Inventions

15 pages, 2164 KB

Open AccessArticle

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

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

(This article belongs to the Section Inventions and Innovation in Electrical Engineering/Energy/Communications)

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25 pages, 4045 KB

Open AccessArticle

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

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

Open AccessReview

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

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

Open AccessArticle

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

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

(This article belongs to the Section Inventions and Innovation in Design, Modeling and Computing Methods)

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16 pages, 3657 KB

Open AccessArticle

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

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

Open AccessArticle

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

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

(This article belongs to the Topic Innovation and Inventions in Aerospace and UAV Applications)

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19 pages, 437 KB

Open AccessArticle

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

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

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Innovations in Deep Learning: Unveiling Multidisciplinary Applications and Challenges)

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20 pages, 4011 KB

Open AccessArticle

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

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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31 pages, 946 KB

Open AccessArticle

Performance Analysis of a Floating Seawater Desalination Structure Based on Heat Pipes

by Juan J. Vallejo Tejero, María Martínez Gómez, Francisco J. Muñoz Gutiérrez and Alejandro Rodríguez Gómez

Inventions 2025, 10(4), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10040072 - 14 Aug 2025

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive numerical simulation and thermal performance analysis of a novel modular floating solar still system, featuring integrated heat-pipe vacuum tube collectors, designed for seawater desalination. This innovative system—subject of International Patent Application WO 2023/062261 A1—not only aims to enhance [...] Read more.

This study presents a comprehensive numerical simulation and thermal performance analysis of a novel modular floating solar still system, featuring integrated heat-pipe vacuum tube collectors, designed for seawater desalination. This innovative system—subject of International Patent Application WO 2023/062261 A1—not only aims to enhance efficiency and scalability beyond traditional solar stills, but also addresses the significant environmental challenge of concentrated brine discharge inherent in conventional desalination methods. The study evolved from an initial theoretical model to a rigorous dynamic thermal model, validated using real hourly meteorological data from Málaga, Andalusia, Spain. This modelling approach was developed to quantify heat transfer mechanisms and accurately predict system performance. The refined hourly simulation forecasts an annual freshwater production of approximately 174 L per unit. Notably, a preliminary economic assessment estimates the Cost of Produced Water per Litre (CPL) at 0.7509 EUR/litre, establishing a valuable baseline for future optimisation. These findings underscore the critical importance of dynamic hourly simulations for realistic performance prediction and validate the technical and preliminary economic feasibility of this novel approach. The system’s projected output, modular floating design, and significant environmental advantages position it as a promising and sustainable solution for freshwater production, particularly in coastal regions and sensitive marine ecosystems. This work provides a solid foundation for future experimental validation, cost optimisation, and scalable implementation of renewable energy-driven desalination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advancements and Challenges in Marine Renewable Energy and Marine Structures)

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36 pages, 9430 KB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Method for Internal Structure and Surface Evaluation in Coatings

by Tomas Kačinskas and Saulius Baskutis

Inventions 2025, 10(4), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10040071 - 13 Aug 2025

Abstract

This study introduces a MATrix LABoratory (MATLAB, version R2024b, update 1 (24.2.0.2740171))-based automated system for the detection and measurement of indication areas in coated surfaces, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of quality control processes in metal, polymeric and thermoplastic coatings. The developed code [...] Read more.

