Direct Control Research Articles

The effect of the KNEE program for Netball players on the modified Star Excursion Balance Test – a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundThe aim was to investigate the effect of the KNEE program on postural control as measured by the modified Star Excursion Balance test (mSEBT) in Australian club level netball players. MethodsTwo netball teams from Netball NSW Premier-League were recruited and randomized to complete either the KNEE program or a traditional warm-up. Cumulative, anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral directions of the mSEBT were measured for both limbs at baseline, 8-weeks, and 5-months. Linear mixed models were used to assess the effect of the intervention on mSEBT outcomes. ResultsWhen compared to a traditional warm-up, the KNEE program led to improvements in postural control in the PM direction of the mSEBT at 8 weeks (R: p = 0.005; L = 0.016) and 5 months (R: p = 0.006 and L: p = 0.026). For the cumulative score, there was a main effect of time with significant improvements between baseline and subsequent time points (p < 0.03), but there was no effect of group or interaction. No significant changes were found in ANT and PL directions. ConclusionThe KNEE program when implemented as a warm-up prior to training and match-play can improve postural control in the PM direction which is integral to Netball.

Optothermal Microparticle Oscillator Induced by Marangoni and Thermal Convection.

The light-fueled microparticle oscillator, exemplifying sustained driving in a static light source, potentially holds applications in fundamental physics, cellular manipulation, fluid dynamics, and various other soft-matter systems. The challenges of photodamage due to laser focusing on particles and the control of the oscillation direction have always been two major issues for microparticle oscillators. Here, we present an optical-thermal method for achieving a 3D microparticle oscillator with a fixed direction by employing laser heating of the gold film surface. First, the microparticle oscillation without direction limitation is studied. The photothermal conversion originates from the laser heating of a gold film. The oscillation mechanism is the coordination of the forces exerted on the particles, including the thermal convective force, thermophoresis force, and gravity. Subsequently, the additional Marangoni convection force, generated by the temperature gradient on the surface of a microbubble, is utilized to control the oscillation direction of the microparticle. Finally, a dual-channel oscillation mode is achieved by utilizing two microbubbles. During the oscillation process, the microparticle is influenced by flow field forces and temperature gradient force, completely avoiding optical damage to the oscillating microparticle.

Разработка и применение программы для автоматического нахождения невязки при пространственном контроле режимной метеорологической информации

Objective: to develop and apply software for automatic finding of discrepancies in automated meteorological stations in order to identify dubious and unreliable data without direct manual control in Fortran using PostgreSQL programming language queries. Write a program block for processing data from the archive of the database of meteorological stations of the unified network. Having provided a connection, with the help of requests, to ensure the receipt of data of the averaged values of ten-minute meteorological reports according to a special processing technique. Create a subroutine for solving the equation by the least squares matrix method, compare it to check the results with the linear regression method in a third-party application. Ensure proper recording of data before sending them to the database, prepare the necessary table for correct demonstration of data and user convenience in their use. Formulate correct queries to send the results of finding the discrepancy to the database. Formulate queries to create the necessary table, formulate queries and identify conditions for the implementation of the program for its more “flexible”functioning, that is, the ability to process data and find a discrepancy in the case of non-daily operation of the program. Methods: the methodology is similar to the principles of recommendations for the analysis of the results of spatial monitoring of regime meteorological information of the Main Geophysical Observatory named after Voeikova A. I. Methods include the translation of coordinates into a Cartesian system and the implementation of the solution of equation systems by the least squares method. Results: a program has been created that can work without the participation of an operator, performing automatic startup, data processing and data recording for further storage. Practical importance: the program allows you to receive data quickly due to the fast processing speed without errors caused by the human factor.

