User-friendly Control Research Articles

REVEALS: an open-source multi-camera GUI for rodent behavior acquisition.

Deciphering the rich repertoire of mouse behavior is crucial for understanding the functions of both the healthy and diseased brain. However, the current landscape lacks effective, affordable, and accessible methods for acquiring such data, especially when employing multiple cameras simultaneously. We have developed REVEALS (Rodent Behavior Multi-Camera Laboratory Acquisition), a graphical user interface for acquiring rodent behavioral data via commonly used USB3 cameras. REVEALS allows for user-friendly control of recording from one or multiple cameras simultaneously while streamlining the data acquisition process, enabling researchers to collect and analyze large datasets efficiently. We release this software package as a stand-alone, open-source framework for researchers to use and modify according to their needs. We describe the details of the graphical user interface implementation, including the camera control software and the video recording functionality. We validate results demonstrating the graphical user interface's stability, reliability, and accuracy for capturing rodent behavior using DeepLabCut in various behavioral tasks. REVEALS can be incorporated into existing DeepLabCut, MoSeq, or other custom pipelines to analyze complex behavior. In summary, REVEALS offers an interface for collecting behavioral data from single or multiple perspectives, which, when combined with deep learning algorithms, enables the scientific community to identify and characterize complex behavioral phenotypes.

IoT based Smart Home Energy Tracker and Saver

The knowledge about the amount of energy used every month or day at home is the initial step to reduce the energy usage. So, the proposed research focusses on developing a smart energy management system using the IoT to track the daily electricity usage and enhance the energy efficiency at home. The system employs network of sensors placed throughout the home to monitor energy usage in real-time. The information gathered is transmitted to the Blynk Cloud and visualized through the Blynk app. The chart displayed in the Blynk app enables the user to identify the excessive energy usage and reduce both consumption and the electricity bills. By integrating IoT technology and user-friendly control interfaces, this research aims to provide homeowners with actionable insights to minimize energy waste, reduce utility bills, and contribute to environmental conservation.

Arduino-Controlled Multi-Function Robot with Bluetooth and nRF24L01+ Communication

This paper outlines the design and development of an advanced robotic system that integrates hardware implementation with theoretical simulation to address the need for versatile and user-friendly robotic solutions in various environments. Addressing the issue of limited adaptability in existing robotic systems, we propose a wireless, voice and gesture-controlled robot car with an integrated robotic arm capable of performing complex tasks such as line following, obstacle avoidance, object manipulation, and autonomous navigation over one-kilometer range. To improve operational efficiency and user involvement, this paper designs a multifunctional robotic platform that integrates user-friendly control interfaces with inexpensive, state-of-the-art sensor technologies. To achieve this, we integrate a variety of sensors, including ultrasonic sensors for precise distance measurement, infrared sensors for object detection and line following, an L298 motor driver for controlling geared motors, servo motors for controlling robotic arms, a flex sensor for claw control, and an mpu6050 accelerometer for gesture recognition. The system also uses a custom-made Bluetooth app for remote control, nRF24L01+ for long-range wireless control, and Arduino Mega and Nano for processing and control functions. The results demonstrate the robot functions well in dynamic conditions, and it can be used in hospitals to assist healthcare professionals, in restaurants for food delivery, and in industrial settings for object manipulation. The system’s design proves robust in real-world scenarios, offering significant improvements in accessibility and operational efficiency. This study aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). The robotic arm's potential application in healthcare settings advances SDG 3, its contribution to industrial productivity advances SDG 9, and collaborations with tech companies to expand and improve the robot's capabilities promote SDG 17.

Coupled photothermal vortices for capture, sorting, and transportation of particles.

Optofluidic techniques have evolved as a prospering strategy for microparticle manipulation via fluid. Unfortunately, there is still a lack of manipulation with simple preparation, easy operation, and multifunctional integration. In this Letter, we present an optofluidic device based on a graphite oxide (GO)-coated dual-fiber structure for multifunctional particle manipulation. By changing the optical power and the relative distance of the fibers, the system can excite thermal fluidic vortices with three inter-coupled states, namely uncoupled, partially coupled and completely coupled states, and therefore can realize capture, sorting, and transportation of the target particles. We conduct a numerical analysis of the whole system, and the results are consistent with the experimental phenomena. This versatile device can be utilized to manipulate target particles in complex microscopic material populations with the advantages of flexible operation, user-friendly control, and low cost.

Affordable and customizable electrospinning set-up based on 3D printed components

The widespread use of electrospinning, a technique widely used for fabricating micro/nanofibrous materials, has been limited by the high acquisition costs of commercial equipment. This study introduces an accessible alternative by leveraging 3D-printing technology, providing detailed insights into the design and functionality of each component. Specifically, a cost-effective syringe pump, a rotating collector that allows fiber orientation control, and a user-friendly control unit are described. The affordability and customizability of the proposed setup are emphasized, demonstrating its versatility in accelerating material research. Experimental results on polyvinyl difluoride (PVDF) showcase successful electrospinning, validating the efficacy of the 3D-printed electrospinning device. This innovative solution aims to increase the method’s availability and broader utilization in research and development applications.

Assistive Orthosis for Paralysis People Using 3d Printing Model

Abstract: The Monoplegia is a one type of paralysis. The Monoplegia patients do not do the regularElbow Extension and Flexion activities, because weakens muscle movements, mainly due to nervedamage. This orthosis is used to externally assist patients elbow extension and flexion movements.An elbow extension and flexion assist orthosis is automatic functioning system. When the patientis shaking the fingers, vibration sensor detects the vibration and the device is extending the hand by using Linear actuator and flexion is also done by a same procedure. The prototype is design in 3d printing model which was a make the design lightweight as much possible. Consider incorporating a user-friendly control interface that allows the patient to adjust the level ofassistance or control the device based on their comfort and needs. Implement safety features to prevent sudden or unintended movements that could cause discomfort or injury .Design the orthosis to be easily adjustable to accommodate different arm sizes and shapes. Allow for customization based on the individual's specific range of motion and strength. efficient and lightweight power source, considering the need for mobility and comfort. Optimize the battery lifeto ensure the device can be used throughout the day without frequent recharging. Ensure that the materials used in the 3D printing model are durable, hypoallergenic, and lightweight .Pay attentionto the ergonomic design to maximize comfort during prolonged use. Develop a comprehensive user training program to help patients become familiar with the device and optimize its use. Ensurethat the design complies with relevant medical device regulations and standards to guarantee safetyand efficacy. Collaborate with healthcare professionals, therapists, and end-users to gather feedback and make continuousimprovements to the design. Thus the prototype will help to recoveras soon as possible from the monoplegia condition.

Screw Jack Mechanism for Reducing Effort

This report delineates the design parameters for a mechanical screw jack engineered to hoist a 300kg load. Emphasizing structural robustness, operational efficiency, and user safety as primary objectives, the design framework integrates various considerations. A sturdy framework, constructed from high- strength materials, forms the backbone of the design, engineered to endure the imposed load. Critical components, notably the threaded screw and supporting structure, undergo meticulous analysis to ascertain their load-bearing capacity, with safety margins incorporated to avert structural failure. To enhance operational efficiency, the design meticulously selects materials and geometries to minimize frictional losses and optimize mechanical advantage. Furthermore, the screw jack integrates a mechanical locking mechanism to secure the lifted load, preventing inadvertent descent. Safety features are integral, encompassing overload protection mechanisms to forestall exceeding the rated capacity and a user-friendly control system to facilitate straightforward operation. Moreover, ergonomic considerations are factored in to ensure user comfort and operational ease. In summary, this abstract encapsulates the core principles of a mechanical screw jack engineered to handle a 300kg load, prioritizing structural integrity, operational efficiency, and user safety in its design ethos.+

Design and Fabrication of Automatic Multipurpose Sieving Machine

The Multipurpose Sieving Machine is a versatile and efficient mechanical device designed for the classification and separation of diverse particulate materials. This innovative equipment integrates advanced sieving technologies to accommodate a wide range of applications across various industries. The key features include a robust frame supporting a customizable sieving deck, a dynamic vibration mechanism for effective particle separation, and an adjustable inclination for enhanced flexibility. The machine is designed to handle different types of materials, from granular substances to powders, offering a scalable solution for industrial processes. The user-friendly control interface ensures ease of operation and allows for real-time adjustments, optimizing the sieving performance. With its adaptability, efficiency, and user-centric design, the Multipurpose Sieving Machine stands as a reliable solution for sieving and classification requirements in industries such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and construction. Construction work of buildings requires sand of different gradings. Presently the sand sieving is done manually by labours. This makes it a time- consuming process. Same mesh cannot be used for obtaining different sand grades. Sieving of grains is done manually and consumes lot of time. Our research work proposes an idea of motorized sieving machine that uses a 12-volt DC motor to vibrate the mesh. The machine shall have changeable mesh based on the sand grading requirement/grains to be sieved.

