This paper addresses the parameter identification of a one-link flexible manipulator based on the experimental measurement of inputs/outputs, the finite element model, and the application of evolutionary algorithms.

A novel approach is proposed to find the inertia, stiffness, and damping parameters by minimizing the difference between the numerical model's outputs and the testbed's outputs, considering the joint position and acceleration of the link's tip. The flexible manipulator's instrumentation, data acquisition, and actuation uses the NI myRIO board to control the XM430-W350 Dynamixel servomotor, and the U2D2 interface couples the servomotor and the NI myRIO board. The accelerometer MMA7361 is connected to the input of the A/D (analog-todigital converter). The programs of NI myRIO are coded using LabVIEW. The dynamic model is initially obtained using the finite element method and the Lagrange principle. Then, an optimization problem minimizes the difference between numerical and experimental outputs to determine the set of parameters using evolutionary algorithms. A comparative analysis to obtain the identified parameters is established using genetic algorithms, particle swarm optimization, and differential evolution.

The proposed identification approach permitted the determination of the dynamic parameters based on the complete dynamic model of the flexible-link manipulator, which is different from the approaches reported in the literature that identify a simplified model. This information is essential for the design of the motion and vibration control laws.

The rising utilization of permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) across various industrial domains underscores the pressing need to proactively manage potential issues, particularly inter-turn short-circuit faults (ITSCFs). These faults, recognized as among the most hazardous PMSM failures, can have severe repercussions if left undetected, leading to significant repair costs and posing safety risks.

In response to this challenge, this study introduces an innovative online diagnostic method aimed at mitigating ITSCF risks. This approach involves the real-time estimation of impedance symmetrical components (ISCs) using the Short-Time Fourier Transform (STFT) technique, seamlessly integrated into the LabVIEW environment. The method based on applying the Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) algorithm on a short-time sliding window, offering simplicity, speed, and the precise determination and tracking of frequency and harmonic amplitudes. This allows considering the non-stationary aspect of the problem and fits well with the proposed application.

Moreover, the method's broad applicability, along with its elimination of motor parameter estimation requirements and minimal variable measurement needs, renders it highly advantageous for motors. By adopting this approach, industries can enhance the reliability and safety of PMSMs while minimizing the financial and operational risks associated with ITSCFs. To validate the efficacy of the proposed technique, extensive testing of PMSMs was conducted under diverse operating conditions, including varying fault severity, transient load variations, and speed fluctuations.

Power transformers are important electrical machines that allow power flow in the transmission and distribution energy systems. Therefore, condition monitoring and fault diagnosis applied to power transformers are crucial in order to guarantee high levels of energy supply to the whole world. In this scenario, one of the most common failures is the discharge activities in the dielectric components due to insulation degradation caused by overload operation, moisture, overheating, as well as manufacturing flaws such as conductor tilting, conductor bending, the deposition of dirt in bushings, etc. In this context, it is important to develop systems that allow the type of failure to be classified since different flaws require different maintenance actions. Hence, this article presents a new approach to classify three operational conditions: surface discharges on bushings, electric arcs inside the transformer, and machines without flaws. An acoustic sensor was attached to the machine wall and the 100 acoustic signals per operational condition were acquired with a frequency rate of 1 MHz. After that, signal processing analysis based on the spectrum content was carried out. The results indicated that skewness combined with the average frequency and equivalent bandwidth statistics is a promising tool to assess the operational conditions and classify the type of failure. Therefore, this work contributes to the improvement of power transformer maintenance systems.

With machines becoming increasingly more complex as technology advances and automation becomes an increasingly important aspect of all types of manufacturing processes, the complexity of engaging with machinery also increases, which can lead to increased risk and injury rates. LOTO, or lockout/tagout, aims to control hazardous energies by developing blocking methods for the energies present in industrial equipment and to create safety procedures instructing workers on how to perform their tasks safely.