Arduino based Voice-Controlled Wheel Chair

The integration of key components in a voice-controlled wheelchair designed for individuals with physical disabilities. It highlights the use of Arduino microcontrollers to interpret voice commands, translating them into signals for motorized movement. A Bluetooth module facilitates communication between the device issuing commands and the Arduino. The main focus is on achieving a 180-degree rotation of the wheelchair, which necessitates configuring the Arduino to control both front and back wheels for directional movement and speed. Motorized motion is enabled through a system of chain and sprockets with cycle tires, ensuring smooth and stable traversal across different surfaces. This abstract encapsulates the essential elements of the wheelchair's design and functionality, emphasizing its ability to empower users through intuitive control and reliable mobility assistance. The integration of a Bluetooth module facilitates seamless communication between the controlling device and the wheelchair. Key emphasis is placed on the wheelchair's ability to execute a 180-degree rotation, necessitating precise configuration of the Arduino to manage both front and back wheels for directional control and speed modulation. The inclusion of a chain and sprockets system, coupled with cycle tires, ensures smooth and stable mobility across diverse terrains, ultimately enhancing the user's independence and quality of life.

Feasibility of an inerter-based causal rate-independent damping model for the protection of seismically isolated structures

Rate-independent linear damping (RILD), also referred to as linear hysteretic damping, is a linear model of structural or material damping in which the energy dissipation per cycle is independent of the frequency. The resistive force of an ideal RILD model is in phase with the velocity to dissipate energy, while its amplitude is proportional to the displacement, which is suitable for the direct control of seismic response displacement when incorporated into a structure. The tuned Maxwell–Wiechert (TMW) model is a viable option for approximating the damping characteristics of RILD. However, the undesirable stiffness produced by the TMW model compromises the flexibility of the isolator, and thereby fails to deliver the benefits of RILD. To overcome this challenge, the addition of two inerter elements to the TMW model in series and parallel arrangements is proposed in this study to eliminate the undesirable storage stiffness. The parameters of the proposed model are determined using particle swarm optimization. Analyses of a 10-story building structure mounted on linear and nonlinear isolation systems demonstrated that the proposed model achieved lower interstory drifts and approximately 40% reduction in floor response accelerations, with similar isolator displacements compared with LVD when subjected to ground motions dominated by high-frequency components. Moreover, floor response acceleration mitigation was attained at the slight expense of isolator displacement, even when the proposed system was incorporated into nonlinear isolation systems and subjected to low-frequency ground motions.

Ultraflexible PEDOT:PSS/IrOx-Modified Electrodes: Applications in Behavioral Modulation and Neural Signal Recording in Mice.

Recent advancements in neural probe technology have become pivotal in both neuroscience research and the clinical management of neurological disorders. State-of-the-art developments have led to the advent of multichannel, high-density bidirectional neural interfaces that are adept at both recording and modulating neuronal activity within the central nervous system. Despite this progress, extant bidirectional probes designed for simultaneous recording and stimulation are beset with limitations, including elicitation of inflammatory responses and insufficient charge injection capacity. In this paper, we delineate the design and application of an innovative ultraflexible bidirectional neural probe engineered from polyimide. This probe is distinguished by its ability to facilitate high-resolution recordings and precise stimulation control in deep brain regions. Electrodes enhanced with a PEDOT:PSS/IrOx composite exhibit a substantial increase in charge storage capacity, escalating from 0.14 ± 0.01 mC/cm2 to an impressive 24.75 ± 0.18 mC/cm2. This augmentation significantly bolsters the electrodes' charge transfer efficacy. In tandem, we observed a notable reduction in electrode impedance, from 3.47 ± 1.77 MΩ to a mere 41.88 ± 4.04 kΩ, while the phase angle exhibited a positive shift from -72.61 ± 1.84° to -34.17 ± 0.42°. To substantiate the electrodes' functional prowess, we conducted in vivo experiments, where the probes were surgically implanted into the bilateral motor cortex of mice. These experiments involved the synchronous recording and meticulous analysis of neural signal fluctuations during stimulation and an assessment of the probes' proficiency in modulating directional turning behaviors in the subjects. The empirical evidence corroborates that targeted stimulation within the bilateral motor cortex of mice can modulate the intensity of neural signals in the stimulated locale, enabling the directional control of the mice's turning behavior to the contralateral side of the stimulation site.

