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Search Results (916)

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Keywords = intelligent quality control systems

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29 pages, 2174 KB  
Review
Energy Management Technologies for All-Electric Ships: A Comprehensive Review for Sustainable Maritime Transport
by Lyu Xing, Yiqun Wang, Han Zhang, Guangnian Xiao, Xinqiang Chen, Qingjun Li, Lan Mu and Li Cai
Sustainability 2026, 18(8), 3778; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18083778 - 10 Apr 2026
Abstract
To systematically review the research progress, methodological frameworks, and application characteristics of energy management technologies for All-Electric Ships (AES), this review provides a comprehensive and critical survey of studies published over the past two decades, following the technical trajectory of multi-energy coupling–multi-objective optimization–engineering-oriented [...] Read more.
To systematically review the research progress, methodological frameworks, and application characteristics of energy management technologies for All-Electric Ships (AES), this review provides a comprehensive and critical survey of studies published over the past two decades, following the technical trajectory of multi-energy coupling–multi-objective optimization–engineering-oriented operation. Based on a structured analysis of representative literature, the review first elucidates the overall architecture and operational characteristics of AES energy systems from a system-level perspective, highlighting their core advantages as “mobile microgrids” in terms of multi-energy coordination and dispatch flexibility. On this basis, a structured classification framework for energy management strategies is established, and the theoretical foundations, applicable scenarios, and engineering feasibility of rule-based, optimization-based, uncertainty-aware, and intelligent/data-driven approaches are comparatively reviewed and discussed. Furthermore, focusing on key research themes—including multi-energy system optimization, ship–port–microgrid coordinated operation, battery safety and lifetime-oriented management, and real-time energy management strategies—the review synthesizes the main findings and engineering validation progress reported in recent studies. The analysis indicates that, with the integration of fuel cells, renewable energy sources, and Hybrid Energy Storage Systems (HESS), energy management for AES has evolved from a single power allocation problem into a system-level optimization challenge involving multiple time scales, multiple objectives, and diverse sources of uncertainty. Optimization-based and Model Predictive Control (MPC) methods have shown promising performance in many simulation and pilot-scale studies for improving energy efficiency and emission performance, while robust optimization and data-driven approaches offer useful support for enhancing operational resilience, prediction capability, and decision quality under complex and uncertain conditions. These advances collectively contribute to the environmental, economic, and operational sustainability of maritime transport by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, extending equipment lifetime, and enabling efficient integration of renewable energy sources. At the same time, the current literature still reveals important limitations related to model fidelity, data availability, validation maturity, and the gap between methodological sophistication and practical deployment. Overall, an increasingly structured but still evolving research framework has emerged in this field. Future research should further strengthen ship–port–microgrid coordinated energy management frameworks, develop system-level optimization methods that integrate safety constraints and uncertainty, and advance intelligent Energy Management Systems (EMS) oriented toward sustainable zero-carbon shipping objectives. Full article
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39 pages, 1126 KB  
Article
Genetic Algorithm–Optimized Cascaded Fractional-Order PI Control for Performance and Power Quality Enhancement of a 1.5 MW DFIG-Based MRWT
by Habib Benbouhenni and Nicu Bizon
Electronics 2026, 15(8), 1574; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics15081574 - 9 Apr 2026
Abstract
This paper presents an intelligent cascaded fractional-order proportional–integral (CFO-PI) control strategy optimized using a genetic algorithm (GA) for a 1.5 MW DFIG-based multi-rotor wind turbine (MRWT) system. The primary objective is to enhance operational performance and power quality. The proposed method is evaluated [...] Read more.