In this context, this work aims to use LOTO methodologies to develop a safety procedure for three different machines located in a factory specializing in the manufacturing of metal cans used for packaging. Some preliminary research identified the resources needed for the implementation of LOTO methodologies, such as the improvement of the tagging system that identifies the equipment and the energy blocking points, and the acquisition of the equipment needed to correctly block and dissipate the energy present in the machines. Following these tasks, each of the three machines was individually analyzed, documenting the tasks performed by workers on the machine and the energies involved in those tasks, as well as the implementation of the needed changes and improvements. Once the needed information was gathered, a safety procedure was developed and implemented for each machine, showcasing the documented tasks, along with the energies that need to be blocked, and a guide was created on how to perform each task safely. The implemented changes and safety procedure seemed not to slow down the duration of the tasks and were able to reduce the injury rates seen on the machine. However, due to the time constraints placed on this work and the large timescale needed to correctly evaluate rates of injury, it is suggested to collect more data after the implementation of the safety procedures for a more robust conclusion.

The exponential increase in e-commerce and the demands of consumers, who are increasingly demanding speed, present a huge challenge to the intralogistics industry. In this sense, intralogistics is an area that has been the subject of intensive research. Companies need to digitize, automate, and robotize all logistics processes to optimize the flow of materials and information and remain competitive in the global market.

This work aims to develop an orthogonal transfer mechanism for the automated warehouse industry. The equipment is intended to be integrated into a roller conveyor line for transporting small boxes, and its purpose is to distribute and organize logistics within warehouses. To achieve this goal, research was first carried out on existing solutions on the market to identify their respective strengths as well as to study hypotheses for improvement. The equipment was designed and dimensioned using the finite element method to ensure that the solution found could withstand the workload. Cost analysis and the construction of a prototype are also addressed. Operational tests were carried out to assess whether the final product is capable of meeting all the objectives set. The designed equipment proved to be a viable and competitive solution when it comes to the automatic orthogonal transfer of boxes. It has an innovative lifting mechanism capable of lifting more loads than existing transfer equipment on the market and is capable of operating 24 hours a day at a rate of more than 30 units/min.

Bismuth chalcogenides are topological insulators with unique crystal structures. They exhibit new phases in the interiors of carbon nanotubes. One-dimensional phases provide new physical properties. These can be applied in machines and other applications. The electronic properties of bismuth chalcogenides have attracted the attention of researchers. Spectroscopy is applied to investigate alterations in the band structures and the electronic structures of filled carbon nanotubes. Here, we investigate the electronic properties of bismuth chalcogenide-filled single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Transmission electron microscopy shows the filling of SWCNTs with atomic nanowires. The loaded substances are detected inside the SWCNTs. Atoms of bismuth chalcogenides are found within the SWCNT walls. Energy dispersive X-ray analysis proves the chemical composition and the stoichiometry of the compounds inside the SWCNTs. Raman spectroscopy shows slight modifications of Raman modes. These include slight shifts of peaks and alterations in peak profiles. The applications in machines require information on the modified electronic properties of the filled SWCNTs. This work opens new avenues for the novel applications of carbon nanotubes. Automation and control systems need new materials with the researched band structure. The physics of this system brings new phenomena. The effects on the electronic structures investigated in this work are useful in other applications, too.

It is of paramount importance to create applications for SWCNTs in automation and control systems. Ferrocene-filled single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) are interesting systems with unique properties. SWCNTs were first filled with ferrocene in 2005 [1]. Since then, many more studies have dealt with the filling ofSWCNTs with ferrocenes. The structures of ferrocenes in SWCNTs with different diameters have been investigated [2]. The growth dynamics of inner carbon nanotubes inside ferrocene-filled SWCNTs attract the interest of researchers [3]. Controlling the physics of ferrocene-filled SWCNT systems opens up superior possibilities. The outer diameter of SWCNTs is well defined. This controls the size of catalyst particles inside SWCNTs. This shows great promise for new applications in automation and control systems. In this paper, the preparation of ferrocene-filled SWCNTs allowed us to control the physics of the interior of carbon nanotubes. The growth dynamics and electronic properties of carbon nanotubes were investigated with spectroscopy. The growth rates of three carbon nanotubes were compared. The Fermi level differences in pristine SWCNTs and samples of vacuum-annealed, ferrocene-filled SWCNTs were shown.

