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Inventions, Volume 10, Issue 5 (October 2025) – 17 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): In this study, we developed a robotic arm capable of throwing a spear tethered with a string toward a target. This device was intended to facilitate wire installation beneath bridges, which has been a significant challenge in conventional bridge inspections. To enable the rapid placement of wires in the limited space under the bridge, it was necessary to throw the spear accurately. To this end, we constructed a three-dimensional model of the spear’s flight that accounts for string tension and air resistance. Based on this model, we estimated the required throwing conditions and experimentally confirmed that the robotic arm could throw the spear to the target. View this paper
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18 pages, 1628 KB  
Patent Summary
Manual Resin Gear Drive for Fine Adjustment of Schlieren Optical Elements
by Emilia Georgiana Prisăcariu and Iulian Vlăducă
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050089 - 2 Oct 2025
Abstract
High-precision angular positioning mechanisms are essential across diverse scientific and industrial applications, from optical instrumentation to automated mechanical systems. Conventional bronze–steel gear reduction units, while reliable, are often heavy, costly, and unsuitable for chemically aggressive or vacuum environments, limiting their use in advanced [...] Read more.
High-precision angular positioning mechanisms are essential across diverse scientific and industrial applications, from optical instrumentation to automated mechanical systems. Conventional bronze–steel gear reduction units, while reliable, are often heavy, costly, and unsuitable for chemically aggressive or vacuum environments, limiting their use in advanced research setups. This work introduces a novel 1:360 gear reduction system manufactured by resin-based additive manufacturing, designed to overcome these limitations. The compact worm–gear assembly translates a single crank rotation into a precise one-degree indicator displacement, enabling fine and repeatable angular control. A primary application is the alignment of parabolic mirrors in schlieren systems, where accurate tilt adjustment is critical to correct optical alignment; however, the design is broadly adaptable to other precision positioning tasks in laboratory and industrial contexts. Compared with conventional assemblies, the resin-based reducer offers reduced weight, chemical and vacuum compatibility, and lower production cost. Its three-stage reduction design further enhances load-bearing capacity, achieving approximately double the theoretical torque transfer of equivalent commercial systems. These features establish the device as a robust, scalable, and automation-ready solution for high-accuracy angular adjustment, contributing both to specialized optical research and general-purpose precision engineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Inventions and Innovation in Advanced Manufacturing)
19 pages, 5542 KB  
Article
Enhanced Frequency Regulation of Islanded Airport Microgrid Using IAE-Assisted Control with Reaction Curve-Based FOPDT Modeling
by Tarun Varshney, Naresh Patnana and Vinay Pratap Singh
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050088 - 2 Oct 2025
Abstract
This paper investigates frequency regulation of an airport microgrid (AIM) through the application of an integral absolute error (IAE)-assisted control approach. The islanded AIM is initially captured using a linearized transfer function model to accurately reflect its dynamic characteristics. This model is then [...] Read more.
This paper investigates frequency regulation of an airport microgrid (AIM) through the application of an integral absolute error (IAE)-assisted control approach. The islanded AIM is initially captured using a linearized transfer function model to accurately reflect its dynamic characteristics. This model is then simplified using a first-order plus dead time (FOPDT) approximation derived via a reaction-curve-based method, which balances between model simplicity and accuracy. Two different proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controllers are designed to meet distinct objectives: one focuses on set-point tracking (SPT) to maintain the target frequency levels, while the other addresses load disturbance rejection (LDR) to reduce the effects of load fluctuations. A thorough comparison of these controllers demonstrates that the SPT-mode PID controller outperforms the LDR-mode controller by providing an improved transient response and notably lower error measures. The results underscore the effectiveness of combining IAE-based control with reaction curve modeling to tune PID controllers for islanded AIM systems, contributing to enhanced and reliable frequency regulation for microgrid operations. Full article
19 pages, 2190 KB  
Article
TRIZ-Based Conceptual Enhancement of a Multifunctional Rollator Walker Design Integrating Wheelchair, Pilates Chair, and Stepladder
by Elwin Nesan Selvanesan, Poh Kiat Ng, Kia Wai Liew, Jian Ai Yeow, Chai Hua Tay, Peng Lean Chong and Yu Jin Ng
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050087 - 28 Sep 2025
Abstract
The development of a multifunctional invention requires several refinements for optimizing each function. This study presents a Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ)-based conceptual framework for enhancing an innovative multifunctional assistive technology device that integrates the functionalities of a rollator walker, wheelchair, Pilates [...] Read more.