Aquaculture Monitoring and Control System Based On IOT

- This project offers a comprehensive solution for monitoring and regulating aquaculture conditions using cutting-edge Internet of Things (IoT) technology. By leveraging ESP8266 NodeMCU and Arduino UNO, alongside a range of sensors including the DS18B20 waterproof temperature sensor, water level sensor, and turbidity sensor, it ensures real-time monitoring of vital parameters in aquatic environments. Precise control of water circulation and management is made possible through the integration of motor drivers with submersible pumps. The Blynk App serves as the user-friendly control interface, granting remote access and management of water pumps. Meanwhile, sensor data is continuously collected and displayed on ThingSpeak, offering consumers valuable insights into the current state of their aquaculture setup. This project harnesses IoT technology to enhance aquaculture management efficiency and productivity, while also ensuring optimal environmental conditions for aquatic life. Its modular design enables scalability and customization, catering to various aquaculture configurations and settings. Key Words: Arduino UNO, Sensors, Motor Driver, Wifi Module, ThingSpeak, IOT, Aquaculture, Blynk App.

Efficient Screening of Pharmaceutical Cocrystals by Microspacing In-Air Sublimation.

Cocrystal screening and single-crystal growth remain the primary obstacles in the development of pharmaceutical cocrystals. Here, we present a new approach for cocrystal screening, microspacing in-air sublimation (MAS), to obtain new cocrystals and grow high-quality single crystals of cocrystals within tens of minutes. The method possesses the advantages of strong designable ability of devices, user-friendly control, and compatibility with materials, especially for the thermolabile molecules. A novel drug-drug cocrystal of favipiravir (FPV) with salicylamide (SAA) was first discovered by this method, which shows improved physiochemical properties. Furthermore, this method proved effective in cultivating single crystals of FPV-isonicotinamide (FPV-INIA), FPV-urea, FPV-nicotinamide (FPV-NIA), and FPV-tromethamine (FPV-Tro) cocrystals, and the structures of these cocrystals were determined for the first time. By adjusting the growth temperature and growth distance precisely, we also achieved single crystals of 10 different paracetamol (PCA) cocrystals and piracetam (PIR) cocrystals, which underscores the versatility and efficiency of this method in pharmaceutical cocrystal screening.

Design and implementation of an innovative canned cycle for variable pitch thread cutting on CNC milling machines

This paper presents the development of a new canned cycle for CNC milling machines capable of cutting threads with variable pitch, addressing a significant limitation in modern CNC systems. While existing CNC milling machines provide canned cycles for thread cutting, they lack the capability to program variable pitch, necessitating reliance on CAM systems. In response, the proposed canned cycle offers increased flexibility, quicker setup times, and reduced dependence on CAM systems. The cycle accommodates both internal and external threads, supports left-hand or right-hand threading, and incorporates a user-friendly control panel for easy programming. To validate its efficiency, the canned cycle is implemented using a G-code parametric algorithm, and a series of simulation tests are conducted. The results demonstrate the viability and advantages of the new CNC milling feature in cutting threads with variable pitch, opening up possibilities for various mechanical applications.

Design and Development of an Efficient, High Power Factor, Low-Cost, RGB LED System for Tuneable Lighting Application

Branded smart red (R) – green (G) – blue (B) light emitting diode (LED) products commercially available in developing countries are too costly to afford for most of the population, especially for household applications. Locally manufactured cheaper alternatives of such products suffer from poor power factor and reduced circuit efficiency. To address these technical issues, a smart RGB LED system is presented here which offers high input power factor, good circuit efficiency, and at the same time lower fabrication cost and user-friendly control interface. The unique features of the proposed system are the front-end AC/DC converter is a constant-voltage, multiple-output flyback converter that mitigates the need of multiple drivers and inductors. The second is that the same converter is operated in discontinuous conduction mode to achieve a high input power factor. The third is that for dimming and colour tuning, pulse width modulation (PWM) control of the MOSFET switches is accomplished by an Arduino Mega 2560 microcontroller instead of other costlier and more sophisticated options. And the fourth is that the microcontroller gets its command signal from a smartphone or computer through an HC‑05 Bluetooth module. Through laboratory testing, it is confirmed that the LED system offers close-to-unity input power factor (0.928–0.985) and high efficiency of (88.14–95.46) % for a wide range of colour and luminous intensity. A comparative study reveals that the developed system is a better option than the earlier reported prototypes of multicolour LED systems in terms of the bill of material, economy, power factor, and efficiency.

Cross-Domain and Disentangled Face Manipulation With 3D Guidance.

