Volume 11, Issue 1

Inhibition effect of the synergistic combination of thymus mastichina and illicium verum oil extracts (TMAV) on the corrosion inhibition of low carbon steel in 0.5 M H 2 SO 4 and HCl solution was studied by weight loss analysis, potentiodynamic polarization, open circuit potential measurement, ATF-FTIR spectroscopy, and optical microscopy and macroscopic characterization. Results from weight loss shows TMAV performed more effectively in H 2 SO 4 solution compared to HCl with optimal inhibition efficiency of 81.24% and 68.33%. Effective inhibition performance was observed at all TMAV concentration in H 2 SO 4 compared to HCl where TMAV performed poorly until 5% concentration. The optimal inhibition performances from potentiodynamic polarization are 80.85% and 70.43%. The corresponding corrosion current density and polarization resistance are 7.16 × 10 5 A/cm 2 and 8.01 × 10 5 A/cm 2 , and 331.73 and 284 Ω. TMAV exhibited mixed type inhibition effect in both acid solutions, strongly influencing the anodic-cathodic plot configurations with respect to concentration. Open circuit potential plots without TMAV were significantly electronegative compared to the plots at 1% and 5% TMAV concentration which were relative electropositive due to decreased thermodynamic tendency of the carbon steel to corrode. The corresponding plots at 1% and 5% TMAV concentration from HCl solution were thermodynamically unstable with significant active-passive corrosion behaviour. TMAV inhibited through chemisorption adsorption according to Langmuir and Freudlich adsorption isotherms in H 2 SO 4 solution, and Frumkin and Freundlich adsorption isotherms in HCl solution with correlation coefficient values between 0.7 and 0.9. FTIR spectroscopic analysis exposed the functional groups and atomic bonds responsible for corrosion inhibition.

XYZ is a company engaged in the port sector. To support the company’s business processes, XYZ uses two applications to carry out operational activities, namely the CARTOS application to manage invoices and the Finance application to record company costs and revenues. To produce a cost accounting report, XYZ is still processing and visualizing it manually with data sources from the two applications mentioned earlier. This resulted in quite a long time processing data into information. So that reporting to management cannot be done in real time. Therefore XYZ needs a system that can help management to analyze and manage data into information in real time. The Business Intelligence (BI) method is one of the solutions for company needs, especially in analyzing and providing access to data to help make better decisions. This study discusses the design and implementation of business intelligence solutions ranging from architecture, data warehouse, ETL processes and visualization in the form of a dashboard in accordance with the needs of XYZ. The method used in developing business intelligence dashboards refers to the executive information system life cycle method which consists of justification, planning, business analysis, design, construction, and dissemination. The results of this research are dashboard visualization using the Power BI tool that displays information and knowledge needed in the monitoring process and becomes material to produce management decisions related to cost accounting reports.

This study presents a detailed feasibility analysis of technical and financial assessment for grid-connected Hybrid Renewable Energy System (HRES) configurations by including grid-only, HRES-only and grid-HRES at four different provinces in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), namely; (Al Baha University, University of Jeddah, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, and Tabuk University). The objective of this paper is to search the possibility of supplying the load demand with the optimum system that has the lowest net present cost (NPC) and greenhouse emission CO 2 . The simulation results show that NPC of a proposed grid/PV system, at the current grid’s tariff, is more sufficient than other configurations with a result in a renewable fraction of more than 50%, a payback time of 17 years, and 54.3% reduction in CO 2 . The results also show that the integration of 62 kW PV array with the main grid is the best configuration that leads to the minimum cost of energy (COE) of 0.0688 $/kWh and the sell back energy of 9.16% of total energy consumption at Al Baha University. Besides, optimization modeling addresses that HRES-only system can supply the full load demand without power shortage (<0.1%) with a major contribution from solar PV by 78.5%, wind energy shares 11.3% of load demand, and 10.2% from battery banks. The developed analysis concludes that the objective function is feasible for the selected locations. The study has three novelties. Firstly, the required load at different locations of the university’s buildings at KSA is supplied by minimizing COE. The objective function is achieved by considering a combination of HRES. Then, it applies the sensitivity analysis for several cases such as payback time, gird’s tariff variation, and load demand change. Finally, the current analyses are applicable to any university at KSA and around the world.

The paper presents a new design of semimetal gasket, which has been subjected to the optimization process. The main objective function was to achieve the maximum elastic recovery of the gasket at imposed functional and strength limitations. The objective function was described indirectly in the form of the required minimum angle of the gasket’s unload curve inclination, which was a measure of the average value of the elastic modulus at unloading. Strength limitations resulted from not exceeding the ultimate stress of the materials, while functional limitations imposed the achievement of proper contact pressure that ensures a given level of tightness class. The characteristic dimensions describing the cross-section of the gasket’s core were described by five descriptive parameters. As a result of the interrelationship of these parameters, 210 construction models were created that were subjected to compression simulations. This problem was solved using the Finite Element Method. The variant of the gasket fulfilling the imposed limitations and the required minimum objective function was tested experimentally.

The behavior of non-reinforced green mortar with fibers has been observed. Different green mortar mixes have been prepared using different percentages of waste glass powder (WGP), steel slag (SG) and silica fume (SF).The properties of flow, density, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), compressive and flexural strengths have been tested for such green mortar in the first phase of the experimental work. The selected green mortar mix that gives good properties with the acceptable ranges of cement replacement by such cementitious materials has been utilized to achieve the second phase of the experimental work. Thus, the uses of human hair fibers, sisal fibers and stainless steel nails fibers in the form of individual and hybrid fibers system and testing for the same properties mentioned above have been performed. The third phase includes the cost estimation for the said mortar. Whereas, the last phase deals with analysis of the results using the integrated AHP and TOPSIS method for selection the best performance of the green mortar. The results of mono sisal fiber, human hair fiber and stainless nails fiber by 0.75, 0.75 and 2% of volume fraction respectively, exhibited the highest increase in compressive strength, flexural strength, UPV and density compared with other percentages.

An intensive field measurement was carried out to assess the force acting on the rollers for a large diameter pipe conveyor. A special idler enclosing two dynamometers was designed and installed in the various roller positions. The forces on the rollers were metered while the conveyor was running with and without conveying material. The position of the two dynamometers was such allowing to derive the theoretical contact point of the belt onto the roller. The measurements were carried out in a straight section of the pipe conveyor and in the centre part of a horizontal curve. Obtained data are presented, analysed, and compared with the values from a six-point stiffness testing device. Further, the participation factor of the material load on the roller forces for a single roller is derived. The study concludes with a critical review of the findings comparing them with results presented in the literature.

This study addresses the need for assistive technology of people who lost control of their upper limbs as well as people who are undergoing rehabilitation. Loss of upper limb control causes lack of functionality and social acceptability especially for many people in developing countries with fewer available technology. The study develops a modern but low-cost prosthetic device that can be controlled by users using a smartphone and can be rapidly manufactured using three-dimensional printing (3D printing) of plastic materials. The development of the prosthetic device includes designing the mechanical and electronic parts, programming the Arduino board and Android application for control, simulation and analysis of 3D printed parts most subjected to stress, and 3D printing the parts under different settings. The device was tested in terms of time spent and capacity of lifting varying loads when not worn and when worn by users. The device can effectively lift 500 grams of load in one second for a person weighing between 50 to 60 kilograms.

This study aimed to investigate a potential list of variables that may have an impact on the saturation flow rate (SFR) associated with different turning movements at signalized intersections in Jordan. Direct visits to locations were conducted, and a video camera was used. Highway capacity manual standard procedure was followed to collect the necessary traffic data. Multiple linear regression was performed to classify the factors that impact the SFR and to find the optimal model to foretell the SFR. Results showed that turning radius, presence of camera enforcement, and the speed limit are the significant factors that influence SFR for shared left- and U-turning movements (LUTM) with R 2 = 76.9%. Furthermore, the presence of camera enforcement, number of lanes, speed limit, city, traffic volume, and area type are the factors that impact SFR for through movements only (THMO) with R 2 = 69.6%. Also, it was found that the SFR for LUTM is 1611 vehicles per hour per lane (VPHPL),which is less than the SFR for THMO that equals to 1840 VPHPL. Calibration and validation of SFR based on local conditions can improve the efficiency of infrastructure operation and planning activities because vehicles’ characteristics and drivers’ behavior change over time.

The Ni-Mn-In-based Heusler alloys belong to the most studied intermetallic compounds due to a variety of physical effects inherent to them, including the shape memory and magnetocaloric effect, field-induced structural phase transition, and others. All of these properties are strongly depend on element concentrations, uniformity, and purity of the structure. Therefore, rather strict requirements are imposed on the synthesis technology of such samples. We report the dependencies of Ni-Mn-In polycrystalline thin film composition on growth parameters. It was shown that the composition mismatch between sample and target caused by the resputtering of the sample material with high-energy particles of the ablation plume, and the different ablation yields of elements from the target. The main deposition parameters demonstrated (Ar growth pressure, laser energies, substrate temperature and annealing, target-to-sample distance) for the co-deposition process to obtain the Ni-Mn-In Heusler alloy polycrystalline thin films with the martensitic transition.

Physical models of anatomical structures can be made using Additive Manufacturing (AM) or Subtractive Manufacturing (SM). The advantage of subtractive techniques over additive ones is the possibility of maintaining the homogeneity and consistency of the processed material, which is extremely important in the case of medical devices. Currently, a geometrically complex medical model can be made even on a simple, 3-axis CNC machine tool. However, often the semi-finished product must be machined in at least two clamping configurations. The aim of the work is to present the method of fixing a workpiece in the process of subtractive production of geometrically complex medical objects on the example of skull bone prostheses. The paper discusses the use of two clamping systems for machining such models. It presents the process of subtractive production of bone prostheses models fitted to the defect of the skull bone with the use of the proposed methods of fixing the workpiece. The result of the work are two models of the skull bone prosthesis. A more complex model was analysed in terms of the accuracy of geometry reproduction. The research confirmed the usefulness of the proposed clamping systems for the preparation of medical models of geometrically complex anatomical structures.

This study discusses a solar-powered water pump system with 3D printed impeller which was developed to serve as water irrigation to small and medium farms in Bataan, Philippines. One kW solar PV system was used to power an electric motor that drives the centrifugal pump with impeller. In order to minimize the power consumption of the pump, the material of its impeller was changed from brass to plastic using 3D printing technology. The water system was also made automatic so that the water pump will run and stop at the desired schedule of the farmer. Furthermore, in order to provide power at night, storage batteries which are enough to supply the load, were incorporated in the system. Through a series of testing, it is concluded that it is more economical to use a 3D printed plastic impeller than metal impeller in watering small and medium farms considering that there were appreciative changes observed in relation to their water output and power consumption.

No doubt that the most vital issues to achieve a great success project are the choice of best suitable project delivery methods. According to the experience of project management staff, the delivery of the project is chosen. However, that leads to similar repetitive issues, for example, exceeding the cost of the project and exceeding the project's schedule, and that's what many projects face. It is difficult to develop the management of the recurring issues of the project because there is no awareness of delivery methods. The efficiency of project implementation is greatly affected by selecting the appropriate delivery method. Fuzzy data at early stages of construction projects leads to the fuzzy decision of selection a suitable type to deliver the project contract. In this study, the main purpose was to determine the comprehensive criteria that significantly influence the selection of infrastructures construction project delivery systems. These criteria will aid decision making process more comprehensive and effective innovation tool to choose the reliable Infrastructures Project Delivery System.

The effects of particle size on the apparent kinetics of carbothermal reduction process of phosphate rock were studied by non-isothermal thermogravimetric analyses. Phosphate rock of various particle size was reacted with coke and silica under high purity argon atmosphere. The apparent kinetic model and parameters of carbothermal reduction reaction of phosphate rock with different particle sizes were derived by combination of model-free (Flynn–Wall–Ozawa, Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose, Tang, Starink) and model-fitting (Coats-Redfern, Master-plots) methods. The results showed that the obtained apparent activation energy of reaction reduces from 371.74 kJ/mol to 321.11 kJ/mol as the particle size of phosphate rock decreasing from 100–150 μm to 38–48 μm. The reaction apparent kinetics was found to follow shrinking-core model and the conversion degree function equation is G(α)=1−(1−α)12 G\left( \alpha \right) = 1 - {\left( {1 - \alpha } \right)^{{1 \over 2}}} ( α is conversion degree and G ( α ) is integral form of conversion degree function).

