Control Technique Research Articles

Earned Value Management in Intralogistics: A Case Study in Mexican Manufacturing

Earned Value Management (EVM) is a project management tool primarily used in engineering and project management to assess performance in terms of cost and schedule. Earned Value Management/Scheduling systems (EVM/ES) have been fundamental in project control, providing key metrics that measure deviations between planned and actual performance in terms of time and cost. However, its application as a project control technique is not very common in Mexico. In this article, EVM was applied to the intralogistics improvement of a manufacturing process in the automotive sector located in Aguascalientes, Mexico. The case study concluded in February 2024 and includes the project scope, scheduling charts, physical progress reports, and budgeted versus actual cost reports. The aim of this article is to provide practical evidence on how to apply EVM in manufacturing projects in Mexico. This will enable project professionals to more effectively utilize EVM for schedule and cost control in their manufacturing projects, with a specific emphasis on intralogistics.

An Innovative AgNP-based Solar Panel Coating and Farmland Fertility Optimization (FFO) based Power Extraction Methodology for Grid Systems

In the power electronic system, coated solar panels attracted a lot of interest in present times. The proposed work aims to achieve two key objectives: maximal power extraction and solar panel coating. To reduce the cost of coating material for solar panels, Silver Nano Particles (AgNPs) are first collected from the leaves of Rose periwinkle plants. This strategy aims to achieve maximal power extraction by coating solar panels with green synthesized silver nanoparticles. To reduce the cost of coating material, Rosy periwinkle plant leaves are used to synthesize silver nanoparticles or AgNPs. To ascertain the framework's capacity for measuring energy both before and after the panels are coated with AgNP, this study theoretically analyses the data. The power current and voltage-current characteristics of the study were validated, enabling an examination of the study's effectiveness. The coated type outperformed the normal solar panel by 2%, according to the results. With a new approach called Farmland Fertility Optimization – Maximum Power Position Tracking, the precise peak site for increased energy yield is discovered. The bi-directional converter is also utilized to mitigate stress and increase voltage gain. To improve the power quality with fewer harmonics, the 3-phase inverter and the LC filtering circuits are used. Finally, a variety of performance measures are used to confirm the results of coated solar panels using power-tracking control techniques. The findings suggest that AgNP-coated solar panels provide the best possible electrical energy with improved voltage, current, and power quality. Performance evaluation shows that the coated solar panel's power tracking efficiency has increased to 99% with decreased harmonics of 2.52%.

AMÉLIORATION DE LA CORRECTION DU FACTEUR DE PUISSANCE DANS UN CONVERTISSEUR AC-DC AVEC UN CIRCUIT BOOST-FLYBACK INTÉGRÉ

Due to advancements in semiconductor technology, modern controllers, and nonlinear characteristics, loads are increasingly used in industrial applications. Because of nonlinear traits, harmonics are introduced in the main supply, and the supply current is distorted. Numerous power factor correction (PFC) converter topologies are established for proper wave shaping. The integration of conventional PFC converters produces superior results in high voltage on the output side and improves efficiency. A single-stage boost flyback integrated PFC converter is investigated in this paper, which provides high efficiency, high output voltage, and less voltage stress. This converter uses a lesser number of components, which results in a compact size and low cost. The enhancement of power factor, efficiency, and wave shaping of the current waveform is realized through various control techniques. A novel current sensorless control for the integrated topology is investigated, and it is shown that it provides better total harmonic distortion and current wave shaping than other control techniques. A 48 W, 12/48 V prototype model is implemented to validate the simulation results practically.

COMMANDE HYBRIDE DE MODE COULISSANT FUZZY TYPE-1 ET 2 DU MOTEUR À INDUCTION

This paper focuses on developing two innovative induction motor (IM) control techniques. These techniques are based on the hybridization of Lyapunov theory (sliding mode) and artificial intelligence (type 1 and type 2 fuzzy logic). We will then compare these two control techniques to determine which is more robust. This comparative analysis will be based on a series of tests that we have carried out, covering the system's transient and steady-state operations under identical conditions. The first test involves observing the simulation results obtained by applying these control techniques to the motor to control the generated mechanical power. This qualitative comparison enables these controls to be evaluated for and without the application of external variations. The second test quantifies the different control laws based on quantified measurements, highlighting the performance of each technique in terms of error and time. This test is called a quantitative comparison. Finally, the last examination involves altering the machine parameters, as these values naturally experience fluctuations caused by diverse physical phenomena like inductance saturation and heating of the resistors. This comparison enables the robustness of the control techniques to be assessed.

ENHANCEMENT RIPPLES OF A DIRECT TORQUE CONTROL APPLIED TO A PERMANENT MAGNET SYNCHRONOUS MOTOR BY USING A FOUR-LEVEL MULTICELLULAR INVERTER AND A NEW REDUCED SWITCHING TABLE

The improvement of the direct control of flux and torque (DTC) essentially consists of reducing the ripples encountered at the levels of the torque and the stator magnetic flux. This control technique is widely used in various applications that recently employ the permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM). The improvement techniques are grouped into two large families: those that use multilevel inverters and require an additional cost to the driven system, which is only encouraging if the application covers this cost, and those that offer selection tables. This last solution is advantageous because it does not need any added device. In this paper, we propose to combine the two solutions, using a reduced switching table (RST) compared to the conventional switching table (CST) and using a four-level multicellular inverter (4LMI). This solution brought very satisfactory results by significantly reducing the ripples.

Experimental study on the water entry of a vehicle with a single canard wing at an initial angle of attack

The use of flow control techniques is important to enhance vehicle motion stability during water entry. This paper introduces a method that applies a canard wing to the water entry problem, and the vertical water-entry process of a vehicle with a single canard wing at an initial angle of attack was experimentally studied. The cavity evolution and vehicle kinematics during water entry at various impact velocities and initial angles of attack were investigated. The results indicate that the fore-end cavity and the attached cavity on the wing are features of a vehicle with a canard wing during water entry. Unlike a wingless vehicle, the canard-wing configuration provides a restoring moment that corrects the deflection of the trajectory and attitude. As the impact velocity increased, the vehicle trajectory gradually corrected to a vertical straight-line trajectory before deflecting in the direction opposite to the side without a wing. As the initial angle of attack increased, the vehicle trajectory gradually shifted towards the side with the wing; however, the attitude remained stable without continuous deflection. The canard wing prevents a continuous change in attitude deflection caused by the initial angle of attack.

SUIVI DE LA QUALITÉ DE PUISSANCE MAXIMALE D'UN GÉNÉRATEUR D'INDUCTION À DOUBLE ALIMENTATION BASÉ SUR UN CONTRÔLEUR DE RÉSEAU NEURONAL ARTIFICIEL POUR SYSTÈME DE CONVERSION D'ÉNERGIE ÉOLIENNE

Renewable energy sources are playing a crucial role in satisfying the upcoming energy source needs for the world. The current power system is power electronics converter based, with several non-linear loads and spotted generations of renewable energy sources, resulting in many power quality issues. Most existing research analyzed MATLAB simulations and presented a high Total Harmonics Distortion (THD) level. This research work proposed an artificial neural network (ANN) control technique for a doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) based wind energy conversion systems (WECSs). To decrease chattering phenomena during the excitation arrangement, an advanced controller works for adaptive modification of the irregular power gain, even preserving the strength of the closed-loop scheme. The proposed PI controller one step forward improves reliability and tracks maximum voltage from the pulse width modulation rectifier. At primary, the modeling of the DFIG was presented. Then, using the proposed ANN controller, the rotor magnitude was tuned to recognize vector control of active and reactive power. The converter intends to activate at unity power factor and provide input currents with adequate harmonic content. The interface between the power’s electronic converter and the DFIG pulls out the most real power potential. The proposed prototype hardware model and simulation results are verified.

Quaternion-based adaptive backstepping fast terminal sliding mode control for quadrotor UAVs with finite time convergence

This paper proposes a novel quaternion-based approach for tracking the translation (position and linear velocity) and rotation (attitude and angular velocity) trajectories of underactuated Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Quadrotor UAVs are challenging regarding accuracy, singularity, and uncertainties issues. Controllers designed based on unit-quaternion are singularity-free for attitude representation compared to other methods (e.g., Euler angles), which fail to represent the vehicle's attitude at multiple orientations. Quaternion-based Adaptive Backstepping Control (ABC) and Adaptive Fast Terminal Sliding Mode Control (AFTSMC) are proposed to address a set of challenging problems. A quaternion-based ABC, a superior recursive approach, is proposed to generate the necessary thrust handling unknown uncertainties and UAV translation trajectory tracking. Next, a quaternion-based AFTSMC is developed to overcome parametric uncertainties, avoid singularity, and ensure fast convergence in a finite time. Moreover, the proposed AFTSMC is able to significantly minimize control signal chattering, which is the main reason for actuator failure and provide smooth and accurate rotational control input. To ensure the robustness of the proposed approach, the designed control algorithms have been validated considering unknown time-variant parametric uncertainties and significant initialization errors. The proposed techniques have been compared to state-of-the-art control technique.

Leech, potato, and tomato carboxypeptidase inhibitors against Anopheles stephensi carboxypeptidase B1 and B2

Carboxypeptidase B (CPB) in Anopheles spp. breaks down blood and releases free amino acids, which promote Plasmodium sexual development in the mosquito midgut. Our goal was to computationally assess the inhibitory effectiveness of carboxypeptidase inhibitors obtained from tomato, potato (CPiSt), and leech against the Anopheles stephensi CPBAs1 and CPBAs2 enzymes. The tertiary structures of CPB inhibitors were predicted and their interaction mode with CPBAs1 and CPBAs2 were examined using molecular docking. Next, this data was compared with four licensed medications that are known to reduce the Anopheles’ CPB activity. Molecular dynamics simulations were used to evaluate the stability of complexes containing CPiSt and its mutant form. Both CPiSt and its mutant form showed promise as possible candidates for further evaluations in the paratransgenesis technique for malaria control, based on the similar bindings of CPiSt and CPiSt-Mut to the active sites of CPBAs1 and CPBAs2, as well as their binding affinity in comparison to the drugs.

Dynamic Modeling and Analysis of Flexible-Joint Robots with Clearance.

The coupling effects of flexible joints and clearance on the dynamics of a robotic system were investigated. A numerical analysis was undertaken to reveal the coupling effects between flexible joints and clearance. The nonlinear spring-damping model and Coulomb model were applied to characterize the contact characteristics of the clearance, and a model for the flexible joint was formulated using the equivalent spring theory. An accurate robot model was established based on the clearance and joint flexibility characterization. The dynamic equation of a robot was obtained according to the Newton-Euler method. A comparative analysis was performed to assess the impacts of both the joint action of clearance and flexible joints and varying joint clearance values on the performance of the robot. The results showed that the coupling effects of flexible joints and clearance had a negative impact on the system dynamic performance. The amplitudes of the dynamic responses caused by the clearance are weakened by the flexible joint, but it leads to the lag of the system response. This study served as the theoretical foundation for exploring precise control techniques in robotics research.

Assessment of sublethal effects of permethrin on adult life characteristics and resistance dynamics in Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae)

Mosquitoes are regularly exposed to adverse effects of insecticides employed in field during vector control campaigns. Its primary goal is to eliminate the vector population; nevertheless, this practise typically ignores the residual impacts and long-term repercussions on the remaining population. Here, the current study analysed how sublethal exposure of insecticides alter the life qualities, genotypic and biochemical characteristics of mosquitoes. The resistance ratio value in Laboratory Resistant (Lab-R) larvae increased 10 times (0.010 mg/l to 0.108 mg/l) compared to Laboratory Susceptible (LabS) larvae. It also revealed that the surviving mosquitoes had 50% reduction in hatchability but had longer larval and pupal periods (15 days and 2 days), respectively. The survival rates decrease in female by 2 days but increase in male by 7 days which is of concern and necessitates additional study. Moreover, major role of monooxygenase was confirmed behind resistance development which was further supported by piperonyl butoxide assay where reduction in Tolerance Ratio (TR50) by 12-fold occurred and gene expression profile also showed high expression level of CYP6P12 gene. In resistant strain, cuticular thickness increased by 1.23 times and alteration at codon 1532 (ATC to TTC) on VGSC gene leads to mutation I1532F. The data gleaned from our work highlights the threat of sublethal insecticides on vector control techniques and offers ample evidence that the larval selection alters adult life qualities, metabolic properties and transgenerational features which contributes to the damage caused by resistance.

Challenges in Integration of RES and Control Techniques in Microgrid: A Review

Microgrids have gained extensive attention over the prior 20 years and are alleged to be a substantial compound of impending power systems. The main objective is to essence the carbon footmark and to enhance the utilisation of Renewable Energy Sources (RES). Integrating distributedenergy resources to create a microgrid will betremendously vital. The development of modern and future electricity networks, like the smart grid, is influenced by MGs because they can provide a variety of benefits to the increasingly complex and growing power system, like better power quality, increased efficiency, enhanced system integration of energy sources that are renewable and clean, and improved network stability and reliability. Microgrid implementation has difficulties controlling, operating, and protecting since integrating RES into the system is more difficult. This paper comprehensively presents the different novelties in integrating RES, control, and optimization.

Neuro-Adaptive-Based Fixed-Time Composite Learning Control for Manipulators With Given Transient Performance.

This article investigates an adaptive neural network (NN) control technique with fixed-time tracking capabilities, employing composite learning, for manipulators under constrained position error. The first step involves integrating the composite learning method into the NN to address the dynamic uncertainties that inevitably arise in manipulators. A composite adaptive updating law of NN weights is formulated, requiring adherence solely to the relaxed interval excitation (IE) conditions. In addition, for the output error, instead of knowing the initial conditions, this article integrates the error transfer function and asymmetric barrier function to achieve the specific performance for position error in both steady and transient states. Furthermore, the fixed-time control methodology and Lyapunov stability criterion are synergistically employed in order to guarantee the convergence of all signals in the manipulators to a compact neighborhood around the origin within a fixed-time. Finally, numerical simulation and experiments with the Baxter robot results both determine the capability of the NN composite learning technique and fixed-time control strategy.

Impact of PLL and non-PLL vector current control techniques on grid connected inverter

In the micro-grids, all the Distributed Power Generation Systems (DPGS) and loads are interconnected across the Point of Common Coupling (PCC). The stability and harmonics of the grid connected inverters are significantly impacted by uncertainties in the renewable energy sources based DPGS. The performance of these grid connected inverters across the PCC depends on the Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) used to track the grid angle and power control structures used to control the power fed to grid. These power control structures can be either PLL based or PLL less systems. The PLL based Vector Current Control Direct Quadrature (VCC DQ) control and PLL less Non-PLL Vector Control (NPVC) techniques are compared along with their controller design and bode plots. Also, the small signal models of grid connected inverter with PLL are presented from which the converter impedance is derived to show the effect of PLL on the system using bode plots. The impact of the PLL based and PLL less control techniques on the grid connected inverter are presented with analytical equations along with simulation and hardware results. A 6 kW grid connected inverter simulation model and 150 W hardware prototype is developed using TI F28379D processor to compare the performance of both with and without PLL control techniques.

Modified sliding mode control for seamless integration of P.V. energy in A.C. grid

Solar energy is a potentially abundant and reliable source of renewable energy. While it can undoubtedly increase grid reliability and efficiency, the inverted voltage generated from P.V. sources may introduce distortion into the A.C. grid. The proposed control mechanism, modified sliding mode control (MSMC), can seamlessly integrate the inverter output generated by obtaining D.C. voltage from the boost converter linked with the P.V. output. This research confirms the validity of the proposed method by comparing its results with a similar system that is only integrated through filters and with a system with a P.I. control technique. The simulation proves the effectiveness of seamlessly integrating the Photovoltaic (P.V.) source into the A.C. grid.