The development of a multifunctional invention requires several refinements for optimizing each function. This study presents a Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ)-based conceptual framework for enhancing an innovative multifunctional assistive technology device that integrates the functionalities of a rollator walker, wheelchair, Pilates chair, and stepladder. The limitations of the multifunctional rollator walker were identified from the user feedback of a foundational work and were then addressed by identifying the engineering and physical contradictions and problem modeling using Su-field analysis. Through TRIZ Inventive Principles, the proposed design eliminates common trade-offs between portability, stability, and usability. The conceptual enhancement incorporates features such as deployable steps, the utilization of high strength–to–weight ratio material, foldability, a passive mechanical brake-locking system, retractable armrests, the incorporation of spring-assist hinges, and the use of large tires with vibration-dampening hubs. This study contributes a novel, user-focused, and space-saving mobility solution that aligns with the evolving demands of assistive technology, laying the groundwork for future iterations involving smart control, power assist, and modular enhancements. Full article
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15 pages, 2896 KB  
Article
Platinum Atom-Functionalized Carbon Nanotubes as Efficient Sensors for CO and CO2: A Theoretical Investigation
by Natalia P. Boroznina, Sergey V. Boroznin, Irina V. Zaporotskova, Pavel A. Zaporotskov, Dmitry F. Sergeev, Govindhasamy Murugadoss, Nachimuthu Venkatesh and Shaik Gouse Peera
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050086 - 26 Sep 2025
Abstract
This study presents a theoretical investigation of platinum-modified single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) of types (6.0) and (6.6) for their potential application as gas sensor materials. Quantum chemical calculations using density functional theory (DFT) were performed to evaluate the interaction mechanisms with carbon monoxide [...] Read more.
This study presents a theoretical investigation of platinum-modified single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) of types (6.0) and (6.6) for their potential application as gas sensor materials. Quantum chemical calculations using density functional theory (DFT) were performed to evaluate the interaction mechanisms with carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO2) molecules. The results revealed that pristine SWCNTs exhibit weak and unstable interactions with CO and CO2, indicating limited sensing capabilities. However, the modification with platinum atoms significantly enhanced their adsorption properties. The most energetically favorable configuration was found when the platinum atom was located at the center of a C–C bond on the SWCNT surface, ensuring the stability of the metal-functionalized system. The Pt-modified SWCNTs exhibited stable sorption interactions with CO and CO2, characterized by weak van der Waals forces, enabling the reusability of the sensor without contamination. Additionally, the adsorption of these gas molecules induced changes in the band gap of the nanocomposite system, indicating a variation in conductivity upon gas exposure. The distinct band gap changes for the CO and CO2 adsorption suggest the selectivity of the sensor towards each gas. Overall, the results demonstrate that platinum modification effectively enhances the sensing performance of SWCNTs, paving the way for the development of highly sensitive and selective nanosensors for CO and CO2 detection based on changes in electronic properties upon gas adsorption. Full article
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32 pages, 8667 KB  
Article
Addressing Development Challenges of the Emerging REEFS Wave Energy Converter
by José P. P. G. Lopes de Almeida and Vinícius G. Machado
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050085 - 26 Sep 2025
Abstract
This article addresses the multifaceted challenges inherent in the development of the novel REEFS (Renewable Electric Energy From Sea) wave energy converter (WEC). Building on the submerged pressure differential principle, it frames similar WECs before focusing on REEFS that combines renewable energy generation [...] Read more.
This article addresses the multifaceted challenges inherent in the development of the novel REEFS (Renewable Electric Energy From Sea) wave energy converter (WEC). Building on the submerged pressure differential principle, it frames similar WECs before focusing on REEFS that combines renewable energy generation with coastal protection, functioning as an artificial reef. The review follows chronological criteria, encompassing experimental proof-of-concept, small-scale laboratory modeling, simplified and advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, and the design of a forthcoming real-sea model deployment. Key milestones include the validation of a passive variable porosity system, demonstration of wave-to-wire energy conversion, and quantification of wave attenuation for coastal defense. Additionally, the study introduces a second patent-protected REEFS configuration, isolating internal components from seawater via an elastic enveloping membrane. Challenges related to scaling, numerical modeling, and funding are thoroughly examined. The results highlight the importance of the proof-of-concept as the keystone of the development process, underscore the relevance of mixed laboratory-computational approaches and emphasize the need for a balanced equilibrium between intellectual property safeguard and scientific publishing. The REEFS development trajectory offers interesting insights for researchers and developers navigating the complex innovation seas of emerging wave energy technologies. Full article
14 pages, 3250 KB  
Article
An IoT-Enabled System for Monitoring and Predicting Physicochemical Parameters in Rosé Wine Storage Process
by Xu Zhang, Jihong Yang, Ruijie Zhao, Ziquan Qin and Zhuojun Xie
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050084 - 24 Sep 2025
Viewed by 13
Abstract
The evolution of the winemaking industry towards intelligent and digitalized systems is crucial for precision winemaking and ensuring product safety. In this context, the Internet of Things (IoT) provides a key strategy for real-time monitoring and data management throughout the winemaking process. However, [...] Read more.
The evolution of the winemaking industry towards intelligent and digitalized systems is crucial for precision winemaking and ensuring product safety. In this context, the Internet of Things (IoT) provides a key strategy for real-time monitoring and data management throughout the winemaking process. However, comprehensive multi-parameter IoT-based monitoring and time-series prediction of physicochemical parameters during storage are currently lacking, limiting the ability to assess storage conditions and provide early warning of quality deterioration. To address these gaps, a multi-parameter IoT monitoring system was designed and developed to track conductivity, dissolved oxygen, and temperature in real time. Data were transmitted via a 4th-generation (4G) mobile communication module to the TLINK cloud platform for storage and visualization. An 80-day storage experiment confirmed the system’s reliability for long-term monitoring, and analysis of parameter trends demonstrated its effectiveness in assessing storage conditions and wine quality evolution. Furthermore, Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU), Temporal Convolutional Network (TCN) models, and Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) were implemented to predict physicochemical parameter trends. The TCN model achieved the highest predictive performance, with coefficients of determination (R2) of 0.955, 0.968, and 0.971 for conductivity, dissolved oxygen, and temperature, respectively, while LSTM and GRU showed comparable results. These results demonstrate that integrating IoT-based multi-parameter monitoring with deep learning time-series prediction enables real-time detection of abnormal storage and quality deterioration, providing a novel and practical framework for early warning throughout the wine storage process. Full article
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19 pages, 5120 KB  
Article
Paving Integrated Photovoltaic Technology: Numerical Investigation of Fatigue Performance and Design Strategy
by Peichen Cai, Yutong Chai, Susan Tighe, Meng Wang and Shunde Yin
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050083 - 24 Sep 2025
Viewed by 114
Abstract
To elucidate the fatigue damage evolution of solar road panels under long-term loading and enhance their structural durability, this study develops a particle-based discrete element model and simulates fatigue responses under different structural configurations and loading rates. A strength degradation index was established [...] Read more.