In this work an analysis of the radial stress and velocity fields is performed according to the J 2 flow theory for a rigid/perfectly plastic material. The flow field is used to simulate the forming processes of sheets. The significant achievement of this paper is the generalization of the work by Nadai & Hill for homogenous material in the sense of its yield stress, to a material with general transverse non-homogeneity. In Addition, a special un-coupled form of the system of equations is obtained where the task of solving it reduces to the solution of a single non-linear algebraic differential equation for the shear stress. A semi-analytical solution is attained solving numerically this equation and the rest of the stresses term together with the velocity field is calculated analytically. As a case study a tri-layered symmetrical sheet is chosen for two configurations: soft inner core and hard coating, hard inner core and soft coating. The main practical outcome of this work is the derivation of the validity limit for radial solution by mapping the “state space” that encompasses all possible configurations of the forming process. This configuration mapping defines the “safe” range of configurations parameters in which flawless processes can be achieved. Several aspects are researched: the ratio of material's properties of two adjacent layers, the location of layers interface and friction coefficient with the walls of the dies.

A lot of researchers are closely related with natural, lignocellulose fibre containing bio-composites production and studies. Various of polymer matrices, mainly polyolefins, combinations with natural fibres as a reinforcement are used. Our studies are focused on polypropylene based bio-composites containing birch plywood production by-product sanding dust (PSD) accelerated weathering processes. The obtained results showed the following sight. After the aging the surface of all samples had faded, the changes of the gloss (decreasing) and of the whiteness degree (increasing) also had taken place, but microhardness of the surface of specimens significantly has decreased. The tensile strength and modulus of the samples after UV aging diminished about 30–35%. That indicates to the changes not only in the surface layers of polymer but also inside of the polymer structure. The FTIR measurements showed that during UV aging process occurs significant changes of chemical structure of the weathered surface of all samples. DSC measurements showed an increase of degree of crystallinity of the weathered polypropylene composites after the first heating due to the recrystallization process in the polypropylene matrix and a small decreasing after second heating. The melting temperatures of all composites after UV aging considerably diminish up to 30°C.

Underwater wet welding (UWW) is widely used in repair of offshore constructions and underwater pipelines by the shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) method. They are subjected the dynamic load due to sea water flow. In this condition, they can experience the fatigue failure. This study was aimed to determine the effect of water flow speed (0 m/s, 1 m/s, and 2 m/s) and water depth (2.5 m and 5 m) on the crack growth rate of underwater wet welded low carbon steel SS400. Underwater wet welding processes were conducted using E6013 electrode (RB26) with a diameter of 4 mm, type of negative electrode polarity and constant electric current and welding speed of 90 A and 1.5 mm/s respectively. In air welding process was also conducted for comparison. Compared to in air welded joint, underwater wet welded joints have more weld defects including porosity, incomplete penetration and irregular surface. Fatigue crack growth rate of underwater wet welded joints will decrease as water depth increases and water flow rate decreases. It is represented by Paris's constant, where specimens in air welding, 2.5 m and 5 m water depth have average Paris's constant of 8.16, 7.54 and 5.56 respectively. The increasing water depth will cause the formation of Acicular Ferrite structure which has high fatigue crack resistance. The higher the water flow rate, the higher the welding defects, thereby reducing the fatigue crack resistance.

This paper presents an innovative method of extinguishing of flames using a high-power acoustic extinguisher. This method allows for effective and non-invasive extinguishing of the flames. Experimental results showing the effectiveness of the fire extinguisher for different distances from the flame source and different frequencies of the acoustic wave are discussed. The paper ends with the description of the advantages, disadvantages, and limitations of the proposed fire extinguishing method.

Fatigue of filament wound materials was investigated using Digital Image Correlation DIC monitoring every 50 th cycle of a high cycle fatigue test of a split disk ring sample. The ring was cut from a filament wound glass fiber reinforced polymer pressure vessel and had a hole. The strain field redistributed over time, lowering and moving strain concentrations. The redistributive behavior was most extensive in areas that later developed local fiber failure, which soon led to catastrophic failure. Microscopy was carried out on partially fatigued material. Damage evolved as matrix cracks and matrix splitting of groups of fibers and complete debonding of single fibers. This occurred at borders of voids and matrix cracks, easing progressive fiber failure. It was concluded that fatigue in filament wound composites has an extensive matrix damage phase before final failure. Fibers could locally withstand strains close to and above the static failure strain for considerable number of cycles if little local strain field redistribution was observed. The used method was able to detect changes in the strain fields that preceded catastrophic failure. It was concluded that DIC combined with the post processing methods presented may serve as a valuable tool for structural integrity monitoring of composite pressure vessels over time.

The influence of exposed timber surfaces on compartment fires has been well documented in various studies in recent decades. Yet available design concepts still typically neglect the influence of an additional fire load from linear structural timber elements such as beams and columns. As rules for large shares of exposed timber surfaces, e.g. by panels, are rare, authorities and fire safety engineers demand often mock-up compartment fire experiments to estimate the fire safety of a particular design. Such experiments, however, are costly, time consuming, and give limited insights into the potential fire scenarios and may fail to represent properly the fundamental effects arising from exposed structural timber elements in a fire. An approach to overcome these existing limitations is presented, which is able to estimate the contributions from structural timber to a fire from its fully developed- and decay phase until burnout. The model input is developed from an experimental campaign where the relevant effects of fire exposed structural timber could be isolated and measured. It was found that the energy stored in the char layer is a key characteristic for describing the fire dynamics of compartment fires with exposed structural timber. Consequently, the proposed approach describes a framework for the Timber Charring and Heat storage, the TiCHS-model. The validation of the model is shown in this paper by means of existing compartment experiments. A current limitation is the bond line integrity of the fire exposed components as the combustion characteristics of failed char pieces on the floor are currently unknown.

The article presents research on the impact of a 359 compression-ignition engine starting at low ambient temperatures. This engine is used in vehicles such as STAR 200, 244, and 226. The purpose of these tests was to determine the amount of wear depending on the ambient temperature and the number of starts, as well as to compare the wear at start-up with the wear occurring during tests on the dynamometer (long-term test for reliability) and wear occurring during the operation of the engine in the vehicle, and the impact of the number of starts and ambient temperature on diesel engine for the life of the vehicle to be repaired. The results of the author’s research showed that a minimum of the number of starts at low ambient temperatures has an impact on the number of kilometers driven by the car during operation to replace the cylinder liners (engine repair). Apart from the Polish armed forces and armies of other countries in which this type of vehicle is still used, the direct recipients of the research results are also other entities from the logistics transport sector for which further use of this power unit especially at low ambient temperatures is of fundamental economic importance.

This article presents the results of measurements of the braking efficiency of vehicles adapted to be operated by drivers with motor dysfunctions. In such cars, the braking system is extended with an adaptive device that allows braking with the upper limb. This device applies pressure to the original brake in the car. The braking force and thus its efficiency depend on the mechanical ratio in the adapting device. In addition, braking performance depends on the sensitivity of the car’s original braking system and the maximum force that a disabled person can exert on the handbrake lever. Such a person may have limited power in the upper limbs. The force exerted by the driver can also be influenced by the position of the driver’s seat in relation to the handbrake lever. This article describes the research aimed at understanding the influence of the above-mentioned factors on the car braking performance. As a part of the analysis of the test results, a mathematical function was proposed that allows a parametric description of the braking efficiency index on the basis of data on the braking system, adaptation device, driver’s motor limitations, and the position of the driver’s seat. The information presented in this article can be used for the preliminary selection of adaptive devices to the needs of a given driver with a disability and to the vehicle construction.

Many tasks that until recently could only be performed by humans are now entrusted to machines. Automation plays an increasingly important role in many areas of life, and its special role is observed in broadly understood transport, affecting the mobility, behaviour, and safety of drivers. Faced with the threat of a large number of accidents, deaths, and injuries, vehicles equipped with driver-assistance systems, the so-called ADAS (advanced driver-assistance system), are a significant support for the driver in reacting to the unexpected situations. The studies conducted so far indicate that the experience of using these systems may increase not only the comfort but most of all the safety of road users. In Poland, such analyses are still a challenge. The aim of the study designed by scientists from the Motor Transport Institute was to analyse the impact of the experience in using a vehicle equipped with systems on the speedy adaptation to the use of new driver-assistance systems. The adaptation process for the use of three systems was taken into account: adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection system, and lane keeping assistant. The research was carried out in real traffic. Particular attention was paid to the reactions of people who have no experience with the use of driver-assistance systems in vehicles, compared to those who have used these systems before. Proprietary questionnaires on the drivers’ feelings were used for the analyses. As expected, the analyses showed that experience with driver-assistance systems is an important factor influencing the speed of adaptation and the sense of comfort in using the systems.

In recent years, the concerns regarding global warming have encouraged an increase in research on renewable energy and distributed generation. Different renewable resources are currently being used, and bioenergy is one among them. Biogas can be produced via digesters, and its energy is converted into electricity and injected into the electrical power system for supplying to meet the local or distant demands. Nevertheless, the generation of electricity via biogas on the consumer side brings new problems and challenges to the power system controller. Protection devices, such as a vector shift relay, are one of the most important components needed to connect a bioenergy system using synchronous generators into the mains. Although distributed synchronous generators are widely used and simulated in software tools, especially in MATLAB/SIMULINK, there is still a gap in technical literature detailing how to design or model a Vector Shift Relay. In view of this subject’s importance, this article aims to assist students, researchers, and engineers by proposing a step-by-step method on how to model and implement a vector shift relay in MATLAB/SIMULINK, although the methodology may easily be used in other simulation tools. A review of the topic is presented along with a detailed description of all needed blocks and expected results.

This article presents a scheme of the procedure for assessing the measurement uncertainty of material constants determined in the static tensile test. The key analysis was preceded by a discussion of the concept of uncertainty of measurement, equated with absolute error, the concept of relative error and methods of assessment of these errors, depending on the type of mutual dependence of the analyzed quantity and the measured quantities. The next step in this article shows examples of stress–strain curves, which were used to calculate errors, as well as specific material constants. By importing the spreadsheets of the Mathcad package, which was used in the analysis, the procedure for assessing the measurement uncertainty was specified.

Improper recognition of the subsoil is the most common cause of problems in the implementation of construction projects and construction facilities failures. Most often, their direct cause is the mismatch of the scope of geotechnical diagnosis to the appropriate geotechnical category, or substantive errors, including incomplete or incorrect interpretation in the creation of a geological-engineering model and often overlooked hydrogeological conditions. In many cases, insufficient recognition and documentation of geotechnical and/or geological and engineering conditions leads to damage and construction failures, delays in consider construction, and the increase of the investment budget. That’s why, in order to avoid the above, particular attention should be paid to proper geotechnical and geological-engineering documentation at the design and construction stages. The selected example of the investment analyzed errors in the geological-engineering documentation, which mainly concerned the lack of recognition of locally occurring organic soils, the incorrectly determined location of the groundwater table and the degree of compaction of non-cohesive soils, and numerous errors of calculated values of soil uplift pressure. The detection of the errors presented in the paper made it possible to select the correct technology for the construction of the sanitary sewage system and to increase the thickness of the horizontal shutter made of jet grouting columns in the area of the excavation. In addition, the article discusses the principles of proper calculation of limit states and subsoil testing, which have a significant impact on the implementation of planned investments.

Global heating, depletions, and high cost of fossil fuels ensued the exploitation of AC sources of energy such as solar stamina. The peculiarities of photovoltaic PV module are a condition for dimensioning and designing a PV system. The causation for developing PV modules beneficial for electrical applications, this manner permits the development of new hefty-performances stand-alone PV system. PV ingredients are permitting the computation of the demeanor of the total system in medley scenarios. In this work, a comparison between calculation solar program and manual mathematical method are made according to Mosul-Iraq site.

This article describes the impact of limiting human mobility related to the COVID-19 pandemic on the level of air pollution related to transport. The city of Krakow and the emission level of nitrogen oxides (NO x ) were used as a case study. This article describes the air quality monitoring system in Krakow and the measurement results from the measurement station at Krasinskiego Avenue. The average values of the pollution level in April 2018–2020 were compared. For the selected range of data, a significance test was performed, which resulted in no grounds for rejecting the hypothesis of the equality of the mean levels of nitrogen oxides concentrations in the spring. The analysis takes into account the average monthly temperatures in the discussed years.

In L3–L4 vehicles, driving task is performed primarily by automated driving system (ADS). Automation mode permits to engage in non-driving-related tasks; however, it necessitates continuous vigilance and attention. Although the driver may be distracted, a request to intervene may suddenly occur, requiring immediate and appropriate response to driving conditions. To increase safety, automated vehicles should be equipped with a Driver Intervention Performance Assessment module (DIPA), ensuring that the driver is able to take the control of the vehicle and maintain it safely. Otherwise, ADS should regain control from the driver and perform a minimal risk manoeuvre. The paper explains the essence of DIPA, indicates possible measures, and describes a concept of DIPA framework being developed in the project.

In the current study, a neutrosophic quadratic fractional programming (NQFP) problem is investigated using a new method. The NQFP problem is converted into the corresponding quadratic fractional programming (QFP) problem. The QFP is formulated by using the score function and hence it is converted to the linear programming problem (LPP) using the Taylor series, which can be solved by LPP techniques or software (e.g., Lingo). Finally, an example is given for illustration.

Renewable resources are used to create useful, biologically sustainable materials. It has the potential to minimize waste while also challenging existing research and developments. Several researchers have concentrated their efforts on natural fiber composites. Natural fibers include plant, mineral, and animal fibers. In this project fish scales, a bio-waste, were used as a reinforcing agent in polyester/polystyrene for the fabrication of composite materials in the different weight fractions of 0, 6, 7, 9, and 11%, at a constant load of 1 N and temperature of 20 and 26°C. The hand layup technique was used to create the fabrication setup for composite materials. The creep behavior, modulus of elasticity, and stress were studied experimentally.

The significance and importance of road freight transport in society are certainly unquestionable. As in most sectors of the economy, road freight transport has an impact on the environment. The EU seeks to eliminate, as far as possible, the negative environmental impacts of various sectors. For these reasons, several EU commitments have been made in the future to reduce emissions so that road haulage vehicles are also more environmentally friendly. Trucks that use alternative fuels, such as natural gas, are already in use today. The EU attaches importance to reducing CO 2 production, and this contribution also pays particular attention to the production of CO 2 vehicles using liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuel compared to vehicles using standard diesel. The results show that when operating vehicles using LNG, it is possible to achieve lower CO 2 production and at the same time lower vehicle noise, which is an advantage when operating vehicles in cities.

According to the analysis by the National Police Headquarters, roughly 40% of all road accident victims in Poland are vulnerable road users (VRU), i.e. pedestrians and cyclists. Their protection has become one of the priorities for action regarding road safety. For this purpose, various activities are carried out aimed not only at human behaviour or the development of modern and safe road infrastructures but also at the development of modern vehicles, including advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). In order to identify the limitations of the currently available driver assistance systems, designed to respond to VRU, research was carried out under the project name, “PEDICRASH: Safety aspects of VRU in CAD automated vehicles.” The project was aimed at increasing users’ awareness (both pedestrians and drivers) of the limitations of ADAS by analysing barriers and indicating recommendations allowing for more effective protection of pedestrians and cyclists due to the identified operating limitations of these systems. The research focused on the autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system and its potential impact on the level of road safety, with particular emphasis on VRU.

The article deals with the issue of road safety and the threats caused by unexpected maneuvers of passenger cars pulling into the opposite lane, directly in front of an oncoming two-wheeler. The first part discusses the legal regulations that apply to vehicle drivers. In the second part, road accidents are presented, while in the next part, examples of road accidents are analyzed in terms of their causes. The article deals with the causes of road accidents. The tragic consequences of the analyzed accidents require this problem to be addressed in research. This is especially true of the question of why car drivers usually notice only an oncoming car and not a two-wheeled vehicle?

Thin-walled structures, which generally consist of unstiffened and stiffened plates, are widely used in engineering as one of the core features of any product or construction. Due to environmental conditions and working operation, the components of the structure unavoidably become subject to various types of loading. Deformation patterns and overall behaviour are expected to be varied, as different materials are considered in the structures. In this situation, assessments are required to quantify the responses and determine the relationships between the structural behaviour and structural parameters. In this work, we attempt to obtain the behaviour data of unstiffened and stiffened plates as components of thin-walled structures. The material class – i.e. low- and medium-carbon steels – and loading parameters (i.e. type and angle) are taken as the main inputs in the finite element analysis. A geometrical design is adopted based on the side hull structure of a medium-sized tanker, for which two plate types, unstiffened and stiffened, are used. The results indicate that increasing the loading angle reduces the force experienced by the plate, while the greater the loading direction angle is, the greater the total displacement value will be. In terms of the plate design, the stiffener is observed to reduce the force expansion during the loading of the stiffened plate.

After a year of the heat exchanger operation in overload conditions, a number of cracks on the tube connections to the tubesheet have been observed. To explain the stress concentration and crack initiation, a finite element analysis is performed. A three-dimensional model is constructed and analyzed. To calculate more precisely the state of stress in the most loaded regions, a submodel is created. The maximum stress exceeds the allowable stress, and according to the standards, it can lead to ratcheting. To reduce stress concentration, all tubes should be shortened and corrugated tubes are installed in the high-temperature region from the side of the burner. A finite element model of the modified heat exchanger and a submodel are created. In the modified heat exchanger, ratcheting should not occur according to the applied standards. During the operation of the modified heat exchanger, there are no further problems with cracking.

The shape and material of the collector configuration in photovoltaic thermal collectors (PVTs) are adjusted to alter the effectiveness of thermal conductivity. Good thermal conductivity between units plays an important role in heat absorption, and photovoltaic modules can increase electrical and thermal efficiency. In this study, a 3D computational fluid dynamics simulation of collector design in PVTs was carried out using Solidworks. The modeling was carried out on variations in the shape of boxes, pipe boxes, and triangle boxes with aluminum, copper, and mild steel materials on the thermal collector. The triangular box shape made of copper in the collector had a minimum temperature of 301.01 K when the heat generated was 1,000 W/m 2 and the flow volume was 0.0005 m 3 /s. The difference in the heat generation rate and volume flow rate in each collector variation affects the collector temperature.

The aim of this article is identification of the subjective reception of external stimuli during wheelchair driving by analyses of vibration signals obtained from measurements. The identification concerns the impact of vibrations generated during crossing various types of pavements on the discomfort feelings of the selected human body parts (mainly the spine). The identification used the measurements of the whole body vibrations received by the user of the wheelchair. The research focuses mainly on the analysis in the frequency ranges corresponding to the vibration resonance of the spine. It is because respondents of the conducted surveys selected the spine as one of the most sensitive parts of the body.

The shock breaker is one of the most important parts of a motorcycle, which functions as a vibration damper. This study aims to analyze the causes of motorcycle shock breaker failure. The research method used is comprised of visual observation, chemical composition testing, Vickers hardness testing, scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis, and tensile testing of a damaged shock breaker. From visual observation, it is found that the damage can be classified as a fatigue fracture, forming a damage pattern at 45°. The chemical composition testing results of the shock breaker fractures show that the material includes low-carbon alloy steel (of ST42 series) with a carbon content of 0.162%. The average hardness value of the damaged part of the shock breaker was increased to 204.87 HV, compared with 171.02 HV in areas far from the damage. The difference in hardness in the shock breaker was caused by the high stress acting on the shock breaker and the consequent strain hardening. The results of this study indicate that the failure mechanism of the motorcycle shock breaker was a functional failure due to errors in the shock breaker manufacturing process and fatigue.

Four different configurations of a mass supporting system consisting of a few prototypes of wire rope isolators are considered in the article. These are named “triangle,” “star,” “parallel,” and “serial” configurations. Reasonable models of a fixture assembly that could be utilized as models for cargo transportation are tested statically and dynamically in the laboratory. The main aim of this study is to investigate the impact of the configuration of damper settings on the effectiveness of vibration and shock isolation (in three directions) and to develop a suitable method to determine nonlinear properties and stiffness characteristics of the tested system. The purpose is also to investigate the sensitivity of the tested systems on the eccentricity of vertical loads and its influence on identification results. Experiments are carried out on the specially designed stand for the model parameters identification.

The results of experimental tests of the antiresonance vibratory mill of a sectional movement trajectory are presented in this article. The application of the antiresonance effect in the vibratory mill operations is the unique solution. It allows us to achieve a high amplitude of mill chamber vibrations at a negligible influence of the machine suspension on foundations and the surrounding environment. This article is focused on the determination of the filling degree of the mill chamber on the antiresonance effect pathway as well as on the possibility of its application under industrial conditions.

This article contains the results of experimental tests of vibrations of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) belt transmission driven by a two-stroke internal combustion engine. The measurements were made with the use of a high-speed camera, which allowed to obtain results impossible to obtain with other measurement methods. The nonlinear integro-partial differential equation of vibrations of the moving belt is given. Based on a simplified linear equation, the observed effects on the amplitude–frequency characteristics obtained from the measurements are explained. An approximate formula is given that allows for determining the transmission belt velocities for which resonances occur.

In the current study, the authors tested two railway transition curves in terms of their usefulness for railway practice. The first curve was a cubic parabola – the curve most popular in railway engineering. The second curve was a polynomial of ninth degree, and this curve was chosen due to the fact that this curve satisfies advanced geometrical demands. In this study, the model of a two-axle vehicle was applied. The study relied on the passage of the vehicle model through the route consisted of straight track, railway transition, and circular arc. Three different circular arc radii were used. The value – 0.6 m/s 2  – of maximum lateral acceleration in the circular arc was applied. Three different vehicle velocities were also used. In this study, the authors simulated vehicle dynamics for different curves and ten lengths of the curves. As the main criterion, lateral acceleration of the vehicle body was applied. The results for these two mentioned curves were compared.

The new vibratory conveyor intended for the precise material dosage was investigated in the hereby study. The transport possibilities in the circum-resonance zone were tested analytically as well as by simulation. The optimal working point of the system, allowing to lower the vibration amplitude of the eliminator on its own suspension, was found. Transport velocities in dependence on the excitation frequency were determined by simulation. The results were verified on the specially designed industrial conveyor whose parameters were determined using analytical and simulation investigations, built according to the patent application.

This article presents the issue of resistance to permanent deformations of bridge pavements. In Europe, bridge asphalt pavement usually consists of the wearing course and the protective layer, which are paved on the waterproofing. Protective layers of bridge pavement are often constructed using low air void asphalt mixes. Such mixes are characterized by water-tightness, resistance to unfavorable environmental conditions, and enhanced fatigue life. Due to increased binder content, asphalt mixes for bridge pavement may display reduced resistance to permanent deformations. The article presents the test results of resistance to permanent deformations of asphalt mixes for bridge pavement. The study compares the rutting resistance for mixture use with low air void content. This specific kind of mixtures are dedicated to pavements on bridge deck. In this study, the resistance to permanent deformations was tested depending on the content of grit structure and air void content. Laboratory test results were compared for stone mastic asphalt and asphalt concrete, characterized by low air void content. Resistance to permanent deformations was assessed using the cyclic uniaxial compression (dynamic load creep) method. On the basis of analysis of the test results, it was shown that resistance of asphalt mixes to permanent deformations depends most of all on the type of mix designed and the air void content.

Seismic measuring stations do not only record seismic waves. They also pick up tremors caused by other factors: these are known as seismic background noise. In normal conditions, this environmental background is steady over a long time. This article presents the influence of high reduction of human activity due to COVID-19 initial lockdown on ground vibration in the Large Hadron Collider tunnel at the European Organization for Nuclear Research.

The article deals with the research of operational reliability of forest felling machines by FMEA method (Failure Mode and Effect Analysis). It describes collection of operational data and its analysis. It explains the procedure of realization for the method FMEA in the organization. Harvesters John Deere 1070D in the Company Lesy SR B. Bystrica were chosen for this research. The research was held in real operational conditions. Application of the FMEA method allows flexibility in case of unexpected situations and optimization of human potential abilities. FMEA tool is a tool preventing outages operational reliability and preventive tool for ensuring the maintenance of facilities. The method of information analysis mentioned below is simple ale precise enough for implementation in real working conditions.

The aim of the article is to learn about the mobility preferences of the inhabitants of the city of Pila in terms of services provided by the Municipal Transport Company in Pila (MTC). The research aims to improve the quality of services provided by MTC. The article characterizes the concept of urban transport and mobility, and then proposes a mobility model that takes into account the preferences of residents when choosing a means of transport. This model was analyzed in the form of a questionnaire survey. In which, inter alia, o user data (sex, age, place of residence), information on the mobility structure, travel organization, selection criteria of the analyzed means of transport, i.e . public transport ( e.g . cost, time, comfort, safety, punctuality and frequency of travel). Based on the research, it can be concluded that the inhabitants of Pila choose public transport because they do not have a driving license, they download information about the timetable from the Internet, buses in Pila are punctual, comfortable, safe, and drivers and ticket inspectors are usually polite, buses should run more often, they are incorrectly synchronized, a new bus line should be open and the ticket machine is easy to use. In addition, the residents of Pila do not know what the Dynamic Passenger Information System is, but they would like to use the mobile application showing the actual time of arrival of the bus.

Consumer awareness of the adverse biological effects of synthetic dyes makes the demand for commercial foods and drinks with natural ingredients increase. The use of natural dyes is increasing and is in demand by consumers in the industrial world. Natural dyes have been used in several sectors such as food, clothing, arts, coatings, and energy. The low stability and brightness of the natural red color are affected by exposure to light, temperature, pH and etc. The co-pigmentation process makes the stability and brightness of natural dyes. The copigmentation method is known that there are two type, liquid and powder. In addition, the combination of copigmentation additives and the correct configuration of the spray dryer process can increase quality color fastness and stability.