Fault-Tolerant Control for Carrier-Based Aircraft Automatic Landing Subject to Multiple Disturbances and Actuator Faults

This paper introduces a fault-tolerant control scheme for the automatic carrier landing of carrier-based aircraft using direct lift control. The scheme combines radial basis function neural network and active disturbance rejection control (RBF-ADRC) to overcome the impact of actuator failures and external disturbances. First, the carrier-based aircraft model, the carrier air-wake model, and the actuator fault model were established. Secondly, ADRC is designed to estimate and compensate for actuator faults and disturbances in real time. RBFNN adjusts the ADRC controller parameters based on the system state. Then, the Lyapunov function is constructed to prove the stability of the closed-loop system. The controller is applied to the direct lift control channel, auxiliary attitude channel, and approach power compensation system. The direct lift control improves the performance of fixed-wing aircraft. Finally, comparative simulations were conducted under various actuator failures. The results demonstrate the remarkable fault tolerance of the RBF-ADRC scheme, enabling precise tracking of the desired glide path by the shipboard aircraft even in the presence of actuator failures.

Comparative Analysis of Periodontal Parameters and Patient Satisfaction Utilising Different Temporary Crown Fabrication Techniques: A Parallel-Group Randomised Controlled Trial.

Aim The study aims to evaluate the efficacy of different techniques for temporary crown fabrication in maintaining periodontal health and patient satisfaction, addressing a critical gap in the existing literature and informing evidence-based clinical practices. Materials and methods This study, conducted in accordance with CONSORT guidelines, was a parallel-group randomised trial conducted at a dental institute in India. In total, 36 participants aged 18-65 requiring anterior tooth region crowns were randomly assigned to three groups: direct (control), indirect (Test Group 1) and direct-indirect (Test Group 2) fabrication techniques. Participants were selected from outpatient departments based on eligibility criteria, and interventions were allocated using randomization tables. Outcome assessments included gingival health metrics and patient satisfaction levels, with statistical analyses performed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Results Significant differences were observed in the pink esthetic score (PES) and patient satisfaction (P=0.029) among the three groups, with the direct-indirect technique group demonstrating the highest median PES (9 out of 10). However, no significant disparities were noted in the plaque index (PI) or probing depth (PD) among the groups. Conclusion The direct-indirect technique demonstrated superior PES and patient satisfaction, indicating potential benefits for periodontal health and patient experiences. Integration of virtual preparation workflows may optimise outcomes, but further research is needed for validation and guideline development.

A Directional Control Auxiliary Thrust System to Increase the Forward Speed of a Quadcopter UAV

This research introduces a method to increase the horizontal speed of a quadcopter UAV using an auxiliary thrust system that can be adjusted in direction. The researcher used thrust vectoring control to align the thrust direction with the unmanned aircraft's longitudinal axis. A method for controlling a device mechanism using a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control system. Based on the test results, it has been concluded that the Ziegler–Nichols Method in P controller, the Ziegler–Nichols Method in PD controller, and the Trial-and-Error method in PID controller are the most effective methods for maintaining system stability and achieving the setpoint. It took 0.693, 1.441, and 0.563 seconds respectively to reach the desired value. The researcher used computational fluid dynamics and equations of motion to simulate a UAV's speed. The simulation results of using 25% additional thrust while moving at a 2-degree angle showed that the unmanned aerial vehicle's speed increased by 35.3% compared to the unmanned aerial vehicle without the auxiliary thrust system. When the pitch angle was increased to 5 degrees, the speed of the UAV increased by 15.9%. At higher pitch angles of 10 degrees, the UAV's speed increased by 6.86%. Finally, at pitch angles of 15 degrees, the speed of the UAV increased by 4.97%.

Simultaneous electropolymerization of pyrrole and anionic or cationic polymerizable monomeric ionic liquids. Linear actuation of the attained materials

The simultaneous galvanostatic electrogeneration of polypyrrole (PPy) and a polyanion, or a polycation, from the concomitant solutions of pyrrole and monomeric ionic liquids (PIL) give films of two interpenetrated polymeric networks: polyanion-PPy (PILA-PPy) and polycation-PPy (PILC-PPy), as corroborated by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The linear actuation was characterized by cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry in aqueous electrolyte describing cation-driven actuation of the PILA-PPy actuators (cation exchange during oxidation/reduction) and anion-driven actuation of the PILC-PPy actuation. The exchange of a unique ion in each actuator, corroborated by energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis of the oxidized and reduced materials, allows the control of the actuation direction. The concomitant driving electrochemical reactions are described. Coulovoltammetric responses present a closed loop in the studied potential range indicating that only those reactions (oxidation/reduction) are present in the studied potential range (0.65 V and − 0.6 V). The PILC-PPy strain was 8.7% and the stress gradient 1.45 MPa, overcoming 1.5 times those from PILA-PPy actuators, consuming also a higher charge density, having 2.1 times better conductivity and 1.3 times higher diffusion-coefficients. The stability of the actuators was studied by consecutive cycling. The PILA-PPy and PILC-PPy films are characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), FTIR and EDX spectroscopy.

Federated Learning via Input-Output Collaborative Distillation

Federated learning (FL) is a machine learning paradigm in which distributed local nodes collaboratively train a central model without sharing individually held private data. Existing FL methods either iteratively share local model parameters or deploy co-distillation. However, the former is highly susceptible to private data leakage, and the latter design relies on the prerequisites of task-relevant real data. Instead, we propose a data-free FL framework based on local-to-central collaborative distillation with direct input and output space exploitation. Our design eliminates any requirement of recursive local parameter exchange or auxiliary task-relevant data to transfer knowledge, thereby giving direct privacy control to local users. In particular, to cope with the inherent data heterogeneity across locals, our technique learns to distill input on which each local model produces consensual yet unique results to represent each expertise. Our proposed FL framework achieves notable privacy-utility trade-offs with extensive experiments on image classification and segmentation tasks under various real-world heterogeneous federated learning settings on both natural and medical images. Code is available at https://github.com/lsl001006/FedIOD.

Directed Diffusion: Direct Control of Object Placement through Attention Guidance

Text-guided diffusion models such as DALLE-2, Imagen, and Stable Diffusion are able to generate an effectively endless variety of images given only a short text prompt describing the desired image content. In many cases the images are of very high quality. However, these models often struggle to compose scenes containing several key objects such as characters in specified positional relationships. The missing capability to ``direct'' the placement of characters and objects both within and across images is crucial in storytelling, as recognized in the literature on film and animation theory. In this work, we take a particularly straightforward approach to providing the needed direction. Drawing on the observation that the cross-attention maps for prompt words reflect the spatial layout of objects denoted by those words, we introduce an optimization objective that produces ``activation'' at desired positions in these cross-attention maps. The resulting approach is a step toward generalizing the applicability of text-guided diffusion models beyond single images to collections of related images, as in storybooks. Directed Diffusion provides easy high-level positional control over multiple objects, while making use of an existing pre-trained model and maintaining a coherent blend between the positioned objects and the background. Moreover, it requires only a few lines to implement.

Advanced direct torque control based on neural tree controllers for induction motor drives

This paper introduces a novel direct torque control approach based on the decision tree (T-DTC), employing artificial neural networks that are effectively trained to enhance accuracy and robustness. The main objective of T-DTC is the substantial reduction of flux and torque ripples inherent in the conventional DTC, ensuring effective control of the induction motor. The conventional hysteresis controllers for stator flux and electromagnetic torque are replaced by two advanced controllers named M5 Prime model trees. Additionally, the traditional switching table is substituted with a novel decision tree table utilizing the classifier algorithm 4.5. The effectiveness of the proposed T-DTC strategy is demonstrated through simulation in MATLAB/Simulink and validated in real-time using an HIL platform based on OPAL-RT OP 5600 and Virtex 6 FPGA ML605. The results obtained demonstrate a notable improvement compared to existing techniques in the literature.

