Smart Technologies Research Articles

Artificial Intelligence and Employee Well-Being: Balancing Technological Progressions with Human-Centric Workplace Strategies, a Research Agenda

Artificial intelligence (AI) enabled technologies are now corporate organisations' top priorities due to the availability of large data and the advent of the Internet of Things during the past ten years. AI is becoming a crucial component of business model innovation, process transformation, disruption, and gaining a competitive edge for companies adopting digital and data-centric cultures. This study investigates the implications of smart technology, artificial intelligence, robotics, and algorithms (STARA) on the future of work, with a particular emphasis on employee well-being and workplace dynamics. As futurists project that by 2025, 52% of all work functions will be automated, replacing one-third of current jobs, the rapid advancement of STARA creates both opportunities and risks. While automation has the potential to produce 133 million new jobs, it also threatens to eliminate 75 million employments, raising employee anxieties about job security and future roles. Despite the rising volume of studies on smart automation, there is still a major vacuum in our understanding of its implications on employees' mental health, well-being, and the entire workplace. This study investigates STARA's dual influence: while technology reduces physical strain and automates tedious jobs, it also raises new difficulties such as job displacement concerns and shifts in worker dynamics. The study emphasizes the need of human resource professionals to develop methods that strike a balance between technological integration and employee assistance. Key areas of focus include providing reskilling opportunities, adopting mental health initiatives, and encouraging open conversation regarding AI's expanding role in the workforce. By addressing these concerns, organisations may build a more resilient workforce that is better suited to the fourth industrial revolution. The study intends to contribute to a better understanding of how organisations may safeguard and improve employee well-being in the face of fast technological change, ensuring that STARA integration encourages innovation while simultaneously supporting a healthy and engaged workforce

Characterization of Silver Conductive Ink Screen-Printed Textile Circuits: Effects of Substrate, Mesh Density, and Overprinting

This study explores the intricate interaction between the properties of textile substrates and screen-printing parameters in shaping fabric circuits using silver conductive ink. Via analyzing key variables such as fabric type, mesh density, and the number of overprinted layers, the research revealed how the porous structure, large surface area, and fiber morphology of textile substrates influence ink absorption, ultimately enhancing the electrical connectivity of the printed circuits. Notably, the hydrophilic cotton staple fibers fabric effectively absorbed the conductive ink into the fabric substrate, demonstrating superior electrical performance compared with the hydrophobic polyester filament fabric after three overprinting, unlike the results observed after a single print. As mesh density decreased and the number of prints increased, the electrical resistance of the circuit gradually reduced, but ink bleeding on the fabric surface became more pronounced. Cotton fabric, via absorbing the ink deeply, exhibited less surface bleeding, while polyester fabric showed more noticeable ink spreading. These findings provide valuable insights for improving screen printing technology for textile circuits and contribute to the development of advanced fabric circuits that enhance the functionality of smart wearable technology.

Smart supply chain collaboration maturity evaluation model based on a q-Rung orthopair fuzzy decision making methodology

In today’s IT-intensive business context, evaluating supply chain (SC) collaboration maturity (CM) is crucial for guiding enterprises toward integrated processes that collaborate across enterprise boundaries. This study develops an SC CM evaluation model by integrating a conceptual maturity model with a q-Rung Orthopair Fuzzy Set (q-ROFs)-based decision-making methodology, including a new scoring method. The major aim of this study is to facilitate a qualitative multi-criteria evaluation of SC CM. The conceptual model develops criteria sets based on smart technologies (such as sensors, robotics, cloud, ERP) and business processes. The proposed methodology is applied to 10 generic case companies, demonstrating its ability to provide multi-criteria scorecards and comparative rankings within each maturity level. The results show that the suggested approach can be used to guide the future efforts of individual enterprises, serving for benchmarking purposes across multiple companies by providing an overall objective evaluation for managers and policymakers. The proposed methodology is original by: (a) conceptual model development, (b) developing a multi-criteria quantitative decision-making approach with a new scoring method and integrating it with unique process-based and IT-based criteria sets of the conceptual maturity model, and (c) facilitating managerial scorecards and evaluations.