This study introduces a MATrix LABoratory (MATLAB, version R2024b, update 1 (24.2.0.2740171))-based automated system for the detection and measurement of indication areas in coated surfaces, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of quality control processes in metal, polymeric and thermoplastic coatings. The developed code identifies various indication characteristics in the image and provides numerical results, assesses the size and quantity of indications and evaluates conformity to ISO standards. A comprehensive testing method, involving non-destructive penetrant testing (PT) and radiographic testing (RT), allowed for an in-depth analysis of surface and internal porosity across different coating methods, including aluminum-, copper-, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)- and polyether ether ketone (PEEK)-based materials. Initial findings had a major impact on indicating a non-homogeneous surface of obtained coatings, manufactured using different technologies and materials. Whereas researchers using non-destructive testing (NDT) methods typically rely on visual inspection and manual counting, the system under study automates this process. Each sample image is loaded into MATLAB and analyzed using the Image Processing Tool, Computer Vision Toolbox, Statistics and Machine Learning Toolbox. The custom code performs essential tasks such as image conversion, filtering, boundary detection, layering operations and calculations. These processes are integral to rendering images with developed indications according to NDT method requirements, providing a detailed visual and numerical representation of the analysis. RT also validated the observations made through surface indication detection, revealing either the absence of hidden defects or, conversely, internal porosity correlating with surface conditions. Matrix and graphical representations were used to facilitate the comparison of test results, highlighting more advanced methods and materials as the superior choice for achieving optimal mechanical and structural integrity. This research contributes to addressing challenges in surface quality assurance, advancing digital transformation in inspection processes and exploring more advanced alternatives to traditional coating technologies and materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Inventions and Innovation in Advanced Manufacturing)

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17 pages, 5141 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of the Photovoltaic Panel Design Towards Durable Solar Roads

by Peichen Cai, Yutong Chai, Susan Tighe, Meng Wang and Shunde Yin

Inventions 2025, 10(4), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10040070 - 11 Aug 2025

Abstract

To improve the mechanical stability and service durability of solar road structures, this study systematically investigates the mechanical response characteristics of photovoltaic panels with different geometric shapes—including triangles, rectangles, squares, regular pentagons, and regular hexagons—under consistent boundary and loading conditions using the discrete [...] Read more.

To improve the mechanical stability and service durability of solar road structures, this study systematically investigates the mechanical response characteristics of photovoltaic panels with different geometric shapes—including triangles, rectangles, squares, regular pentagons, and regular hexagons—under consistent boundary and loading conditions using the discrete element method (DEM). All panels have a uniform thickness of 10 cm and equivalent surface areas to ensure shape comparability. Side lengths vary among the shapes: square panels with sides of 0.707 m, 1.0 m, and 1.5 m; triangle 1.155 m; rectangle (aspect ratio 1:2) 0.707 m; pentagon 1.175 m; and hexagon 0.577 m. Results show that panel geometry significantly influences stress distribution and deformation behavior. Although triangular panels exhibit higher ultimate bearing capacity and failure energy, they suffer from severe stress concentration and low stiffness. Regular hexagonal panels, due to their geometric symmetry, enable more uniform stress and displacement distributions, offering better stability and crack resistance. Size effect analysis reveals that larger panels improve load-bearing and energy dissipation capacity but exacerbate edge stress concentration and reduce overall stiffness, leading to more pronounced “thinning” deformation and premature failure. Failure mode analysis further indicates that shape governs crack initiation and path, while size determines crack propagation rate and failure extent—revealing a coupled shape–size mechanical mechanism. Regarding assembly, honeycomb arrangements demonstrate superior mechanical performance due to higher compactness and better load-sharing characteristics. The study ultimately recommends the use of small-sized regular hexagonal units and optimized splicing structures to balance strength, stiffness, and durability. These findings provide theoretical guidance and parameter references for the structural design of solar roads. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Inventions and Innovation in Energy and Thermal/Fluidic Science)

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9 pages, 5076 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Adaptive Bi-Band Doherty PA with Main-Peak Amplifier Swapping and Extended Bandwidth Performance

by Jorge Julian Moreno Rubio, Edison Ferney Angarita Malaver and Jairo Alonso Mesa Lara

Inventions 2025, 10(4), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10040069 - 8 Aug 2025

Abstract

This paper presents the design, implementation, and characterization of a broadband power amplifier (PA) with a reconfigurable architecture, capable of efficient operation across a wide frequency range of 0.2–3.6 GHz. Leveraging Gallium Nitride (GaN) devices, the PA achieves high efficiency and power, essential [...] Read more.

This paper presents the design, implementation, and characterization of a broadband power amplifier (PA) with a reconfigurable architecture, capable of efficient operation across a wide frequency range of 0.2–3.6 GHz. Leveraging Gallium Nitride (GaN) devices, the PA achieves high efficiency and power, essential for broadband and high-frequency applications. By swapping the roles of the main and peak amplifiers, the PA achieves Doherty behavior at two related frequencies, 1.4 and 2.8 GHz, where the first is exactly half of the second, while maintaining consistent efficiency and output power across the remaining band in non-Doherty modes. Characterization results confirm the reliability and versatility of the proposed design, showcasing its ability to deliver robust performance across both Doherty and non-Doherty operational ranges. This combination of GaN technology and innovative reconfigurability makes the PA highly suitable for broadband applications requiring high efficiency, flexibility, and wideband coverage. Moreover, the simplicity of the proposed design makes it not only practical for implementation but also highly competitive among state-of-the-art solutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Inventions and Innovation in Electrical Engineering/Energy/Communications)

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25 pages, 1800 KB

Open AccessArticle

W-Model Framework for Reliability-Centered Lifecycle Modification of Aircraft Components

by Vitalii Susanin and Igor Kabashkin

Inventions 2025, 10(4), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10040068 - 6 Aug 2025

Abstract

The classical V-Model has served as the foundational framework for aerospace systems engineering, but its scope terminates upon aircraft certification, creating a significant gap in addressing reliability degradation during operational service. This study introduces the W-model framework—a comprehensive lifecycle management approach that extends [...] Read more.

The classical V-Model has served as the foundational framework for aerospace systems engineering, but its scope terminates upon aircraft certification, creating a significant gap in addressing reliability degradation during operational service. This study introduces the W-model framework—a comprehensive lifecycle management approach that extends the V-Model to systematically integrate reliability-centered component modifications with established aerospace development practices. The W-model incorporates a structured six-phase reliability-centered modification methodology that transforms operational data into certified design improvements through systematic reliability monitoring, candidate selection, design reviews, development, and certification processes. A detailed case study on the aviation pneumatic bypass valve demonstrates the methodology. Application of the W-model resulted in a 36% improvement in the mean time between failures and a significant reduction in unscheduled removals. The W-model represents a paradigm shift from reactive maintenance strategies to proactive, data-driven reliability enhancement, providing a systematic approach that maintains the rigor and traceability required for commercial aviation while enabling continuous reliability growth throughout the complete aircraft lifecycle. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Inventions and Innovation in Design, Modeling and Computing Methods)

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42 pages, 5770 KB

Open AccessReview

Echoes from Below: A Systematic Review of Cement Bond Log Innovations Through Global Patent Analysis

by Lim Shing Wang, Muhammad Haarith Firdaous and Pg Emeroylariffion Abas

Inventions 2025, 10(4), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10040067 - 2 Aug 2025

Abstract

Maintaining well integrity is essential in the oil and gas industry to prevent environmental hazards, operational risks, and economic losses. Cement bond log (CBL) tools are essential in evaluating cement bonding and ensuring wellbore stability. This study presents a patent landscape review of [...] Read more.

Maintaining well integrity is essential in the oil and gas industry to prevent environmental hazards, operational risks, and economic losses. Cement bond log (CBL) tools are essential in evaluating cement bonding and ensuring wellbore stability. This study presents a patent landscape review of CBL technologies, based on 3473 patent documents from the Lens.org database. After eliminating duplicates and irrelevant entries, 167 granted patents were selected for in-depth analysis. These were categorized by technology type (wave, electrical, radiation, neutron, and other tools) and by material focus (formation, casing, cement, and borehole fluid). The findings reveal a dominant focus on formation evaluation (59.9%) and a growing reliance on wave-based (22.2%) and other advanced tools (25.1%), indicating a shift toward high-precision diagnostics. Geographically, 75% of granted patents were filed through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and 97.6% were held by companies, underscoring the dominance of corporate innovation and the minimal presence of academia and individuals. The review also identifies notable patents that reflect significant technical innovations and discusses their role in advancing diagnostic capabilities. These insights emphasize the need for broader collaboration and targeted research to advance well integrity technologies in line with industry goals for operational performance and safety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Inventions and Innovation in Energy and Thermal/Fluidic Science)