Efficacy and Persistence of Entomopathogenic Fungi against Rhynchophorus ferrugineus on Date Palm: Host to Host Transmission

The red palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Dryophthoridae), is a destructive and voracious pest of palm species worldwide. Due to environmental and regulatory concerns, ecologically safe alternatives to synthetic chemical insecticides are needed to manage this cryptic insect species. Entomopathogenic fungi have the potential to manage this pest. The scope of management and effectiveness can be improved by direct control or horizontal transmission of entomopathogenic fungal isolates. We tested in the laboratory the virulence and pathogenicity of fifteen different entomopathogenic fungal isolates belonging to the following species: Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium anisopliae, Beauveria brongniartii and Purpureocillium lilacinum. All fungal isolates were found virulent against larvae (14.9 ± 1.06 to 81.5 ± 1.48% mortality) and adults (5.6 ± 1.12 to 51.7 ± 1.51% mortality) at 12 d post-treatment. From a screening bioassay, five M. anisopliae (WG-08, WG-09) and B. bassiana (WG-23, WG-24, WG-25) isolates were tested for their concentration response mortality against larvae and adults after 7, 14 and 21 days (d) of treatment. Mortality was found positively correlated with concentration and time. At 21 d of treatment, WG-23 and WG-25 1 × 108 conidia/mL resulted in 100% mortality against larvae while only WG-25 1 × 109 conidia/mL caused 100% mortality of adults. Along with mortality, all the potential isolates have strong ovicidal effects that reduced 81.49% at 1 × 108 conidia/mL. The horizontal transmission bioassay indicated that the infected adults transmitted the disease to healthy individuals. Horizontal transmission of fungi from infected to non-infected adults not only caused significant mortality but also had a serious sublethal impact on insect development and fitness including reduced number of eggs/d fecundity, egg viability and neonate survival. Isolate WG-25 reduced oviposition (0.5 eggs/d), fecundity (11.7 eggs/female), egg viability (11.6%) along with larval survival 25.9% when infected male mated with normal female. In semi-field trials, all fungal isolates reduced survival of larvae found inside the palms and ultimately reduced infestations over a period of two months. The results of this study indicate that entomopathogenic fungi should be further tested for sustainable and efficient control of RPW in date palm production systems.

Transcutaneous oximetry of angiosomes of maxillary and facial arteries

Aim. To qualitatively predict and control the quality of periodontal diseases treatment, to determine changes in the transcutaneous pressure of oxygen and carbon dioxide in angiosomes of maxillary and facial arteries in healthy adults. Materials and methods. 17 healthy people participated in this study. There were 10 (58 %) men aged 24 (22–27), weight 66 (62–80) kg and height 175 (169–182) cm and 7 (42 %) women, whose average age was 23 (20–26) years old, weight 58 (47–72) kg, height 165 (160–178) cm. Results. The highest values of tissue perfusion with oxygen were observed in the angiosomes of the upper jaw compared to the angiosomes of the lower jaw, where this indicator ranged from 105 to 153 mm Hg. On the lower jaw, the maximum value of the regional perfusion index (RPI) of 1.70 ± 0.04 was observed at the point of measurement where a. mentalis exits through the homonymous chin orifice, anastomosing with the branches of a. facialis. The highest values of tissue perfusion with carbon dioxide were observed in angiosomes of the lower jaw (28–36 mm Hg). In general, non-invasive measurements of oxygen and carbon dioxide pressure in tissues allow more accurate and direct visualization and control of microcirculation in the tissues of the corresponding angiosomes. Conclusions. The index of regional perfusion on the upper jaw is normally in the range of 2.2 to 2.6 (р &lt; 0.0001). In the angiosome of the lower jaw, the RPI value is within 1.3–1.7, respectively (p &lt; 0.0001). The tension of carbon dioxide in the tissues of the upper and lower jaw averages 31–34 mm Hg (р &lt; 0.05), reaches its maximum in the zones of the lowest oxygen perfusion.