Face image manipulation via three-dimensional guidance has been widely applied in various interactive scenarios due to its semantically-meaningful understanding and user-friendly controllability. However, existing 3D-morphable-model-based manipulation methods are not directly applicable to out-of-domain faces, such as non-photorealistic paintings, cartoon portraits, or even animals, mainly due to the formidable difficulties in building the model for each specific face domain. To overcome this challenge, we propose, as far as we know, the first method to manipulate faces in arbitrary domains using human 3DMM. This is achieved through two major steps: 1) disentangled mapping from 3DMM parameters to the latent space embedding of a pre-trained StyleGAN2 [1] that guarantees disentangled and precise controls for each semantic attribute; and 2) cross-domain adaptation that bridges domain discrepancies and makes human 3DMM applicable to out-of-domain faces by enforcing a consistent latent space embedding. Experiments and comparisons demonstrate the superiority of our high-quality semantic manipulation method on a variety of face domains with all major 3D facial attributes controllable - pose, expression, shape, albedo, and illumination. Moreover, we develop an intuitive editing interface to support user-friendly control and instant feedback. Our project page is https://cassiepython.github.io/cddfm3d/index.html.

Evaluation of the visual-manual resources required to perform calling and navigation tasks in conventional mode with a portable phone and in full- touch mode with an embedded system

This study investigates the differences in a driver’s visual-manual behavior when performing secondary tasks while driving under the full-touch mode (FTM) and the conventional mode (CM). To this end, 30 participants were recruited to perform secondary tasks while driving two vehicles equipped with different HMI system interaction modes. The results show that compared to the CM, in the FTM, fewer visual-manual resources are required to perform the calling task, but for the navigation task, this requirement is higher. Additionally, in both modes, the driver exhibited self-regulation visual-manual behavior when performing secondary tasks as the driving speed increased. However, the effect of the driving speed on visual-manual behavior was greater in the FTM than in the CM. The main limitation of this study is that the effect of the difference between the two experimental vehicles on the findings was not considered, however, this does not affect the generalization of the findings.

Paper-based colorimetric glucose sensor using Prussian blue nanoparticles as mimic peroxidase

A novel paper-based colorimetric glucose sensor was proposed employing Prussian blue nanoparticles (PB NPs) as mimic peroxidase. The sensor was manufactured by spraying solution containing PB NPs, glucose oxidase and chromogenic agents into a paper, then coating the filter layer and spreading layer on the top. The layer-by-layer structure enabled the sensor detect glucose in whole blood, as well as elimination of the coffee-ring effect which ensure the performance. As a powerful alternative to natural peroxidase, PB NPs showed the mimic enzymatic activity well preserved in dry environment. The manufacture process of the sensor is easy to be industrialized. Under optimal conditions, the sensor exhibited a linear range from 2.5 mM to 25 mM for glucose in blood with satisfactory reproducibility (the coefficient of variant <4%), great storage stability (1 month at 45 °C) and excellent linearity compared with those commercial kits (R > 0.99). Coupled with a handhold device, the PB NPs-based test strip realized the goal of personal operation, user-friendly control, automatic readouts, and data storage, and able to link the Cloud, showing unique potential in clinical application, especially in community-level medical scenarios.

RFID Technology Study for Traffic Signage Inventory Management Application

This paper presents the design and analysis of an automated traffic signage inventory management system employing the radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology. Traffic signage inventory management faces the operational challenge of recognizing a large number of traffic signs spread in a large area without obvious identifications on them. Thanks to the remote sensing ability of RFID, the operational efficiency can be significantly improved by scanning traffic signs remotely in motion. The system consists of an in-vehicle RFID reader and a handheld RFID reader, both of which connect to mobile applications with user-friendly interfaces. Additionally, user-friendly control software and a database are developed. In this paper, the adequacy of the RFID technology for the task is assessed. On the theoretical side, this paper investigates the radio-wave propagation model and the antenna radiation range. Additionally, the influences of the vehicle speed and the sign-to-reader distance on the reading performance are studied and empirical tests of the tag positioning are conducted. Finally, a system protocol is validated by a field test.