Personal digital sovereignty: communicative aspect

The article reveals the essence and content of the personal digital sovereignty in the context of dynamically developing digitalization processes. The relevance of the topic is based on the growing need in security of personal, private and other sensitive data in the digital space. The use of digital profiles and accounts containing sensitive and confidential information, the use of smart devices, programs and technologies raises the question of understanding the digital sovereignty of the individual, the ways to ensure it, and the problem of communication in the digital space as a whole. In scientific and practical literature significant attention has recently been paid to the digital sovereignty of the state. However, the peculiarities of the development of a digital society, i.e. the issues of protection of the rights and interests of individual in the digital space, remain poorly studied. The subject of the article is the personal digital sovereignty, its basic characteristics and structural elements. The authors reveal the main approaches to defining the essence of this concept from the standpoint of many disciplines and branches of knowledge. The study is concluded with the authors’ definition of the concept of “personal digital sovereignty”.

The interplay between smart technologies, business sustainability, and environmental sustainability: An empirical analysis of SMEs

AbstractThis study examines the interplay between smart technologies, business sustainability, and environmental sustainability within the context of small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs). By employing structural equation modeling (SEM), the study evaluates the direct and indirect effects of smart technology integration on business and environmental sustainability outcomes. The results indicate that while smart technologies do not directly influence environmental sustainability, they significantly enhance business sustainability, which in turn positively affects environmental sustainability. This implies a mediated relationship, in which the strategic implementation of smart technologies is crucial for achieving environmental goals. The implications extend to the necessity of a strategic, holistic approach to sustainability in SMEs, emphasizing the intricate roles played by smart technologies in this sector.

Adapting Green Building Practices and Smart Technology in Developing Countries

This paper reviews the integration of green building practices and smart technologies in developing countries, focusing on the challenges and opportunities these regions face. While developed nations have advanced significantly in sustainability through green building certifications and smart systems, developing countries encounter barriers such as financial constraints, limited technical expertise, and insufficient policy frameworks. This research employs a systematic literature review to examine case studies from Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, exploring how these regions can adapt sustainable practices to their unique socio-economic and environmental conditions. The findings reveal that despite significant challenges, green building and smart technologies offer long-term benefits, including improved energy efficiency, reduced operational costs, and enhanced quality of life. Successful adaptations, such as using locally sourced materials and implementing low-cost smart systems, demonstrate the feasibility of sustainable development even in regions with limited resources. Case studies from Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya showcase promising examples where sustainable construction has been successfully integrated. This paper contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing an in-depth analysis of the factors enabling or hindering the adoption of green building and smart technologies in developing nations. The research concludes that stronger governmental support, enhanced technical training, and broader awareness campaigns are essential to overcoming these barriers. Key recommendations include implementing financial incentives for developers, scaling successful green building projects, and fostering public-private partnerships to promote innovation. Additionally, the study calls for policy reforms that align with international sustainability goals while considering local challenges. In conclusion, the integration of green building practices and smart technologies presents a viable solution for sustainable urbanization in developing countries, offering a path toward environmental and economic resilience.

Investigating the Behavioral Intention of Smart Home Systems among Older People in Linyi City

Background: With an aging population and the continuous advancement of smart technology, the Chinese government is exploring smart elderly care models to address the challenges posed by aging. Although smart home systems are viewed as a promising solution, their adoption rate among older people remains low. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing the behavioral intention to use smart home systems among older people in Linyi City, Shandong Province, China. Methods: A literature review revealed a lack of quantitative research on older people’s behavioral intention toward smart home systems based on the Innovation Diffusion Theory. This study developed an extended model based on the Innovation Diffusion Theory, Technology Acceptance Model, and external variables, incorporating eight variables: intergenerational technical support, perceived cost, self-reported health conditions, compatibility, observability, trialability, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and behavioral intention. Results: Analysis of 387 valid questionnaires showed that compatibility and trialability significantly and positively affect perceived ease of use, while self-reported health conditions, perceived ease of use, and perceived usefulness have significant effects on behavioral intention. In addition, perceived cost had a negative influence on behavioral intention. Contributions/Significance: These findings highlight the importance of considering these factors in the design of smart home systems to improve user experience and provide valuable practical guidance to smart home system developers, R&D institutions, and policymakers.

Thermostat standardization, technology trends, future considerations: Expert interviews

Thermostats dictate the majority of energy consumption in households across North America. Despite this, there are minimal requirements for interface configuration or usability. Furthermore, thermostats have developed into highly sophisticated, multi-modal consumer devices, integrating smart technology and complex automated features. A comprehensive understanding of the benefits and challenges for new, complex thermostat features, as well advisement for the way forward, is unclear. This paper addresses this gap and establishes a harmonized expert opinion through a series of semi-structured interviews. Twenty-five interviewees from private/public industries and academia, with an average of 21 years of experience related to heating/cooling engineering, share their expert opinions for thermostat standardization, technology trends, and future considerations. Overall, experts agree that some degree of standardization is required to improve thermostat usability and put forward critical elements for a standard. Experts offer suggestions for the adoption of smart technology, including demand response programs, automated setbacks, and integration with smartphones/smart homes. Results are supplemented by an AI-generated affinity diagramming exercise and contextualized with a characterization of sixty EnergyStar certified smart thermostats.

Can Smart Technology and Traditional Wisdom Craft Truly Sustainable Built Environments?

The built environment consumes vast resources and energy but can shift from a major climate polluter to a catalyst for sustainable development, especially in urban planning. This article proposes integrating advanced technology with traditional wisdom to create smart and contextually rooted built environments. Through two case studies in Greece, it identifies four key contributions: holistic planning informed by traditional insights, multidisciplinary technology integration, resilient community-centric solutions, and convivial construction. These findings emphasise the potential for truly sustainable built environments and the importance of local practices in tackling global sustainability challenges.

Assessing the Potential of Smart Windows for Energy Efficiency in Tropical Buildings: A Review of Current Research and Future Directions

Abstract Smart windows have energy-saving potential in buildings in tropical climates. Characterized by high solar radiation, humidity, and temperature, tropical climates demand innovative solutions for energy-efficient building design. Smart windows, which can regulate the transmission of light and heat through different thermochromic, photochromic, or electrochromic technologies, are promising to reduce energy consumption in such buildings. Several emerging window technologies, such as gasochromic, hydrochromic, polymer-dispersed liquid crystal, and suspended particle device technologies, also have promising energy-saving potential. However, their high initial costs, durability, and reliability of these technologies limit their applicability. Prospects for smart windows in buildings in tropical climates include advancements in materials science, cost reduction, and integration of smart window technology with other building systems, such as lighting and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. The potential benefits of smart windows for energy-saving s in buildings in tropical climates are substantial, up to 37%. Thus, further research and development in this area would lead to significant advancements in sustainable building design for a better future.

Numerical assessment of thermal bridging effects in 3D-printed foam concrete walls

Abstract Integrating smart technology and advanced materials in the construction industry has revolutionized traditional building practices, enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and overall performance. Researchers and professionals in the construction sector have shown significant interest in three-dimensional concrete printing (3DCP) for automating structural engineering tasks. Despite its potential as a sustainable solution to modern construction issues, there is a lack of research on the thermal insulation performance of three-dimensional printed concrete (3DPC) building envelopes, and the potential for integrating foam concrete (FC) to enhance energy efficiency has not yet been studied. This paper presents a numerical analysis examining how different infill geometries affect the thermal performance of 3D-printed foam concrete (3DPFC) lattice envelopes. Six lattice structures were designed with identical thickness, height, length, and comparable insulation areas. The effects of the contact (intersection) area of webs with the interior face shell, webs, and infill rows on the thermal performance of granularly insulated envelopes were studied. The effectiveness of insulation was also established. The findings indicate that the thermal transmittance of 3DPC envelopes correlates directly with the contact area of the webs and the interior surface, with U-values ranging from 0.151 W m2·K to 0.652 W/m2·K. Notably, the absence of direct connections between exterior and interior surfaces enhances insulation efficiency, with double-row structures achieving up to 94% insulation efficiency. However, when there is a direct connection between the two surfaces, the thermal performance of these envelopes is mainly affected by the contact (intersection) area of the webs with the interior face rather than the number of webs. By integrating foam concrete and double-row walls, this study demonstrates an innovative approach to reducing thermal bridging and improving energy performance in 3D-printed construction. The results offer novel insight into optimizing the thermal behavior of 3DPC systems for sustainable building practices.

Safety 4.0: Harnessing computer vision for advanced industrial protection

In the pursuit of enhanced productivity, reduced costs, and minimized lead times, manufacturers are transitioning from traditional systems to autonomous systems. This shift, driven by the emergence of smart manufacturing and technological advancements such as robotics, collaborative robots (Cobots), automation, and digitalization, necessitates a parallel evolution in safety protocols—termed Safety 4.0—to mitigate the risks associated with such dynamic environments. The integration of smart technologies within manufacturing significantly transforms traditional workflows and intensifies the need for comprehensive safety training and guidelines. Innovations like smart personal protective equipment (PPE) and wearable sensors are pivotal in this transition, yet they often prove financially burdensome for manufacturers due to high costs and the scale of workforce deployment. Moreover, the effective use of these technologies requires continuous monitoring and data analysis, further straining resources. To address these challenges, this paper proposes the adoption of computer vision technology to enhance safety measures within manufacturing facilities, focusing on human and PPE detection. It details a holistic methodology encompassing data collection, preprocessing, training, and execution. The discussion extends to the implementation framework of this technology, emphasizing its role in enabling autonomous decision-making—a crucial step beyond mere detection. Furthermore, the paper explores the utilization of the accumulated data to develop immersive training modules employing Mixed Reality, thereby reinforcing safety protocols and fostering an environment of continuous learning and adaptation. This approach not only contributes to safeguarding personnel but also aligns with the financial and reputational interests of forward-thinking manufacturers.

To Integrate and Optimize the Use of Programmable Logic Controller in Development of Horizontal Flow Wrap Packaging Machinery for Industry Needs

This paper focuses on the use of PLC and HMI in the automation industry for a highly effective and versatile horizontal flow wrap plastic film packaging solution. The machine's functioning and efficiency are thoroughly evaluated through extensive testing and validation procedures across multiple criteria. The main aim of this paper is to do the automatic plastic film packaging of any product with packaging dimensions of 4cm X 5cm. For the process automation the FX5U 32MT PLC of Mitsubishi is used for controlling and automating the system using ladder logic. The result shows that the developed system provides fully automatic wrap packaging of products and able to do automatic packaging of 24 packets in one minute. Additionally, the results show the increased efficiency of product rate in less time for automatic packaging system. Finally, it has been observed that the system is very beneficial for the automatic packaging process using PLC and the process can be monitored and visualized on a display screen using HMI. Future advancements are required in the system to meet industry4.0 needs. By incorporating some smart technologies, deeper integration with Industry 4.0 principles could boost capabilities in data analytics, connectivity, and remote monitoring for predictive maintenance.

Self-Sustaining Triboelectric Nanosensors for Real-Time Urine Analysis in Smart Toilets.

Healthcare has undergone a revolutionary shift with the advent of smart technologies, and smart toilets (STs) are among the innovative inventions offering non-invasive continuous health monitoring. The present technical challenges toward this development include limited sensitivity of integrated sensors, poor stability, slow response and the requirement external energy supply alongside manual sample collection. In this article, triboelectric nanosensor array (TENSA) is introduced featuring electrodes crafted from laser-induced 3D graphene with functional polymers like polystyrene, polyimide, and polycaprolactone for real-time urine analysis while generating 50 volts output via urine droplet-based triboelectrification. Though modulating interfacial double-layer capacitance, these sensors exhibit exceptional sensitivity and selectivity in detecting a broad spectrum of urinary biomarkers, including ions, glucose, and urea with a classification precision of 95% and concentration identification accuracy of up to 0.97 (R2), supported by artificial neural networks. Upon exposure to urine samples containing elevated levels of Na+, K+, and NH4 +, a notable decrease (ranging from 32% to 68%) is observed in output voltages. Conversely, urea induces an increase up to 13%. Experimental validation confirms the stability, robustness, reliability, and reproducibility of TENSA, representing a significant advancement in healthcare technology, offering the potential for improved disease management and prevention strategies.

Catalyzing green competitiveness in hotel and tourism businesses: Leveraging digital dynamic capability and green creativity

The global push for green initiatives is in line with advancements in smart technology. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the impact of digital dynamic capability “organization's capacity to swiftly utilize digital technologies for innovation and adaptation” on green competitiveness in hotel and tourism businesses, considering green creativity as a mediator. Using the statistical program WarpPLS 7.0, the study employed PLS-SEM to examine 333 replies that were provided by middle-level managers of five-star hotels and category-A travel agencies in Egypt. The study revealed that digital dynamic capability positively impacts both green competitiveness and green creativity. In addition, the study found that green creativity significantly mediates the relationship between digital dynamic capability and green competitiveness. The study offers fresh insights into how emerging concepts like digital dynamic capability predict green competitiveness in the tourism and hospitality industries.

Tunable optically transparent graphene–ITO patterning-based millimeter-wave absorber

In this work, we demonstrated a multilayer millimeter-wave absorber capable of tuning the absorption frequency while simultaneously maintaining the optical transparency. It comprises indium tin oxide (ITO) as the bottom ground plane deposited over polyvinyl chloride (PVC) substrate over which a patterned ITO layer is formed. Above this ITO layer, a PVC spacer is put to isolate the upper graphene sandwich structure (GSS) comprising of two patterned graphene mediums separated by a diaphragm paper. The configuration shows the tunability of reflectance minima (which correspond to high absorptance of ≥ 98 %) in a frequency range of 92.5–97.5 GHz due to the adjustable bias voltage applied to GSS. Additionally, the designed absorber demonstrates adequate shielding effect, generally required for both commercial and military applications in the stated frequency range. This simultaneously configurable and optically transparent device has potential in multispectral and smart stealth technologies, particularly 6G applications.