Abstract 1009: Direct partnering with employers and unions diversifies cancer center access

Abstract Treatment at academic cancer centers can further research and improve patient outcomes. Interventions improving access to treatment across racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic boundaries might increase the generalizability of studies conducted at such centers and reduce healthcare inequities. Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) is an academic cancer center based in New York and New Jersey (NY/NJ). Like many other NCI-designated cancer centers, it has historically served a population within its geographic catchment, with limited diversity. MSK Direct is a national cancer benefits program that partners with employers and unions to provide a direct referral service for their employees or members and their families, including in-person care and remote second opinions outside NY/NJ. Whether such programs diversify access to academic cancer care is understudied. To evaluate whether the service diversifies access to academic cancer care, we examined the self-identified race and ethnicity, geographic composition, and imputed socioeconomic status (Yost Index) of MSK Direct and non-MSK Direct (Control) patients with at least one assessment note at MSK since program inception in 2016 until September 21, 2023. We further stratified MSK Direct patients based on referral by employers vs. unions. Groups were compared using Chi-square or Student T tests. The MSK Direct patient population (N=8,604) was more racially diverse than the Control population (N=283,434), with 9.0% Black/African American patients compared to 6.9% Control (p&amp;lt;0.001) patients and 9.3% Asian-Far East/Indian Subcontinental patients compared to 7.5% Control patients (p&amp;lt;0.001). Of MSK Direct patients, 10.5% identified as Hispanic or Latino vs. 7.5% of Control patients (p&amp;lt;0.001). Among MSK Direct patients, 14.2% of union-member patients self-identified as Black vs. 6.1% of non-union members, while Asian patients comprised 12.1% of company-referral patients vs. 5.8% of union patients. Hispanic patients represented 17.4% of union-referral patients vs. 6.5% of company referrals. The median Yost Index of union MSK Direct patients was 25 vs. 12 (non-union) and 17 (Control, p&amp;lt;0.001), signifying a less privileged socioeconomic status for union-referred patients. A total of N=336 MSK Direct patients received guidance through remote second opinions across 41 states, with the most common home states being Georgia, Arizona, and Florida. Addressing healthcare disparities in diverse populations is a complex and systemic challenge. Direct partnerships with employers and unions are a new paradigm that may expand access to academic cancer care outside a center’s usual geographic and sociodemographic catchment. Different partnering strategies may enhance the representation of specific patient populations. Citation Format: Michele Waters, Greg Crewse, Cole Manship, Abigail Baldwin-Medsker, Chris Fong, Nikolaus Schultz, Sergio Giralt, Benjamin Roman, Michelle Johnson, Francesca Gany, Carol Brown, Bob T. Li, Justin Jee. Direct partnering with employers and unions diversifies cancer center access [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 1009.

The foundations of the Patagonian icefields

The two vast Patagonian icefields are a global hotspot for ice-loss. However, not much is known about the total ice volume they store - let alone its spatial distribution. One reason is that the abundant record of direct thickness measurements has never been systematically exploited. Here, this record is combined with remotely-sensed information on past ice thickness mapped from glacier retreat. Both datasets are incorporated in a state-of-the-art, mass-conservation approach to produce a well-informed map of the basal topography beneath the icefields. Its major asset is the reliability increase of thicknesses values along the many marine- and lake-terminating glaciers. For these, frontal ice-discharge is notably lower than previously reported. This finding implies that direct climatic control was more influential for past ice loss. We redact a total volume for both icefields in 2000 of 5351 km3. Despite the wealth of observations used in this assessment, relative volume uncertainties remain elevated.

