System Equipment Research Articles

Short-term prediction of power outages in electrical distribution networks

Predictive maintenance and reliability engineering are critical in industrial settings to enhance equipment performance and minimize unplanned downtime. This research, conducted within the machine learning framework, presents innovative solutions to the challenging problem of equipment failure prediction. The study creatively utilizes extensive datasets, including equipment records, weather conditions, and maintenance logs, to develop robust predictive models. Two distinct machine learning models are established for equipment and cables/lines, addressing the intricacies of class imbalances and missing data attributes. Model refinement, feature engineering, and interdisciplinary collaboration enhance predictive accuracy, precision, and recall. Notably, this research highlights the creative application of engineering knowledge and data science techniques, reasoning about complex equipment systems, and the importance of problem decomposition. The outcomes underscore the potential for real-time predictive maintenance in industrial contexts, offering substantial cost savings and improved equipment reliability. This research contributes to the evolving field of predictive maintenance and paves the way for future innovations in reliability engineering.

Energy-saving and carbon reduction analysis of series/parallel combination for heat pump and chiller in a hotel building

Taiwan is known for its hot and humid climate, where buildings rely on air conditioning systems to provide comfortable conditions. Specifically in commercial buildings such as hotels, apart from being required to provide comfortable indoor conditions, they need to provide hot water 24 h for guests, leading to the common application of chiller and heat pump systems in hotels. With the rise of the Taiwanese tourism industry, many hotels have been newly built or renovated. However, during the planning and construction stages, considerations may be limited by personnel experience, operational difficulties, installation costs, or the desire to simplify operations. This often results in the separate consideration of heat pump systems and chiller systems, leading to unnecessary resource and energy waste. Therefore, this study takes place at a hotel building in Taichung located in Central Taiwan. Designing a series/parallel system between the heat pump and chiller systems. Through a control system and a real-time recording system, controllable factors were analyzed, such as system equipment supply/return water temperature, outdoor relative and enthalpy, and occupancy rate change. Additionally, energy-saving potential was evaluated from the collected data through linear regression. The results show that when the outdoor air temperature, outdoor enthalpy, and occupancy rate are low, the parallel system is more energy-efficient due to the higher energy consumption of the chiller under low load conditions, which is suitable for winter. Conversely, the series system is more energy-efficient than under hot weather and high indoor load conditions, making it suitable for use in the summer.

Improvement of the Typhoon Damage Prediction System for Electric Power Distribution Equipment (RAMPT): Proposal of a Correction Method Considering the Tree and Information of Landslide Hazard Prediction

Improvement of the Typhoon Damage Prediction System for Electric Power Distribution Equipment (RAMPT): Proposal of a Correction Method Considering the Tree and Information of Landslide Hazard Prediction

Medical support systems for childbirth in space: Equipment, drugs, and practical challenges

Spacefaring childbirth represents a crucial step towards humanity's expansion into a multi-planet species. This review examines the medical equipment, drugs, and support systems necessary for childbirth in space. It highlights the importance of selecting efficient equipment, addressing potential challenges, and utilizing NASA and SpaceX's technological advancements.

Evaluating the Antibacterial Properties of a Zeolite-Chitosan Biocomposite for Medical Applications

: Antibacterial substances have garnered significant interest in recent years due to their applications in medical equipment, prostheses, and drug delivery systems. Consequently, it is essential to identify and develop biomaterials with antibacterial properties tailored to specific target sites. This study utilizes two natural biomaterials: Chitosan and zeolite. Zeolite, a bioceramic with an aluminosilicate structure, exhibits high mechanical resistance, making it ideal for use in areas of the body that endure significant pressure, such as bones and teeth. Chitosan, on the other hand, possesses excellent properties for application in various bodily tissues. However, natural polymers like chitosan are often combined with other materials in composites to enhance their mechanical resistance. This research investigates the antibacterial properties of a biocomposite made from zeolite and chitosan against two types of bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus (gram-positive) and Escherichia coli (gram-negative). The results revealed that the composite exhibited strong resistance against E. coli but comparatively lower resistance to S. aureus. Furthermore, the findings suggest that chitosan plays a more significant role in conferring these antibacterial properties.

Analysis of Factors Influencing Life Cycle Costs of Transformers Based on TOPSIS Method

The transformer is an essential piece of equipment in a power system, and its selection is directly related to the security, stability, and economics of the power system. This paper presents a comprehensive investigation into the life cycle costs (LCCs) of transformers. Our analysis of multiple samples delves into the composition and influencing factors in transformer life cycle costs. The findings reveal that the voltage level exerts a significant influence on cost, with higher voltage levels typically associated with greater costs. Moreover, the proportion of each cost component within the life cycle cost remains relatively stable. For this paper, we also conducted a weighted assessment of life cycle cost factors utilizing the TOPSIS method and determined that the voltage level and wiring method have the most substantial impact. In addition, the specific effects of the voltage level, wiring method, transformer type, and cooling method on LCCs are investigated using the control variable method. At the same time, the coupling influence of the wiring method, transformer type, and cooling method on transformer programs of different voltage levels is considered, which provides an essential reference for power grid enterprises in making engineering and construction investments.

Investigation of the statistical data on the technical condition of brake equipment components of passenger carriages in operation

In the article, a study was conducted on improving the efficiency of braking systems in railway transport. Based on the information obtained regarding the maintenance of passenger cars, an analysis of brake equipment component failures was performed. Key trends and factors determining brake equipment component failures were identified from the collected statistical data for the reporting period. The main brake equipment components with the highest number of failures were highlighted. It was established that a significant portion of transport incidents due to brake failures in passenger cars occurs during operation, negatively impacting traffic safety. The collected data on the failures of electro-pneumatic distributors in passenger cars were systematized using the specialized software package "STATISTIKA". The research established that seasonal factors influence the total number of failures. A diagnostic system for the braking equipment of passenger trains was proposed to ensure traffic safety. The diagnostic system allows for the construction and analysis of mathematical models that describe the operational state of the braking equipment of passenger rolling stock as a whole. The diagnostic system enhances the reliability of brake operation, monitors air pressure in the brake line, ensures the inter-repair periods of passenger car components, and reduces the time required to detect failures both en route and during train stops. Recommendations for diagnosing the braking system of passenger trains were developed for continuous inspection and timely identification of failures. Their application will enable the prediction of the lifespan of pneumatic and electro-pneumatic system components in passenger cars, ensure the inter-repair operational periods of cars based on their current technical condition, and enhance traffic safety in railway transport.

An Investigation of the Ventilation Systems of Whole-Indoor Urban Substations

The electricity load increases significantly with the development of the economy, which raises the issue of scarce land resources; therefore, the application of whole-indoor urban substations has become more and more extensive. However, both the closed environment of indoor substations and their unreasonable ventilation systems mean that the heat dissipation of the equipment cannot be discharged in time. In this study, a combination of natural and mechanical ventilation systems is developed to solve the problem of high indoor temperatures, and corresponding studies are conducted via both numerical simulation and experimental research. Firstly, the ventilation and heat dissipation problem of the whole-indoor urban substation was investigated using numerical simulation technology, and then the feasibility of the ventilation system was determined. Secondly, the experimental platform (including the heat dissipation equipment and ventilation system) was set up, the heat dissipation of the reactor room was analyzed, and the system was tested experimentally. Afterward, the noise generated by the experimental platform was measured and predicted. Finally, via the numerical simulation analysis, it was found that the ventilation effect would be improved regardless of the heat dissipation and that reducing the outdoor temperature or increasing the ventilation volume would reduce the indoor temperature, which could be controlled within 40 °C. The results of this study provide a reference basis and technical guidance for the engineering projects of ventilation systems for indoor substations, which can effectively solve the problem of excessive indoor temperature caused by heat dissipation from substation equipment while providing a favorable guarantee for sustainable operation of the substation.

A kontaktreagálásokat befolyásoló tényezők az intézkedések során, valamint azok integrálása képzési rendszerekbe

Aim: To reform and unify the measures tactical training of actors responsible for creating and maintaining public order and security in order to promote the development of a uniform culture of measures. Methodology: As a practicing police officer, the author of the study examines the equipment system of the isolated section, the capabilities of its actors, and the effects of their actions. By analysing realistic situation exercises, it examines the phases of the range of decision making mechanisms and the psychological factors influencing them. Findings: The author directs attention to the possibilities inherent inaction tactics training, as well as to how the knowledge included int he study can help prepare the individual. Value: The author of the study wants to promote the development possibilities of the training system of the state law enforcement agencies and the private sector, as a result of which the deficiency of the specific training of the instructors is brought into focus, as well as the timeliness of its reformation. By examining the behavioural aspects of law enforcement officers, the author wishes to support all the good practices that promote the effectiveness of contact responses integrated into the educational theme and, in parallel, the cooperation of the selection system.

Validity and Test-Retest Reliability of a Hand-Held Ultrasound Device in Measuring Kidney Metrics in Healthy Young Adults

Objective: The use of a hand-held ultrasound device provides a portable, cost-effective solution for renal assessments in rural settings, but their accuracy and reliability in measuring kidney metrics remain uncertain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Lumify hand-held ultrasound device (LHUS) in capturing basic kidney metrics in healthy adults. Materials and Methods: Twenty individuals underwent renal sonography measurements, which included length, height, width, cortical thickness, parenchymal echogenicity, and renal resistive index (RRI). These measurements were completed using LHUS and the Epiq Elite ultrasound equipment system. LHUS measurements were repeated for test-retest reliability (TRR). Validity and TRR were assessed using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), Bland-Altman plots, coefficient of variation (COV), and mean absolute percent error (MAPE). Results: There was poor agreement (0.414, p = .048) between equipment systems for RRI. All other measures demonstrated moderate to excellent agreement (ICC = 0.75–0.94, p < .001) between systems. The left kidney showed poor agreement for RRI (0.06, p = .45). MAPE for all measurements between devices was <5%, indicating acceptable accuracy. All repeated measurements showed moderate to excellent reliability (ICC = 0.71–0.96, p < .001), with low mean COV for each measurement (0.02–0.08). Conclusion: Based on this study, LHUS appears to be a valid and reliable tool for basic kidney metrics in healthy adults, but caution should be used when obtaining an RRI, especially in the left kidney.

An approach to improve grounding resistance characteristic in existing 115 KV transmission towers

Effective grounding can attenuate fault currents and reduce damage to power system equipment, making the grounding system a crucial protection scheme. Generally, the ground resistance is set to a value less than 10 Ω. However, in practice, it is difficult to achieve this in certain areas, such as mountains, plains, and swamps. To address this problem, this study analyses the (1) actual footing resistance, (2) ground resistivity, and (3) ground length of transmission towers located in specific areas. Non-linear factors, impedance, and coupling effect are considered instead of traditional variables. A grounding design algorithm is proposed based on the ATPDraw program. Simulation results are applied to the 115 kV real-world system of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand. The grounding system exhibits a satisfactory performance improvement, as evidenced by comparisons between simulation and actual measurements. The findings are useful for implementing future improvements in grounding protection schemes.

Research on automatic tool changing device for flexible material cutting machine

For the efficiency and operator safety issues caused by manual blade replacement in flexible material cutting machines. In order to improve the efficiency of tool changing, the automatic tool changing equipment for the cutting machine has been designed, which includes a clamping mechanism, tool magazine, tool feeding mechanism, and control system after studying the tool changing process and tool changing equipment of the automatic tool changing system in the existing machining center. A prototype and testing platform were built, and the prototype was tested and analyzed. The results show that the automatic tool change equipment of the cutting machine has achieved automation in the process of unloading, receiving, taking, feeding, and loading the cutting machine blade, and the success rate of tool change has achieved the expected effect.