This paper presents an intelligent cascaded fractional-order proportional–integral (CFO-PI) control strategy optimized using a genetic algorithm (GA) for a 1.5 MW DFIG-based multi-rotor wind turbine (MRWT) system. The primary objective is to enhance operational performance and power quality. The proposed method is evaluated against the conventional direct power control scheme using a traditional PI regulator (DPC-PI) to demonstrate its effectiveness. Comparative analysis shows substantial performance improvements achieved by the CFO-PI approach. Specifically, active power ripple is reduced by 61.71% compared to DPC-PI, resulting in smoother power delivery and improved grid compatibility. In addition, the steady-state error of active power decreases by 72.60%, indicating improved tracking accuracy. For reactive power, a 52.03% reduction in ripple is observed, while current ripple is reduced by approximately 56%, reflecting enhanced waveform quality. These results highlight the CFO-PI controller’s capability to maintain better power quality and steady-state performance relative to conventional DPC-PI. Overall, the GA-optimized CFO-PI controller provides a promising alternative for improving dynamic performance and power quality in DFIG-based MRWT systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Intelligent Robotics Control)
49 pages, 675 KB  
Review
Automated Assembly of Large-Scale Aerospace Components: A Structured Narrative Survey of Emerging Technologies
by Kuai Zhou, Wenmin Chu, Peng Zhao, Xiaoxu Ji and Lulu Huang
Sensors 2026, 26(8), 2294; https://doi.org/10.3390/s26082294 - 8 Apr 2026
Viewed by 248
Abstract
Large-scale aerospace components (e.g., wings, fuselage sections, wing boxes, and rocket segments) feature large dimensions, low stiffness, complex interfaces, and strict assembly tolerances. Traditional rigid tooling and manual alignment struggle to meet the demands of high precision, efficiency, and flexibility in modern aerospace [...] Read more.
Large-scale aerospace components (e.g., wings, fuselage sections, wing boxes, and rocket segments) feature large dimensions, low stiffness, complex interfaces, and strict assembly tolerances. Traditional rigid tooling and manual alignment struggle to meet the demands of high precision, efficiency, and flexibility in modern aerospace manufacturing. This paper presents a structured literature review on the automated assembly of large-scale aerospace components, summarizing advances in three core domains: pose adjustment and positioning mechanisms, digital measurement technologies, and trajectory planning and control. Particular emphasis is placed on two cross-cutting themes: measurement uncertainty analysis and flexible assembly, which are critical for high-quality docking. The review classifies pose adjustment mechanisms into four categories (NC positioners, parallel kinematic machines, industrial robots, and novel mechanisms) and digital measurement into five branches (vision metrology, large-scale metrology, measurement field construction, uncertainty analysis, and auxiliary techniques). It also outlines five trajectory planning and control routes, covering traditional methods, multi-sensor fusion, digital twins, flexible assembly, and emerging intelligent approaches. The analysis reveals that current research suffers from fragmentation among mechanism design, metrology, and control, with insufficient integration of uncertainty propagation and flexible deformation modeling. Future systems will rely on heterogeneous equipment collaboration, uncertainty-aware closed-loop control, high-fidelity flexible modeling, and digital twin-driven decision-making. This review provides a unified framework and a technical reference for developing reliable, flexible, and scalable automated assembly systems for next-generation aerospace structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sensors and Robotics)
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25 pages, 1501 KB  
Article
MA-JTATO: Multi-Agent Joint Task Association and Trajectory Optimization in UAV-Assisted Edge Computing System
by Yunxi Zhang and Zhigang Wen
Drones 2026, 10(4), 267; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones10040267 - 7 Apr 2026
Viewed by 235
Abstract
With the rapid development of applications such as smart cities and the industrial internet, the computation-intensive tasks generated by massive sensing devices pose significant challenges to traditional cloud computing paradigms. Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-assisted edge computing systems, leveraging their high mobility and wide-area [...] Read more.
With the rapid development of applications such as smart cities and the industrial internet, the computation-intensive tasks generated by massive sensing devices pose significant challenges to traditional cloud computing paradigms. Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-assisted edge computing systems, leveraging their high mobility and wide-area coverage capabilities, offer an innovative architecture for low-latency and highly reliable edge services. However, the practical deployment of such systems faces a highly complex multi-objective optimization problem featured by the tight coupling of task offloading decisions, UAV trajectory planning, and edge server resource allocation. Conventional optimization methods are difficult to adapt to the dynamic and high-dimensional characteristics of this problem, leading to suboptimal system performance. To address this critical challenge, this paper constructs an intelligent collaborative optimization framework for UAV-assisted edge computing systems and formulates the system quality of service (QoS) optimization problem as a mixed-integer non-convex programming problem with the dual objectives of minimizing task processing latency and reducing overall system energy consumption. A multi-agent joint task association and trajectory optimization (MA-JTATO) algorithm based on hybrid reinforcement learning is proposed to solve this intractable problem, which innovatively decouples the original coupled optimization problem into three interrelated subproblems and realizes their collaborative and efficient solution. Specifically, the Advantage Actor-Critic (A2C) algorithm is adopted to realize dynamic and optimal task association between UAVs and edge servers for discrete decision-making requirements; the multi-agent deep deterministic policy gradient (MADDPG) method is employed to achieve cooperative and energy-efficient trajectory planning for multiple UAVs to meet the needs of continuous control in dynamic environments; and convex optimization theory is applied to obtain a closed-form optimal solution for the efficient allocation of computational resources on edge servers. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed MA-JTATO algorithm significantly outperforms traditional baseline algorithms in enhancing overall QoS, effectively validating the framework’s superior performance and robustness in dynamic and complex scenarios. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Drone Communications)
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29 pages, 1848 KB  
Review
The Role of AI-Integrated Drone Systems in Agricultural Productivity and Sustainable Pest Management
by Muhammad Towfiqur Rahman, A. S. M. Bakibillah, Adib Hossain, Ali Ahasan, Md. Naimul Basher, Kabiratun Ummi Oyshe and Asma Mariam
AgriEngineering 2026, 8(4), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriengineering8040142 - 7 Apr 2026
Viewed by 465
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted drone technology in agriculture has transformed productivity and pest control techniques, resulting in novel solutions to modern farming challenges. Drones utilizing sensors, cameras, and AI algorithms can precisely monitor crop health, soil conditions, and insect infestations. Using AI-assisted drones for [...] Read more.
Artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted drone technology in agriculture has transformed productivity and pest control techniques, resulting in novel solutions to modern farming challenges. Drones utilizing sensors, cameras, and AI algorithms can precisely monitor crop health, soil conditions, and insect infestations. Using AI-assisted drones for precision irrigation and yield predictions further improves resource allocation, promotes sustainability, and reduces operating costs. This review examines recent advancements in AI and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in precision agriculture. Key trends include AI-driven crop disease detection, UAV-enabled multispectral imaging, precision pest management, smart tractors, variable-rate fertilization, and integration with IoT-based decision support systems. This study synthesizes current research to identify technological progress, implementation challenges, scalability barriers, and opportunities for sustainable agricultural transformation. This review of peer-reviewed studies published between 2013 and 2025 uses major scientific databases and predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria covering crop monitoring, precision input application, integrated pest management (IPM), and livestock (especially cattle) monitoring. We describe the platform and payload trade-offs that govern coverage, endurance, and spray quality; the dominant analytics trends, from classical machine learning to deep learning and embedded/edge inference; and the emerging shift from monitoring-only UAV use toward closed-loop decision-making (detection–prediction–intervention). Across the literature, the strongest opportunities lie in robust field validation, multi-modal data fusion (UAV + ground sensors + farm records), and interoperable standards that enable actionable IPM decisions. Key gaps include limited cross-site generalization, scarce reporting of economic indicators (ROI, payback period, and adoption rate), and regulatory and safety barriers for routine autonomous operations. Finally, we present some case studies to emphasize the feasibility and highlight future research directions of AI-assisted drone technology. Through this review, we aim to demonstrate technological advancements, challenges, and future opportunities in AI-assisted drone applications, ultimately advocating for more sustainable and cost-effective farming practices. Full article
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2 pages, 124 KB  
Editorial
Special Issue “AI for Robotic Exoskeletons and Prostheses”
by Claudio Loconsole
Robotics 2026, 15(4), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/robotics15040077 - 7 Apr 2026
Viewed by 151
Abstract
This Special Issue was conceived to explore how Artificial Intelligence can meaningfully empower robotic exoskeletons and prosthetic systems, enhancing modeling, control, perception, and real-world applicability to ultimately improve the quality of life of individuals that rely on these technologies [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue AI for Robotic Exoskeletons and Prostheses)
23 pages, 2779 KB  
Article
An SDN-Based Vehicular Networking Platform for Mobility-Aware QoS and Handover Evaluation
by Faethon Antonopoulos and Eirini Liotou
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(7), 3553; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16073553 - 5 Apr 2026
Viewed by 189
Abstract
Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs) are a key enabler of intelligent transportation systems, supporting safety-critical and latency-sensitive applications through vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communications. However, high node mobility, rapidly changing network topologies, and heterogeneous wireless conditions pose significant challenges to traditional distributed networking approaches, [...] Read more.
Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs) are a key enabler of intelligent transportation systems, supporting safety-critical and latency-sensitive applications through vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communications. However, high node mobility, rapidly changing network topologies, and heterogeneous wireless conditions pose significant challenges to traditional distributed networking approaches, particularly in terms of quality of service (QoS) stability and handover performance. Software-Defined Networking (SDN) offers promising solutions by enabling centralized control, programmability, and flexible deployment of network functions. This paper presents an SDN-enabled vehicular networking platform designed for realistic, system-level experimentation under dynamic mobility conditions. The proposed platform tightly couples microscopic vehicular mobility generated by SUMO with wireless network emulation in Mininet-WiFi, enabling real-time interaction between vehicle movement, wireless connectivity, and SDN control decisions, where a custom SDN controller implements mobility-aware traffic management and handover handling across roadside units. Extensive experimental scenarios evaluate throughput, packet loss, jitter, and end-to-end latency under varying traffic loads and mobility patterns. Results indicate that SDN-based centralized control improves QoS consistency relative to the unmanaged baseline configuration considered in this study. The proposed platform provides practical insights and a reproducible experimental framework for the design and evaluation of software-defined vehicular networking systems. Full article
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24 pages, 4002 KB  
Article
A Causal XAI Diagnosis and Optimization Framework for Hot-Rolled Strip Shape Incorporating Hybrid Structure Learning
by Yuchun Wu, Pengju Xu, Dongyu Li and Zhimin Lv
Metals 2026, 16(4), 401; https://doi.org/10.3390/met16040401 - 3 Apr 2026
Viewed by 181
Abstract
Accurate shape control is paramount for ensuring the quality of hot-rolled strip products, which is significantly challenged by the high dimensionality, inherent nonlinearity, and strong coupling of process parameters. While machine learning (ML) methods have demonstrated superior predictive performance in product quality modeling, [...] Read more.
Accurate shape control is paramount for ensuring the quality of hot-rolled strip products, which is significantly challenged by the high dimensionality, inherent nonlinearity, and strong coupling of process parameters. While machine learning (ML) methods have demonstrated superior predictive performance in product quality modeling, the inherent “black-box” nature and lack of transparency severely undermine system reliability and hinder practical deployment. Existing explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) approaches predominantly rely on statistical correlations while overlooking the underlying causal mechanisms among coupled variables, which severely limits the validity of explanations. To address these limitations, a causal XAI diagnosis and optimization framework for hot-rolled strip shape is proposed. Initially, a hybrid causal structure learning module is established, which integrates domain knowledge with the NOTEARS-MLP algorithm to accurately reconstruct the causal topology and decode the complex coupling mechanisms among process parameters. Subsequently, a high-performance quality prediction module utilizing AutoML techniques is constructed to establish a robust predictive baseline. Furthermore, a causal XAI and quality optimization module is introduced, which incorporates causal constraints into standard Shapley additive explanation (SHAP) analysis for transparent diagnosis, and employs piecewise linear analysis (PLR) to generate sample-specific optimization strategies. Comprehensive experimental validation demonstrates that the prediction module significantly outperforms state-of-the-art ML approaches across multiple performance metrics. Additionally, comparative analysis reveals that the optimization strategy based on causal feature attribution exhibits 14.7% defect rate reduction over the associational baseline, which is effective, efficient and establishes a new benchmark for causal explainability in industrial process optimization applications. Full article
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37 pages, 2121 KB  
Review
Comprehensive Overview of Gastric Cancer Immunohistochemistry: Key Biomarkers, Advanced Detection Methods, and Perspectives
by Bogdan Oprea
Medicina 2026, 62(4), 683; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62040683 - 3 Apr 2026
Viewed by 438
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a keystone in gastric cancer (GC) management, allowing treatment customization, including for advanced or metastatic diseases. This review aims to evaluate the critical role of IHC markers, analyzing their efficiency in molecular subclassification and prediction of [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a keystone in gastric cancer (GC) management, allowing treatment customization, including for advanced or metastatic diseases. This review aims to evaluate the critical role of IHC markers, analyzing their efficiency in molecular subclassification and prediction of response to gastric cancer-targeted therapies, while also describing state-of-the-art IHC techniques and perspectives. Results: The major challenges for the GC management were structured in two main sections, as follows: (i) the current paradigm of gastric neoplasia diagnosis, which includes subsections related to the methodological and morphological foundations, the epidemiological dynamics, and risk factors, as well as differential diagnosis of poorly differentiated tumors; and (ii) the progress in 3,3′-diaminobenzidine (DAB) application and advanced reagents in gastric cancer immunohistochemistry. Discussion: Considering the role of IHC and DAB, the following topics were successively addressed in seven sections: GC key biomarkers, such as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), and DNA replication mismatch repair (MMR) system, allow direct correlation between tissue morphology and protein expression; intestinal and gastrointestinal differentiation markers; emerging and aggressive histological subtypes; epithelial–mesenchymal transition, E-cadherin, and the process of tumor budding; implementation of innovative procedures in gastric cancer immunohistochemistry; and automation, quality control, and sustainability in the pathology laboratory. Perspectives: The main directions were focused on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms for digital quantification of the IHC signal and also on the expansion of panels to new targets, such as Claudin 18.2 (CLDN 18.2), which redefines treatment approaches in advanced stages. Conclusions: Although faced with technical and biological limitations, immunohistochemistry remains indispensable in modern gastric oncology. The evolution towards digital pathology and the refinement of scoring criteria will transform IHC from a complementary test into a visual tool that is essential for personalizing oncological treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Oncology)
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23 pages, 7348 KB  
Article
Improved Sequential Starting of Medium Voltage Induction Motors with Power Quality Optimization Using White Shark Optimizer Algorithm (WSO)
by Amr Refky, Eman M. Abdallah, Hamdy Shatla and Mohammed E. Elfaraskoury
Electricity 2026, 7(2), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/electricity7020033 - 2 Apr 2026
Viewed by 175
Abstract
Medium voltage induction motors (MVIM) are a key component of numerous industries, such as water treatment plants, sewage discharge stations, and chilled water systems. The starting process for these MV motors is critical as it is associated with a major impact on both [...] Read more.
Medium voltage induction motors (MVIM) are a key component of numerous industries, such as water treatment plants, sewage discharge stations, and chilled water systems. The starting process for these MV motors is critical as it is associated with a major impact on both motor lifetime and power grid quality. In this article, a proposed modified and comprehensive starting scheme of MV three-phase induction motors driving pumps for water stations is introduced. Firstly, the starting performance and its impact on power grid quality will be discussed when all motors are normally started with direct on line connection (DOL), which is already the normal established status. A modified starting scheme based on an optimized coordination of motor starting methods in addition to variable voltage variable frequency drive (VVVFD) drive and control implementation will be discussed. A transition between the starting of variant MV induction motors as well as the starting event coordination principle will be discussed to improve the power quality relative to the obligatory time shift required for the operation. The coordination is based on an algorithm implementation which is achieved using different optimization concepts based on artificial intelligence techniques, properly conducting the transition time in addition to the power delivered by the inverter unit rather than determining the number of DOL and VVVF-implemented motors. A comparison between using the optimized VVVFD soft-starting and the proposed modified scheme is performed, focusing on the power quality improvement rather than optimizing the cost function. The modified scheme is simulated using ETAP power station for brief analysis and study of load flow rather than the complete inspection and power quality assessment. Full article
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25 pages, 869 KB  
Article
Fostering Sustainable Learning via Embodied Intelligence: The E3-HOT Framework for Higher-Order Thinking in the AI Era
by Hanzi Zhu, Xin Jiang, Xiaolei Zhang, Huiying Xu, Deang Su, Zhendong Chen and Xinzhong Zhu
Sustainability 2026, 18(7), 3469; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18073469 - 2 Apr 2026
Viewed by 239
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) can help students accelerate assignment completion, but it may also foster cognitive outsourcing and learning detached from authentic contexts. This paper presents E3-HOT, a conceptual framework that leverages embodied intelligence to sustain learners’ cognitive agency and higher-order thinking for sustainable [...] Read more.
Artificial intelligence (AI) can help students accelerate assignment completion, but it may also foster cognitive outsourcing and learning detached from authentic contexts. This paper presents E3-HOT, a conceptual framework that leverages embodied intelligence to sustain learners’ cognitive agency and higher-order thinking for sustainable learning, aligned with SDG 4 (Sustainable Development Goal 4) and its emphasis on inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning. Using an iterative conceptual synthesis, we distill three embodied pathways—situational embedding, embodied participation, and cognitive creation—and translate them into a practical system design with a three-module E3 core. It includes a virtual–real integrated learning environment for rich scenarios, embodied interaction for action and sensing, and an intelligent core that provides bounded and teacher-controlled support. To facilitate equitable adoption across resource-diverse settings, we specify multi-fidelity enactment options and an auditable set of evidence artifacts for subsequent expert review and future validation studies. We further provide an illustrative university human–AI design project that outlines a week-by-week workflow and corresponding evidence plan, presented as a worked example rather than a report of an implemented study. E3-HOT offers a traceable design-and-evidence blueprint without claiming measured learning gains. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Education and Approaches)
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19 pages, 1119 KB  
Proceeding Paper
Quantum-Fuzzy Adaptive Control Architecture for Nonlinear Dynamic Systems in Industrial Automation
by Noilakhon Yakubova, Isomiddin Siddiqov, Komil Usmanov, Zafar Turakulov and Yoldoshkhon Akramkhodjayev
Eng. Proc. 2026, 124(1), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2026124102 - 1 Apr 2026
Viewed by 144
Abstract
Maintaining optimal control of heating boiler systems using intelligent control strategies remains a significant challenge due to strong nonlinearities, time delays, and unpredictable variations in fuel quality and thermal load. Conventional fuzzy logic controllers, while effective under nominal conditions, often exhibit limited robustness [...] Read more.
Maintaining optimal control of heating boiler systems using intelligent control strategies remains a significant challenge due to strong nonlinearities, time delays, and unpredictable variations in fuel quality and thermal load. Conventional fuzzy logic controllers, while effective under nominal conditions, often exhibit limited robustness when exposed to abrupt parameter changes. To address this limitation, this study proposes a novel Quantum-Fuzzy Adaptive Intelligent Proportional-Integral-Derivative (QFAI-PID) control architecture, in which probabilistic inference mechanisms inspired by quantum principles are implemented algorithmically within a classical computing framework and validated through MATLAB/Simulink simulations. The proposed approach enhances the adaptability of fuzzy rule-based control by enabling probabilistic superposition and dynamic activation of control rules, allowing the knowledge base to self-organize in real time. The control system is evaluated using a nonlinear heating boiler model developed in MATLAB/Simulink under realistic industrial disturbances, including ±25% fuel flow variations, up to 30% changes in thermal demand, and measurement delays of 5–8 s. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed controller achieves up to 36% improvement in control stability, 30% faster response time, and 22% reduction in energy-related control effort compared with conventional fuzzy control systems. These results confirm that the proposed quantum-inspired fuzzy approach provides a robust, energy-efficient, and practically implementable solution for intelligent control of nonlinear thermal energy systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 6th International Electronic Conference on Applied Sciences)
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14 pages, 931 KB  
Article
From Climate Control to Crop Reproducibility: An Intelligent IoT System for Vertical Horticulture
by Fernando Fuentes-Peñailillo, Pabla Rebolledo, Abel Cruces and Gilda Carrasco
Horticulturae 2026, 12(4), 429; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12040429 - 1 Apr 2026
Viewed by 270
Abstract
Ensuring experimental reproducibility and reliable isolation of crop responses remain critical challenges in vertical farming and controlled-environment horticulture, where minor microclimatic fluctuations can mask treatment effects and compromise comparability across experiments. This study presents an intelligent, low-cost IoT-based climate management system designed as [...] Read more.
Ensuring experimental reproducibility and reliable isolation of crop responses remain critical challenges in vertical farming and controlled-environment horticulture, where minor microclimatic fluctuations can mask treatment effects and compromise comparability across experiments. This study presents an intelligent, low-cost IoT-based climate management system designed as a methodological framework to stabilize environmental conditions and support reproducible crop responses in vertical horticulture. The system integrates real-time multi-sensor monitoring of temperature, relative humidity, atmospheric pressure, and CO2 concentration with automated high-power actuation for lighting and ventilation within a unified control framework. The platform was validated using lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. cv. Ofelia) cultivated under controlled vertical farming conditions, where environmental stability enabled the reliable detection of plant responses to contrast light spectra. Crop performance was evaluated through biomass accumulation, morphological traits, and nutritional quality parameters. The intelligent control system maintained environmental setpoints within narrow ranges throughout the cultivation cycle, minimizing microclimatic variability across vertical tiers. As a result, observed differences in plant growth and biochemical composition were less likely to be confounded by environmental drift. By shifting the role of IoT technologies from simple automation tools to experimental enablers, this work illustrates how intelligent climate control can support reproducibility, scalability, and methodological robustness in vertical horticulture research. The proposed open, modular architecture provides a transferable framework for reproducible crop experimentation and production in controlled-environment systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Controlled-Environment Horticulture)
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43 pages, 1140 KB  
Review
Industry 4.0-Enabled Friction Stir Welding: A Review of Intelligent Joining for Aerospace and Automotive Applications
by Sipokazi Mabuwa, Katleho Moloi and Velaphi Msomi
Metals 2026, 16(4), 390; https://doi.org/10.3390/met16040390 - 1 Apr 2026
Viewed by 369
Abstract
Friction stir welding (FSW) is a critical solid-state joining process for lightweight and high-performance metallic structures, particularly in aerospace and automotive manufacturing, yet conventional implementations remain largely dependent on offline parameter optimization and open-loop control. The purpose of this review is to examine [...] Read more.
Friction stir welding (FSW) is a critical solid-state joining process for lightweight and high-performance metallic structures, particularly in aerospace and automotive manufacturing, yet conventional implementations remain largely dependent on offline parameter optimization and open-loop control. The purpose of this review is to examine how Industry 4.0 technologies enable the transition of FSW from a parameter-driven process into an intelligent, adaptive, and increasingly autonomous manufacturing capability. A structured review methodology was employed, including systematic literature selection and synthesis of recent research on smart sensing, industrial internet of things (IIoT), data analytics, machine learning, digital twins, automation, robotics, and human–machine interaction in FSW. The review reveals that Industry 4.0 integration enables real-time process monitoring, predictive quality assurance, closed-loop control, and virtual process optimization, resulting in improved weld quality, reliability, productivity, and scalability. Significant benefits are observed for safety-critical aerospace components and high-throughput automotive production, where adaptability and consistency are essential. However, persistent challenges remain in data standardization, model generalization, real-time digital twin integration, interoperability, cybersecurity, and workforce readiness. This review concludes that addressing these challenges through interdisciplinary research, standardization efforts, and human-centered system design is essential for enabling adaptive and data-driven FSW systems. The findings position intelligent FSW as a foundational technology for smart, resilient, and sustainable metal manufacturing in the Industry 4.0 era. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Welding and Joining)
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22 pages, 3384 KB  
Article
Generative Artificial Intelligence vs. Transformer and Benchmarking Against Deep/Machine Learning: Classification and Scientific Validation of Heart Failure Patients Using Women’s Transcriptomic Gene Data
by Ekta Tiwari, Dipti Shrimankar, Krish Chaudhary, Luca Saba and Jasjit S. Suri
Diagnostics 2026, 16(7), 1052; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16071052 - 1 Apr 2026
Viewed by 290
Abstract
Backgrounds: Accurate early classification of heart failure (HF) in women is challenging due to sex-specific gene expression and disease patterns, which traditional models overlook. We propose a generative artificial intelligence (GenAI)-based model for the classification of HF patients using acute myocardial infarction [...] Read more.
Backgrounds: Accurate early classification of heart failure (HF) in women is challenging due to sex-specific gene expression and disease patterns, which traditional models overlook. We propose a generative artificial intelligence (GenAI)-based model for the classification of HF patients using acute myocardial infarction (AMI) gene expression data. Objectives: This study aims to design and scientifically validate a novel GenAI framework, benchmarking it against transformer, deep learning (DL), and machine learning (ML) architectures for robust HF classification using women’s transcriptomic data. Methods: Total 26 models designed: A novel wBio-GenAI model, two transformers (Xmers): token diffusion gene (wTDG-Xmer) and neurotopology (wNT-Xmer), 19 deep learning models which include convolutional neural network (CNN)-, long short-term memory (LSTM)- and extended LSTM (xLSTM)-based models, and four ML. The models applied differential expression analysis (DEA) which identifies differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from the public women’s microarray GSE57345 samples. Quality control was conducted. The GenAI system was scientifically validated, benchmarked, and statistically tested for reliability. Results: The wBio-GenAI achieved an accuracy of 98.21% and an area-under-the-curve (AUC) of 0.99. The wBio-GenAI is better than the mean of two Xmers by 4.67%, the mean of 19 DLs by 5.16%, and the mean of four MLs by 15.07%. The proposed model meets the regulatory requirements of having a difference < 10% between seen and unseen paradigms. Conclusions: The wBio-GenAI architecture captures the complex transcriptomic patterns, improving HF classification in women and advancing women-specific precision cardiovascular care. Full article
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