Control Methods Research Articles

Fungicidal properties of green microalgae chlorella vulgaris

Mold fungi are a group of microscopic fungi that have a significant impact on agriculture. They not only worsen the quality of products, but also reduce yields due to damage to plants and seeds. Studying the harm caused by mold is an important task of agronomic science, as it contributes to the development of effective control and prevention methods. The presented article examines the results of the influence of Chlorella vulgaris strains of green microalgae on mold fungi common in vegetable crops. Studies have shown that the use of biofertilizers based on Chlorella vulgaris is environmentally friendly due to their minimal accumulation in the soil. In addition, these fertilizers are economically beneficial, since man-made waste products such as phosphorous slags, sewage sludge, and carbon-containing waste can be used to grow biomass of microorganisms and algae. In the course of research, it was found that fertilizers based on Chlorella vulgaris inhibit the growth of mold fungi Mucor sp. and Aspergillus sp. in the soil and on the surface of seeds of agricultural crops. Compared with traditional fertilizers, their effectiveness reaches 28.6±2.2%. These results confirm the promising use of Chlorella vulgaris to protect crops from mold fungi, improve product quality and increase yields.

Assessing the authenticity and purity of a commercial Bacillus thuringiensis bioinsecticide through whole genome sequencing and metagenomics approaches

Biopesticides, biological agents for pest control in plants, are becoming increasingly prevalent in agricultural practices. However, no established methodology currently exists to assess their quality, and there are currently no publicly available authenticity and purity evaluations of commercial products. This lack of data may represent risks because of their widespread dispersal in the environment. We evaluated the potential of whole genome sequencing (WGS) and metagenomics approaches, including nanopore long-read sequencing, to verify both authenticity (i.e., the labeled strain) and biological purity (i.e., the absence of any undesired genetic material) of commercial Bacillus thuringiensis bioinsecticides. Four commercially available bioinsecticidal products containing Bacillus thuringiensis serovar kurstaki strain HD-1 were collected from the European market as a case study. Two sequencing approaches were employed: WGS of isolates and metagenomics sequencing of all genetic material in a product. To assess authenticity, isolate WGS data were compared against the publicly available reference genome of the expected strain. Antimicrobial resistance gene content, insecticidal gene content, and single nucleotide polymorphism differences were characterized to evaluate similarity to the reference genome. To assess purity, metagenomic sequencing data were analyzed using read classification and strain differentiation methods. Additionally, long- and short-read data were used to assess potential large-scale structural variations. Our results confirmed all investigated products to be authentic and pure. With the increasing usage of biopesticides, it is crucial to have adequate quality control methods. Our proposed approach could be adapted for other biopesticides, and similar products, providing a standardized and robust approach to contribute to biopesticide safety.

Energy-efficient Methods for Controlling Biofouling in Water Treatment Membranes and Future Directions

This paper aims to address the critical issue of biofouling in water treatment membrane systems, which decreases operational efficiency and increases energy consumption. The study explores energy-efficient biofouling control methods, focusing on established and emerging technologies. The review examines various approaches, including surface modification, antimicrobial nanomaterials, and photocatalytic membranes. Techniques using zwitterionic polymers, amphiphilic coatings, silver nanoparticles (nAg), and nanodiamonds (UDD) are analyzed for their effectiveness in mitigating biofouling. Photocatalytic membranes employing Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) are also evaluated for their sustainable microbial inhibition capabilities. Surface modification techniques demonstrated the potential to alter membrane hydrophilicity, effectively preventing microbial adhesion and biofilm formation. Incorporating antimicrobial nanomaterials such as nAg and UDD disrupted microbial cell membranes and enhanced hydrophilicity, significantly increasing biofouling resistance. Photocatalytic membranes utilizing MOFs produced reactive oxygen species (ROS) under light exposure, providing a sustainable and energy-efficient approach to biofouling control. However, the integration of real-time monitoring systems and AI-based predictive models remains necessary to further optimize membrane performance and reduce energy consumption. The development of multifunctional membranes that combine biofouling resistance with resource recovery capabilities is essential to tackle the global water crisis and ensure access to clean water. Continued research in integrating advanced technologies such as AI and sustainable materials will be pivotal in advancing energy-efficient biofouling control.