A Comparative Study between Ultrasound Guided Interscalene and Ultrasound Guided Suprascapular Nerve Blocks in Postoperative Pain and Hand Motor Power Affection in Shoulder Scope Surgeries

Abstract Background Interscalene approach of brachial plexus nerve block is recognized as the gold standard technique for postoperative pain control after shoulder scope surgeries. However, it is associated with major adverse effects and patient discomfort due to paralysis of the hand muscles. The suprascapular nerve block is considered to be a safe and effective alternative to interscalene nerve block for shoulder surgery without affecting the motor function of the hand muscles and other serious complications of interscalene nerve block, especially in ambulatory surgery. Aim of the work The aim of this study is to compare interscalene and suprascapular nerve block in terms of postoperative pain, opioid consumption, and hand grip strength in shoulderscopic surgeries. Patients and Methods This prospective, randomized trial was done in Ain Shams University Hospitals. A sample of 50 patients; 25 patients in each group, namely Group ISB (interscalene approach of brachial plexus block) and Group SSNB (suprascapular nerve block). Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was used to assess Shoulder pain at rest and upon flexion in the first 24 hours. The degree of hand motor power affection, the total amount of opioids used as rescue analgesia, and the incidence of complications were also recorded. Results The findings revealed no statistically significant difference between groups (p-value > 0.05) in pain control all over the 24 hours by VAS score at rest and at arm flexion. SSNB received a larger total narcotic dose (60±26.02) mg of pethidine than ISB (52±22.73). However, there was no statistical difference between them throughout the 24 hours regarding total narcotic consumption and 1st time for pethidine administration. The ISB group showed a statistically significant reduction in the hand power grip strength postoperatively (83.68±4.75 %). Conclusions The results of the present study favour SSNB as the first choice of pain control after shoulderscopic surgeries for a patient scheduled for early home discharge because of the complete recovery of the hand muscles’ motor power.

Ultrasound Guided Subscapularis and Subomohyoid Plane Blocks versus Interscalene Block with Levobupivacaine for Analgesia in Shoulder Surgery

Abstract Background Now Shoulder surgery is a common procedure, particularly as it is associated with reduced hospitalization times, even though the technique may lead to moderate and severe postoperative pain. In recent years, various studies have been carried out that demonstrated the need for valid anaesthetic techniques that allow adequate control of postoperative pain and also favour early mobilization and rehabilitation. Subscabularis and subomohyoid plane blocks allow pain control after shoulder surgery while decreasing the need of opioids and pain medication after surgery. In contrast to interscalene brachial plexus block, subscabularis and subomohyoid plane blocks carry minor risks of intrathecal injection or post operative respiratory distress. Aim of the Work to compare analgesic efficacy of ultrasound guided subomohyoid and subscapularis plane blocks versus interscalene block using levobupivacaine in both techniques for pain control after shoulder surgery. Patients and Methods This exploratory randomized clinical trial study was conducted in Ain Shams University hospital after approval of the anesthesia department and the local ethics and research committee over 6 months and after obtaining a written informed consent. Sixty patients underwent shoulder surgery under general anesthesia were included in the study their ages range between 21 and 65 years old and classified as ASA I and II. The patients were randomly divided using computer generated randomization and opaque sealed envelopes into two groups 30 patients in each (n = 30). Results In this study we find that combined subscapularis plane and sub-omohyoid injections may serve as an alternative to interscalene block for shoulder analgesia, with less complications. The present study shows no difference in the demographic data between the two groups (p-value >0.05). Also there was no statistically significant difference in the surgery duration between the two groups. But the duration of subomohyoid and subscapularis plane block was longer than the duration of interscalene block, the Mean± SD is (10.80±2.64 minutes) for subomohyoid and subscapularis plane blocks while interscalene block duration is (5.33±1.56 minutes) so there was astatically significant difference P-value <0.001. Conclusion Subscapularis plane and subomohyoid plane blocks can be used as an alternative shoulder analgesia with minor risks.

A complete control structure based backstepping controller design for stacked multi-cell multi-level SPWM VSC STATCOM

Currently, the installation of FACTS (Flexible Alternative Current Transmission System) devices such as synchronous static compensators (STATCOM) represent a very useful solution to improve both network stability and power quality. The effectiveness of these devices is principally determined by the used static converter (topology and the switching strategy) and the adopted dynamic law characterizing the controller structure. This paper illustrates the stacked five-level, multi-cell STATCOM compensator performances governed by a Backstepping controller technique compared to the use of the conventional PI controller (SPWM) for controlling voltage variation (sags or overshoots) affecting a given network point. The interest in using stacked multi-cell converters topology is to increase the number of voltage levels in order to ensure a good quality voltage waveform at the specified connection point. Therefore, the proposed backstepping controller based on the use of Lyapunov control functions presents a simplified structure and a reduced computational load compared to many others advanced control approaches. The proposed system is verified by running a simulation analysis with Matlab Simulink environment. The simulation results obtained show that the proposed STATCOM configuration ensures good voltage regulation at the common connection point (PCC), correction of the unity power factor on the grid side and good response time via reactive power compensation under variable load conditions.

Advanced vibrant controller results of an energetic framework structure

Abstract This research shows the influence of a new active controller technique on a parametrically energized cantilever beam (PECB) with a tip mass model. This article remains primarily concerned with regulating the system’s response using a novel control mechanism. This study describes a novel control mechanism called the nonlinear proportional-derivative cubic velocity feedback controller (NPDCVFC). The motivation of this article is to design a novel control algorithm in order to mitigate the nonlinear vibrations of a parametrically energized cantilever beam with a tip mass model. The proposed controller NPDCVFC incorporates nonlinearly second- and first-order filters into the system. The system is governed by one nonlinear differential equation having both quadratic and cubic nonlinearities within the parametric force. The controller’s efficiency in reducing framework vibrations, managing nonlinear bifurcations, and calming unstable motion is evaluated using numerical simulations of instantaneous vibrations. The perturbation technique is beneficial for solving the current model under the proposed worst resonance case ( Ω ˆ p = 2 ω ˆ 0 ) \text{(}{\hat{{\Omega }}}_{\text{p}}=2{\hat{{\omega }}}_{0}) . In order to choose the optimal controller, we have also added three more controller approaches to the configuration. Integral resonant control, positive position feedback, and nonlinear integral positive position feedback are the three controller approaches that are applied to the structure under consideration. We determine that the NPDCVFC as a new controller is the most effective for lowering the high vibration amplitudes. Over the investigated model, all numerical results were performed using the MATLAB 18.0 programmer software. The stability analysis and the effects of various elements on the controlled structure have been investigated. A comparison with recently published works of a comparable model has also been prepared. Experiment capacities for a PECB with a tip mass are obtainable to validate the results, and they demonstrate good agreement with analytical and numerical results.

Using Fungal and Bacterial Bioagent Formula Antagonists to Combat Fusarium Oxysporum f. sp. Lycopersici Under Greenhouse Conditions

Objective: This study aimed to test fungal and bacterial bioagents as formula antagonists of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici under greenhouse conditions. Methods: The fungal and bacterial formulations' shelf life under different temperatures as well as under growth chamber and greenhouse conditions, as well as their effects on biochemical alterations involved in the induction of plant defense against the causative pathogen were investigated. Results: In-vitro antagonist screening of bacterial and fungal isolates on radial growth, reduction and inhibition percentages revealed that T. harzianum exhibited 45.6% of inhibition followed by B. pumilus with 36.7%. Among the fungal and bacterial bio-agents, the highest effect on disease incidence and efficiency against pathogenic fungus under greenhouse conditions was B. pumilus 27 and 69%, respectively followed by T. harzianum 33 and 62% when applied before pathogen inoculation. Under greenhouse conditions, the effects of bio-fungicides also affected defense enzymes like peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase. The shelf life of the wettable powder formulation of bio-agents under different temperature was very important factor and established that the most suitable temperature for long term storage is 25 ºC for both B. pumilus and T. harzianum. Conclusion: Target application of disease control techniques in tomato plants demonstrated the efficacy of B. pumilus and T. harzianum in reducing Fusarium wilt. These results pave the way for the development of bio-agents that can replace fungicides in agriculture, offering a practical substitute.