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15 pages, 6663 KB

Open AccessPatent Summary

Modernization of the DISA 55D41 Wind Tunnel for Micro-Scale Probe Testing

by Emilia Georgiana Prisăcariu, Iulian Vlăducă, Oana Maria Dumitrescu, Sergiu Strătilă and Raluca Andreea Roșu

Inventions 2025, 10(4), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10040066 - 1 Aug 2025

Abstract

Originally introduced in the 1960s by DISA Elektronik as a calibration tunnel for hot-wire anemometers, the Type 55D41 has now been reengineered into a versatile and modern aerodynamic test platform. While retaining key legacy components, such as the converging nozzle and the 55D42 [...] Read more.

Originally introduced in the 1960s by DISA Elektronik as a calibration tunnel for hot-wire anemometers, the Type 55D41 has now been reengineered into a versatile and modern aerodynamic test platform. While retaining key legacy components, such as the converging nozzle and the 55D42 power unit, the upgraded system features a redesigned modular test section with optical-grade quartz windows. This enhancement enables compatibility with advanced flow diagnostics and visualization methods, including PTV, DIC, and schlieren imaging. The modernized facility maintains the precision and flow stability that made the original design widely respected, while expanding its functionality to meet the demands of contemporary experimental research. Its architecture supports the aerodynamic characterization of micro-scale static pressure probes used in aerospace, propulsion, and micro gas turbine applications. Special attention is given to assessing the influence of probe tip geometry (e.g., conical, ogive), port positioning, and stem interference on measurement accuracy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Inventions and Innovation in Advanced Manufacturing)

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17 pages, 1602 KB

Open AccessArticle

Phase Portrait-Based Orientation-Aware Path Planning for Autonomous Mobile Robots

by Abdurrahman Yilmaz and Hasan Kivrak

Inventions 2025, 10(4), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10040065 - 1 Aug 2025

Abstract

Path planning algorithms for mobile robots and autonomous systems have advanced considerably, yet challenges remain in navigating complex environments while satisfying non-holonomic constraints and achieving precise target orientation. Phase portraits are traditionally used to analyse dynamical systems via equilibrium points and system trajectories, [...] Read more.

Path planning algorithms for mobile robots and autonomous systems have advanced considerably, yet challenges remain in navigating complex environments while satisfying non-holonomic constraints and achieving precise target orientation. Phase portraits are traditionally used to analyse dynamical systems via equilibrium points and system trajectories, and can be a powerful framework for addressing these challenges. In this work, we propose a novel orientation-aware path planning algorithm that uses phase portrait dynamics by treating both obstacles and target poses as equilibrium points within the environment. Unlike conventional approaches, our method explicitly incorporates non-holonomic constraints and target orientation requirements, resulting in smooth, feasible trajectories with high final pose accuracy. Simulation results across 28 diverse scenarios show that our method achieves zero final orientation error with path lengths comparable to Hybrid A*, and planning times reduced by

52 %

on the indoor map and

84 %

on the playpen map relative to Hybrid A*. These results highlight the potential of phase portrait-based planning as an effective and efficient method for real-time autonomous navigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Inventions and Innovation in Design, Modeling and Computing Methods)

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34 pages, 4827 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of Passenger Train Line Planning Adjustments Based on Minimizing Systematic Costs

by Jinfei Wu, Xinghua Shan and Shuo Zhao

Inventions 2025, 10(4), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10040064 - 30 Jul 2025

Abstract

Optimizing passenger train line planning is a complex task that involves balancing operational costs and passenger service quality. This study investigates the adjustment and optimization of train line plans to better align with passenger demand and operational constraints, while minimizing systematic costs. These [...] Read more.