Lane departure collisions have contributed to the traffic accidents that cause millions of injuries and tens of thousands of casualties per year worldwide. Due to vision-based lane departure warning limitation from environmental conditions that affecting system performance, a model-based vehicle dynamics framework is proposed for estimating the lane departure event by using vehicle dynamics responses. The model-based vehicle dynamics framework mainly consists of a mathematical representation of 9-degree of freedom system, which permitted to pitch, roll, and yaw as well as to move in lateral and longitudinal directions with each tire allowed to rotate on its axle axis. The proposed model-based vehicle dynamics framework is created with a ride model, Calspan tire model, handling model, slip angle, and longitudinal slip subsystems. The vehicle speed and steering wheel angle datasets are used as the input in vehicle dynamics simulation for predicting lane departure event. Among the simulated vehicle dynamic responses, the yaw acceleration response is observed to provide earlier insight in predicting the future lane departure event compared to other vehicle dynamics responses. The proposed model-based vehicle dynamics framework had shown the effectiveness in estimating lane departure using steering wheel angle and vehicle speed inputs.

The development of ankle foot orthoses (AFO) for lower limb rehabilitation have received significant attention over the past decades. Recently, passive AFO equipped with magnetorheological brake had been developed based on ankle angle and electromyography (EMG) signals. Nonetheless, the EMG signals were categorized in stance and swing phases through visual observation as the signals are stochastic. Therefore, this study aims to classify the pattern of EMG signals during stance and swing phases. Seven-time domains features will be extracted and fed into artificial neural network (ANN) as a classifier. Two different training algorithms of ANN namely Levenberg-Marquardt (LM) and Scaled Conjugate Gradient (SCG) will be applied. As number of inputs will affect the classification performance of ANN, different number of input features will be employed. In this study, three participants were recruited and walk on the treadmills for 60 seconds by constant the speed. The ANN model was designed with 2, 10, 12, and 14 inputs features with LM and SCG training algorithms. Then, the ANN was trained ten times and the performances of each inputs features were measured using classification rate of training, testing, validation and overall. This study found that all the inputs with LM training algorithm gained more than 2% average classification rate than SCG training algorithm. On the other hand, classification accuracy of 10, 12 and 14 inputs were 5% higher than 2 inputs. It can be concluded that LM training algorithm of ANN was performed better than SCG algorithm with at least 10 inputs.

A passive controlled ankle foot orthosis (PICAFO) used a passive actuator such as Magnetorheological (MR) brake to control the ankle stiffness. The PICAFO used two kinds of sensors, such as Electromyography (EMG) signal and ankle position (two inputs) to determine the amount of stiffness (one output) to be generated by the MR brake. As the overall weight and design of an orthotic device must be optimized, the sensor numbers on PICAFO wanted to be reduced. To do that, a machine learning approach was implemented to simplify the previous stiffness function. In this paper, Non-linear Autoregressive Exogeneous (NARX) neural network were used to generate the simplified function. A total of 2060 data were used to build the network with detail such as 1309 training data, 281 validation data, 281 testing data 1, and 189 testing data 2. Three training algorithms were used such as Levenberg-Marquardt, Bayesian Regularization, and Scaled Conjugate Gradient. The result shows that the function can be simplified into one input (ankle position) – one output (stiffness). Optimized result was shown by the NARX neural network with 15 hidden layers and trained using Bayesian Regularization with delay 2. In this case, the testing data shows R-value of 0.992 and MSE of 19.16.

This paper presents optimization of the reliability system for different Strut and Tie models of beams loaded with a torsional and bending moment. In this paper, three STMs depending on the angle of diagonal strut were compared. The presented beam models have a serial system reliability. In the analyses, the full correlation of the top chord of truss - upper reinforcement, full correlation of bottom chord of truss - compression concrete, full correlation of members mapping individual stirrups and concrete in diagonals between stirrups. Estimation of the reliability of the adopted structures was carried out in a software package of Strurel. The variables of concrete, and steel strength as well as concentrated load magnitude were described by a mean value, a standard deviation and a type of distribution. Summing up the results of the analysis, it was noted, that methods for reliability estimation using information about the model’s reliability structure are an excellent alternative to time consuming simulation methods. These methods allow not only to estimate the reliability of the structure, but also to determine the impact of individual members on the reliability of the entire element.

The paper presents technical analysis of two aspects of palace wooden floors – the first example describes renovation works in a historical building, while the second presents assembly of a new floor in the contemporary building. In case of both examples technology of construction works is discussed in details with a special focus on issues specific for wooden palace floors. The authors paid special attention to introduce problems that occurred during the performance of the works. Both cases are compared. The restoration of the antique mosaic is significantly different from the implementation of the palace mosaic (tile) from bottom-up. Restoration works required more effort, mostly due to the fact that the antique mosaic floor experienced many years of use and needed specific repairs. On the other hand making the palace mosaic from scratch is burdened with a much smaller number of unforeseen situations. Due to the high aesthetic requirements, decorative functions and unique character of both discussed examples of flooring works, each of the tasks was labour-consuming and needed highly specialized works.

The work deals with usability of the half-power bandwidth method in the diagnostic testing of automotive shock absorbers. In all the simulation tests, the front and rear suspension system of a present-day medium-classmotor car was considered. At the first stage, calculations were made in the frequency domain for a linear “quarter-car” model with two degrees of freedom; then, simulations were carried out in the time domain with using a similar but strongly nonlinear model. In the latter case, actual characteristics (corresponding to those obtained from test rig measurements) of shock absorber damping, suspension and tire elasticity, sliding friction in the suspension, and “wheel hop” were considered. The calculations were carried out every time for twelve levels of viscous damping in the suspension system, which made 48 calculation series in total. The factors of gain in the vertical force between the tester’s vibration plate and the vehicle tire (relative to the input force applied) and the dimensionless coefficients of viscous damping in the suspension system, determined by the half-power bandwidth method, were thoroughly analyzed. The calculation results were presented in graphical form. Attention was also paid to the distortions caused by the force of inertia of the tester’s vibration plate.

The steady increase in the number of road users and their growing mobility mean that the issue of road safety is still a topical one. Analyses of factors influencing the number of road traffic accidents contribute to the improvement of road safety. Because changes in traffic volume follow a daily rhythm, hour of the day is an important factor affecting the number of crashes. The present article identifies selected mathematical models which can be used to describe the number of road traffic accidents as a function of the time of their occurrence during the day. The study of the seasonality of the number of accidents in particular hours was assessed. The distributions of the number of accidents in each hour were compared using the Kruskal-Wallis and Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests. Multidimensional scaling was used to present the found similarities and differences. Similar hours were grouped into clusters, which were used in further analysis to construct the ARMAXmodel and the Holt-Winters model. Finally, the predictive capabilities of each model were assessed.

The present research concerns itself with measuring and evaluating fuel consumption of compression ignition engine in passenger cars by a variety of methods and in different operating modes. The main objective is to compare different procedures for the cars’ fuel consumption experimental investigation in the point of view of their accuracy. The measurements were carried out on Citroen Berlingo motor vehicle. The very research is focused on implementing and evaluating the discussed consumption by three different methods, namely calculation from consumed fuel volume measured on fuel station flowmeter (pump stand), recording the data from an on-board computer and obtaining data from a specific application. Given that a certain driving style has a significant impact on fuel consumption, particular examinations were conducted in three operating modes, where the very journeys were made in order to measure the consumption in relation to an economic, a regular and a dynamic driving style. The vehicle being tested was driven on four specified routes that varied in their length, maximum permitted velocity on individual sections and number of intersections, or a citymotorway ratio. To this end, the experimental research resulted in putting toward recommendations and procedures, including appropriate methods, to ensure reliability of fuel consumption measurements with respect to the diverse operating modes of passenger cars.

Imprecise and defective regulations should be eliminated in the operation of vehicles. The article discusses and evaluates the differences in legal acts regarding the requirements for the yellow signal at intersections with traffic lights. Poland has signed the Vienna Convention on signs and signals. When implementing it into Polish legislation, the original provision was changed slightly. The reason for the ban on entering the intersection during the yellow signal has been changed. As a result, an unfavorable situation arises for the driver without a good way out. In addition, a colloquial word was introduced, undefined – “rapid braking”. The changes introduced in relation to the Vienna Convention were analyzed and evaluated. Defects were found and the need and necessity of correction of the applicable provision were reported. The necessity to consider changing the provision in the Vienna Convention was also pointed out. There is a need to provide advance information about an upcoming change. These are activities in the operation of vehicles in road traffic from the area of active safety system. It may be possible to use e.g. a flashing signal in the final phase of displaying a solid green signal on the S1 signaling device for vehicles.

The subject of this article is to model and streamline processes in the area of the transport-supply logistics in a specific enterprise. The topic of the manuscript was implemented in a particular enterprise with the residence in the city of České Budějovice (South Bohemia region). The aim of the article is to step by step analyze the current state of the supply logistics of the specific subject and propose appropriate measures contributing to optimize the entire process using selected techniques of the Operations Research. By applying the methods of multi-criteria decision analysis (such as Weighted Sum Approach and Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution), the most attractive option is chosen; i.e . the optimal supplier for the implementation of the transport-supply process that will enhance the effectiveness of specific logistics activities in the operation being examined. The conclusion in detail discusses individual contributions in terms of the suggested ways of modeling and improving the current state with respect to supply processes in the selected enterprise.

The article presents and assesses the shortcomings of the applicable provisions regarding the maintenance of the necessary distance behind the preceding vehicle in road traffic. We are exposed to accidents when using vehicles. The human factor contributes greatly to their occurrence. A problem analysis was carried out with proposed changes. The conclusions indicate the need for conducting training and clarification of the provisions in the applicable road traffic law. The introduction of new technical devices for determining the distance, in extreme situations, does not eliminate the danger of colliding with the preceding vehicle. In this respect, the regulations are imprecise, and the lack of knowledge of drivers is huge. The proposed actions relate to the area of active safety system of vehicles in road traffic.

When using vehicles on the road, road users are exposed to accidents. The human factor contributes greatly to their occurrence. The article presents pilot studies on the state of knowledge of drivers referring to maintaining the necessary distance behind the preceding vehicle in road traffic. The state of knowledge governing applicable law in the field of distance between vehicles was also examined. They were carried out by a group of employees using road transport and students. Even with the new technical devices which determine distance, in addition to the lack of knowledge of drivers in the discussed area, dangers of hitting a preceding vehicle in extreme situations still exist. These are activities in the area of the active safety system in the operation of vehicles in road traffic. The conclusions indicate the need to conduct management training and to amend the provisions in the applicable road traffic law.

The article uses images from Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for rail diagnostics. The main advantage of such a solution compared to traditional surveys performed with measuring vehicles is the elimination of decreased train traffic. The authors, in the study, limited themselves to the diagnosis of hazardous split defects in rails. An algorithm has been proposed to detect them with an efficiency rate of about 81% for defects not less than 6.9% of the rail head width. It uses the FCN-8 deep-learning network, implemented in the Tensorflow environment, to extract the rail head by image segmentation. Using this type of network for segmentation increases the resistance of the algorithm to changes in the recorded rail image brightness. This is of fundamental importance in the case of variable conditions for image recording by UAVs. The detection of these defects in the rail head is performed using an algorithm in the Python language and the OpenCV library. To locate the defect, it uses the contour of a separate rail head together with a rectangle circumscribed around it. The use of UAVs together with artificial intelligence to detect split defects is an important element of novelty presented in this work.

The article compares the exhaust emissions in road conditions of city buses: LNG and Diesel. Both buses met the Euro VI exhaust emission norm. The current strong drive to diversify fuels in Poland and the creation of a large gas port in Świnoujście for LNG imports creates an excellent opportunity to use this fuel, also in road transport. Therefore, the attempt to identify the emission in operation, in first place possible applications, i.e. an LNG bus, comparatively with the emission of a Diesel bus. The operational research carried out concerned such a bus and has not yet been carried out in the country, hence their innovation, also methodological. The conducted research, in particular, was aimed at verifying differences in exhaust emissions of carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides. The study was carried out on one urban bus route performing trips on consecutive days in similar environmental conditions. The performed tests were not strictly type approval tests but only used for comparative purposes. Hence, it was necessary to determine the compliance factor for the relevant exhaust gas substances, with the use of an evaluation algorithm based on measurement windows. Based on these results, the assumption regarding compliance with the emission requirements for the tested buses was verified in real traffic conditions. The exhaust emission values (emission indicators) determined in this way did not exceed the permissible emission limit values for carbon monoxide, while for nitrogen oxides and non-methane hydrocarbons certain exceedances were found.

The study analyzed the parameters of vehicle traffic and noise on the national road in the section in the city from 2011 to 2016. In 2013–2014 this road was reconstructed. It was found that in most cases, the distribution of the tested variable was not normal. The median and selected percentiles of vehicle traffic parameters and noise were examined. The variability and type A uncertainty of the results were described and evaluated. The results obtained for the data recorded on working and non-working days were compared. The vehicle cumulative speed distributions, for two-way four-lane road segments in both directions were analyzed. A mathematical model of normalized traffic flow has been proposed. Fit factor R 2 of the proposed equations to the experimental data for passenger vehicles ranges from 0.93 to 0.99. It has been shown that two years after the road reconstruction, the median noise level did not increase even though traffic volumes and vehicle speeds increased. The Cnossos noise model was validated for data recorded over a period of 6 years. A very good agreement of the medians determined according to the Cnossos-EU model and the measured ones was obtained. It should be noted, however, that for the other analyzed percentiles, e.g. 95%, the discrepancies are larger.

Electric vehicles are fully ecological means of transport only when the electricity required to charge them comes from Renewable Energy Sources (RES). When building a photovoltaic carport, the complex of its functions must consider the power consumption necessary to charge an electric vehicle. The performance of the photovoltaic system depends on the season and on the intensity of the sunlight, which in turn depends on the geographical conditions and the current weather. This means that even a large photovoltaic system is not always able to generate the amount of energy required to charge an electric vehicle. The problem discussed in the article is maximization of the share of renewable energy in the process of charging of electric vehicle batteries. Deep recurrent neural networks (RNN) trained on the past data collected by performance monitoring system can be applied to predict the future performance of the photovoltaic system. The accuracy of the presented forecast is sufficient to manage the process of the distribution of energy produced from renewable energy sources. The purpose of the numerical calculations is to maximize the use of the energy produced by the photovoltaic system for charging electric cars.

Operation of motor vehicles should take into account the elimination of the possibility of accidents. The article considers selected problems occurring in the operation of public transport buses at intersections. Compliance with the requirements of the safety system during signal change on the signaling device controlling traffic at the intersection was analyzed. The human factor in ergonomics is important. Ending the green signal display (in special situations) causes a dilemma of decisions. The driver brakes abruptly (resulting in potentially harming passengers on the bus) or passes through a signal light displaying a red signal. The need to introduce changes in the regulations that would allow the introduction of adequate solutions was pointed out. These are activities in the area of the active safety system in the operation of vehicles in road traffic. The need to provide advance information and change the provisions in applicable law has been demonstrated.

In accordance with the requirements of the NHTSA guidelines on Level 3 automation, the comfortable control transition times is about 40 seconds. The data obtained so far are consistent with the assumption that the situation is better when drivers receive a warning about critical events than when they have to take over control unexpectedly. How these variables are shaped in the presence of distractors and what influences psychological factors have on these aspects remains unknown. For this purpose, a research experiment was developed in which control was taken over when the driver was additionally forced to perform the indicated activity ( e.g. by looking away from the road), or when road conditions made it impossible to focus on the road. Psychological (temperament) and psychomotor variables (reaction time, hand–eye coordination) were controlled. The study was conducted on active road traffic participant drivers (N=95). Not only the time of taking control was analyzed, but also the way that may have a significant impact on road safety. The results revealed a significant influence of distractors on the manner control is taken over. In the conditions without distractors, the subjects were more likely to take over control than to cause automatic braking.

In order to better reflect the actual ecological performance of vehicles in traffic conditions, both the emission standards and the applied emission tests are being developed, for example by considering exhaust emissions for a cold engine start. This article presents the research results on the impact of ambient temperature during the cold start of a gasoline engine in road emission tests. The Real Driving Emissions (RDE) tests apply to passenger cars that meet the Euro 6 emissions norm and they are complementary to their type approval tests. A portable emissions measurement system was used to record the engine and vehicle operating parameters, as well as to measure the exhaust emissions during tests. This allowed for parameters such as engine load, engine speed and vehicle speed to be monitored. The cold start conditions for two different temperatures (8°C and 25°C) were compared in detail. Moreover, the engine operating parameters, exhaust concentration values and road emissions for the 300 s time interval, were compared. The summary of the article presents the share of a passenger car’s cold start phase for each exhaust compound in the urban part of the test and in the entire Real Driving Emissions test depending on the ambient temperature.

Past research shows that age and driving experience has a significant impact on on-road behavior. Both reaction time, as well as visual-motor coordination and speed of decision making, play an important role with regard to safety. Consequently, research in this area has been carried out for many years. However, there are still very few studies on the impact of these variables on the speed and way of taking control of an automated vehicle. The purpose of the study designed at the Motor Transport Institute was therefore, including but not limited to, verification of the hypothesis concerning the relevance of age and experience to psychomotor skills and its impact on adaptation to automation. The research involved tools for testing psychomotor skills (reaction time, eye-hand coordination) considered in driver psychological tests. The experimental part was carried out with a passenger car simulator, where the driver's behavior was verified under a specific on-road situation, including control takeover. As expected, the analyses proved that age and experience are important factors for both control takeover and way of reaction. Deficits and some elements related to inexperience were found in older and younger drivers, respectively, and those had a significant impact on the analyzed variables.

Vehicles equipped with an LPG retrofit system are always started on gasoline. Therefore, part of the vehicle's annual mileage will be run on gasoline. This article describes the results of tests conducted on a vehicle equipped with a propane-butane gas retrofit system (LPG system) regarding gasoline consumption in the LPG mode depending on the temperature at which the engine is started. The research was carried out on a passenger car from the C segment with an engine with indirect gasoline injection system. Based on these studies, the analysis of various vehicle use scenarios and the related gasoline consumption in relation to LPG consumption was made.

The article presents the results of laboratory tests on the influence of the choice of the vehicle suspension position and the method of mounting child seats on the vibration comfort of children transported in them. Two child seats were used in the work. The B seat was attached to the vehicle with the ISOfix system, while the A seat was attached in the classic way (with seat belts). During the tests, the values of vertical vibrations were recorded on the seats of child seats, the rear seat of the vehicle and on the basis of ISOfix. The analyzed systems, depending on the method of mounting a child seat, may be characterized by two different vibration transmission chains. They depend on the method of fixing the child seat (the classic way of fixing the seat and the ISOFIX system). The article presents the results of empirical tests carried out at the EUSAMA SA.640 stand, which in these tests acted as a vibration generator with a frequency of 0 to 25 Hz. The analysis of the obtained results confirmed the observations published in previous articles about the negative impact of the use of the ISOfix base on the vibrational comfort of children.

The basic problem concerning the waste management system is work organization, which should be effective with maximum profit and minimum financial outlays. This means that the key factor for the efficient functioning of this system are all types of costs. When collecting waste, the main operational cost factors are the driver's working time and the service time of the waste collection vehicle, as well as the route that the vehicle has to cover. The article presents route optimization solution for a vehicle collecting urban waste (both mixed and segregated) is a simple method of determining the order of driving through individual city streets. The prepared solution is universal and is not limited only to the surveyed housing estate. It presents a pattern that can be applied to other routes in a similar way. Shortening the distance and thus the working time is a result of minimizing empty runs and moving several times over the same section. Developing an optimal route for so many values requires very complicated calculations and would not reflect the real possibilities of waste collection by employees and MZGK Company. The presented solution can be used as an instruction to take the first steps to optimize the operation of the vehicle and as an initial point for further modifications of the operating system.

The electric car market is becoming more and more extensive. According to ACEA, in 2019, 549,387 full electric passenger vehicles, hybrid plug-ins and hydrogen vehicles were registered in the European Union. Thus, it is an increase of 52.9 percent compared to 2018. Germany is the leader with 108 839 registrations of vehicles (+60.9% y/y). Great Britain achieved an increase of 21.5 percent y/y and the number of registrations at 72 834 pieces. The Netherlands came next (66 957 pcs, + 146.3% y/y), France (61 356 pcs, +34.6% y/y) and Sweden (40 406 pcs, + 39.4% y/y). Registration results in Europe shows that the popularity of electric vehicles is increasing. Along with the development of this type of vehicles, the technology used in their construction also changes. The biggest calls at the moment are batteries for these vehicles, as well as their ranges on a single charge. There are already vehicles with ranges of 500 km or even 600 km. However, it turns out that these are not the only problems with electric vehicles One of the drawbacks is the way they heat their passenger cabins. There is no typical heater in an electric vehicle as in the case of a vehicle with a conventional drive. For this purpose, e.g. an electric heater with a blower is used for this purpose. For this reason, the authors of the paper decided to determine the efficiency of the heating system in an electric vehicle at low ambient temperatures. Own tests were carried out on the vehicle at temperatures of +5°C, −5°C and −10°C. Based on the research, the authors of the paper could draw conclusions on how to heat the interior in the electric vehicle under test, as well as check whether the efficiency of such a system for individual places in the car is sufficient to obtain the set temperature.

The aim of the paper was to present the methodology of imputation of the missing sound level data, for a period of several months, in many noise monitoring stations located at thoroughfares by applying one model which describes variability of sound level within the tested period. To build the model, at first the proper set of input attributes was elaborated, and training dataset was prepared using recorded equivalent sound levels at one of thoroughfares. Sound level values in the training data were calculated separately for the following 24-hour sub-intervals: day (6–18), evening (18–22) and night (22–6). Next, a computational intelligence approach, called Random Forest was applied to build the model with the aid of Weka software. Later, the scaling functions were elaborated, and the obtained Random Forest model was used to impute data at two other locations in the same city, using these scaling functions. The statistical analysis of the sound levels at the abovementioned locations during the whole year, before and after imputation, was carried out.

The aim of the paper is to analyze and evaluate the basic parameters of the combustion process in a modern Fiat 1.3 Multijet diesel engine, fuelled esters (FAME) and diesel oil. During the tests on an engine test bed, the pressure waveforms in the cylinder were measured, on the basis of which the averaged actual indicator graphs were established in the determined engine operating conditions. On their basis, the pressure increase rates were determined and heat release characteristics were prepared based on the equation of the first principle of thermodynamics. The characteristics of the relative amount of heat released and the characteristics of the relative heat release rate were determined. The use of rapeseed methyl esters to supply the engine had an impact on the parameters of the combustion process as compared to its supply with diesel oil. Differences in the waveforms of heat release characteristics of the engine powered by the tested fuels are significantly greater at low loads. At the lowest engine loads, esters burn much faster than diesel oil. With the increase in engine load, the differences in the waveform of heat release characteristics during combustion of these fuels were significantly smaller.

National Implementation Plans (NIP) in regard hydrogenation motor transport are in place in European Union (EU) countries, e.g. Germany, France or Belgium, Denmark, Netherlands. Motor transport hydrogenization plans exist in the Japan and USA. In Poland the methodology deployment Hydrogen Refuelling Stations (HRS) developed in Motor Transport Institute is of multi-stage character are as follows: Stage I: Method allowing to identify regions in which HRS should be located. Stage II: Method allowing to identify urban centres, in which should be located the said stations. Stage III: Method for determining the area of the station location. The presentation of the aforesaid NIPS and based on that and the mentioned methodology the conditions for hydrogenization of motor transport in Poland is the purpose of this article, which constitutes its novelty. The scope of the article concerns the hydrogenization of motor transport in the abovementioned countries. With the above criteria, the order the construction in Poland of a HRS, in the order of their creation, along the TEN-T corridors is as follows: 1 - Poznan 2 - Warsaw, 3 - Bialystok, 4 - Szczecin, 5 - the Lodz region, 6 - the Tri-City region, 7 - Wrocław, 8 - the Katowice region, 9 – Krakow. The concluding discussion sets out the status of deployment HRS and FCEVs in the analysed countries.

The automotive industry uses a variety of technologies and construction materials in production process. Knowledge of the characteristics of tribological material pairs cooperating with each other is useful for their selection from the safety point of view sliding pairs, in means of transport, and other machines. The aim of the contribution is the analysis of the characteristics of tribological ball-on-disc wear of polymeric materials used as sliding bearings. Tribological tests were carried out under dry friction for a polymer–metal pair of three types of materials. Among all three groups of the tested materials statistically significant differences ( p < 0.05 in Student’s t -test) in wear were observed. The wear rate and friction coefficient of the sample were tested, and the signs of wear were submitted to SEM observations.

This article presents the results of the analysis of data from 500 vehicle control stations concerning periodic tests of passenger cars in the number of 2 million. Based on the collected data, a database of vehicles has been prepared to cover technical information, such as model, mass, engine capacity and maximum power. This information has been summarized with the exploitation data such as age of the car, distance traveled, the area in which the vehicle was most frequently used, the use for business or private purposes, and intensity of operation that was measured by the ratio of kilometers traveled to the age of the car. This information constituted a set of factors affecting the reliability of the car. Information about reliability itself was the results of control tests, including occurring defects and their significance. The occurring defects were codified, which allowed their allocation to particular categories describing car systems, such as steering, braking and driving. While the significance of the fault resulted from the test result: positive (minor defects) or negative (important defects). This article presents a factor and the correlation analysis of the database, which assesses which construction and operating factors have a significant impact on damages occurring in individual car systems.

The article presents the effect of the processing parameters on tribological properties of aluminum oxide coatings Al 2 O 3 doped with fullerene-like tungsten disulfide (IF-WS 2 ) by design of experiment (DOE). Anodic oxidation of aluminum alloy was carried out in a ternary solution of SAS (sulfuric, adipic and oxalic acids) with IF-WS 2 . The thickness, geometric structure of the surface (SGP) and the tribological properties such as friction coefficient of tribological pair: Al 2 O 3 /IF-WS 2 with polieteroeteroketon filled with graphite, carbon fiber and PTFE (named PEEK/BG) were investigated. The influence of electrolysis time and temperature on the tribological properties of coatings was studied using 2 k factorial design. The stabilization of the friction coefficient indicates generation of steady anti-wear and anti-seizure Al 2 O 3 /IF-WS 2 oxide coatings. DOE suggest i.e. high positive correlation between oxide thickness and time and temperature of the anodizing process.

The quality of carbon steels working at variable loads mainly depend of microstructure, but also of impurities. The quantity and morphology of non-metallic inclusions and spaces between impurities are correlated with the content of admixtures in the alloy, while their phase composition and structure, in particular shape, dimensions and dispersion, are determined by the course of metallurgical processes. Non-metallic inclusions as impurities found in steel can affect its performance characteristics. Their impact depends not only on their quality, but also, among others, on their size and distribution in the steel volume. The literature mainly describes the results of tests on hard steels. The article discusses the results of a study investigating the effect of the number of large non-metallic inclusions (over 10 μm in size) on the fatigue strength of structural steel during rotary bending. The study was performed on 6 heats produced in an industrial plant. Fourteen heats were produced in 140 ton electric furnaces. All heats were desulfurized and refined with argon. The experimental variants were compared in view of the tempering the research steel. The fatigue strength of steel with an impurity spaces was determined during rotary bending: the results revealed that fatigue strength is determined by the impurity spaces and tempering temperature.

The main task of the study was to develop and implement predictive control in the hot open die forging process of heavy, large, and hard deformable steel forgings on an 80 MN hydraulic press at the Forged Products Department (FPD) of Celsa Huta Ostrowiec (CHO). The predicted hot flow stresses and the predicted deformation/forging forces as a function of the parameters of the elongation forging process were determined. The predicted parameters of the forging process were included in the dynamic model of the hydraulic forging press. Generalized predictive control (GPC) algorithm of the hot open-die forging process on the hydraulic press was developed. The use of predictive control solved the uncertainty of the hot open forging process, which depends on the dimensions, shapes, and material properties of the forgings, as well as the parameters of the hydraulic press and forging tools.

This study evaluated the use of an experiential learning design for vocational education in mechanical engineering. The research objective is to analyze students’ attitudes and responses after participating in learning activities using a worksheet designed according to Kolb's stages by considering Felder-Silverman's student learning styles. This research was conducted using a case study research employing qualitative data analysis. The data were collected using a purposive random sampling technique with 28 respondents in a 10th grade. The datawere analyzed using descriptive qualitative analysis. The experiential learning activities were carried out concrete experience, reflective observations, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation. It is shown that students have a positive attitude and response. Experiential activities help students in learning Basic of Mechanical Engineering and they enjoy participating in the learning activities. Experiential learning activities are considered to be fun, interesting, and easy to be understood. The students could relate the course material to real-life situations, which may benefit the students to enhance learning and connect the knowledge they learned to their own experiences. It is suggested that the experiential design is effectively used and could explore the relationship between learning theory and practice in Vocational High School.

The rapid changes in industrial revolution 4.0 demand change in education, especially at vocational education. Teachers in Vocational High School (VHS) in Indonesia are expected to bring technology-based innovations to achieve success in learning. Learning facilities are one of the factors supporting the success of learning class. Ideally, Indonesian Vocational High Schools have facilities and infrastructure following industrial. Currently, schools have difficulty providing learning support facilities and infrastructure following those in the industry. Thus, the equipment in the school laboratory is irrelevant to the existing equipment in the industry. The practicum apparatus gap between VHS and industry requires appropriate and effective solutions. The gap occurred in practical learning of micro power generation Indonesian VHS. On the other hand, virtual laboratories in the learning process can help students learn an object that cannot be presented in the classroom. By using virtual laboratories, students learn to use industry apparatus through virtual forms. This research aims to overcome the problem of practical learning in VHS, especially on practical learning of micro power generation through the virtual laboratory. This study used the 4D model approach (Define, Design, Develop, and Disseminate). The result showed that the virtual laboratory of micropower generation effectively supported learning and transfer of knowledge in practical learning, especially during the covid 19 pandemics.

The impacts of work characteristics on travel mode choice behavior has been studied for a long time, focusing on the work type, income, duration, and working time. However, there are no comprehensive studies on the influence of travel behavior. Therefore, this study examines the influence of work environment as a mediator of socio-economic variables, trip characteristics, transportation infrastructure and services, the environment and choice of transportation mode on work trips. The mode of transportation consists of three variables, including public transportation (bus rapid transit and mass rapid transit), private vehicles (cars and motorbikes), and online transportation (online taxis and motorbike taxis online). Multivariate analysis using the partial least squares-structural equation modeling method was used to explain the relationship between variables in the model. According to the results, the mediating impact of work environment is significant on transportation choices only for environmental variables. The mediating mode choice effect is negative for public transportation and complimentary for private vehicles and online transportation. Other variables directly affect mode choice, including the influence of work environment.

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) M4, M5, and M7 are subtypes of leukemia derived from myeloid cell derivatives that influences the results of the identification of AMLs, which includes myeloblast, monoblast, and megakaryoblast. Furthermore, they are divided into more specific types, including myeloblasts, promyelocytes, monoblasts, promonocytes, monocytes, and megakaryoblasts, which must be clearly identified in order to further calculate the ratio value in the blood. Therefore, this research aims to classify these cell types using the K -nearest neighbor (KNN) algorithm. Three distance metrics are tested, namely, Euclidean, Chebychev, and Minkowski, and both the weighted and unweighted were tested. The features used as parameters are area, nucleus ratio, circularity, perimeter, mean, and standard deviation, and about 1,450 objects are used as training and testing data. In addition, to ensure that the classification is not overfitting, K- fold cross validation was conducted. The results show that the unweighted Minkowski distance acquired about 240 of 290 objects at K = 19, which is the best. Therefore, the unweighted Minkowski distance is selected for further analysis. The accuracy, recall, and precision values of KNN with unweighted Minkowski distance obtained from fivefold cross validation are 80.552, 44.145, and 42.592%, respectively.

The facts of increasing use and decreasing fossil energy have made many people think of using renewable energy. Mindset change and dependence on fossil energy can be rectified through education. Renewable energy education is needed to increase student’s knowledge and awareness. There are only 12 vocational high schools (VHSs) based on renewable energy in Indonesia. This number is not in line with the government’s efforts to revitalize vocational schools toward a sustainable energy state in the future. This article features the knowledge and awareness of vocational students on renewable energy in Indonesia. Data were obtained from 1,250 respondents from 88 VHSs and 27 provinces in Indonesia. Knowledge and awareness level of school students in Indonesia VHSs is discussed in depth based on variables such as gender, parents, island, public school and private school, and areas of expertise at VHS. Respondents filled out questionnaires through a web survey. A descriptive analysis was performed based on the data. National coverage of data related to the vocational student’s knowledge and awareness of renewable energy is the novelty of this article. The results show that VHS students already have a knowledge level in the “good” category for renewable energy and have an awareness level in the “fair” category. Detailed analysis on the reasons is performed as well as solution is offered in this article.

This study aims to support developing research in designing a vocational lesson and learning model for civil engineering education study program by examining students’ collaborative skills toward construction drawing skills as a substantial skill in civil engineering. This study investigated student performance for proposing collaborative learning approaches to improve student skills as needed by industry. It is an e x-post-facto study using 130 samples from several vocational high schools in Indonesia with descriptive statistics and regression for the data analysis. The results show that the collaborative skill is in a fair category of 60.00 and the construction drawing skill is in a good category of 67.49 on a 100 scale. There is a significant and positive influence of collaborative skill ( X ) toward construction drawing skill ( Y ) with a linear regression model Ŷ = 31.443 + 1.952 X . Furthermore, it presented a correlation coefficient of 0.644, a determination coefficient ( R 2 ) of 0.415, and an adjusted R 2 of 0.410, where it can be concluded that the collaborative skill variable ( X ) as a predictor in the regression model includes the moderate category, which gives a 41% contribution in explaining the variants of the construction drawing skill ( Y ) as the dependent variable. It needs special attention to the specific behavioral details of the collaborative skill. The future work is needed to improve collaborative skills that emphasize prioritizing collaboration between peers and learning interdependence.

The character of current students who are technology-savvy and the fast development of educational technology raises challenges for teachers to take advantage of these conditions to make learning effective. Technological, Pedagogical, Vocational Knowledge (TPVK) come as a framework for the effective use of technology in teaching and learning in vocational fields. This research aimed to capture the Indonesian secondary vocational non-Information and communications technology (ICT) teachers’ perspective toward TPVK for 21 st Century Learning (CL). Research with a mixed-method approach was conducted during the second semester in the 2019/2020 academic year. Sixty-five secondary vocational building engineering teachers from nine schools located in Central Java, Indonesia were recruited as survey respondents. The instrument used was a self-assessment questionnaire, lesson plan rubric, and observational protocol enriched with interview protocol. Results from this study show that the in-service vocational teacher shows readiness for TPVK 21 st CL at the intermediate level. The TPVK component with the highest mean point is Pedagogical knowledge, while the lowest point is on the Vocational knowledge component. The lesson plan prepared by teachers and learning practiced performed by teachers showed less fitness of technology integration in learning with the strategies and objectives of the curriculum.

Quality is a universal standard that is expected by consumers of a product or service used. Consumers in general cannot individually assess this quality, with the help of an independent third party it can be done. The certification body is one element in the quality infrastructure that plays a role in providing quality assurance of products and services according to applicable standards. There are various certification bodies in Indonesia both for system and product certification, the kinds additionally range in accordance to the scope of certification. However, it is not yet known generally the condition of the system and product certification in Indonesia. The aim of this study is to conduct profiling and analyse the condition of the system and product certification in Indonesia using a comprehensive tool in order to assess part of the quality of a country's infrastructure. The results showed that there were several elements that were fulfilled, especially in terms of legality and national recognition. However, some elements still need improvement so that the certification body can do its part to ensure the quality of products and services.

Magnetorheological (MR) fluid is among the smart materials that can change its default properties with the influence of a magnetic field. Typical application of an MR fluid based device involves an adjustable damper which is commercially known as an MR fluid damper. It is used in vibration control as an isolator in vehicles and civil engineering applications. As part of the device development process, proper understanding of the device properties is essential for reliable device performance analysis. This study introduce an accurate and fast prediction model to analyse the dynamic characteristics of the MR fluid damper. This study proposes a new modelling technique called Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) to predict the dynamic behaviour of an MR fluid damper hysteresis loop. This technique was adopted to overcome the limitations of the existing models using Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs). The results indicate that the ELM is extremely faster than ANN, with the capability to produce high accuracy prediction performance. Here, the hysteresis loop, which represents the relationship of force-displacement for the MR fluid damper, was modelled and compared using three different activation functions, namely, sine, sigmoid and hard limit. Based on the results, it was found that the prediction performance of ELM model using the sigmoid activation functions produced highest accuracy, and the lowest Root Mean Square Error (RMSE).

This study aims to review research the progress on factors that affect the 3D printing results of the fused deposition modeling (FDM) process. The review is carried out by mapping critical parameters and characteristics determining FDM parameters, the effects of each parameter, and their interaction with other parameters. The study started from the filament manufacturing process, filament material types, and printing parameters of FDM techniques. The difference in each section has determined different parameters, and the respective relationships between parameters and other determinants during printing have a significant effect on printing results. This study also identifies several vital areas of previous and future research to optimize and characterize the critical parameters of the FDM printing process and FDM filament manufacturing.

LiFePO 4 /C cathode material is largely used in Li-ion batteries due to its low toxicity, nonhazardous and high stability features. A facile and simple approach is proposed in LiFePO 4 /C production using low-cost materials. The effect of carbon addition during the formation of LiFePO 4 /C was investigated. Based on the XRD and FTIR analyses, olivine-structured LiFePO 4 /C cathode material was successfully obtained via methanol-based rheological method. The SEM result showed that the material has micron-sized polyhedral shape. The electrochemical performance tests were conducted in an 18,650-type cylindrical battery. The charge–discharge performances were tested at a voltage range of 2.2–3.65 V using charge and discharge rate of 1C. Based on the charge–discharge test, LiFePO 4 with 30% carbon addition has the highest specific capacity of 121 mA h/g with excellent cycle and rate performance as a result of successful carbon compositing in LiFePO 4 material. This approach is promising to be adapted for mass production of LiFePO 4 /C.

