Designs

16 pages, 2622 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Emulation of Variational Quantum Circuits on Embedded Systems for Real-Time Quantum Machine Learning Applications

by Ali Masoudian, Uffe Jakobsen and Mohammad Hassan Khooban

Designs 2025, 9(4), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/designs9040087 - 11 Jul 2025

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This paper presents an engineering design framework for integrating Variational Quantum Circuits (VQCs) into industrial control systems via real-time quantum emulation on embedded hardware. In this work, we present a novel framework for fully embedded real-time quantum machine learning (QML), in which a [...] Read more.

This paper presents an engineering design framework for integrating Variational Quantum Circuits (VQCs) into industrial control systems via real-time quantum emulation on embedded hardware. In this work, we present a novel framework for fully embedded real-time quantum machine learning (QML), in which a four-qubit, four-layer VQC is both emulated and trained in situ on an FPGA-based embedded platform (dSPACE MicroLabBox 1202). The system achieves deterministic microsecond-scale response at a closed-loop frequency of 100 kHz, enabling its application in latency-critical control tasks. We demonstrate the feasibility of online VQC training within this architecture by approximating nonlinear functions in real time, thereby validating the potential of embedded QML for advanced signal processing and control applications. This approach provides a scalable and practical path toward real-time Quantum Reinforcement Learning (QRL) and other quantum-enhanced embedded controllers. The results validate the feasibility of real-time quantum emulation and establish a structured engineering design methodology for implementing trainable quantum machine learning (QML) models on embedded platforms, thereby enabling the development of deployable quantum-enhanced controllers. Full article

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29 pages, 5735 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Conceptual Design Based on Modular Platforms for a Prototype of a Functional Growth Chamber for Cuttings in Controlled Agriculture

by María Fernanda Jara-Villagrana, Carlos Alberto Olvera-Olvera, Santiago Villagrana-Barraza, Salvador Castro-Tapia, Salvador Ibarra-Delgado, José Ricardo Gómez-Rodríguez, Remberto Sandoval-Aréchiga, Víktor I. Rodríguez-Abdalá and Germán Díaz-Flórez

Designs 2025, 9(4), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/designs9040086 - 9 Jul 2025

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Abstract

Agricultural research and propagation systems often suffer due to a lack of access to affordable, adaptable, and well-structured technological solutions. Traditional plant growth devices typically rely on ad hoc construction, which limits their scalability, reuse, and adaptability. This study employs a user-centered conceptual [...] Read more.

Agricultural research and propagation systems often suffer due to a lack of access to affordable, adaptable, and well-structured technological solutions. Traditional plant growth devices typically rely on ad hoc construction, which limits their scalability, reuse, and adaptability. This study employs a user-centered conceptual design methodology based on product platform development and modular architecture to design a growth chamber for plant cuttings. The approach followed three main phases: (i) identification and classification of user needs, (ii) functional modeling of the base system and its variants, and (iii) architectural modularization through heuristic principles. Interviews with researchers yielded 55 functional requirements, of which 26 were defined as essential. Functional models were developed for both a base system and two variant systems incorporating alternative irrigation and sensing technologies. Heuristic analysis identified independent modules, such as irrigation, lighting, environmental monitoring, and control. Subsequently, block diagrams were used to translate functional logic into spatially coherent conceptual designs. The resulting architecture supports modular integration, reconfiguration, and scalability for diverse experimental needs. This work demonstrates that structured design methodologies, which are commonly used in industrial contexts, can be effectively applied in agricultural research settings to produce solutions that are versatile, low-cost, and have enduring value, offering a pathway for innovation, reproducibility, and technology transfer in resource-limited environments. Full article

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35 pages, 8971 KiB

Open AccessReview

Emerging Insights into the Durability of 3D-Printed Concrete: Recent Advances in Mix Design Parameters and Testing

by James Bradshaw, Wen Si, Mehran Khan and Ciaran McNally

Designs 2025, 9(4), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/designs9040085 - 7 Jul 2025

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Abstract

Although 3D-printed concrete (3DPC) offers advantages such as faster construction, reduced labour costs, and minimized material waste, concerns remain about its long-term durability. This review examines these challenges by assessing how the unique layer-by-layer manufacturing process of 3DPC influences key material properties and [...] Read more.