Development and verification of material models in modeling of wave strain hardening and additive synthesis processes

BACKGROUND: The creation of competitive machine parts capable of withstanding standard and increased operational loads is an urgent task in mechanical engineering. Developing additive synthesis technologies together with strengthening technologies make it possible to create such products with high load-bearing capacity. However, to improve the efficiency of these technologies, it is necessary to create theoretical models of the processes taking place. The article presents the results of the first stage of creating complex theoretical models of the combined 3DMP process and wave strain hardening (WSH) required for designing technological processes for manufacturing engine parts and brake systems of automotive equipment. . AIMS: Creation and assessment of the adequacy of material models used in finite element modeling of additive synthesis processes with subsequent hardening. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Theoretical models of the material were created in the ANSYS software package, which allows for multidisciplinary calculations. The experimental data required for preparing the models were obtained by testing tensile samples manufactured using standardized methods. The hardness of materials was studied using a KB 30S automatic hardness tester. The adequacy of additive synthesis modeling was assessed based on the distribution of temperature fields. The adequacy of material models for the VDU process was assessed based on the sizes of individual plastic indentations and the distribution diagrams of the depth and degree of hardening in the surface layer. RESULTS: Theoretical models of the following materials were developed: steel, stainless steel, bronze alloy, titanium alloy, aluminum alloy. The theoretical data obtained from the modeling results have a high level of significance. The studies were conducted for various thermal (in the range from +20ºС to +800ºС) and deformation modes. Graphical results of theoretical and experimental studies allow us to obtain a qualitative assessment of the processes under study with the required accuracy. CONCLUSIONS: As a result of the assessment of the adequacy of the developed models, it was established that the discrepancy between the empirical and theoretical data does not exceed 7.4%. The obtained models of materials are statistically significant and can be correctly applied in further studies.

Thyroid Ultrasonography Screening of a Cohort of Male University Students

Objective: To assess thyroid ultrasonographic (US) findings from a male cohort of asymptomatic Saudi Arabian university students. Materials and Methods: Sixty-three university students were enrolled in a quantitative prospective study from February 2024 to April 2024. They were conveniently selected, excluding females. A MyLab40 US equipment system was used with a 7 MHz transducer. The thyroid was evaluated with US for size, echotexture, and abnormalities. The chi-square test, correlations, and descriptive statistics were applied for the data analysis. Results: The mean age of the participants was 21.5 ± 1.1 years, and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 27.03 ± 6.6. 95.2% of participants had normal findings; positive findings were found in 4.8 % of the participants. Of these, 1.6 % had multiple nodules, and 3.2 % had signs of thyroiditis. The statistical analysis revealed no significant association between right and left thyroid lobe lengths compared to BMI ( p = .7 right and left 0.3). Moreover, there was no association between the thyroid echo pattern and the BMI ( p = .4). Conclusion: This cohort study concluded that the thyroid US findings were very limited. There was no statistical correlation between the thyroid lobe length, thyroid echo pattern, compared to participants’ BMI.

A Comprehensive Study of Voltage Swell and Sag in Power Distribution Systems: Characteristics, Causes, Effects, and Mitigation Strategies

Voltage variations, such as swells and sags, are prevalent disturbances in power distribution systems, posing significant challenges to system reliability and equipment performance. This research paper provides a comprehensive study of voltage swell and sag phenomena, encompassing their characteristics, causes, effects, mitigation strategies, and case studies. The study explores the magnitude, duration, and frequency of voltage variations, delving into the underlying factors contributing to their occurrence, including switching operations, faults, and load variations. Moreover, the paper examines the detrimental effects of voltage variations on electrical equipment and industrial processes, highlighting the importance of understanding and mitigating these disturbances. Various mitigation techniques, such as voltage regulation, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and dynamic voltage restorers (DVRs), are evaluated for their effectiveness in minimizing the impact of voltage variations. Additionally, the paper explores the use of PWM-based Distribution Static Synchronous Compensator (DSTATCOM) as a promising solution for mitigating voltage swell and sag issues, discussing principles, design considerations, control strategies, and performance evaluation. Through case studies, simulation results, and modeling approaches using MATLAB/Simulink, the research paper offers valuable insights into the complex landscape of voltage swell and sag in power distribution systems, equipping researchers and practitioners with knowledge to address these challenges effectively.

A Rapid Colorimetric and Fluorescent Assay of Aspergillus Fumigatus in Food by Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification.

Aspergillus fumigatus is a foodborne mycete that can induce recurrent pneumonia, but the current detection methods have insufficient sensitivity and rapidity. Here, we aim to develop an efficient and sensitive loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) primer set for A. fumigatus detection. First, we designed a novel set of LAMP primers by targeting the Beta-tubulin (β-tub) gene. The LAMP reaction system was optimized by screening reaction temperature and betaine concentration. And then, the specificity of the proposed primers was verified by using 10 interferent microorganism species. The sensitivity of the designed method was compared with that of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on pure cultures and complex matrix. The accuracy and response time of the method were examined by simulated samples. Our proposed primer set could accurately detect A. fumigatus from different food matrices with no response to other microorganisms. More intriguingly, this method possessed a low limit of detection (2 copies/reaction, 10-fold less than PCR), a short measuring time (<30 min), and a naked-eye readability. A real sample test demonstrates the good recovery rate and accuracy in apple, corn, milk, and other food matrix. Our proposed β-tub primer set provides great potential for rapid assessment of A. fumigatus contamination in food by integrating portable equipment and microscale reaction system.

Bioengineered therapeutic systems for improving antitumor immunity

Abstract Immunotherapy, a monumental advancement in antitumor therapy, still yields limited clinical benefits owing to its unguaranteed efficacy and safety. Therapeutic systems derived from cellular, bacterial, and viral sources possess inherent properties that are conducive to antitumor immunotherapy. However, crude biomimetic systems have restricted functionality and may produce undesired toxicity. With the advances in biotechnology, various toolkits are available to add or subtract certain properties of living organisms to create flexible therapeutic platforms. This review elaborates on the creation of bioengineered systems by gene editing, synthetic biology, and surface engineering to enhance immunotherapy. The modifying strategies on the systems are discussed, including equipment of navigation and recognition systems to improve therapeutic precision, introduction of controllable components to control the duration and intensity of treatment, addition of immunomodulatory components to amplify immune activation, and removal of toxicity factors to ensure biosafety. Finally, we summarize the advantages of bioengineered immunotherapeutic systems and possible directions for their clinical translation.

Competing mechanisms of charge-induced electric field distortion and charge-involved neutralization on surface discharge

Charge-induced surface discharge poses a critical risk to the operational reliability of high-voltage direct current gas-insulated equipment and pulsed power system. In this study, we investigate the effects of charge-induced electric field distortion and charge involvement during surface discharge by separately depositing charge spots on two dielectric layers. The results show that deposited positive charges inhibit positive streamer development, whereas negative charges facilitate it, primarily due to electric field distortion induced by deposited charges. Nevertheless, the involvement of deposited charges in streamer development predominantly exhibits a neutralizing effect, exerting an opposite influence on the streamers. This highlights a competitive relationship between deposited charge involvement and electric field distortion. Additionally, the neutralization of deposited charges with electron avalanches reduces the impact of charge-induced electric field distortion, thereby mitigating its effects on discharge.

Design of hydraulic lift system of technical equipment working in amusement industry

This paper examines the design and application of a telescopic hydraulic system for amusement industry equipment that experiences cyclic passenger loads. The system comprises three hydraulic cylinders, each with different diameters, which activate at various points as the device moves. To achieve static balance and lift the main beam from a horizontal to a vertical position, the forces exerted by the cylinders were calculated using static equilibrium equations. The system's design, including the length and angle of each cylinder, was based on the technical specifications of the equipment. Analytical and numerical methods were used to ensure the correct sizing of the cylinders and the system's overall effectiveness, resulting in a structure that operates safely and efficiently.

Simulation of Faults in the Yeywa-Thaphaywa High Voltage Transmission Line using Fuzzy Logic

Faults in transmission networks frequently undermine the reliability and stability of electrical power supply, causing load shedding and posing risks to power system equipment. Effective fault classification is crucial to minimize power outages and ensure timely restoration. This study presents a fault classification method for transmission lines using fuzzy logic. The classification utilizes three-phase feeder currents, neutral current, and phase voltages as inputs to the Fuzzy Inference System (FIS). The proposed method accurately classifies the various types of faults in a high voltage transmission network, including line-to-ground fault, double line-to-ground fault, line-to-line fault, and three-phase faults. Numerous test cases demonstrate the technique's high accuracy. The simulations are carried out in MATLAB/SIMULINK using Sim Power Systems and the Fuzzy Logic Toolbox (MATLAB 2016a).