The built environment plays an essential role as a climate change agent. Natural resource exploitation, energy consumptions, and waste management need to be built for more environment-friendly. The Mosque is a religious building built in every space on earth since a quarter of the world population is Muslim. This situation brought an urgency for making Mosques more sustainable and friendly to the natural environment. Carrying these facts, this study aimed to suggest a design strategy for making a sustainable mosque. Through a collaboration of passive design strategy, present technologies work of literature, and a study case, this study shortlisted primary design strategies in (1) building layouts, (2) lighting strategy, (3) HVAC strategy, (4) water conservation strategy, and (5) IT strategy. By keeping these major design strategies, Mosques can be made more environmentally sustainable. Several design recommendations are suggested in each major design strategy that may bring help for making sustainable Mosque on every space on this earth.

This review presents various types of epoxy resins and curing agents commonly used as composite matrices. A brief review of cross-linking formation and the process of degradation or decomposition of epoxy resins by pyrolysis and solvolysis is also discussed. Mechanical engineers are given a brief overview of the types of epoxy resin, which are often applied as composite matrices considering that they currently play a large role in the research, design, manufacturing, and recycling of these materials.

This study aimed to compare the graphical method (GM) and standard deviation method (SDM), based on analyses and efficient Weibull parameters by estimating future wind energy potential in the coastline region of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Hence, the conclusion from the numerical method comparisons will also determine suitable wind turbines that are cost-effective for the study location. The wind speed data for this study were collected by the Tanzania Meteorological Authority Dar es Salaam station over the period of 2017 to 2019. The two numerical methods introduced in this study were both found to be appropriate for Weibull distribution parameter estimation in the study area. However, the SDM gave a higher value of the Weibull parameter estimation than the GM. Furthermore, the five selected commercial wind turbine models that were simulated in terms of performance were based on a capacity factor using the SDM and were both over 25% the recommended capacity factor value. The Polaris P50-500 commercial wind turbine is recommend as a suitable wind turbine to be installed in the study area due to its maximum annual capacity factor value over 3 years.

Visual inspection is a very simple, non-destructive technique and usual in diagnosing buildings and structures’ conditions. It also plays an important role in the rapid assessment of constructive problems as well as in the definition of an appropriate way for eventual remedial interventions. However, the use of this methodology often meets difficulties, especially when places to be inspected are difficult to access; it involves security risks for inspectors or even when a reactive inspection of urgent nature becomes unfeasible due to the high costs and the necessary means involved. In this context, the introduction of new technologies, such as drones, can bring substantial benefits. Currently, great focus has been put on this type of device as an emerging technology in the construction industry. This article treats about a reflexion on the adaptability and versatility of using drones, within a framework for monitoring the condition of buildings’ envelope, just as for other kinds of structures (e.g. bridges, viaducts, dams, chimneys, etc.). The interest lies, for now, in devices with a multirotor configuration, integrating high-definition cameras for both photography and video. In order to verify these assumptions, several field tests are being performed, of which some examples are presented.

Despite the growing popularity of network operating system courses in vocational high schools, issues have been raised regarding the lack of appropriate computer hardware specifications and the limited use of real networking devices. The media that have been used in teaching network operating systems have been based on virtualization-based simulation. However, such virtualization does not expose students to real hardware. This results in less than optimal hands-on activities and students’ psychomotor abilities. Consequently, alternative authentic media are needed to accommodate practical learning and improve psychomotor skills. The aim of this study is to explore the implementation of a single-board microcomputer in learning network operating systems. The Raspberry Pi was chosen as it can replace the role of a non-simulation PC. The choice of Raspberry Pi was also based on the fact that in Indonesia it is still rare to find its implementation for teaching and learning activities in vocational high school, so it is necessary to introduce the device to students. The operating system used by the Raspberry Pi is similar to Ubuntu, which is one of the network operating systems that must be mastered by vocational IT students. The research made a comparison between the two learning media as employed by two groups of students in different classes, one using virtualization-based simulation and the other using the Raspberry Pi. Based on the results, it is concluded that the use of the Raspberry Pi is more effective than that of virtualization-based simulation in improving students’ psychomotor and troubleshooting skills.

The supply chains that make up the distribution networks are becoming more diverse as companies respond to global markets’ rigorous demands. Today, the immediate need for sustainable growth is to design, manufacture, and deliver the right product to experience drastic improvements in the right place, at the right price, and at the right time. As a massively distributed, integrated logistics infrastructure, a new “Physical Internet” (PI) model has been implemented to make the existing logistics structures more scalable and sustainable. This article discusses resource control in the PI’s modern supply chain and logistics systems while addressing the potential disruptions between the hubs during the transfer of goods. This article attempts to establish how companies will benefit from introducing the PI to optimise their strategic supply chain. This article used ATLAS.ti 9 automated tool to save, classify, and evaluate the data for this analysis to review the literature systematically. For PI, an increasing number of plans, blueprints, and requirements have been established. Still, minimal models are currently developed, explaining how the transformation from the strengthened logistics business models to the PI could occur. There is a lack of awareness of the necessary market structures that can include crucial players and allow the PI model to be embraced. Therefore, this research brings a new viewpoint on logistic operations through the PI idea, guarantees the present situation’s view, and presents a solution to the society–business–technology framework.

Assuming a systemic approach, a construction project can be treated as a complex system composed of many different interlinked elements such as construction works, human agents, equipment, materials and the knowledge needed to perform the said work. The system’s structure can be divided into many mutually connected precision levels. This multilevel decomposition of the system facilitates a bottom-up approach in assessing the performance of a planned project, while starting the analysis at its lowest aggregation levels. The basic level distinguishes three typical units and their attributes: persons, knowledge and construction resources. Unit attributes and their dynamic interactions under changing environmental conditions affect the properties and performance of a given construction work and, as a consequence, the properties and performance of the project. The objective of this article is to analyse the attributes and micro-behaviours of units through bottom-up project assessment, allowing the estimation of its parameters such as completion time and cost. We utilised multiagent modelling that allows for performing micro-simulations in complex systems with adaptive components. The analysis was backed by a case study of road renovation work performed under specific conditions on the grounds of a listed heritage site.

Some corrosion progress trends specific for cylindrical steel shells of typical above-ground fuel tanks are first identified experimentally and then quantitatively compared with one another. The inference is based on many random thickness measurements related to the selected corrosively weakened coating sheets and carried out at various moments of the tanks in question service time. It is shown in detail that in this type of structures, due to the manner of their use and, particularly, the material stored inside, the corrosion process is in general significantly accelerated over time. For this reason, a nonlinear formal model describing the simulated corrosion development anticipated for the future fuel tank service time seems to be the best choice in forecasting its remaining time to failure.

The aim of the article was to present the influence of the external environment on people working on scaffolding. For this purpose, the heat load of a man was determined using the universal thermal climate index. The research was carried out on 40 facade scaffolds located in four voivodeships in Poland: Lower Silesia, Lublin, Lodzkie, and Masovian. The conducted analysis showed that employees may experience strong or very strong heat stress, and also extreme heat stress in isolated cases. The highest probability at 0.30 level occurs on scaffolds located in the Lodzkie voivodeship. Environmental conditions are therefore unfavourable for people working outside. This can lead to reduced concentration, longer reaction time, and greater fatigue, contributing to an increase in situations that could lead to accidents. Hazard identification allows to take safety measures that improve the comfort of work on scaffolding.

Road construction projects are characterized by multitasking and the influence of the correct implementation of one task on another. In the subject literature, we can encounter the analysis of risk factors throughout the project, and yet, we rarely find the distinction and characteristics of the impact of risk factors resulting from the implementation of planning and measurement tasks, the correctness and timeliness that have a huge impact on the performance of subsequent tasks, and the success of the project. Additionally, attention should be paid on the distinction between design work and the implementation of construction. During the implementation of construction works, we are more capable of detecting errors faster at the initial stage than at the stage of performing measurements, which suggests the need to focus on minimizing the occurrence of risk factors at the initial stage. Therefore, two questions have been asked. How to quantify the risk factors of geodetic works in road construction projects? How to allocate quantified risk factors of geodetic works in the schedule? The following article presents the description and the example of the practical use of the risk assessment procedure of geodetic works and risk allocation in the schedule based on the MORAG method (Method of Risk Analysis for Geodesy), which is the original method of risk analysis of geodetic works in road construction projects. As a result of these works, the risk values for the i -th risk factor and i -th geodetic task were determined, considering the increase in the duration of the work, the increase in the costs of the work, and all evaluation criteria. Then, the extension was described and calculated based on the data obtained from the actual implementation of the road construction project, the value, which in this case is 11.05 days, was entered into the modified schedule. The results of this study may help to better understand the scale of the impact of the correctness of the implementation of geodesy tasks on the implementation of construction tasks. Additionally, they may serve to increase the awareness of the scale of consequences of incorrectly performed measurement tasks (demolition is necessary) and greater attention on the cooperation between the entities implementing these activities.

The objective of the presented research-work was to develop a model to describe the risk of fatal accident involving tram and pedestrian. This study extends research concerning relationships between the “impact speed” and probability of pedestrian death in case of tram accident. Over 400 “tram-pedestrian” accidents were analyzed. Logistic regression analysis was used in these studies. The main objective of the research is to compare the risk of fatal accidents when pedestrians are struck by passenger cars and trams. GPS system from trams is used to analyze correlation between the tram speed and different conditions along the public transport stop areas (e.g. traffic signals, priority, and platforms localization). The results show that the fatal risk of hitting pedestrians by a tram running at a speed of 50 km/h is two and a half times greater than that by a car. Research clearly proves that comparing to car impact speed, there is much higher probability of death when pedestrian is hit by a tram running at a speed of 30 km/h – almost 40% (compared to 5% when hit by car). There are even cases of deaths with a very low speed of tram (5–10 km/h).

Protection of buildings against the pernicious radiation types can be achieved by simultaneous structural and shielding parameters. Those shields are mainly made of heavyweight concrete, which causes many serious problems in the areas of technology, supply logistics, financial supply, Occupational Safety & Health Administration, and substitutions of structural and material solutions. This work presents a case study of the construction of the university building with rooms requiring protection against malicious radiations. Apart from that, it presents the problems and solutions that occurred during the construction from the perspective of the works contractor. This study was also expanded to include the analysis of alternatives for construction-materials. The obtained results were used to develop a generalized scheme, which will be helpful in the preparation and implementation of any facilities requiring fixed radiation shields.

The development of materials engineering has facilitated the design of slender, light bridges replacing standard construction materials with others, which fulfil their purpose both in terms of structural behaviour and safety. This article focuses on the presentation of the problems related to the modelling of bridges and their loads modelling train passages, as well as an analysis of the influence of load parameters on the dynamic response of a structure. The problem has become essential with the development of materials engineering which enabled the design of slender and light bridges according to the assumptions of sustainable development. The article contains a number of numerical analyses which allowed the verification of the developed finite element bridge model (frame and plate-frame types) in terms of the possibility of using them at the design stage. The load was modelled as a system of concentrated forces, the so-called moving load (ML) model. The results obtained from theoretical analyses were compared with in situ measurements of the existing bridge subjected to the load variable in time (set of locomotives ST43 and ST45 and locomotive EP09). It has been found that in dynamic analysis, modelling of the load is essential. A simplified load model such as ML can be used when displacement values are the only results analysed in detail. ML and finite element plate and frame models give high accordance of the displacement results.

The article presents an original approach to the analysis of railway track dynamics. The “beam-inside-beam” concept is introduced as a dynamic generalisation of the static head-on-web effect, based on the two-layer model of rail. Rail head is a distinguished element of the rail. The system of distributed moving loads excites rail head as a beam supported by the rail web being considered as a viscoelastic layer. Rail head vibration is a kinematic excitation of the whole rail profile, including the rail head. The whole rail is also considered as a beam on viscoelastic foundation with parameters used in typical analyses of railway track dynamics. Vibrations of the whole rail obtained from the analysis of the two-layer “beam-inside-beam” model are compared with vibrations of typical one-layer track model. It is known that the static head-on-web effect is very limited. The range of significant rail head displacements covers nearly 0.6 m of area centred around the wheel position. This observation is also valid in the case of moving constant load. In other words, the dynamic effect of rail head vibrations in the case without imperfections type of track-vehicle is practically the same as in the static head-on-web case. Nevertheless, the analysis of track imperfections impact with various factors influencing the system behaviour, like the axles load and configuration, the track elastic parameters, the length of imperfection, or the train speed, show that the head-on-web effect is significant and should be analysed in more detail. For this purpose, a new model “beam-inside-beam” is proposed. The Fourier series are used to solve the two considered models. The load and unknown functions in the models’ solutions are expanded in the arbitrarily assumed interval which practically covers non-zero track response for the analysed system of parameters (group of wheels). This solving method for equation of motion was experimentally validated in the paper by Czyczula et al. (2017). Validation of the “beam-inside-beam” model is considered as future work and the current article should be recognised as a preliminary study of the analysed effects under assumption of being purely theoretical investigation so far, although forming hierarchically organised building of more complex rail models is possible to partially verify in further steps of modelling process.