To elucidate the fatigue damage evolution of solar road panels under long-term loading and enhance their structural durability, this study develops a particle-based discrete element model and simulates fatigue responses under different structural configurations and loading rates. A strength degradation index was established by introducing peak stress and terminal stress, enabling quantitative evaluation of strength deterioration. Combined with fracture evolution, the dominant mesoscopic damage mechanisms were revealed. The results indicate that structural configuration strongly influences fatigue performance, with square panels showing the best resistance due to geometric symmetry and stable boundary constraints. Loading rate regulates damage evolution: lower rates promote structural coordination but may delay cumulative failure, while higher rates suppress overall deformation yet increase localized fracture risk. Based on these findings, a nonlinear predictive model of the strength degradation rate was constructed (R2 = 0.935), offering reliable support for structural life prediction and design optimization. Finally, fatigue-resistant design strategies are proposed, including optimal structural configuration, controlled loading rates, bonding enhancement, and integration of online monitoring—providing both theoretical and technical guidance for high-performance, long-lifespan solar road systems. Full article
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20 pages, 3018 KB  
Article
Biological Properties of a Composite Polymer Material Based on Polyurea and Submicron-Sized Selenium Particles
by Sergey A. Shumeyko, Dmitriy E. Burmistrov, Denis V. Yanykin, Ilya V. Baimler, Alexandr V. Simakin, Maxim E. Astashev, Mikhail V. Dubinin, Roman Y. Pishchalnikov, Ruslan M. Sarimov, Valeriy A. Kozlov, Alexey S. Dorokhov and Andrey Yu. Izmailov
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050082 - 19 Sep 2025
Viewed by 348
Abstract
Using the method of laser ablation in liquid, submicron-sized particles of zero-valent amorphous selenium (Se SMPs) were created. A number of composite polymer materials were manufactured based on polyurea and Se SMPs at concentrations ranging 0.1–2.5 wt.%. The manufactured materials showed no significant [...] Read more.
Using the method of laser ablation in liquid, submicron-sized particles of zero-valent amorphous selenium (Se SMPs) were created. A number of composite polymer materials were manufactured based on polyurea and Se SMPs at concentrations ranging 0.1–2.5 wt.%. The manufactured materials showed no significant surface or internal defects at either the macro or micro level. It was found that the Se SMPs were not uniformly distributed inside the polymer, but formed ordered areas with slightly higher and lower concentrations of the particles. It was demonstrated that the manufactured materials did not generate a significant amount of active oxygen species, which could damage biological objects such as protein molecules and DNA, while also exhibiting pronounced bacteriostatic properties without significantly affecting the growth and reproduction of mammalian cells. Materials containing 0.25 and 1% Se SMPs, when added to soil, improved the morphometric parameters of radish plants (Raphanus sativus var. sativus). These polymer composite materials based on polyurea with the addition of Se SMPs are promising functional materials for agriculture due to their antibacterial activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Inventions and Innovation in Biotechnology and Materials)
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15 pages, 2814 KB  
Article
Functionalized Graphene Quantum Dots for Thin-Film Illuminator and Cell Dyeing Applications
by Ruey-Shin Juang, Yi-Ru Li, Chun-Chieh Fu and Chien-Te Hsieh
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050081 - 3 Sep 2025
Viewed by 490
Abstract
Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have emerged as promising nanomaterials due to their unique optical properties, high biocompatibility, and tunable surface functionalities. In this work, GQDs were synthesized via a one-pot hydrothermal method and further functionalized using polyethylene glycol (PEG) of various molecular weights [...] Read more.
Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have emerged as promising nanomaterials due to their unique optical properties, high biocompatibility, and tunable surface functionalities. In this work, GQDs were synthesized via a one-pot hydrothermal method and further functionalized using polyethylene glycol (PEG) of various molecular weights and sodium hydroxide to tailor their photoluminescence (PL) behavior and enhance their applicability in thin-film illumination and biological staining. PEG-modified GQDs exhibited a pronounced red-shift and intensified fluorescence response due to aggregation-induced emission, with GQD-PEG (molecular weight: 300,000) achieving up to eight-fold enhancement in PL intensity compared to pristine GQDs. The influence of solvent environments on PL behavior was studied, revealing solvent-dependent shifts and emission intensities. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the formation of core–shell GQD clusters, while Raman spectroscopy suggested improved structural ordering upon modification. The prepared GQD thin films demonstrated robust fluorescence stability under prolonged water immersion, indicating strong adhesion to glass substrates. Furthermore, the modified GQDs effectively labeled E. coli, Gram-positive, and Gram-negative bacteria, with GQD-PEG and GQD-NaOH displaying red and green emissions, respectively, at optimal concentrations. This study highlights the potential of surface-functionalized GQDs as versatile materials for optoelectronic devices and fluorescence-based bioimaging. Full article
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15 pages, 2164 KB  
Article
Coordinated Optimization of Multiple Reactive Power Sources for Transient Overvoltage Suppression for New Energy Sending-Out System
by Qinglei Zhang, Lei Luo, Xiaoping Wang, Dehai Zhang, Haibo Li, Zongxiang Lu and Ying Qiao
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050080 - 1 Sep 2025
Viewed by 351
Abstract
With the implementation of China’s “dual carbon” strategy, the installed capacity of new energy has grown rapidly. Wind power and photovoltaic power have accounted for more than 40%, but the integration of power electronic apparatus into the grid has resulted in the manifestation [...] Read more.
