Submit to Machines Review for Machines Propose a Special Issue

Journal Browser

Advanced Autonomous Machines and Designs

Print Special Issue Flyer
Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Published Papers

A special issue of Machines (ISSN 2075-1702). This special issue belongs to the section "Automation and Control Systems".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 September 2021) | Viewed by 32158

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Hamid Reza Karimi

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Mechanical Engineering, Politecnico di Milano, Via La Masa 1, 20156 Milan, Italy
Interests: control theory; mechatronics; sensors and actuators; motion control; vibration control; vehicle dynamics; fault detection; health monitoring; wind energy
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Prof. Dr. Kai Cheng

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

College of Engineering, Design and Physical Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, London UB8 3PH, UK
Interests: design of high precision machines; air-bearings design; micro cutting; ultraprecision machining; smart tooling
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Prof. Dr. Yanhua Zou

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

School of Engineering, Course of Mechanical Engineering Systems, Utsunomiya University, 7-1-2 Yoto, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 321-8585, Japan
Interests: magnetic field assisted finishing process; precision maching; abrasive finishing; non-traditional machining process

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

With the rapid technological development of machines in different applications such as vehicles, robotics, manufacturing, etc., it may raise concerns with regards to complexity, safety, performance, and maintenance costs associated with the machine operation. To partly overcome these challenges, the concept of autonomy was introduced to machines, which means the machines are able to operate with minimal influence from external controllers or users. The functionality of autonomous machines depends on the integration of mechanical, electrical, or hydraulic components with informational components to reach a higher level of autonomy in machine operation (e.g., production or motion control). Toward this aim, the operation of autonomous machines is mainly related to local environment-sensing technology, remote control technology, as well as interaction with their environment. For instance, the inclusion of the autonomy concept in manufacturing processes can enhance accuracy, consistency, data collection, and connectivity in operation processes.

The primary objective of this Special Issue is to provide a forum for researchers and practitioners to exchange their latest theoretical and technological achievements and to identify critical issues and challenges for future investigation on the integration of autonomous concepts based on information system technologies in machines. The submitted papers are expected to raise original ideas and potential contributions for theory and practice. Topics include, but are not limited to, the following research areas:

Sensing and actuation technology to machines;
Planning and control for autonomous machines;
Intelligent machines;
Advanced machine design;
Machine learning and AI for machines;
Network-based machines;
Reliability and resilience control of machines;
Advanced machinery design;
Accuracy of machine tools;
Safety in autonomous machines;
Advanced automation systems;
Security of network and information systems in advanced machines;
Fault diagnosis in autonomous machines;
Fault prognosis in autonomous machines;
Advanced motion control;
Advanced manufacturing;
Additive manufacturing;
Industrial applications.

Prof. Dr. Hamid Reza Karimi
Prof. Dr. Kai Cheng
Prof. Dr. Yanhua Zou
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Machines is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Published Papers (10 papers)

Download All Papers

Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review

2 pages, 160 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Advanced Autonomous Machines and Design Developments

by Hamid Reza Karimi, Kai Cheng and Yanhua Zou

Machines 2022, 10(6), 491; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines10060491 - 20 Jun 2022

Viewed by 1110

Abstract

With the rapid technological development of machines in different applications such as vehicles, robotics, and manufacturing, concerns may arise with regard to complexity, safety, performance, and maintenance costs associated with the machine operation [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Autonomous Machines and Designs)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

17 pages, 9141 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design of a Hydrostatic Spindle and Its Simulation Analysis with the Application to a High Precision Internal Grinding Machine

by Youyun Shang, Kai Cheng, Hui Ding and Shijin Chen

Machines 2022, 10(2), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines10020127 - 11 Feb 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3576

Abstract

Hydrostatic thrust bearings are the core part of the hydrostatic spindle, which is widely used in high precision grinding machines. In this paper, the viscosity-temperature (v-t) characteristics of hydrostatic oil are systematically investigated, which is essential for improving the performance of the hydrostatic thrust bearing and the spindle working at high pressure and high rotational speed. Based on the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation developed, the performance variation rules of thrust bearing surface are established while changing the oil supply pressure. It is found that the bearing capacity and temperature are obviously affected by varying viscosity-temperature characteristics, which have significant fluctuation phenomenon at the orifice. Furthermore, the turbulence intensity of the taper hole is found the least factor by analyzing four kinds of commonly used orifice type configurations. Finally, comparing the simulation and experimental results, the v-t model developed is proofed well matching with the experiment. The model can provide a basis for accurate design and analysis of hydrostatic thrust bearings and consequently the effective design and analysis of the hydrostatic spindle for high precision grinding machine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Autonomous Machines and Designs)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 4486 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Iterative Learning Control for AGV Drive Motor Based on Linear Extended State Observer

by Wei Jiang, Gang Zhu and Ying Zheng

Machines 2021, 9(12), 324; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines9120324 - 29 Nov 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2250