Advancements in biomedical device implants: A comprehensive review of current technologies

This review paper explores the critical role of biomedical engineers in developing advanced biomedical device implants, emphasizing their involvement in research, design, and clinical implementation. It highlights the interdisciplinary collaboration between engineers, medical professionals, and materials scientists, which is essential for the successful advancement of implant technologies. The paper also examines recent implant materials, design, and functionality innovations, focusing on integrating smart technologies and sustainable materials. Furthermore, it discusses the challenges of ensuring biocompatibility and safety and the ethical and regulatory considerations that guide the development of these devices. The review concludes with an outlook on the future of biomedical implants, identifying emerging trends and potential breakthroughs that could further revolutionize patient care.

Digitalization and Decarbonization of Sri Lanka's Electric Power System: A Way Forward for Sustainability

The global energy landscape is undergoing a transformative shift driven by the dual imperatives of digitalization and decarbonization, essential for creating sustainable and resilient power systems (Lichtenthaler, 2021, [1]). This transformation is particularly critical for developing nations like Sri Lanka, where the integration of smart technologies and renewable energy sources can significantly enhance system efficiency and contribute to a robust response to climate change challenges (Lichtenthaler, 2021, [1]). This paper examines the potential of leveraging advanced digital technologies—such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and the Internet of Things—to optimize energy management and facilitate a swift transition toward a low-emission economy in Sri Lanka, while addressing the socio-economic implications of this transition. Furthermore, this study highlights the importance of fostering a circular economy through these technological advancements, emphasizing that innovative solutions can not only improve energy efficiency but also contribute to broader sustainability goals, ensuring equitable access to resources and combating the adverse effects of climate change. Through this lens, the investigation underscores the necessity of a holistic approach that integrates digital transformation with sustainable practices, enabling the decoupling of economic activity from resource depletion and environmental degradation, thereby fostering a resilient energy future for Sri Lanka.

Функционирование умного сельского хозяйства в АПК городской агломерации

The article describes the possibilities and feasibility of using digital technologies in agriculture; population growth trends in the world and the need to use smart technologies to ensure increased labor productivity in the industry. The article identifies barriers to the implementation of digitalization in agriculture: lack of accessible infrastructure (broadband and incomplete Internet coverage in the re-gions); partial use of digital technology capabilities; lack of financial resources for the implementation of technologies; distrust of digital technologies; the presence of a large number of reporting forms in the industry; lack of information on digital technologies and the results of their use; low qualification of personnel in the field of digital technologies. The article reflects digital technologies for the formation of smart agriculture in the agro-industrial complex in modern conditions. The produc-tion and financial indicators of the Krasnodarskoye educational farm of the Kuban State Agrarian University over the past 5 years are analyzed as successfully demonstrating the experience of functioning of smart agriculture in the agro-industrial complex of the Krasnodar urban agglomeration.

Applications of Machine Learning: Classifying Wheat Seeds through Computer Neural Networks

In the past few decades, the incompetent processes of traditional mechanical seed sorting have given rise to new, innovative methods, along with the integration of smart technology in agriculture. The present study created a multi-classification machine learning model that classifies wheat seeds based on given characteristics by giving highly accurate predictions for future samples based on given data. Due to various uses of different types of seeds, effective sorting is an integral preparatory stage for food processing. The dataset used in the study included seven features (directly measured characteristics of seeds), three labels (types of seeds), and around two hundred examples. The seven features include area, perimeter, compactness, kernel length, kernel width, asymmetry coefficient, and kernel groove. The first model was created through neural networks trained on all seven characteristics, reaching an overall accuracy of 0.94. Implementing a decision tree method, feature selection was applied to the data, which distinguished kernel groove, kernel width, and asymmetry coefficient as the three most important features. A new model was constructed with only the three selected features, which reduced the risk of overfitting, eliminated noise, and yielded a higher accuracy (0.96) than the previous model. Both multi-classification models used the softmax activation function and results were compared; feature selection noticeably reduced any inaccuracies, including categorical cross entropy loss. The main incentive of the study was to develop an effective model to sort wheat seeds (to replace traditional mechanical sorting) and provide reasonable recommendations for practical use through an analysis of feature selection.