With the implementation of China’s “dual carbon” strategy, the installed capacity of new energy has grown rapidly. Wind power and photovoltaic power have accounted for more than 40%, but the integration of power electronic apparatus into the grid has resulted in the manifestation of a system with “low inertia and weak damping”, which can easily lead to transient overvoltage problems at transmitters when high-voltage direct-current (HVDC) latching faults occur. Although a variety of dynamic reactive power optimization strategies have been proposed in the existing research, most of them are aimed at single equipment, and multi-reactive power source collaborative control schemes are lacking. In this paper, we innovatively establish a transient voltage analysis model for a new energy transmitter, derive the expression of overvoltage amplitude, and propose a method for the construction of a multi-reactive source collaborative optimization model, which can effectively suppress transient overvoltage through capacity and initial output configuration. We provide a new idea for the safe operation of a significant percentage of new energy grids. The case analysis shows that the co-optimization method outlined in this paper is an effective solution to suppress the transient overvoltage triggered by AC faults and has wide application value. Full article
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25 pages, 4045 KB  
Article
Optimum Sizing of Solar Photovoltaic Panels at Optimum Tilt and Azimuth Angles Using Grey Wolf Optimization Algorithm for Distribution Systems
by Preetham Goli, Srinivasa Rao Gampa, Amarendra Alluri, Balaji Gutta, Kiran Jasthi and Debapriya Das
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050079 - 30 Aug 2025
Viewed by 1027
Abstract
This paper presents a novel methodology for the optimal sizing of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in distribution networks by determining the monthly optimum tilt and azimuth angles to maximize solar energy capture. Using one year of solar irradiation data, the Grey Wolf Optimizer [...] Read more.
This paper presents a novel methodology for the optimal sizing of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in distribution networks by determining the monthly optimum tilt and azimuth angles to maximize solar energy capture. Using one year of solar irradiation data, the Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) is employed to optimize the tilt and azimuth angles with the objective of maximizing monthly solar insolation. Unlike existing approaches that assume fixed azimuth angles, the proposed method calculates both tilt and azimuth angles for each month, allowing for a more precise alignment with solar trajectories. The optimized orientation parameters are subsequently utilized to determine the optimal number and placement of PV panels, as well as the optimal location and sizing of shunt capacitor (SC) banks, for the IEEE 69-bus distribution system. This optimization is performed under peak load conditions using the GWO, with the objectives of minimizing active power losses, enhancing voltage profile stability, and maximizing PV system penetration. The long-term impact of this approach is assessed through a 20-year energy and economic savings analysis, demonstrating substantial improvements in energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances and Challenges in Emerging Power Systems: 2nd Edition)
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26 pages, 1692 KB  
Review
Comparative Assessment and Deployment of Zeolites, MOFs, and Activated Carbons for CO2 Capture and Geological Sequestration Applications
by Mohamadou Hamadama Mouctar, Mohamed G Hassan, Nuno Bimbo, Syed Zaheer Abbas and Ihab Shigidi
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050078 - 28 Aug 2025
Viewed by 839
Abstract
The rising level of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) is a major driver of climate change, highlighting the need to develop carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies quickly. This paper offers a comparative review of three main groups of porous adsorbent materials—zeolites, [...] Read more.
The rising level of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) is a major driver of climate change, highlighting the need to develop carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies quickly. This paper offers a comparative review of three main groups of porous adsorbent materials—zeolites, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), and activated carbons—for their roles in CO2 capture and long-term storage. By examining their structural features, adsorption capacities, moisture stability, and economic viability, the strengths and weaknesses of each material are assessed. Additionally, five different methods for delivering these materials into depleted oil and gas reservoirs are discussed: direct suspension injection, polymer-assisted transport, foam-assisted delivery, encapsulation with controlled release, and preformed particle gels. The potential of hybrid systems, such as MOF–carbon composites and polymer-functionalized materials, is also examined for improved selectivity and durability in underground environments. This research aims to connect materials science with subsurface engineering, helping guide the selection and use of adsorbent materials in real-world CCS applications. The findings support the optimization of CCS deployment and contribute to broader climate change efforts and the goal of achieving net-zero emissions. Key findings include CO2 adsorption capacities of 3.5–8.0 mmol/g and surface areas up to 7000 m2/g, with MOFs demonstrating the highest uptake and activated carbons offering cost-effective performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Inventions and Innovation in Biotechnology and Materials)
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13 pages, 3334 KB  
Article
Open-Access Crystal Plasticity Finite Element Implementation in ANSYS for Dislocation-Induced Nanoindentation in Magnesium
by Syed Taha Khursheed, Moein Imani Foumani, Yunhua Luo and Guo-zhen Zhu
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050077 - 28 Aug 2025
Viewed by 570
Abstract
This study focuses on developing and implementing crystal plasticity finite element modeling (CPFEM) codes on the ANSYS platform. The code incorporates a plasticity constitutive law that describes the behaviors of basal, prismatic, and pyramidal slips in magnesium, and is validated against plane-strain compression [...] Read more.
This study focuses on developing and implementing crystal plasticity finite element modeling (CPFEM) codes on the ANSYS platform. The code incorporates a plasticity constitutive law that describes the behaviors of basal, prismatic, and pyramidal slips in magnesium, and is validated against plane-strain compression experiments and simulations using established codes on the ABAQUS CAE platform. The validated CPFEM code is applied to simulate the dislocation-induced nanoindentation response of pure magnesium across different crystallographic orientations, allowing visualization of strain distributions associated with different slips. Consistent with experimental observations, basal slip is identified as the primary active slip, whereas prismatic and pyramidal slips show varying activities with respect to the direction of the indentation. Novelty arises from an ANSYS–native CPFEM implementation that is cross-validated against published ABAQUS simulations and an experiment under a single, consistent constitutive set. This framework enables orientation-resolved mapping of slip system activity and subsurface strain fields under spherical nanoindentation, providing analysis capability seldom available in prior ANSYS–based studies. Full article
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16 pages, 3657 KB  
Article
Development and Performance Evaluation of a Vision-Based Automated Oyster Size Classification System
by Jonghwan Baek, Seolha Kim, Chang-Hee Lee, Myeongsu Jeong, Jin-Ho Suh and Jaeyoul Lee
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050076 - 27 Aug 2025
Viewed by 416
Abstract
This study presents the development and validation of an automated oyster classification system designed to classify oysters by size and place them into trays for freezing. Addressing limitations in conventional manual processing, the proposed system integrates a vision-based recognition algorithm and a delta [...] Read more.
This study presents the development and validation of an automated oyster classification system designed to classify oysters by size and place them into trays for freezing. Addressing limitations in conventional manual processing, the proposed system integrates a vision-based recognition algorithm and a delta robot (parallel robot) equipped with a soft gripper. The vision system identifies oyster size and optimal grasp points using image moment calculations, enhancing the accuracy of classification for irregularly shaped oysters. Experimental tests demonstrated classification and grasping success rates of 99%. A process simulation based on real industrial conditions revealed that seven units of the automated system are required to match the daily output of 7 tons achieved by 60 workers. When compared with a theoretical 100% success rate, the system showed a marginal production loss of 715 oysters and 15 trays. These results confirm the potential of the proposed system to improve consistency, reduce labor dependency, and increase productivity in oyster processing. Future work will focus on gripper design optimization and parameter tuning to further improve system stability and efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Inventions and Innovation in Advanced Manufacturing)
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16 pages, 1334 KB  
Article
Wire-Based Solid-State Propellant Management System for Small Form-Factor Space Propulsion
by Pavel O. Savelev, Andrei I. Shumeiko and Victor D. Telekh
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050075 - 26 Aug 2025
Viewed by 584
Abstract
The development of dynamic missions of small satellites requires the development of efficient, compact, and reliable propulsion systems (PSs). This paper investigates a propellant storage and supply system (PSSS), utilizing alternative solid-state propellants in the form of wire. To establish the background to [...] Read more.
The development of dynamic missions of small satellites requires the development of efficient, compact, and reliable propulsion systems (PSs). This paper investigates a propellant storage and supply system (PSSS), utilizing alternative solid-state propellants in the form of wire. To establish the background to the suggested solutions implemented in the proposed system, two types of comparative analysis were performed. The first one compared different types of propellant management system designs while the second juxtaposes a variety of propellants. It is shown that the solid-state systems for small satellite operations are advantageous, while the selection of propellants should be focused on safe operations and operational requirements. The principle of operation and structural design of the proposed wire-based solid-state propellant management system are discussed, including the assessment of its engineering realization. The strategies to mitigate the potential problems with the system’s operations such as propellant unwanted deposition and corrosive effects are suggested. An example of using the proposed system is provided, which considers a deep space dynamic mission case. The proposed PSSS architecture is dedicated to increasing the energy efficiency, resilience to environmental factors, and suitability for small satellite platforms, including that of the CubeSat format. Full article
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19 pages, 437 KB  
Article
Research on Generation and Quality Evaluation of Earthquake Emergency Language Service Contingency Plan Based on Chain-of-Thought Prompt Engineering for LLMs
by Wenyan Zhang, Kai Zhang, Ti Li and Wenhua Deng
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050074 - 26 Aug 2025
Viewed by 490
Abstract
China frequently experiences natural disasters, making emergency language services a key link in information transmission, cross-lingual communication, and resource coordination during disaster relief. Traditional contingency plans rely on manual experience, which results in low efficiency, limited coverage, and insufficient dynamic adaptability. Large language [...] Read more.
China frequently experiences natural disasters, making emergency language services a key link in information transmission, cross-lingual communication, and resource coordination during disaster relief. Traditional contingency plans rely on manual experience, which results in low efficiency, limited coverage, and insufficient dynamic adaptability. Large language models (LLMs), with their advantages in semantic understanding, multilingual adaptation, and scalability, provide new technical approaches for emergency language services. Our study establishes the country’s first generative evaluation index system for emergency language service contingency plans, covering eight major dimensions. Through an evaluation of 11 mainstream large language models, including Deepseek, we find that these models perform excellently in precise service stratification and resource network stereoscopic coordination but show significant shortcomings in legal/regulatory frameworks and mechanisms for dynamic evolution. It is recommended to construct a more comprehensive emergency language service system by means of targeted data augmentation, multi-model collaboration, and human–machine integration so as to improve cross-linguistic communication efficiency in emergencies and reduce secondary risks caused by information transmission barriers. Full article
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20 pages, 4011 KB  
Article
Throwing Angle Estimation of a Wire Installation Device with Robotic Arm Using a 3D Model of a Spear
by Yuji Kobayashi, Nobuyoshi Takamitsu, Rikuto Suga, Kotaro Miyake and Yogo Takada
Inventions 2025, 10(5), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10050073 - 22 Aug 2025
Viewed by 414
Abstract
In recent years, the deterioration of social infrastructure such as bridges has become a serious issue in many countries around the world. To maintain the functionality of aging bridges over the long term, it is necessary to conduct regular inspections, detect damage at [...] Read more.
In recent years, the deterioration of social infrastructure such as bridges has become a serious issue in many countries around the world. To maintain the functionality of aging bridges over the long term, it is necessary to conduct regular inspections, detect damage at an early stage, and perform timely repairs. However, inspections require significant cost and time, and ensuring the safety of inspectors remains a major challenge. As a result, inspection using robots has attracted increasing attention. This study focuses on a wire-driven bridge inspection robot designed to inspect the underside of bridge girders. To use this robot, wires must be installed in the space beneath the girders. However, it is difficult to install wires over areas such as rivers. To address this problem, we developed a robotic arm capable of throwing a spear attached to a string. In order to throw the spear accurately to the target location, a three-dimensional dynamic model of the spear in flight was constructed, considering the tension of the string. Using this model, we accurately estimated the required throwing conditions and confirmed that the robotic arm could successfully throw the spear to the target location. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Inventions and Innovation in Advanced Manufacturing)
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