Although 3D-printed concrete (3DPC) offers advantages such as faster construction, reduced labour costs, and minimized material waste, concerns remain about its long-term durability. This review examines these challenges by assessing how the unique layer-by-layer manufacturing process of 3DPC influences key material properties and overall durability. The formation of interfacial porosity and anisotropic microstructures can compromise structural integrity over time, increasing susceptibility to environmental degradation. Increased porosity at layer interfaces and the presence of shrinkage-induced cracking, including both plastic and autogenous shrinkage, contribute to reduced durability. Studies on freeze–thaw performance indicate that 3DPC can achieve durability comparable to cast concrete when proper mix designs and air-entraining agents are used. Chemical resistance, particularly under sulfuric acid exposure, remains a challenge, but improvements have been observed with the inclusion of supplementary cementitious materials such as silica fume. In addition, tests for chloride ingress and carbonation reveal that permeability and resistance are highly sensitive to printing parameters, material composition, and curing conditions. Carbonation resistance, in particular, appears to be lower in 3DPC than in traditional concrete. This review highlights the need for further research and emphasizes that optimizing mix designs and printing processes is critical to improving the long-term performance of 3D-printed concrete structures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design Process for Additive Manufacturing)

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20 pages, 1517 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a Linking System Between Vehicle’s Computer and Alexa Auto

by Jaime Paúl Ayala Taco, Kimberly Sharlenka Cerón, Alfredo Leonel Bautista, Alexander Ibarra Jácome and Diego Arcos Avilés

Designs 2025, 9(4), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/designs9040084 - 2 Jul 2025

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Abstract

The integration of intelligent voice-control systems represents a critical pathway for enhancing driver comfort and reducing cognitive distraction in modern vehicles. Currently, voice assistants capable of accessing real-time vehicular data (e.g., engine parameters) or controlling actuators (e.g., door locks) remain exclusive to premium [...] Read more.

The integration of intelligent voice-control systems represents a critical pathway for enhancing driver comfort and reducing cognitive distraction in modern vehicles. Currently, voice assistants capable of accessing real-time vehicular data (e.g., engine parameters) or controlling actuators (e.g., door locks) remain exclusive to premium brands. While aftermarket solutions like Amazon’s Echo Auto provide multimedia functionality, they lack access to critical vehicle systems. To address this gap, we develop a novel architecture leveraging the OBD-II port to enable voice-controlled telematics and actuation in mass-production vehicles. Our system interfaces with a Toyota Hilux (2020) and Mazda CX-3 SUV (2021), utilizing an MCP2515 CAN controller for engine control unit (ECU) communication, an Arduino Nano for data processing, and an ESP01 Wi-Fi module for cloud transmission. The Blynk IoT platform orchestrates data flow and provides user interfaces, while a Voiceflow-programmed Alexa skill enables natural language commands (e.g., “unlock doors”) via Alexa Auto. Experimental validation confirms the successful real-time monitoring of engine variables (coolant temperature, air–fuel ratio, ignition timing) and secure door-lock control. This work demonstrates that high-end vehicle capabilities—previously restricted to luxury segments—can be effectively implemented in series-production automobiles through standardized OBD-II protocols and IoT integration, establishing a scalable framework for next-generation in-vehicle assistants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Vehicle Dynamics and Control, 2nd Edition)

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18 pages, 3477 KiB

Open AccessViewpoint

Alternative Categorization of Radio Frequency Power Amplifier for Generalized Design Insights

by Pallab Kr Gogoi, Jurgen Vanhamel, Eberhard Gill and Jérôme Loicq

Designs 2025, 9(4), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/designs9040083 - 1 Jul 2025

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Abstract

In recent years, advancements in semiconductor technologies have significantly transformed Radio Frequency Power Amplifiers (RFPAs), enhancing their efficiency, size, and performance. Despite these advancements, the design of RFPAs remains intrinsically linked to the specific applications for which they are intended. What proves effective [...] Read more.

In recent years, advancements in semiconductor technologies have significantly transformed Radio Frequency Power Amplifiers (RFPAs), enhancing their efficiency, size, and performance. Despite these advancements, the design of RFPAs remains intrinsically linked to the specific applications for which they are intended. What proves effective in one context, such as communication technologies, may not be equally suitable in others, such as scientific instruments. This discrepancy highlights the lack of a systematic approach to RFPA design that can be applied across different applications. This paper delves into the fundamental concepts of RFPA design, adopting a comprehensive perspective. It further introduces an alternative categorization of RFPAs, thereby providing a generalized design approach. Full article

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14 pages, 3388 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Flake Powder Metallurgy Approach for Fabricating Al/CNT Composites: Combining Dual-Matrix and Shift-Speed Ball Milling to Optimize Mechanical Properties

by Hamed Rezvanpour and Alberto Vergnano

Designs 2025, 9(4), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/designs9040082 - 1 Jul 2025

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Abstract

This study presents a novel flake powder metallurgy approach for fabricating Al/CNT composites, combining the dual-matrix (DM) method with shift-speed ball milling (SSBM) to optimize mechanical performance. Samples prepared via DM-SSBM were systematically compared to those produced by conventional high-speed ball milling (HSBM), [...] Read more.

This study presents a novel flake powder metallurgy approach for fabricating Al/CNT composites, combining the dual-matrix (DM) method with shift-speed ball milling (SSBM) to optimize mechanical performance. Samples prepared via DM-SSBM were systematically compared to those produced by conventional high-speed ball milling (HSBM), single-stage SSBM, and dual-matrix (DM) routes. Tensile testing revealed that the DM₁MR₅₀-SSBM composite achieved a superior balance of strength and ductility, with an ultimate tensile strength of ~267 MPa, elongation of ~9.9%, and the highest energy absorption capacity (~23.4 MJ/m³) among all tested samples. In contrast, the HSBM sample, while achieving the highest tensile strength (~328 MPa), exhibited limited elongation (~4.7%), resulting in lower overall toughness. The enhanced mechanical response of the DM-SSBM composites is attributed to improved CNT dispersion, refined cold-welding interfaces, and pure Al matrix softness, which together facilitate superior load transfer and hinder crack propagation under tensile stress. In the final consolidated state, aluminum forms a continuous matrix embedding the CNTs, justifying the use of the term “aluminum matrix” to describe the composite structure. These findings highlight the DM-SSBM approach as a promising method for developing lightweight, high-toughness aluminum composites suitable for energy-absorbing structural applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Post-manufacturing Testing and Characterization of Materials)

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21 pages, 30447 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Methods for Reconstructing Irregular Surfaces from Point Clouds of Digital Terrain Models in Developing a Computer-Aided Design Model for Rapid Prototyping Technology

by Michał Chlost and Anna Bazan

Designs 2025, 9(4), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/designs9040081 - 1 Jul 2025

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Abstract

This article presents a methodology for developing a three-dimensional terrain model based on numerical data in the form of a point cloud, with an emphasis on reducing mesh surface errors and using a surface smoothing factor. Initial surface generation was based on a [...] Read more.

This article presents a methodology for developing a three-dimensional terrain model based on numerical data in the form of a point cloud, with an emphasis on reducing mesh surface errors and using a surface smoothing factor. Initial surface generation was based on a point cloud with a square mesh, and an adopted algorithm for mesh conversion to the input form for the computer aided design (CAD) environment was presented. The use of a bilinear interpolation algorithm was proposed to reduce defects in the three-dimensional surface created in the reverse engineering process. The terrain mapping accuracy analyses were performed for three samples of different geometry using two available options in the Siemens NX program. All obtained surfaces were subjected to shape deviation analysis. For each of the analyzed surfaces, changing the smoothing factor from 0% to 15% did not cause significant changes in accuracy depending on the method adopted. For flat regions, in the Uniform Density (UD) method, the size of the area outside the tolerance was 6.16%, and in the Variable Density (VD) method, it was within the range of 5.01–6%. For steep regions, in the UD method, it was 6.25%, and in the VD method, it was within the range of 5.39–6.47%, while for concave–convex regions, in the UD method, it was 6.5% and in the VD method, it was within the range of 4.96–6.36%. For a smoothing factor value of 20%, a sudden increase in the inaccuracy of the shape of the obtained surface was observed. For flat regions, in the Uniform Density (UD) method, the size of the area outside the tolerance was 69.84%, and in the Variable Density (VD) method, it was 71.62%. For steep regions, in the UD method, it was 76.07%, and in the VD method, it was 80.94%, while for concave–convex regions, in the UD method, it was 56.08%, and in the VD method, it was 62.38%. The developed methodology provided high accuracy in the reproduction of numerical data that can be used for further analyses and manufacturing processes, such as 3D printing. Based on the obtained data, three fused deposition model (FDM) prints were made, presenting each of the analyzed types of terrain geometry. Only FDM printing was used, and other technologies were not verified. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design Process for Additive Manufacturing)

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24 pages, 24527 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design of Alternatives to Stained Glass with Open-Source Distributed Additive Manufacturing for Energy Efficiency and Economic Savings

by Emily Bow Pearce, Joshua M. Pearce and Alessia Romani

Designs 2025, 9(4), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/designs9040080 - 24 Jun 2025

Viewed by 628

Abstract

Stained glass has played important roles in heritage building construction, however, conventional fabrication techniques have become economically prohibitive due to both capital costs and energy inefficiency, as well as high-level artistic and craft skills. To overcome these challenges, this study provides a new [...] Read more.