Examining The Factors Affecting Women's Family Planning Attitudes and Perceived Barriers to Contraception Methods

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the factors affecting women's attitudes towards family planning and their perceived barriers to contraception methods. Method: This descriptive, cross-sectional and correlational study was conducted in a university hospital in Bursa with 382 women between October 2018 and October 2019. Data were collected with the Family Planning Attitude Scale and the Perception Scale of Barriers to Contraceptive Use. Results: The mean total scores of the Family Planning Attitude Scale and the Perception Scale of Barriers to Contraceptive Use were determined to be 115.4±39.7 and 78.1±41.7, respectively. The mean total score of the Family Planning Attitude Scale was found to be statistically significantly high in women lower who were 33 years of age or younger, married, graduated from high school or above, had a nuclear family, had a high-income level, lived in the city center, were aware of and used birth control methods, received counseling about birth control methods, and had a planned pregnancy. The total mean score of the Perception Scale of Barriers to Contraceptive Use was statistically significantly lower in these women (p

Low-cost prototype for real-time analysis using liquid crystal optical sensors in water quality assessment

In the food production sector, quickly identifying potential hazards is crucial due to the resilience of many pathogens, which could lead to wasted production results and, more severely, epidemic outbreaks. E. coli monitoring is essential; however, traditional quality control methods in fish farming are often slow and intrusive, thus promoting an increase in fish stress and mortality rates. This paper presents an alternative method by utilizing a prototype inspired by polarized optical microscopy (POM), constructed with a Raspberry Pi microprocessor to assess pixel patterns and calculate analyte levels. The sensors are based on the immune complexation reactions between E. coli specific antibodies and the disruption of liquid crystal (LC) alignment, which are measured with the POM technique. The prototype yielded a sensitivity of 1.01%±0.17%/log10 (CFU/mL) for E. coli. In this paper, tests using sunlight as the prototype’s light source were also performed, and a user-friendly graphical user interface was designed.

The σNS protein of NDRV antagonizes TRIM59-mediated antiviral innate immune response of Cherry Valley duck.

In recent years, outbreak of the novel duck reovirus (NDRV) disease has occurred frequently in duck populations. Due to its rapid spreading, absence of effective control methods, and high treatment costs, the NDRV disease has caused huge losses to waterfowl breeding in China. As reported, four non-structural (NS) proteins are encoded by the NDRV genome, among which the σNS protein is an RNA-binding protein that can improve the stability of bound RNA by forming oligomers (Adams and Cory, 1998). Nevertheless, the mechanism by which it facilitates reovirus replication remains ambiguous. According to previous studies, the NS protein 11 of the porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) can interact with tripartite motif-containing 59 (TRIM59) to regulate viral infection. However, the specific role of TRIM59 in NDRV infection remains unclear. This study focused on full-length amplification of duTRIM59, the mRNA distribution of duTRIM59 in Cherry Valley duck and successive biological examinations. The homology with Anas platyrhynchos TRIM59 was 98.6 %. The mRNA distribution level of duTRIM59 showed that duTRIM59 was widely expressed in bursae and thymus of the immune organs. Nevertheless, TRIM59 comprises three domains, including the transmembrane (TM), B-box (B), and RING-finger (R) domains. It also has the activity of ubiquitin-protein ligase (E3). It has been demonstrated that NDRV replication is inhibited by TRIM59 overexpression in duck embryonic fibroblasts (DEF) cells, particularly when the R domain is intact, suggesting that the R domain plays a key role in the spreading of the NDRV virus. In contrast, NDRV infection in DEF cells increased when TRIM59 was depleted by using small interfering RNA. Moreover, the σNS protein can be co-localized with duTRIM59 and stimulate NDRV replication in DEF cells in cases of NDRV infection. This study clarifies the correlation of NDRV infection and TRIM59-mediated antiviral innate immunity, and provides a sound theoretical basis for further understanding this disease.

Design of 2-DOF Thrust Vector Control System for Rockets and Missiles

This paper outlines the development and implementation of a Thrust Vector Control (TVC) system specifically designed for solid propellant rocket engines, aiming to enhance the portability of hybrid and liquid propellant rocket systems. The proposed system ensures trajectory stability and rapid response to flight emergencies by effectively counteracting external perturbations such as wind. Key components include gyroscopic (GYRO) sensors, a high-performance microcontroller, and servo motors, collectively referred to as thrust vectoring components, which dynamically adjust thrust direction opposite to the rocket’s trajectory to maintain stability. Drawing from an extensive literature review of existing TVC system designs, with a focus on thrust characteristics and engine combustion timing, the design integrates geometric properties, kinematics, forces, energy requirements, safety, cost, and control methods, aligning with both mechanical and avionic design principles. The anticipated outcome is an advancement in rocket propulsion technology, characterized by improved angular speed control, trajectory linearity, and rapid response capabilities.