Abstract

In order to solve the problems of repetitive and non-repetitive interference in the workflow of Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV), Iterative Learning Control (ILC) combined with linear extended state observer (LESO) is utilized to improve the control accuracy of AGV drive motor. Considering the working conditions of AGV, the load characteristics of the drive motor are analyzed with which the mathematical model of motor system is established. Then the third-order extended state space equations of the system approximate model is obtained, in which LESO is designed to estimate the system states and the total disturbance. For the repeatability of AGV workflow, ILC is designed to improve the control accuracy. As the goods mass transported each time is not same, the LESO is utilized to estimate the non-repetitive load disturbance in real time and compensate the disturbance of the system to improve the position precision. The convergence of the combined algorithm is also verified. Simulation and experimental results show that the proposed iterative learning control strategy based on LESO can reduce the positioning error in AGV workflow and improve the system performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Autonomous Machines and Designs)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2932 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Nonlinear Magnetic Stabilization Control Design for an Externally Manipulated DC Motor: An Academic Low-Cost Experimental Platform

by Leonardo Acho

Machines 2021, 9(5), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines9050101 - 14 May 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2095

Abstract

The main objective of this paper is to present a position control design to a DC-motor, where the set-point is externally supplied. The controller is conceived by using vibrational control theory and implemented by just processing the time derivative of a Hall-effect sensor signal. Vibrational control is robust against model uncertainties. Hence, for control design, a simple mathematical model of a DC-Motor is invoked. Then, this controller is realized by utilizing analog electronics via operational amplifiers. In the experimental set-up, one extreme of a flexible beam attached to the motor shaft, and with a permanent magnet fixed on the other end, is constructed. Therefore, the control action consists of externally manipulating the flexible beam rotational position by driving a moveable Hall-effect sensor that is located facing the magnet. The experimental platform results in a low-priced device and is useful for teaching control and electronic topics. Experimental results are evidenced to support the main paper contribution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Autonomous Machines and Designs)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 6643 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Multiscale Modelling and Analysis for Design and Development of a High-Precision Aerostatic Bearing Slideway and Its Digital Twin

by Ning Gou, Kai Cheng and Dehong Huo

Machines 2021, 9(5), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines9050085 - 25 Apr 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3342

Abstract

Aerostatic bearing slideways have been increasingly applied in the precision engineering industry and other high-tech sectors over the last two decades or so, due to their considerable advantages over mechanical slideways in terms of high motion accuracy, high speeds, low friction, and environment-friendly operations. However, new challenges in air bearings design and analysis have been occurring and often imposed along the journeys. An industrial-feasible approach for the design and development of aerostatic bearing slideways as standard engineering products is essential and much needed particularly for addressing their rapid demands in diverse precision engineering sectors, and better applications and services in a continuous sustainable manner. This paper presents the multiscale modelling and analysis-based approach for design and development of the aerostatic bearing slideways and its digital twin. The multiscale modelling and analysis and the associated simulation development can be the kernel of the digital twin, which cover the mechanical design, direct drive and control, dynamics tuning of the slideway, and their entire mechatronic system integration. Using this approach and implementation, the performance of an aerostatic bearing slideway can be predicted and assessed in the process. The implementation perspectives for the sideway digital twin are presented and discussed in steps. The digital simulations and digital twin system can be fundamentally important for continuously improving the design and development of aerostatic bearing slideways, and their applications and services in the context of industry 4.0 and beyond. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Autonomous Machines and Designs)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 6740 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of Finishing Aluminum Alloy A5052 Using the Magnetic Abrasive Finishing Combined with Electrolytic Process

by Baijun Xing and Yanhua Zou

Machines 2020, 8(4), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines8040078 - 19 Nov 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2668

Abstract

The magnetic abrasive finishing combined with electrolytic (EMAF) process was proposed to improve the finishing efficiency of the traditional magnetic abrasive finishing (MAF) process. Since the EMAF process contains electrolysis reactions, the machining mechanism of processing different metal is different. In this paper, a series of experiments were conducted to explore the feasibility of using the compound processing tool to finish aluminum alloy A5052, and to preliminary explore the machining mechanism. Surface roughness and material removal are used to evaluate the finishing effect and the finishing efficiency, respectively. The EMAF processing current curve is used to evaluate and analyze the EMAF process. The feasibility of the EMAF processing is proved by the analysis of simulations and the experimental results. Finally, through a series of exploration experiments and parameter optimization experiments, the main conclusions are as follows: (1) Compared with the traditional MAF process, when finishing the surface of aluminum alloy A5052 by the same compound processing tool and at the same experimental conditions (except the electrolysis conditions), the EMAF process, which includes electrolysis reactions, can achieve higher finishing efficiency. (2) In this study, when the working gap is 1 mm and the concentration of NaNO₃ solution is 15%, the recommended processing voltage is about 3.4 V. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Autonomous Machines and Designs)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 26223 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation on Finishing Characteristics of Magnetic Abrasive Finishing Process Using an Alternating Magnetic Field

by Huijun Xie and Yanhua Zou

Machines 2020, 8(4), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines8040075 - 16 Nov 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3434