Optimizing passenger train line planning is a complex task that involves balancing operational costs and passenger service quality. This study investigates the adjustment and optimization of train line plans to better align with passenger demand and operational constraints, while minimizing systematic costs. These costs include train operation expenses (e.g., line usage fees and station service fees), passenger travel costs, and hidden costs such as imbalances in station stops. Line usage fees refer to charges for using railway tracks, whereas station service fees cover services provided at train stations. The optimization process employs a Simulated Annealing Algorithm to adjust train compositions, capacity configurations, and stop patterns to better match passenger demand. The results indicate a 13.89% reduction in the objective function value, reflecting improved overall efficiency. Notably, most costs are reduced, including train operating costs and passenger travel costs. However, ticketing service fees—which are calculated as a percentage of passenger fare revenue—increased slightly due to additional backtracking in passenger travel paths, which raised the total fare collected. Overall, the optimization improves the operational performance of the train network, enhancing both efficiency and service quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Inventions and Innovation in Design, Modeling and Computing Methods)

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18 pages, 3353 KB

Open AccessArticle

Implementation of an Academic Learning Module for CNC Manufacturing Technology of the Part ”Double Fixing Fork”

by Georgiana-Alexandra Moroşanu, Florin-Ioan Moroșanu, Florin Susac, Virgil-Gabriel Teodor, Viorel Păunoiu and Nicuşor Baroiu

Inventions 2025, 10(4), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10040063 - 29 Jul 2025

Abstract

The paper presents the CNC manufacturing technology of the ”Double fixing fork” part as a module with educational purpose, being designed as a training support for students and other parties, facilitating the practical learning of CNC processing technology. Its technological manufacturing process involved [...] Read more.

The paper presents the CNC manufacturing technology of the ”Double fixing fork” part as a module with educational purpose, being designed as a training support for students and other parties, facilitating the practical learning of CNC processing technology. Its technological manufacturing process involved a careful analysis of the geometry, material, tolerances, as well as functional requirements to ensure precision and reliability in operation. The material from which the part was made is a polymer material (PEHD 1000) selected both for its mechanical characteristics and for its compatibility with processing technologies. The results demonstrated high precision and adaptability, reduced execution times and the possibility of achieving complex geometries in a relatively short time. The developed module supports skill development in CNC programming and operation and is suitable for replication in other academic environments. Programming allowed for more precise control of the cutting tool trajectory and processing parameters. The paper represents an important contribution to the training of future specialists, paying special attention to the growing interdisciplinarity in manufacturing technology and the development of technical skills necessary for future engineers in the numerically controlled machinery sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Inventions and Innovation in Advanced Manufacturing)

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22 pages, 5642 KB

Open AccessReview

Current Trends and Challenges in Applying Metaheuristics to the Innovative Area of Weight and Structure Determination Neuronets

by Spyridon D. Mourtas, Shuai Li, Xinwei Cao, Bolin Liao and Vasilios N. Katsikis

Inventions 2025, 10(4), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions10040062 - 24 Jul 2025

Abstract

The weights and structure determination (WASD) neuronet (or neural network) is a single-hidden-layer feedforward neuronet that exhibits an excellent approximation ability, despite its simple structure. Thanks to its strong generalization, fast speed, and ease of implementation, the WASD neuronet has been the subject [...] Read more.

The weights and structure determination (WASD) neuronet (or neural network) is a single-hidden-layer feedforward neuronet that exhibits an excellent approximation ability, despite its simple structure. Thanks to its strong generalization, fast speed, and ease of implementation, the WASD neuronet has been the subject of many modifications, including metaheuristics, and applications in a wide range of scientific fields. As it has garnered significant attention in the last decade, the aim of this study is to provide an extensive overview of the WASD framework. Furthermore, the WASD has been effectively used in numerous real-time learning tasks like regression, multiclass classification, and binary classification due to its exceptional performance. In addition, we present WASD’s applications in social science, business, engineering, economics, and medicine. We aim to report these developments and provide some avenues for further research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Innovations in Deep Learning: Unveiling Multidisciplinary Applications and Challenges)

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