Zero-Tillage Induces Reduced Bio-Efficacy Against Weed Species Amaranthus retroflexus L. Dependent on Atrazine Formulation

Zero-tillage (ZT) is a conservation soil management approach which relies more heavily on herbicide application for weed control than in ploughed soil. Changes in soil management can influence the structure and organisation of pore space in soil, which drives changes in the transport of particulates and dissolved substances. Formulation of pesticides can be used to change the delivery of active ingredients to soil; however, it is currently unknown how changing the formulation of an herbicide can influence the transport properties between ZT vs. ploughing. We investigated the bioefficacy of two formulations of the herbicide atrazine, a pre- and post-emergence herbicide that inhibits photosystem II. Bioefficacy was assessed using physical measures and survival analysis of an early photosynthesis-dependent weed species, Amaranthus retroflexus L., over time, and soil pore network structure was assessed by analysing three-dimensional images produced by X-ray Computed Tomography. Increasing the herbicide application rate generally improved bioefficacy, though it was reduced in soils managed under ZT. Under herbicide-treated ZT samples, survival time was higher, ranging from 13.4 to 18.2 days compared with 12.6 to 15.4 days in ploughed samples, the mean dry plant mass was higher, ranging from 0.5 to 2.5 mg compared with 0.05 to 0.68 mg in ploughed samples, and the mean total plant length was higher, ranging from 1.73 to 12.1 mm compared with 0.2 to 5.45 mm in ploughed samples. Changes in the soil pore network previously demonstrated to be indicators of preferential transport were correlated with measures of bioefficacy, including pore thickness and connectivity density. Reduced atrazine efficacy under ZT is problematic considering the inherent reliance on chemical methods for weed control, we suggest that pursuing formulation strategies to alleviate potential risks of loss via preferential transport may be fruitful.

Physical and mechanical aging of wood-plastic composites. Non-destructive methods for quality control

This study investigates the relationship between laboratory aging, physical and mechanical changes, and the outcomes of non-destructive testing. A total of 45 composite specimens containing 60 % wood fiber, 35 % low-density polyethylene, and 5 % additives were tested. A laboratory aging process, consisting of water immersion at 20 ºC and 50 ºC for a total of 56 days, was applied to the specimens. During the aging process, several batches of specimens were extracted and tested to measure their physical (density) and mechanical properties (bending strength and modulus of elasticity). Non-destructive testing, including ultrasound and stress wave devices, a screw withdrawal resistance meter, and a penetration tester, were employed. Results indicated that temperature had a greater influence on the WPC deterioration than humidity. A decrease in density (2 % - 4 %) and a significant reduction in mechanical properties (20 % - 60 %) were observed. The non-destructive methods used proved to be reliable estimators of composite properties, especially ultrasound wave propagation, confirming previous findings on other materials.

Comparative evaluation of voltage conversion and encoder pulse detection methods for controlling a model high-bay warehouse

This study evaluates five control methods for the Fischertechnik Training Factory Industry 4.0–24 V system, focusing on accuracy, efficiency, and performance in managing voltage differences and encoder pulse detection. The proposed method introduces a novel approach by integrating a dedicated pulse-counting Arduino with the TBD62783APG chip, enhancing precision and reliability beyond traditional methods. Despite requiring additional hardware, this method demonstrated exceptional control and dependable operation, showcasing the efficacy of specialized integrated circuits in industrial automation applications. The presented evaluation enhances control strategies for industrial automation, emphasizing efficient voltage conversion and precise encoder pulse detection to enhance system performance and reliability, laying the groundwork for future advancements in remote control capabilities and complex manufacturing systems.

Diel modulation of perireceptor activity influences olfactory sensitivity in diurnal and nocturnal mosquitoes.