[1] Guan L. H., Shi Z. J., Li M. X., Gu Z. N. Carbon 2005, 43(13), 2780-2785.

[2] Plank W., Pfeiffer R., Schaman C., Kuzmany H., Calvaresi M., Zerbetto F., Meyer J. ACS Nano. 2010, 4(8), 4515-4522.

[3] Shiozawa H., Pichler T., Gruneis A., Pfeiffer R., Kuzmany H., Liu Z., Suenaga K., Kataura H. Adv. Mater. 2008, 20 (8), 1443-1449.

This paper delves into the exploration of advanced structural designs through the application of 3D-printed metallic isogrid lattice cylindrical shells. Combining the benefits of isogrid lattice configurations and additive manufacturing, these cylindrical shells offer a unique blend of enhanced strength-to-weight ratio and structural efficiency. The study briefly focuses on the complete process, encompassing design, manufacturing, testing, and simulation. A 3D-printing approach using the laser powder-bed fusion process and tailored for the manufacturing of metallic high-performance maraging steel isogrid lattice parts is developed, considering material selection, print parameters, and post-processing techniques. Mechanical testing is conducted to characterize the structural performance of the fabricated cylindrical shells, including load-bearing capacity, stiffness, and failure modes. Furthermore, finite element simulations are employed to validate the experimental results and gain deeper insights into the structural behavior under various loading conditions. The findings demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of 3D-printed metallic isogrid lattice cylindrical shells as exceptional load-bearing structures with superior mechanical properties. This study contributes to an initial understanding of the relationship between design parameters, material characteristics, and structural performance, paving the way for the design and optimization of lightweight and robust structures in diverse engineering applications. Future research avenues are proposed to further refine the fabrication process, explore advanced material combinations, and broaden the applicability of 3D-printed metallic isogrid lattice cylindrical shell structures in fields such as aerospace, automotive, and other industries demanding high-strength, lightweight components.

The increasing adoption of additive manufacturing (AM) in the production of high-performance metallic components highlights the critical need for rigorous quality control and inspection processes. While AM provides unparalleled design freedom and customization potential, concerns remain about the consistency of powder raw materials and the resulting mechanical properties of 3D-printed parts. This article examines these concerns through a case study focusing on 3D-printed metal components manufactured using the laser powder-bed fusion process, specifically with maraging steel. A demonstration maraging steel part is meticulously characterized across several dimensions: geometry, shape limitations, chemical composition, microstructure, surface roughness, and hardness. This comprehensive analysis evaluates material homogeneity, the impact of heat treatments, and the overall suitability of 3D-printed components as replacements for critical parts traditionally produced with conventional manufacturing techniques. The results indicate that 3D-printed maraging steel parts can indeed satisfy the stringent requirements of demanding applications where dimensional accuracy and structural integrity are non-negotiable. However, this paper emphasizes the importance of continued research and process optimization. Areas for improvement include refined powder quality control, optimized post-processing techniques, and deeper investigations into the long-term reliability of 3D-printed metallic components. Addressing these factors will further accelerate the adoption of AM across industries where performance and dependability are paramount.

Robotics for manipulation has become essential in factory automation but has not yet been generalized in non-industrial settings. The Smile.Tech’s Robótica Platform provides an assortment of robotic joints and controllers for the construction of different robot architectures with up to a 2 kg payload. This paper describes the development and testing of the SCARAmouche, a SCARA robot with most of its components 3D-printed. The robot was designed and engineered using Fusion360, and its load-bearing capacity was investigated through mechanical stress–strain analysis using finite element modeling. The 3D-printed components were manufactured with custom-built 3D printers operating at high temperatures and ABS polymer feedstock, using fused deposition modeling. The assembled robot was then tested and its repetition accuracy with different loads was investigated, referring to a low-cost 3D measuring device consisting of a fixture holding three digital indicators (plunger style), assembled with their axes orthogonal to each other and intersecting at one point. The newly developed SCARAmouche robot demonstrates the flexibility and capabilities of the Smile.Tech's robotic joint and controller technologies for the design and construction of accurate, reliable, highly performing, cost-effective, and safe SCARA robots, that can be used both for industrial and non-industrial handling applications and various operating scenarios.