Stained glass has played important roles in heritage building construction, however, conventional fabrication techniques have become economically prohibitive due to both capital costs and energy inefficiency, as well as high-level artistic and craft skills. To overcome these challenges, this study provides a new design methodology for customized 3D-printed polycarbonate (PC)-based stained-glass window alternatives using a fully open-source toolchain and methodology based on digital fabrication and hybrid crafts. Based on design thinking and open design principles, this procedure involves fabricating an additional insert made of (i) a PC substrate and (ii) custom geometries directly 3D printed on the substrate with PC-based 3D printing feedstock (iii) to be painted after the 3D printing process. This alternative is intended for customizable stained-glass design patterns to be used instead of traditional stained glass or in addition to conventional windows, making stained glass accessible and customizable according to users’ needs. Three approaches are developed and demonstrated to generate customized painted stained-glass geometries according to the different users’ skills and needs using (i) online-retrieved 3D and 2D patterns; (ii) custom patterns, i.e., hand-drawn and digital-drawn images; and (iii) AI-generated patterns. The proposed methodology shows potential for distributed applications in the building and heritage sectors, demonstrating its practical feasibility. Its use makes stained-glass-based products accessible to a broader range of end-users, especially for repairing and replicating existing conventional stained glass and designing new customizable products. The developed custom patterns are 50 times less expensive than traditional stained glass and can potentially improve thermal insulation, paving the way to energy efficiency and economic savings. Full article

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33 pages, 824 KiB

Open AccessReview

Artificial Intelligence in Generative Design: A Structured Review of Trends and Opportunities in Techniques and Applications

by Owen Peckham, Jonathan Raines, Erik Bulsink, Mark Goudswaard, James Gopsill, David Barton, Aydin Nassehi and Ben Hicks

Designs 2025, 9(4), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/designs9040079 - 23 Jun 2025

Viewed by 977

Abstract

This review explores the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Generative Design (GD) in engineering within the mechanical, industrial, civil, and architectural domains. Driven by advances in AI and computational resources, this intersection has grown rapidly, yielding over 14,000 publications since 2016. To [...] Read more.

This review explores the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Generative Design (GD) in engineering within the mechanical, industrial, civil, and architectural domains. Driven by advances in AI and computational resources, this intersection has grown rapidly, yielding over 14,000 publications since 2016. To map the research landscape, this review employed semantic search and Natural Language Processing, parsing 14,355 publications to ultimately select the 88 most relevant studies through clustering and topic modelling. These studies were categorised according to AI and GD techniques, application domains, benefits, and limitations, providing insights into research trends and practical implications. The results reveal a significant growth in the integration of advanced generative AI methods, notably Generative Adversarial Networks for direct design generation, alongside the continued use of genetic algorithms and surrogate models (e.g., Convolutional Neural Networks and Multilayer Perceptrons) to manage computational complexity. Structural and aerodynamic applications were the most common, with benefits including improvements in computational efficiency and design diversity. However, barriers remain, including data generation costs, model accuracy, and interpretability. Research opportunities include the development of generalisable foundation surrogate models, the integration of emerging generative methods such as diffusion models and large language models, and the explicit consideration of manufacturability constraints within generative processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Artificial Intelligence in Smart Factories: From Sensor Networks to Large Language Models)

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16 pages, 2357 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Integrated CAD-Multibody Approach for TMJ Prosthesis Design

by Talal Bin Irshad, Giulia Pascoletti, Stefano Pagano, Chiara Valenti and Elisabetta Maria Zanetti

Designs 2025, 9(4), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/designs9040078 - 20 Jun 2025

Viewed by 244

Abstract

This study presents a methodology for optimizing the design of the fossa component in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) prostheses, particularly in cases requiring replacement due to severe pathology or trauma. Leveraging advancements in 3D printing, the research aims to align prosthetic function with natural [...] Read more.

This study presents a methodology for optimizing the design of the fossa component in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) prostheses, particularly in cases requiring replacement due to severe pathology or trauma. Leveraging advancements in 3D printing, the research aims to align prosthetic function with natural jaw movements. A multibody simulation model was used to evaluate different designs based on key performance indicators: range of motion, condylar trajectory accuracy, and contact force magnitudes. Three designs were analyzed: a compact design fossa (CDF) with a spherical condyle, an enhanced design fossa (EDF) with a more anatomically realistic structure, and a simulation-driven design (MEDF) derived from condylar motion patterns. The results indicate that CDF could lead to dislocation at 13° of mouth opening. In contrast, EDF and MEDF safely enabled full opening (20°), closely replicated natural condyle trajectories (with deviations under 2.5 mm in all directions), and reduced contact forces, which can contribute to a longer prosthesis lifespan. MEDF showed the lowest peak contact force (−21% compared to EDF). The study successfully established a framework for evaluating and guiding patient-specific TMJ prosthetic designs, enhancing both functional rehabilitation and mechanical durability by minimizing wear through optimized contact dynamics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Editorial Board Members’ Collection Series: Biomaterials Design)

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Designs, Volume 9, Issue 4 (August 2025) – 10 articles

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