Olfaction and diel-circadian rhythm regulate different behaviors, including host-seeking, feeding, and locomotion, in mosquitoes that are important for their capacity to transmit disease. Diel-rhythmic changes of the odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) in olfactory organs are primarily accountable for olfactory rhythmicity. To better understand the molecular rhythm regulating nocturnal and diurnal behaviors in mosquitoes, we performed a comparative RNA-sequencing study of the peripheral olfactory and brain tissues of female Anopheles culicifacies and Aedes aegypti. Data analysis revealed a significant upregulation of genes encoding: OBPs and xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes including Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) during photophase in Aedes aegypti and the dusk-transition phase in Anopheles culicifacies, hypothesizing their possible function in the regulation of perireceptor events and olfactory sensitivity. RNA interference studies and application of CYP450 inhibitors, coupled with electroantennographic recordings with Anopheles gambiae and Aedes aegypti, established that CYP450 plays a role in odorant detection and antennal sensitivity. Furthermore, brain tissue transcriptome and RNAi-mediated knockdown revealed that daily temporal modulation of neuronal serine proteases may have a crucial function in olfactory signal transmission, thereby affecting olfactory sensitivity. These findings provide a rationale to further explore the species-specific rhythmic expression pattern of the neuro-olfactory encoded molecular factors, which could pave the way to develop and implement successful mosquito control methods.

Efficacy of biological control against soil-borne pathogens in Catharanthus roseus

The cultivation of Madagascar periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus L.) is affected by many pathogens, including soil-borne pathogenic fungi such as Fusarium spp., Phytophthora spp., and Pythium spp. The importance of biological control methods has been increasing due to the ongoing phase-out of chemical pesticides. Biocontrol agents like Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Trichoderma asperellum, and T. atroviride are increasingly used due to their pathogen suppression capabilities and ability to enhance plant resilience to stress. This study evaluated the in vitro efficacy of T. asperellum against F. oxysporum. Significant inhibition of F. oxysporum growth was observed in dual culture confrontation test. Our results highlighted the potential of T. asperellum as a biocontrol agent for managing F. oxysporum in C. roseus cultivation. The application of these agents can reduce the dominance of chemical pesticides and promote sustainable agriculture practices.

Plant Oil Nano-Emulsions as a Potential Solution for Pest Control in Sustainable Agriculture

The increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly pest control methods has led to a growing interest in the development of novel, plant-based pesticides. In this study, we investigated the potential of nano-emulsions containing plant oils (Portulaca oleracea, Raphanus sativus, and Rosmarinus officinalis) as a new approach for controlling three major pests: Aphis gossypii, Spodoptera littoralis, and Tetranychus urticae. Using ultrasonication, we prepared stable and uniform nano-emulsions characterized by thermodynamic properties, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results showed that the nano-emulsions were effective in controlling the three pests, with the most potent activity observed against Aphis gossypii. Our findings suggest that plant oil nano-emulsions have the potential to be used as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional pesticides. The use of these nano-emulsions could provide a new approach to manage pest populations, reducing the environmental impact of pesticide use, and promoting sustainable agriculture.

වනජිවීන් හා මිනිසුන් අතර ඇතිවන ගැටුම් වළක්වා ගැනීමට සාම්ප්‍රදායිකව යොදාගත් කෙම් ක්‍රම පිළිබඳ මානව විද්‍යාත්මක අධ්‍යයනයක්

Since the beginning of human history, humans have been a part of the environment, interacting with plants and animals. Over time, this loss of connection has led to various conflicts between humans and animals. Various methods have been developed as part of human culture to prevent these conflicts. Among the traditional methods, techniques such as mechanical methods, medicinal control methods, biological control methods, Kem methods, etc. can be identified. Among these methods, Kem methods are unique in that cultural values have been embedded in those Kem methods. The lack of this traditional knowledge among the current people, the fact that new technological methods are only friendly to humans, and the fact that these methods are not sufficient, has led to the current conflict between wildlife and humans. This research aims to explore the methods built on traditional knowledge based on this problem. The two Grama Niladhari Divisions of Mariarawa and Okkampitiya in the Monaragala District were used as the study areas. Ten elders above the age of fifty were selected as the research sample through purposive sampling method and relevant data were collected using observation and structured interviews. The study rediscovered many traditional methods. These include the beliefs of the villagers, Manthra (spells), traps, the use of medicines, biological control methods and a variety of Kem methods. Among these, Kem methods are also used for other strategies such as various mechanical methods. Many of the traditional methods, including Kem methods, identified from the field of study and literary sources, were successful and had a scientific basis. It was concluded that traditional methods contain technological strategies that offer better and more effective solutions than modern techniques. Also, the researcher suggests that efforts to prevent and address the current acute human-wildlife conflicts in Sri Lanka by combining traditional knowledge with modern technology would be more effective. It is a good alternative to solve problems by filling the gaps in modern techniques.

Identifikasi Bahaya Dan Pengendalian Resiko di Area Produksi Penambangan

Mining companies have provided a level of security related to OHS, but there are still work accidents, occupational diseases, fires, explosions, avalanches, and the environment. Thei causei of worki accidentsi is determined byi thei actionsi ofi peoplei whoi doi noticomplyi withi worki safetyi (unsafei actions) and environmental conditions (unsafe conditions). Thei purposei of thisi studyi is to idetermine the potentiali hazardsi in mining activities and control controls in mining activities. This researchi iwas conductedi at PT Bumi Sentosa Jaya, locatedi ini Boedingi iVillage, Lasoloi Islandsi iDistrict, iNorth Konawei iRegency, Southeasti Sulawesii iProvince. The research was conducted usingi the HIRARCi (Hazardi iIdentification, Riski Assessmenti, and Riski iControl) imethod. Data on hazardi and riski controli are processed using the semi-quantitative.The findings were 20 potential hazards, with an incident rating obtained Extremely low 0%, Priority 20%, Medium 65%, Acceptable 15%After controlling the risk, the residual risk obtained is 40%. 60% is acceptable. Control is carried out by hierarchical control, consisting of engineering, administrative, work practices, and control methods.

Molecular network analysis for detecting HIV transmission clusters: insights and implications

ObjectiveIn order to improve knowledge of HIV transmission dynamics and guide preventive and control strategies, this work uses molecular cluster analysis to objectively detect clusters of HIV genetic sequence similarity.Methods89 HIV-positive couples provided blood samples, and plasma was separated for pol region gene sequence amplification. Furthermore, analyzed HIV-1 pol fragment sequences from Nanjing patients between 2015 and 2019. HYPHY and Cytoscape were used to generate and illustrate molecular networks.ResultsIn this investigation of 89 double-positive pairs, it was discovered that the pairwise gene distance approach properly detected 82.02% of positive couples at an ideal gene distance of 0.014 substitution/loci. With an accuracy of 86.25%, the optimal parameter for the phylogenetic tree and gene distance approach was 90 + 0.045 substitution/loci. A molecular network was built for the Nanjing samples (2015–2019) using the optimum threshold of the previous technique. This network had 487 sequences with one misconnected cluster. There were 565 sequences in the network created by the latter approach that were not incorrectly connected.ConclusionFor HIV research, molecular cluster analysis provides novel insights. It helps with preventive and control methods by objectively identifying clusters with comparable genetic sequences, which enhances our knowledge of HIV transmission. Further developments will increase its importance for HIV/AIDS research and worldwide prevention.

P-1321. The Infectious Disease Needs of Adult Ukrainian Refugees in a Tertiary Centre in the West of Ireland

Abstract Background Since February 2022 6.5 million have fled Ukraine; 104’ 870 to Ireland (2% of Irish population) [1, 2] The surge in those seeking temporary protection, coupled with infectious disease epidemiology in Ukraine; high prevalence of blood borne viruses and TB has placed strain on host countries' health services. [3, 4] 18 ‘840 (18% of National total, 0.37% of Irish population) are accommodated within our catchment area. The objective of this study was to evaluate case complexity, barriers to access and impact on service by this population. HIV, HCV and HBV prevalence, control and management Methods We performed a retrospective chart review using our electronic patient record, compiled data on a protected spreadsheet and results were collated. Tuberculosis prevalence, susceptibility, site and management Results 123 adult Ukrainian refugees have newly attended our service since February 2022 - April 2024, 2.03 new patients weekly; 63/123 (51.2%) are female. The mean age is 44.7 years (18 - 79). 76 (61.8%) have HIV (PLWH); 68 (89.5%) known diagnoses; 39 (57.3%) of whom were virally suppressed on ART and 27 (40%) were viraemic as a result of treatment interruption, 2 (2.9%) had no blood testing with us. 7 (5.7%) were newly diagnosed following arrival to Ireland; 4 (57%) with advanced disease (mean CD4 Count 285 IU/mL [28 - 753]). Thirty two (42%) PLWH are co-infected with HCV, 4 (5.3%) with HBV. 37 (30%) attended with HCV mono-infection, 9 (7.3%) with HBV mono-infection. 17 PLWH (22.4%) report previously treated TB. We have seen 4 (3.25%) cases of active TB; three of MDR pulmonary disease and results are pending for the fourth case. 4, 10.5% of women living with HIV in this cohort have had pregnancies; 2 (5.3% of WLH) are currently pregnant (both live in Donegal; average 165.6 miles from clinic). The average distance traveled to our clinic is 64.6 miles (Range 0.62 - 189); based on current geographic distribution of the group 50.4% (62/123) can access public transport that would allow them to reach our clinic within 2 hours. There was no significant association between access to public transport and missed clinic appointments (p = 0.64). 115/123 (93.5%) have a need for an interpreter. Since February 2022 26 (21%) have required hospital admission with an average length of stay of 22.9 days and a total of 597 bed days used. Conclusion We have identified significant case complexity and ongoing high ID service need for this cohort. Cohort Demographics Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