The study deals with the topic of the implementation of modern production methods with emphasis on the solution of a new production with the utilization of lean principles and respecting the limiting conditions of the production company. In the summary, an economic assessment of the designed concept using the Lean Method is presented. The outcomes of the researched problem are a performed analysis, its acceptance of the user and the acceptance of the designed concept of the new production line.

Recently, we have seen an increase in interest in autonomous mobility around the world. Autonomous vehicles have enormous potential, and the development of radar, information, communication, and measurement technologies brings us closer and closer to this type of mobility. This article considers the principles of planning and selecting routes for transport tasks. The research on the values of indicators characterizing the transport process was carried out for a simple case, when vehicles move along a fixed route without disturbances. The research used mathematical modelling based on the theory of Markov random systems to determine the capacity of the system, the average length of the queue for service, and the average number of transport tasks. The simulations were carried out for the assumed number of vehicles m = 15 and for points requiring service N = 40. The ranges were obtained wherein the number of occupied vehicles oscillated around 30% (for ρ = 0.1), when all the vehicles were occupied (for ρ = 0.625), and when the system became inefficient.

The efficiency and effectiveness of the production system are influenced by the logistical arrangement of material flows. The smooth production, especially for assembly lines in the required quantity and at the required time (JIT or JIS systems), is currently ensured by automatically controlled towing sets (logistics trains), which consist of a tractor and several trucks. Another factor that affects the smooth production of assembly lines is the system of controlling the circulation of transport units. The number of transport units used in combination with the transport system significantly affects the efficiency of assembly workplaces. This article presents an analysis of the supply of assembly workplaces using a system of two shuttle boxes. The aim of this article is to investigate the influence of transport speed and capacity on the smoothness of the assembly process. Within the described analysis, the transport of 50,000 components is analyzed using a simulation model, while the length of the transport route is 32 km and 65 transport units per shift are used.

Intralogistics contributes significantly to the proper functioning of business processes. When designing and solving intralogistics systems, it is necessary to take into account the specific conditions in the given enterprise. The technical design, as well as the composition of the trolleys in the design of the transport system, must respect the specificities of the goods transported as well as shelf life and quantity. The study presents, for example, the implementation of a tugger train into an intercompany system with a solution procedure that is adapted to specific operating conditions and ensures the smooth functioning of the supply process. It is a principle based on the use of a simulation model. During its creation, three original sequences were developed in the programming language SimTalk. Their application decreases the use of blocks from the simulation program by up to 65% and it was possible to model more detailed processes that would not be possible in terms of functionality by using classical blocks. Fifteen directions of the language SimTalk were applied in their creation. Two variables of the type Integer, two variables of the type Object, and one variable of the type Real were defined.

This case study presents an assessment of the efficiency and risk of the vehicle fleet renewal in the public transport company. The investment project is solved in two alternatives. The first alternative consists of vehicle replacement by only electric buses. In the second alternative, a combination of electric buses and CNG buses is considered. Assessment of the economic efficiency of the investment project is based on the net present value (NPV). Due to lower initial and ongoing capital expenditures, the second alternative is more cost-effective than the first one although the profitability of the investment project is low. Within risk assessment, sensitivity analysis points out the subsidy and personal costs as the risk factors influencing variance of NPV the most. Finally, the effectiveness of the investment project is assessed at different levels of the use of financial support from EU funds and the state budget. In that case, even a low level of financial support significantly increased the profitability of the project.

The subject of the article is the research of the production of a robot base using CAM programming, Autodesk Inventor HSM software, followed by the generation of G code – NC program. The research specifically examined the accuracy of measurement and evaluation of roundness with coaxiality on a 3D measuring device Thome. The surface roughness of the circular holes was measured using a Mitutoyo SJ 400 roughness meter. The maximum deviation of the roundness of the diameter D56H7 measured was 0.011 mm, and the diameter D72H7 measured was 0.013 mm. The coaxiality deviation of the diameters D56H7 and D72H7 measured was 0.017 mm.

This article deals with issues related to the flow of material to the assembly line and examines the possibilities of reducing the costs of this process. It is based on the current state of the transport of individual parts to the producing company and the storage system using Kanban and Just in Sequence (JIS) logistics technologies, and the subsequent collection of material for transport to the assembly line. The change in the system of transport technology has led to a reduction of the total storage space and costs, and at the same time, the processes related to storage and collection of parts have been simplified. The whole process of material flow to the assembly line is solved using the real supply system via the JIS technology, together with the system of receipt and storage of components in connection with individual operations during the handling and storage of these components, and their picking and transport to the assembly line. Evidently, the change in the system and the associated savings can also be employed to warehouses and manufacturing companies of the automotive industry, which use automated assembly lines with the timing of the assembly process of the final product.

The article presents the methodology of using the results of computer simulation of the injection process to assess the suitability of the material for the injection molding. Computer simulation of the basic phenomena occurring during the filling phase, packing, and cooling phase of the injection molding provides a number of different results, containing typical information both on the suggested technological parameters of the process and on the dimensional accuracy of the molded part, but also allows obtaining data on the production efficiency and energy demand of the processing machine. On the basis of this information, it is possible to assess the suitability of the polymer materials used in the simulation, intended for the production of products from a specific industry, taking into account various criteria, mainly of an economic or qualitative nature.

The article deals with the current issues of combined transport; at the beginning, the crucial terms and definitions are stated. Combined transport is evaluated on the basis of statistics in the Czech Republic. According to these statistics, combined transport has a rising tendency, although the potential has not been fully utilized. The article defines reasons why carriers might choose only road transport. Problems of the utilization of combined transport from the carriers´ point of view are mentioned; increased demand for organization and carriage in particular. Furthermore, it focuses on modern trends in combined transport, especially in terms of modern technologies and the utilization of informatics systems. In the conclusion, the article also presents a method of economic evaluation of combined transport on the basis of its cost comparison with road transport.

Simulation programs are increasingly being used to solve material flow problems. These programs are primarily used for the simulation of production or transport processes. Testing of a new type of control in-process would mean stopping production and testing experiments with uncertain results. To avoid this lengthy and above all expensive way of any change, simulation programs have been used. Simulations of production processes in these programs enable better production planning and examination of bottlenecks in the production process by proposing changes, such as robots, conveyors, or also various logistics controls. The advantage is not only the fact that the production does not have to be interrupted, but also that it is possible to try many different experiments in a simulation process. The article is focused on the analysis of the production process in a selected production enterprise. After the analysis, the Tecnomatix Plant Simulation program was used for the creation of production process simulation. Results and improvements to the production process were proposed from the initial simulation with a focus on practical use.

The speedometer with radar head is a device displaying the instantaneous speed of vehicles in both the directions of the traffic lane. Interactive with the video, it collects and effectively interprets particular statistic data, such as the number of passed vehicles, classification of vehicles, exceeded speed, drivers´ behavior – speed change right before the measuring device, etc. The video is synchronized with the radar. In the areas where speedometer is installed, it is predicted that about 30% of the drivers slow down in front of the measuring device and about 60–90% of vehicles slow down after passing the device. The speedometer also serves as a light decelerator with respect to safe and sustainable traffic. The aim of the research was to carry out and subsequently to evaluate the three profile reviews executed on the selected road section under specific light and traffic conditions. After that, the evaluated data was compared with the real data gained by the respective reviews. The result of such comparison showed the measure of reliability and accuracy of the speedometer.

The main objective of this work was to design and construct a device that would facilitate and reduce the intensity of work in the process of scanning surfaces with a Microflown PU Mini acoustic probe. Our proposed device will shorten the total time to scan the surface and improve the quality of data measurements. The device was designed to be able to perform movement along the X and Y axes, thus achieving scanning of the entire sound field. Some components of the device are manufactured strictly according to particular specifications to suit our requirements. The most important step in the design of the scanning device we prepared for the particular acoustic sensor was the design for the linear connection that fulfills a supporting function for the entire device as well as provides movement along the X and Y axes. The final step was the design for the automation of the entire system, for which we selected an Arduino Uno (ATmega328) controller. The actual device was tested in the final stages. The device is designed and tested as functional and able to work on what was intended for and is ready for further modifications or use in practice.

This study focuses on the synthesis of particular solutions with the aim of improving accuracy and safety in rail transport systems. It is based on logistic/transport units equipped with a smart unit for information acquisition, processing, and communication (intelligent vehicle unit [IVU]). These IVUs can communicate with their neighbors and process their data to automatically create a superior/parent unit – the train. The train unit (the engine) has the ability to communicate with connected information systems. In this way, information stored in information systems can be verified, in real time updated, and supplied to all parties acting in the logistic chain. Algorithms used in each IVU are a crucial part of this kind of system. Designed system is modeled, and some simulations are used for verification.

Power generation losses arise in doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) system due to grid faults. The system’s protection should ensure that the wind turbine (WT) generator meets the grid requirements through a low voltage ride through (LVRT) technique. This article proposes the feed-forward neuro-second order sliding mode (FFN-SOSM) control for the LVRT enhancement under voltage sag. This controller operates with the levenberg marquardt (LM)-super twisting (ST) algorithm for the uncertainties of the DFIG system. The LM-ST algorithm-based proposed controller is subjected to stability analysis. The advantages of the proposed controller are that it reduces the system parameter’s peak values and harmonic distortion of the system during grid disturbance. The performance of the proposed controller is compared with existing controllers in the literature with the help of MATLAB/SIMULINK. The hardware-in-loop (HIL) validates these simulation results performed on the OPAL-RT setup. Based on the studies, it is found that the proposed controller enhances the LVRT performance of the WT-DFIG system under transient conditions.

In situational awareness, the ability to make predictions about the near future situation in the area under surveillance is often as essential as being aware of the current situation. We introduce a privacy-preserving instance-based prediction method, where a path library is collected by learning earlier paths of mobile objects in the area of surveillance. The input to the prediction is the most recent coordinates of the objects in the scene. Based on similarity to short segments of currently tracked paths, a relative weight is associated with each path in the library. Future paths are predicted by computing the weighted average of the library paths. We demonstrate the operation of a situational awareness system where privacy-preserving data are extracted from an inexpensive computer vision which consists of a camera-equipped Raspberry PI-based edge device. The system runs a deep neural network-based object detection algorithm on the camera feed and stores the coordinates, object class labels, and timestamps of the detected objects. We used probabilistic reasoning based on joint probabilistic data association, Hungarian algorithm, and Kalman filter to infer which detections from different time instances came from the same object.

In this work, a model predictive controller is developed for a multiple injection combustion model. A 1D engine model with three distinct injections is used to generate data for identifying the state-space representation of the engine model. This state-space model is then used to design a controller for controlling the start of injection and injected fuel mass of the post injection. These parameters are used as inputs for the engine model to control the maximum cylinder pressure and indicated mean effective pressure.

The increasing demands for reducing fuel consumption and emissions in contemporary technology solutions lead to the use of more sensors, actuators, and control applications. With this increasing engine complexity, the feedback design is complex due to the coupling between inputs and combustion parameters. To be able to design the controller systematically, model predictive control (MPC) comes to the scope because of its advantages in the design of multi-input multi-output (MIMO) systems, especially with its constraints handling ability and performance in simultaneously optimizing the engine fuel efficiency and emission reduction. Multi-injection is one of the promising techniques for achieving better engine performance. In this work, post-injection control is implemented utilizing MPC MIMO strategy with the target of exploring the possibility of reducing emissions and improving engine efficiency by controlling post-injection duration and injection timing. The workflow of the MPC controller design from control-oriented model (COM) establishing to MPC problem formation and solution methodology is discussed in this work. Moreover, one contribution from this work is the different implementation angle when compared with the state-of-the-art approaches, where the MPC controller is implemented purely by Matlab Simulink to enable the rapid control prototyping design. The simulation result demonstrated the ability of the controller’s tracking performance and showed a preliminary step towards the nonlinear combustion model-based multi-injection MPC design. The systematic model-based controller framework developed in this work can be applied to other control applications and enables a fast path from design to test.

The coronavirus COVID-19 is affecting around the world with strong differences between countries and regions. Extensive datasets are available for visual inspection and downloading. The material has limitations for phenomenological modeling but data-based methodologies can be used. This research focuses on the intelligent temporal analysis of datasets in developing compact solutions for early detection of levels, trends, episodes, and severity of situations. The methodology has been tested in the analysis of daily new confirmed COVID-19 cases and deaths in six countries. The datasets are studied per million people to get comparable indicators. Nonlinear scaling brings the data of different countries to the same scale, and the temporal analysis is based on the scaled values. The same approach can be used for any country or a group of people, e.g., hospital patients, patients in intensive care, or people in different age categories. During the pandemic, the scaling functions expanded for the confirmed cases but remained practically unchanged for the confirmed deaths, which is consistent with increasing testing.