An automated 3D-printed perfusion bioreactor combinable with pulsed electromagnetic field stimulators for bone tissue investigations

In bone tissue engineering research, bioreactors designed for replicating the main features of the complex native environment represent powerful investigation tools. Moreover, when equipped with automation, their use allows reducing user intervention and dependence, increasing reproducibility and the overall quality of the culture process. In this study, an automated uni-/bi-directional perfusion bioreactor combinable with pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) stimulation for culturing 3D bone tissue models is proposed. A user-friendly control unit automates the perfusion, minimizing the user dependency. Computational fluid dynamics simulations supported the culture chamber design and allowed the estimation of the shear stress values within the construct. Electromagnetic field simulations demonstrated that, in case of combination with a PEMF stimulator, the construct can be exposed to uniform magnetic fields. Preliminary biological tests on 3D bone tissue models showed that perfusion promotes the release of the early differentiation marker alkaline phosphatase. The histological analysis confirmed that perfusion favors cells to deposit more extracellular matrix (ECM) with respect to the static culture and revealed that bi-directional perfusion better promotes ECM deposition across the construct with respect to uni-directional perfusion. Lastly, the Real-time PCR results of 3D bone tissue models cultured under bi-directional perfusion without and with PEMF stimulation revealed that the only perfusion induced a ~ 40-fold up-regulation of the expression of the osteogenic gene collagen type I with respect to the static control, while a ~ 80-fold up-regulation was measured when perfusion was combined with PEMF stimulation, indicating a positive synergic pro-osteogenic effect of combined physical stimulations.

Overview of the CFETR remote handling system and the development progress

Due to the extreme environment inside the vacuum vessel of Chinese Fusion Engineering Test Reactor (CFETR), the maintenance of core components after shutdown cannot be carried out by human operator or general equipment at the maintenance site. A remote handling (RH) system, which uses the radiation-enhanced automation equipment and is controlled remotely by operators, is adopted. The engineering design of the CFETR RH system has been conducted in the past few years with a novel maintenance strategy of transferring the blanket and divertor components through the vertical upper port. A heavy-load robotic manipulator is illustrated, entering the CFETR vessel through an equatorial port to implement in-vessel maintenance tasks with exchangeable end-effectors and support blanket and divertor RH system. An integrated supervisory control system is being developed to provide a safe, reliable, and user-friendly control interface. Finally, despite all the progress that the CFETR RH team has made, it can be said that the CFETR RH system still faces challenges considering the hostile environment as well as the complex and heavy load maintenance process.

A Sustainable Business Framework Using Solar and Bio-Energy to Instate Incessant Power in Rural India: Optimal Scheduling, Smart Metering, and Economic Viability

In this paper, a profitable strategy of utilizing solar and bio-energy available in a rural location for meeting the energy deficit is discussed. The proposed model can provide 24-hour continual power supply to the vicinity without the need for any battery. The land requirement is minimal in the proposed model making it cost-effective for implementation. The paper provides a step by step procedure to optimally size the solar and bio-power plants and schedule their operation for maximum utility. A programmable smart meter connected with a central system having a user-friendly control algorithm has also been proposed at every home for end-user profitability. The smart meter will indicate energy consumption in local home, its solar energy generation, vicinity power demand, current tariff of power usage, energy imported/exported and other required details. The proposed model is discussed in detail for comprising of two adjacent villages named Gaddikheri and Tajamajra in Rohtak (Haryana), North India (having 768 houses). The technical and financial analysis at this location is done using RETScreen expert software and the results are presented. The system is found to provide 24-hr power supply and also be profitable with the capital cost being recovered in less than 8 years time. Apart from this, the proposed system also provides other benefits like reduction in greenhouse gas emission (by 93&#x0025;), auto power theft control, bio-fertilizers, and a clean environment.

Lighting the Patient Room of the Future: Evaluating Different Lighting Conditions From the Patient Perspective.

This study explores whether "future" lighting systems that provide greater control and opportunity for circadian synchronization are acceptable to participants in the role of patients. Tunable, dimmable light emitting diode systems provide multiple potential benefits for healthcare. They can provide significant energy savings, support circadian synchronization by varying the spectrum and intensity of light over the course of the day, address nighttime navigation needs, and provide user-friendly control. There is an emerging understanding of the important visual and nonvisual effects of light; however, important questions remain about the experience and acceptability of this "future" lighting if we are to adopt it broadly. Volunteer participants (34) performed a series of tasks typical of patients, such as reading or watching a video, in a full-scale simulated inpatient room. Each participant conducted these tasks under 12 lighting conditions in a counterbalanced order that included varying illuminance levels, correlated color temperatures (CCTs), and in a few conditions, saturated colors. The participants rated each lighting condition on comfort, intensity, appropriateness, and naturalness. The participants found that conditions with CCTs of 5,000 K and higher were significantly less comfortable and less natural than conditions with lower CCTs. Conditions with lighting distributed in multiple zones in the patient room were viewed more favorably than a traditional overbed configuration. The participants in this simulated patient study reacted negatively to colored lighting on the footwall of the room but found a mixture of warmer and cooler luminaire CCTs acceptable.