Огляд поширення інвазійних видів рослин на території Українських Карпат

The uncontrolled spread of invasive plants poses a threat to biodiversity by displacing native flora and disrupting established ecotopes. The primary factors contributing to their spread include human activity, the absence of natural enemies and competitors, and the ability to overcome limiting factors. We have analyzed and summarized information related to the spread of invasive plant species in the territory of the Ukrainian Carpathians, the border of which is formed in the northeast along a line connecting the cities of Sudova Vyshnya, Komarne, Mykolaiv, Zhydachiv, Ivano-Frankivsk, Kolomyia, and Chernivtsi, and extends to the west along the state border. As a unique ecoregion, the Carpathians perform ecological functions such as regulating water balance, preventing erosion, and preserving soil resources. Additionally, the Carpathian region is an important tourist and cultural center, and the spread of invasive plants negatively affects the attractiveness of these areas for tourists, as well as traditional forms of economic activity such as forestry and agriculture. The analysis highlighted key research directions related to the issue of invasive flora spread in the Carpathian region, namely: creating lists of invasive plants for specific regions, researching the origin and modes of spread of invasive species, developing methods for control or preventive actions to prevent further spread, and forecasting the future expansion of adventive species. The most dominant families in terms of the number of invasive species in the Ukrainian Carpathians are Asteraceae, the number of species of which is from 18 % to 30 %, Brassicaceae – 8–12 %, and Poaceae – 8–10 %. According to the time of introduction, the ratio of archaeophytes and chenophytes is about 1:2.5 in all regions, except for the analyzed regions of the Ivano-Frankivsk region, where the ratio was either reversed or 1:1. The predominant localities of origin are Mediterranean, North American and Irano-Turanian.

Online Bayesian State Estimation for Real-Time Monitoring of Growth Kinetics in Thin Film Synthesis.

Rapid validation of newly predicted materials through autonomous synthesis requires real-time adaptive control methods that exploit physics knowledge, a capability that is lacking in most systems. Here, we demonstrate an approach to enable real-time control of thin film synthesis by combining in situ optical diagnostics with a Bayesian state estimation method. We developed a physical model for film growth and applied the direct filter (DF) method for real-time estimation of nucleation and growth rates during pulsed laser deposition (PLD). We validated the approach using simulated and experimental reflectivity data for WSe2 growth and ultimately deployed the algorithm on an autonomous PLD system during the growth of 1T'-MoTe2. The DF robustly estimates growth parameters in real time at early stages of growth, down to 15% monolayer area coverage. This fusion of in situ diagnostics, data assimilation, and physical modeling opens new opportunities in adaptive control of synthesis trajectories toward desired material states.

Rapid amplitude control of high-power ultrasonic transducers using deep reinforcement learning

Abstract Rapid response control of ultrasonic transducers is crucial for applications such as welding, machining, aeronautics, and semiconductor manufacturing. Traditional control methods, using voltage amplitude and frequency adjustments, perform well but often require complex circuitry to adjust the voltage, making them less practical. This study proposes a quick and accurate method for controlling current amplitude through frequency adjustments using deep reinforcement learning (DRL). The system was trained to adjust the frequency based on real-time feedback of the current states. Experimental validation with a Langevin transducer shows that the DRL system achieves near-optimal performance with faster and robuster response than PID control, effectively managing nonlinearities such as hysteresis and the jump phenomena. Future research may include extending this approach to multi-mode transducers, and enhancing robustness to external condition change. These findings underscore the DRL system's potential as a practical alternative to conventional methods, in managing the complex nonlinearity of high-power ultrasonic transducers.