assessment [...] Read more.

Water pollution poses serious threats to public health and the environment, therefore requiring efficient and scalable monitoring solutions. This paper presents a cyber–physical system (CPS) that integrates paper-based biosensors with an edge IoT architecture and long-range wide area network (LoRaWAN) for real-time assessment of water quality. The biosensors detect pollutants such as arsenic, lead, and nitrates with a detection limit of 0.5 ppb. The system proposed was compared with existing LSTM systems based on two performance metrics: detection accuracy and latency. Paper-based biosensors were fabricated using silver nanoparticle-functionalized substrates to show high sensitivity and low-cost pollutant detection. TCN algorithm deployment at the edge allows for real-time processing for time-series data analysis due to its high accuracy and low latency properties compared with LSTM models, which were mainly chosen due to their usage in most applications dealing with time-series-based analysis. Experimentation was carried out by deploying the developed CPS in controlled environments, simulating pollutants at different levels, and executing the models to test their accuracy in detecting pollutants and the latency of data processing. The TCN framework achieved a detection accuracy of 98.7%, which surpassed LSTM by 92.4%. In addition, TCN reduced latency in processing by 38% to enable fast data analysis and decision making. LoRaWAN allowed for perfect packet transmission of up to 15 km, while the loss rate stayed as low as 2.1%. These results establish the proposed CPS as reliable, efficient, and scalable for real-time water contamination monitoring. Thus, this research introduces the integration of paper-based biosensors with advanced computational frameworks. Full article

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8 pages, 205 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Large Language Model-Assisted Course Search: Parsing Structured Parameters from Natural Language Queries

by Max Upravitelev, Naomi Schoppa, Christopher Krauss, Truong-Sinh An, Bach Do and Aziz Md Abdul

Eng. Proc. 2025, 103(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025103018 - 14 Aug 2025

Abstract

We propose a method to address the challenge of course discovery on search platforms by employing large language models (LLMs) to parse extended search parameters from natural language queries. We developed a set of algorithms that augment a course search platform prototype by [...] Read more.

We propose a method to address the challenge of course discovery on search platforms by employing large language models (LLMs) to parse extended search parameters from natural language queries. We developed a set of algorithms that augment a course search platform prototype by integrating an LLM-based assistant to facilitate 55,000 vocational training sessions. The developed method supports natural language queries and parses optional search parameters. For parameter optionality and to evaluate the feasibility of parameter parsing, we introduce a relevance check mechanism based on cosine similarity. The parsing process was conducted by using a guided generation strategy with grammar-based restrictions to limit the generation possibilities. The developed method enhanced the precision and pertinence of course searches. Full article

12 pages, 1331 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Tailoring the Optical and Sensing Properties of Sol–Gel Niobia Coatings via Doping with Silica and Noble Metal Nanoparticles

by Tsvetanka Babeva, Venelin Pavlov, Georgi Zlatinov, Biliana Georgieva, Penka Terziyska, Gergana Alexieva, Katerina Lazarova and Rosen Georgiev

Eng. Proc. 2025, 105(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025105004 - 14 Aug 2025

Abstract

Nb₂O₅ (niobia) coatings were prepared by spin coating of niobium sol, synthesized using niobium chloride as the precursor and ethanol and water as solvents, followed by high-temperature annealing. Doping of the films was achieved by incorporating commercially available SiO₂ [...] Read more.

Nb₂O₅ (niobia) coatings were prepared by spin coating of niobium sol, synthesized using niobium chloride as the precursor and ethanol and water as solvents, followed by high-temperature annealing. Doping of the films was achieved by incorporating commercially available SiO₂ (Ludox) and noble metal nanoparticles (NPs) into the sol prior to its deposition. Various sizes of Pt (5 and 30 nm), Ag (10, 20, and 40 nm), and Au (5, 10, and 20 nm) NPs were used to enhance sensing behavior of coatings. After annealing, films were subjected to chemical etching to remove the silica phase. This process generated porosity within the films, which in turn enabled the tailoring of both their optical and sensing properties. It was demonstrated that both the type and size of the incorporated nanoparticles significantly influenced the sensing behavior. The most effective enhancement was observed with the addition of 10 nm AuNPs. Optical characterization indicated that 10 nm AuNPs had a minimal effect on the optical properties. In contrast, doping with 20 nm AuNPs led to a reduction in the refractive index and an increase in Urbach energy. No significant alteration in the optical band gap due to doping was observed. Full article

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8 pages, 1422 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Designing for Diversity: Creating Inclusive Digital Learning Environments for Global Classrooms

by Wai Yie Leong

Eng. Proc. 2025, 103(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025103017 - 13 Aug 2025

Abstract

In an increasingly interconnected world, educational systems must meet the needs of diverse learners from varying cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. This study aims to explore the principles and practices of designing inclusive digital learning environments tailored to global classrooms, where diversity in [...] Read more.

In an increasingly interconnected world, educational systems must meet the needs of diverse learners from varying cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. This study aims to explore the principles and practices of designing inclusive digital learning environments tailored to global classrooms, where diversity in language, learning styles, accessibility, and technological resources presents unique challenges and opportunities. This study also explores how leveraging digital tools, artificial intelligence, and adaptive learning technologies can create environments that are responsive to individual learners’ needs and sensitive to cultural nuances. Research on inclusive instructional design was compiled, highlighting methods such as localized content adaptation, multi-language support, and flexible learning pathways. Furthermore, the role of collaborative learning platforms was assessed to foster a sense of community across geographic and cultural boundaries. Case studies were conducted from diverse educational perspectives to propose effective strategies for inclusive digital design, highlighting successful approaches and areas for improvement. Ultimately, a roadmap was constructed for educators, designers, and policymakers to create accessible and culturally aware digital learning spaces to support the academic and social development of all learners, regardless of their background. The results of this study underscore the importance of inclusivity in digital education, contributing to a more equitable and connected global learning landscape. Full article

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Journal Description

Engineering Proceedings

Vol. 102

ITS APF 2025

Vol. 100

TechSys 2025

Vol. 99

EEM 2025

Vol. 98

SSIM 2024

Vol. 97

SMILE 2025

Vol. 96

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