A comparative study of flake graphite iron and compacted graphite iron in austempered condition for directional control valves

Demand for lighter materials with the right qualities is unavoidable in the present era of engineering. Compacted graphite iron is a type of cast iron gaining momentum nowadays in foundries due to its distinct characteristics that fall between gray cast iron/flake graphite iron and spheroidal graphite iron. It becomes the right candidate to replace flake graphite iron in many applications. In this research, flake graphite iron (FC −30) and compacted graphite iron-300 grades were studied to enhance its properties through austempering heat treatment process. Initially, the as-cast (non-austempered) flake graphite iron and compacted graphite iron were subjected to microstructural study and mechanical testing. Subsequently, the flake graphite iron and compacted graphite iron were subjected to austempering heat treatment. The various austempering temperatures selected are 270, 320, and 370 °C for different soaking time periods of 30, 60, 90, and 120 min. As cast flake graphite iron specimen (FC-30) exhibited lesser tensile strength (293 N/mm2) than as cast compacted graphite iron (528 N/mm2) and austempered compacted graphite iron (652 N/mm2). With respect to hardness measurement, austempered compacted graphite iron specimens yielded higher hardness of up to 415 BHN. However, the compacted graphite iron specimen austempered at 370 °C for 90 min measured an optimum hardness value of 373 BHN and tensile strength of 630 N/mm2 with less retained austenite (0.3%). This hardness value is considered to be more suitable in machining operation for making hydraulic directional control valves exposed to constant abrasion.

Neural network based variable DC-link voltage control of electric vehicle driveline

ABSTRACT The variable DC link direct torque control (DTC) for induction motors was proposed in this paper utilizing an artificial neural network (ANN). Variable DC-link voltage is utilized as the inverter’s controlling input to improve the induction motor’s performance. By injecting the dynamically variable dc-link voltage, inverter switching losses are decreased and inverter efficiency is increased. Two significant limitations are the torque ripple in DTC and the speed regulation of induction motors at low speeds. The driveline of an electric vehicle is modeled, and the suggested control is put into practice to enhance low-speed speed regulation, high dynamic performance, and minimal torque ripple. With variable DC-link voltage based on ANN, an improvement in torque and speed is made possible. Additionally, the suggested strategy minimizes the current ripples. To verify the improved efficacy of the electric driveline under various operating scenarios, a proposed control of the electric driveline is implemented using MATLAB SIMULINK, and the results are compared with the conventional scheme. The recommended speeds for the three speed ranges are as follows: 300 rpm for low speed, 900 rpm for medium speed, and 1275 rpm for high speed. The torque ripples decreased from 0.39 to 0.24 in the low-speed region, 0.38 to 0.24 in the medium-speed region, and 0.36 to 0.24 in the high-speed region while the motor was operated at a constant load torque of 2 N-m. The torque ripples decreased from 0.4 to 0.274 in the low speed region, 0.4 to 0.274 in the medium speed zone, and 0.2 to 0.274 in the medium speed region when the motor operated at various speed regions with a constant load. The main effect of running the motor at different load torques, such as 1.5 N-m, 2.5 N-m, and 2.0 N-m, is shown in Table 9 and numerical data of torque ripples is presented in Table 9.

Wounding-Related Signaling Is Integrated within the Auxin-Response Framework to Induce Adventitious Rooting in Chestnut.

Wounding and exogenous auxin are needed to induce adventitious roots in chestnut microshoots. However, the specific inductive role of wounding has not been characterized in this species. In the present work, two main goals were established: First, we prompted to optimize exogenous auxin treatments to improve the overall health status of the shoots at the end of the rooting cycle. Second, we developed a time-series transcriptomic analysis to compare gene expression in response to wounding alone and wounding plus auxin, focusing on the early events within the first days after treatments. Results suggest that the expression of many genes involved in the rooting process is under direct or indirect control of both stimuli. However, specific levels of expression of relevant genes are only attained when both treatments are applied simultaneously, leading to the successful development of roots. In this sense, we have identified four transcription factors upregulated by auxin (CsLBD16, CsERF113, Cs22D and CsIAA6), with some of them also being induced by wounding. The highest expression levels of these genes occurred when wounding and auxin treatments were applied simultaneously, correlating with the rooting response of the shoots. The results of this work clarify the genetic nature of the wounding response in chestnut, its relation to adventitious rooting, and might be helpful in the development of more specific protocols for the vegetative propagation of this species.