Abstract

The magnetic abrasive finishing (MAF) process is an ultra-precision surface finishing process. In order to further improve the finishing efficiency and surface quality, the MAF process using an alternating magnetic field was proposed in the previous research, and it was proven that the alternating magnetic field has advantages compared with the static magnetic field. In order to further develop the process, this study investigated the effect on finishing characteristics when the alternating current waveform is a square wave. The difference between the fluctuation behavior of the magnetic cluster in two alternating magnetic fields (sine wave and square wave) is observed and analyzed. Through analysis, it can be concluded that the use of a square wave can make the magnetic cluster fluctuate faster, and as the size of the magnetic particles decreases, the difference between the magnetic cluster fluctuation speed of the two waveforms is greater. The experimental results show that the surface roughness of SUS304 stainless steel plate improves from 328 nm Ra to 14 nm Ra within 40 min. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Autonomous Machines and Designs)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 8610 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design and Performance of an Elbow Assisting Mechanism

by Giacomo Zuccon, Matteo Bottin, Marco Ceccarelli and Giulio Rosati

Machines 2020, 8(4), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines8040068 - 27 Oct 2020

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4506

Abstract

An elbow assisting device is presented as based on a cable-driven parallel mechanism with design solutions that are improvements from a previous original design. The new mechanism, ideal for domestic use, both for therapies and exercises, is characterized by low-cost, portable, easy-to-use features [...] Read more.

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Autonomous Machines and Designs)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

17 pages, 6383 KiB

Open AccessArticle

6D Virtual Sensor for Wrench Estimation in Robotized Interaction Tasks Exploiting Extended Kalman Filter

by Loris Roveda, Andrea Bussolan, Francesco Braghin and Dario Piga

Machines 2020, 8(4), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines8040067 - 27 Oct 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2524

Abstract

Industrial robots are commonly used to perform interaction tasks (such as assemblies or polishing), requiring the robot to be in contact with the surrounding environment. Such environments are (partially) unknown to the robot controller. Therefore, there is the need to implement interaction controllers capable of suitably reacting to the established contacts. Although standard force controllers require force/torque measurements to close the loop, most of the industrial manipulators do not have installed force/torque sensor(s). In addition, the integration of external sensors results in additional costs and implementation effort, not affordable in many contexts/applications. To extend the use of compliant controllers to sensorless interaction control, a model-based methodology is presented in this paper for the online estimation of the interaction wrench, implementing a 6D virtual sensor. Relying on sensorless Cartesian impedance control, an Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) is proposed for the interaction wrench estimation. The described approach has been validated in simulations, taking into account four different scenarios. In addition, experimental validation has been performed employing a Franka EMIKA panda robot. A human–robot interaction scenario and an assembly task have been considered to show the capabilities of the developed EKF, which is able to perform the estimation with high bandwidth, achieving convergence with limited errors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Autonomous Machines and Designs)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

21 pages, 997 KiB

Open AccessReview

Development of an Intelligent Quality Management System for Micro Laser Welding: An Innovative Framework and Its Implementation Perspectives

by José Luis Velázquez de la Hoz and Kai Cheng

Machines 2021, 9(11), 252; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines9110252 - 26 Oct 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5004

Abstract

Laser micro-welding manufacturers face substantial challenges in verifying weldment quality, as the industry and applications are requiring increasingly the miniaturization and compactness of products. The problem is compounded by new stringent demands for personalized products at competitive, low costs and the highest quality levels. High-pressure equipment manufacturers, in particular, rely on ISO 3834:2021 to assure and demonstrate best welding practices but also to manage risks associated with liability issues. ISO 3834:2021, like all conventional quality management systems, offers a one-dimensional, quasi-static overview of welding quality that may fail to deal with these new challenges and underlying complexities required to deal effectively with process variability. This paper presents a framework for welding companies to integrate horizontally their suppliers and customers with their processes and products, which are also integrated vertically in the context of Smart Manufacturing or Industry 4.0. It is focused on the development of a smart quality management system for intelligent digitization of all company manufacturing and business processes. Furthermore, an innovative data-based welding quality management framework is described for laser micro-welding applications and their implementation perspectives. The research is driven by an inductive methodology and based on a seamless integration of engineering-oriented heuristic and empirical approaches that is appropriate for intelligent and autonomous quality management, given the lack of research in this niche, but increasingly important topic area. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Autonomous Machines and Designs)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Advanced Autonomous Machines and Designs

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Published Papers (10 papers)

Editorial

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI