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Search Results (2,423)

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Keywords = vehicle integrated control

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23 pages, 4260 KiB  
Article
Priority Control of Intelligent Connected Dedicated Bus Corridor Based on Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient
by Chunlin Shang, Fenghua Zhu, Yancai Xu, Guiqing Zhu and Xin Tong
Sensors 2025, 25(15), 4802; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25154802 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
To address the substantial disparities in operational characteristics between social vehicles and dedicated bus lanes, as well as the sub-optimal coordination control effects, a comprehensive approach is proposed. This approach integrates social vehicle arterial coordination with bus priority control in dedicated bus lanes. [...] Read more.
To address the substantial disparities in operational characteristics between social vehicles and dedicated bus lanes, as well as the sub-optimal coordination control effects, a comprehensive approach is proposed. This approach integrates social vehicle arterial coordination with bus priority control in dedicated bus lanes. Initially, an analysis of the differences in travel time distribution on both types of roads is conducted. The likelihood of buses passing through upstream and downstream intersections without stopping is also assessed. This analysis aids in determining the correlated traffic states and the corresponding signal adjustment strategies for arterial coordination. Subsequently, an incentive mechanism is established by quantitatively analyzing vehicle delay losses and bus priority benefits based on the signal adjustment strategy. Finally, a deep reinforcement learning framework is proposed to solve, in real-time, the optimal signal adjustment strategy. Simulation experiments indicate that, in comparison to the arterial coordination of social vehicles and dedicated bus arterial coordination control, this method significantly reduces the average per capita delay by 38.63% and 27.43%, respectively, under conventional traffic flow scenarios. This is in contrast to the separate arterial coordination for social vehicles and dedicated bus lanes. Furthermore, it leads to a reduction of 52.17% in the number of bus stops at intersections when compared solely with the arterial coordination of social vehicles. In saturated traffic flow scenarios, this method achieves a reduction in average per capita delay by 29.7% and 9.6%, respectively, while also decreasing the number of bus stops at intersections by 39.5% and 8.7%, respectively. Full article
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32 pages, 12538 KiB  
Article
Study on Vibration Characteristics and Harmonic Suppression of an Integrated Electric Drive System Considering the Electromechanical Coupling Effect
by Yue Cui, Hong Lu, Jinli Xu, Yongquan Zhang and Lin Zou
Actuators 2025, 14(8), 386; https://doi.org/10.3390/act14080386 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
The study of vibration characteristics and suppression methods in integrated electric drive systems of electric vehicles is of critical importance. To investigate these characteristics, both current harmonics within the motor and nonlinear factors within the drivetrain were considered. A 17-degree-of-freedom nonlinear torsional–planar dynamic [...] Read more.
The study of vibration characteristics and suppression methods in integrated electric drive systems of electric vehicles is of critical importance. To investigate these characteristics, both current harmonics within the motor and nonlinear factors within the drivetrain were considered. A 17-degree-of-freedom nonlinear torsional–planar dynamic model was developed, with electromagnetic torque and output speed as coupling terms. The model’s accuracy was experimentally validated, and the system’s dynamic responses were analyzed under different working conditions. To mitigate vibrations caused by torque ripple, a coordinated control strategy was proposed, combining a quasi-proportional multi-resonant (QPMR) controller and a full-frequency harmonic controller (FFHC). The results demonstrate that the proposed strategy effectively suppresses multi-order current harmonics in the driving motor, reduces torque ripple by 45.1%, and enhances transmission stability. In addition, the proposed electromechanical coupling model provides valuable guidance for the analysis of integrated electric drive systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Actuators for Surface Vehicles)
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14 pages, 1329 KiB  
Article
Lane-Changing Risk Prediction on Urban Expressways: A Mixed Bayesian Approach for Sustainable Traffic Management
by Quantao Yang, Peikun Li, Fei Yang and Wenbo Lu
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7061; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157061 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study addresses critical safety challenges in sustainable urban mobility by developing a probabilistic framework for lane-change risk prediction on congested expressways. Utilizing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-captured trajectory data from 784 validated lane-change events, we construct a Bayesian network model integrated with an [...] Read more.
This study addresses critical safety challenges in sustainable urban mobility by developing a probabilistic framework for lane-change risk prediction on congested expressways. Utilizing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-captured trajectory data from 784 validated lane-change events, we construct a Bayesian network model integrated with an I-CH scoring-enhanced MMHC algorithm. This approach quantifies risk probabilities while accounting for driver decision dynamics and input data uncertainties—key gaps in conventional methods like time-to-collision metrics. Validation via the Asia network paradigm demonstrates 80.5% reliability in forecasting high-risk maneuvers. Crucially, we identify two sustainability-oriented operational thresholds: (1) optimal lane-change success occurs when trailing-vehicle speeds in target lanes are maintained at 1.0–3.0 m/s (following-gap < 4.0 m) or 3.0–6.0 m/s (gap ≥ 4.0 m), and (2) insertion-angle change rates exceeding 3.0°/unit-time significantly elevate transition probability. These evidence-based parameters enable traffic management systems to proactively mitigate collision risks by 13.26% while optimizing flow continuity. By converting behavioral insights into adaptive control strategies, this research advances resilient transportation infrastructure and low-carbon mobility through congestion reduction. Full article
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25 pages, 394 KiB  
Article
SMART DShot: Secure Machine-Learning-Based Adaptive Real-Time Timing Correction
by Hyunmin Kim, Zahid Basha Shaik Kadu and Kyusuk Han
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8619; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158619 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
The exponential growth of autonomous systems demands robust security mechanisms that can operate within the extreme constraints of real-time embedded environments. This paper introduces SMART DShot, a groundbreaking machine learning-enhanced framework that transforms the security landscape of unmanned aerial vehicle motor control systems [...] Read more.
The exponential growth of autonomous systems demands robust security mechanisms that can operate within the extreme constraints of real-time embedded environments. This paper introduces SMART DShot, a groundbreaking machine learning-enhanced framework that transforms the security landscape of unmanned aerial vehicle motor control systems through seamless integration of adaptive timing correction and real-time anomaly detection within Digital Shot (DShot) communication protocols. Our approach addresses critical vulnerabilities in Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) interfaces by deploying four synergistic algorithms—Kalman Filter Timing Correction (KFTC), Recursive Least Squares Timing Correction (RLSTC), Fuzzy Logic Timing Correction (FLTC), and Hybrid Adaptive Timing Correction (HATC)—each optimized for specific error characteristics and attack scenarios. Through comprehensive evaluation encompassing 32,000 Monte Carlo test iterations (500 per scenario × 16 scenarios × 4 algorithms) across 16 distinct operational scenarios and PolarFire SoC Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) implementation, we demonstrate exceptional performance with 88.3% attack detection rate, only 2.3% false positive incidence, and substantial vulnerability mitigation reducing Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) severity from High (7.3) to Low (3.1). Hardware validation on PolarFire SoC confirms practical viability with minimal resource overhead (2.16% Look-Up Table utilization, 16.57 mW per channel) and deterministic sub-10 microsecond execution latency. The Hybrid Adaptive Timing Correction algorithm achieves 31.01% success rate (95% CI: [30.2%, 31.8%]), representing a 26.5% improvement over baseline approaches through intelligent meta-learning-based algorithm selection. Statistical validation using Analysis of Variance confirms significant performance differences (F(3,1996) = 30.30, p < 0.001) with large effect sizes (Cohen’s d up to 4.57), where 64.6% of algorithm comparisons showed large practical significance. SMART DShot establishes a paradigmatic shift from reactive to proactive embedded security, demonstrating that sophisticated artificial intelligence can operate effectively within microsecond-scale real-time constraints while providing comprehensive protection against timing manipulation, de-synchronization, burst interference, replay attacks, coordinated multi-channel attacks, and firmware-level compromises. This work provides essential foundations for trustworthy autonomous systems across critical domains including aerospace, automotive, industrial automation, and cyber–physical infrastructure. These results conclusively demonstrate that ML-enhanced motor control systems can achieve both superior security (88.3% attack detection rate with 2.3% false positives) and operational performance (31.01% timing correction success rate, 26.5% improvement over baseline) simultaneously, establishing SMART DShot as a practical, deployable solution for next-generation autonomous systems. Full article
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22 pages, 5136 KiB  
Article
Application of UAVs to Support Blast Design for Flyrock Mitigation: A Case Study from a Basalt Quarry
by Józef Pyra and Tomasz Żołądek
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8614; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158614 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Blasting operations in surface mining pose a risk of flyrock, which is a critical safety concern for both personnel and infrastructure. This study presents the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and photogrammetric techniques to improve the accuracy of blast design, particularly in [...] Read more.
Blasting operations in surface mining pose a risk of flyrock, which is a critical safety concern for both personnel and infrastructure. This study presents the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and photogrammetric techniques to improve the accuracy of blast design, particularly in relation to controlling burden values and reducing flyrock. The research was conducted in a basalt quarry in Lower Silesia, where high rock fracturing complicated conventional blast planning. A DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise UAV was used to capture high-resolution aerial imagery, and 3D models were created using Strayos software. These models enabled precise analysis of bench face geometry and burden distribution with centimeter-level accuracy. The results showed a significant improvement in identifying zones with improper burden values and allowed for real-time corrections in blasthole design. Despite a ten-fold reduction in the number of images used, no loss in model quality was observed. UAV-based surveys followed software-recommended flight paths, and the application of this methodology reduced the flyrock range by an average of 42% near sensitive areas. This approach demonstrates the operational benefits and enhanced safety potential of integrating UAV-based photogrammetry into blasting design workflows. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Blasting Technology for Mining)
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30 pages, 1737 KiB  
Article
Trajectory Optimization for Autonomous Highway Driving Using Quintic Splines
by Wael A. Farag and Morsi M. Mahmoud
World Electr. Veh. J. 2025, 16(8), 434; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj16080434 - 3 Aug 2025
Viewed by 39
Abstract
This paper introduces a robust and efficient Localized Spline-based Path-Planning (LSPP) algorithm designed to enhance autonomous vehicle navigation on highways. The LSPP approach prioritizes smooth maneuvering, obstacle avoidance, passenger comfort, and adherence to road constraints, including lane boundaries, through optimized trajectory generation using [...] Read more.
This paper introduces a robust and efficient Localized Spline-based Path-Planning (LSPP) algorithm designed to enhance autonomous vehicle navigation on highways. The LSPP approach prioritizes smooth maneuvering, obstacle avoidance, passenger comfort, and adherence to road constraints, including lane boundaries, through optimized trajectory generation using quintic spline functions and a dynamic speed profile. Leveraging real-time data from the vehicle’s sensor fusion module, the LSPP algorithm accurately interprets the positions of surrounding vehicles and obstacles, creating a safe, dynamically feasible path that is relayed to the Model Predictive Control (MPC) track-following module for precise execution. The theoretical distinction of LSPP lies in its modular integration of: (1) a finite state machine (FSM)-based decision-making layer that selects maneuver-specific goal states (e.g., keep lane, change lane left/right); (2) quintic spline optimization to generate smooth, jerk-minimized, and kinematically consistent trajectories; (3) a multi-objective cost evaluation framework that ranks competing paths according to safety, comfort, and efficiency; and (4) a closed-loop MPC controller to ensure real-time trajectory execution with robustness. Extensive simulations conducted in diverse highway scenarios and traffic conditions demonstrate LSPP’s effectiveness in delivering smooth, safe, and computationally efficient trajectories. Results show consistent improvements in lane-keeping accuracy, collision avoidance, enhanced materials wear performance, and planning responsiveness compared to traditional path-planning methods. These findings confirm LSPP’s potential as a practical and high-performance solution for autonomous highway driving. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Motion Planning and Control of Autonomous Vehicles)
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24 pages, 3172 KiB  
Article
A DDPG-LSTM Framework for Optimizing UAV-Enabled Integrated Sensing and Communication
by Xuan-Toan Dang, Joon-Soo Eom, Binh-Minh Vu and Oh-Soon Shin
Drones 2025, 9(8), 548; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones9080548 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 209
Abstract
This paper proposes a novel dual-functional radar-communication (DFRC) framework that integrates unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) communications into an integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) system, termed the ISAC-UAV architecture. In this system, the UAV’s mobility is leveraged to simultaneously serve multiple single-antenna uplink users [...] Read more.
This paper proposes a novel dual-functional radar-communication (DFRC) framework that integrates unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) communications into an integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) system, termed the ISAC-UAV architecture. In this system, the UAV’s mobility is leveraged to simultaneously serve multiple single-antenna uplink users (UEs) and perform radar-based sensing tasks. A key challenge stems from the target position uncertainty due to movement, which impairs matched filtering and beamforming, thereby degrading both uplink reception and sensing performance. Moreover, UAV energy consumption associated with mobility must be considered to ensure energy-efficient operation. We aim to jointly maximize radar sensing accuracy and minimize UAV movement energy over multiple time steps, while maintaining reliable uplink communications. To address this multi-objective optimization, we propose a deep reinforcement learning (DRL) framework based on a long short-term memory (LSTM)-enhanced deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) network. By leveraging historical target trajectory data, the model improves prediction of target positions, enhancing sensing accuracy. The proposed DRL-based approach enables joint optimization of UAV trajectory and uplink power control over time. Extensive simulations validate that our method significantly improves communication quality and sensing performance, while ensuring energy-efficient UAV operation. Comparative results further confirm the model’s adaptability and robustness in dynamic environments, outperforming existing UAV trajectory planning and resource allocation benchmarks. Full article
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27 pages, 1382 KiB  
Review
Application of Non-Destructive Technology in Plant Disease Detection: Review
by Yanping Wang, Jun Sun, Zhaoqi Wu, Yilin Jia and Chunxia Dai
Agriculture 2025, 15(15), 1670; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15151670 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 303
Abstract
In recent years, research on plant disease detection has combined artificial intelligence, hyperspectral imaging, unmanned aerial vehicle remote sensing, and other technologies, promoting the transformation of pest and disease control in smart agriculture towards digitalization and artificial intelligence. This review systematically elaborates on [...] Read more.
In recent years, research on plant disease detection has combined artificial intelligence, hyperspectral imaging, unmanned aerial vehicle remote sensing, and other technologies, promoting the transformation of pest and disease control in smart agriculture towards digitalization and artificial intelligence. This review systematically elaborates on the research status of non-destructive detection techniques used for plant disease identification and detection, mainly introducing the following two types of methods: spectral technology and imaging technology. It also elaborates, in detail, on the principles and application examples of each technology and summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of these technologies. This review clearly indicates that non-destructive detection techniques can achieve plant disease and pest detection quickly, accurately, and without damage. In the future, integrating multiple non-destructive detection technologies, developing portable detection devices, and combining more efficient data processing methods will become the core development directions of this field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crop Protection, Diseases, Pests and Weeds)
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16 pages, 3001 KiB  
Article
Tractor Path Tracking Control Method Based on Prescribed Performance and Sliding Mode Control
by Liwei Zhu, Weiming Sun, Qian Zhang, En Lu, Jialin Xue and Guohui Sha
Agriculture 2025, 15(15), 1663; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15151663 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 149
Abstract
In addressing the challenges of low path tracking accuracy and poor robustness during tractor autonomous operation, this paper proposes a path tracking control method for tractors that integrates prescribed performance with sliding mode control (SMC). A key feature of this control method is [...] Read more.
In addressing the challenges of low path tracking accuracy and poor robustness during tractor autonomous operation, this paper proposes a path tracking control method for tractors that integrates prescribed performance with sliding mode control (SMC). A key feature of this control method is its inherent immunity to system parameter perturbations and external disturbances, while ensuring path tracking errors are constrained within a predefined range. First, the tractor is simplified into a two-wheeled vehicle model, and a path tracking error model is established based on the reference operation trajectory. By defining a prescribed performance function, the constrained tracking control problem is transformed into an unconstrained stability control problem, guaranteeing the boundedness of tracking errors. Then, by incorporating SMC theory, a prescribed performance sliding mode path tracking controller is designed to achieve robust path tracking and error constraint for the tractor. Finally, both simulation and field experiments are conducted to validate the method. The results demonstrate that compared with the traditional SMC method, the proposed method effectively mitigates the impact of complex farmland conditions, reducing path tracking errors while enforcing strict error constraints. Field experiment data shows the proposed method achieves an average absolute error of 0.02435 m and a standard deviation of 0.02795 m, confirming its effectiveness and superiority. This research lays a foundation for the intelligent development of agricultural machinery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Technology)
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18 pages, 1643 KiB  
Article
Precise Tracking Control of Unmanned Surface Vehicles for Maritime Sports Course Teaching Assistance
by Wanting Tan, Lei Liu and Jiabao Zhou
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(8), 1482; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13081482 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 149
Abstract
With the rapid advancement of maritime sports, the integration of auxiliary unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) has emerged as a promising solution to enhance the efficiency and safety of maritime education, particularly in tasks such as buoy deployment and escort operations. This paper presents [...] Read more.
With the rapid advancement of maritime sports, the integration of auxiliary unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) has emerged as a promising solution to enhance the efficiency and safety of maritime education, particularly in tasks such as buoy deployment and escort operations. This paper presents a novel high-precision trajectory tracking control algorithm designed to ensure stable navigation of the USVs along predefined competition boundaries, thereby facilitating the reliable execution of buoy placement and escort missions. First, the paper proposes an improved adaptive fractional-order nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode control (AFONFTSMC) algorithm to achieve precise trajectory tracking of the reference path. To address the challenges posed by unknown environmental disturbances and unmodeled dynamics in marine environments, a nonlinear lumped disturbance observer (NLDO) with exponential convergence properties is proposed, ensuring robust and continuous navigation performance. Additionally, an artificial potential field (APF) method is integrated to dynamically mitigate collision risks from both static and dynamic obstacles during trajectory tracking. The efficacy and practical applicability of the proposed control framework are rigorously validated through comprehensive numerical simulations. Experimental results demonstrate that the developed algorithm achieves superior trajectory tracking accuracy under complex sea conditions, thereby offering a reliable and efficient solution for maritime sports education and related applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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29 pages, 3400 KiB  
Article
Synthetic Data Generation for Machine Learning-Based Hazard Prediction in Area-Based Speed Control Systems
by Mariusz Rychlicki and Zbigniew Kasprzyk
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8531; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158531 (registering DOI) - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 203
Abstract
This work focuses on the possibilities of generating synthetic data for machine learning in hazard prediction in area-based speed monitoring systems. The purpose of the research conducted was to develop a methodology for generating realistic synthetic data to support the design of a [...] Read more.
This work focuses on the possibilities of generating synthetic data for machine learning in hazard prediction in area-based speed monitoring systems. The purpose of the research conducted was to develop a methodology for generating realistic synthetic data to support the design of a continuous vehicle speed monitoring system to minimize the risk of traffic accidents caused by speeding. The SUMO traffic simulator was used to model driver behavior in the analyzed area and within a given road network. Data from OpenStreetMap and field measurements from over a dozen speed detectors were integrated. Preliminary tests were carried out to record vehicle speeds. Based on these data, several simulation scenarios were run and compared to real-world observations using average speed, the percentage of speed limit violations, root mean square error (RMSE), and percentage compliance. A new metric, the Combined Speed Accuracy Score (CSAS), has been introduced to assess the consistency of simulation results with real-world data. For this study, a basic hazard prediction model was developed using LoRaWAN sensor network data and environmental contextual variables, including time, weather, location, and accident history. The research results in a method for evaluating and selecting the simulation scenario that best represents reality and drivers’ propensities to exceed speed limits. The results and findings demonstrate that it is possible to produce synthetic data with a level of agreement exceeding 90% with real data. Thus, it was shown that it is possible to generate synthetic data for machine learning in hazard prediction for area-based speed control systems using traffic simulators. Full article
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20 pages, 6694 KiB  
Article
Spatiotemporal Assessment of Benzene Exposure Characteristics in a Petrochemical Industrial Area Using Mobile-Extraction Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (Me-DOAS)
by Dong keun Lee, Jung-min Park, Jong-hee Jang, Joon-sig Jung, Min-kyeong Kim, Jaeseok Heo and Duckshin Park
Toxics 2025, 13(8), 655; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13080655 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 213
Abstract
Petrochemical complexes are spatially expansive and host diverse emission sources, making accurate monitoring of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) challenging using conventional two-dimensional methods. This study introduces Mobile-extraction Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (Me-DOAS), a real-time, three-dimensional remote sensing technique for assessing benzene emissions in [...] Read more.
Petrochemical complexes are spatially expansive and host diverse emission sources, making accurate monitoring of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) challenging using conventional two-dimensional methods. This study introduces Mobile-extraction Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (Me-DOAS), a real-time, three-dimensional remote sensing technique for assessing benzene emissions in the Ulsan petrochemical complex, South Korea. A vehicle-mounted Me-DOAS system conducted monthly measurements throughout 2024, capturing data during four daily intervals to evaluate diurnal variation. Routes included perimeter loops and grid-based transects within core industrial zones. The highest benzene concentrations were observed in February (mean: 64.28 ± 194.69 µg/m3; geometric mean: 5.13 µg/m3), with exceedances of the national annual standard (5 µg/m3) in several months. Notably, nighttime and early morning sessions showed elevated levels, suggesting contributions from nocturnal operations and meteorological conditions such as atmospheric inversion. A total of 179 exceedances (≥30 µg/m3) were identified, predominantly in zones with benzene-handling activities. Correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between high concentrations and specific emission sources. These results demonstrate the utility of Me-DOAS in capturing spatiotemporal emission dynamics and support its application in exposure risk assessment and industrial emission control. The findings provide a robust framework for targeted management strategies and call for integration with source apportionment and dispersion modeling tools. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Air Pollution and Health)
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29 pages, 5503 KiB  
Article
Feature Selection Framework for Improved UAV-Based Detection of Solenopsis invicta Mounds in Agricultural Landscapes
by Chun-Han Shih, Cheng-En Song, Su-Fen Wang and Chung-Chi Lin
Insects 2025, 16(8), 793; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16080793 (registering DOI) - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 197
Abstract
The red imported fire ant (RIFA; Solenopsis invicta) is an invasive species that severely threatens ecology, agriculture, and public health in Taiwan. In this study, the feasibility of applying multispectral imagery captured by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to detect red fire ant [...] Read more.
The red imported fire ant (RIFA; Solenopsis invicta) is an invasive species that severely threatens ecology, agriculture, and public health in Taiwan. In this study, the feasibility of applying multispectral imagery captured by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to detect red fire ant mounds was evaluated in Fenlin Township, Hualien, Taiwan. A DJI Phantom 4 multispectral drone collected reflectance in five bands (blue, green, red, red-edge, and near-infrared), derived indices (normalized difference vegetation index, NDVI, soil-adjusted vegetation index, SAVI, and photochemical pigment reflectance index, PPR), and textural features. According to analysis of variance F-scores and random forest recursive feature elimination, vegetation indices and spectral features (e.g., NDVI, NIR, SAVI, and PPR) were the most significant predictors of ecological characteristics such as vegetation density and soil visibility. Texture features exhibited moderate importance and the potential to capture intricate spatial patterns in nonlinear models. Despite limitations in the analytics, including trade-offs related to flight height and environmental variability, the study findings suggest that UAVs are an inexpensive, high-precision means of obtaining multispectral data for RIFA monitoring. These findings can be used to develop efficient mass-detection protocols for integrated pest control, with broader implications for invasive species monitoring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surveillance and Management of Invasive Insects)
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20 pages, 10603 KiB  
Article
A Safety-Based Approach for the Design of an Innovative Microvehicle
by Michelangelo-Santo Gulino, Susanna Papini, Giovanni Zonfrillo, Thomas Unger, Peter Miklis and Dario Vangi
Designs 2025, 9(4), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/designs9040090 (registering DOI) - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 141
Abstract
The growing popularity of Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEVs), such as e-scooters, has revolutionized urban mobility by offering compact, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly transportation solutions. However, safety concerns, including inadequate infrastructure, poor protective measures, and high accident rates, remain critical challenges. This paper [...] Read more.
The growing popularity of Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEVs), such as e-scooters, has revolutionized urban mobility by offering compact, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly transportation solutions. However, safety concerns, including inadequate infrastructure, poor protective measures, and high accident rates, remain critical challenges. This paper presents the design and development of an innovative self-balancing microvehicle under the H2020 LEONARDO project, which aims to address these challenges through advanced engineering and user-centric design. The vehicle combines features of monowheels and e-scooters, integrating cutting-edge technologies to enhance safety, stability, and usability. The design adheres to European regulations, including Germany’s eKFV standards, and incorporates user preferences identified through representative online surveys of 1500 PLEV users. These preferences include improved handling on uneven surfaces, enhanced signaling capabilities, and reduced instability during maneuvers. The prototype features a lightweight composite structure reinforced with carbon fibers, a high-torque motorized front wheel, and multiple speed modes tailored to different conditions, such as travel in pedestrian areas, use by novice riders, and advanced users. Braking tests demonstrate deceleration values of up to 3.5 m/s2, comparable to PLEV market standards and exceeding regulatory minimums, while smooth acceleration ramps ensure rider stability and safety. Additional features, such as identification plates and weight-dependent motor control, enhance compliance with local traffic rules and prevent misuse. The vehicle’s design also addresses common safety concerns, such as curb navigation and signaling, by incorporating large-diameter wheels, increased ground clearance, and electrically operated direction indicators. Future upgrades include the addition of a second rear wheel for enhanced stability, skateboard-like rear axle modifications for improved maneuverability, and hybrid supercapacitors to minimize fire risks and extend battery life. With its focus on safety, regulatory compliance, and rider-friendly innovations, this microvehicle represents a significant advancement in promoting safe and sustainable urban mobility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Vehicle Engineering Design)
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19 pages, 12094 KiB  
Article
Intelligent Active Suspension Control Method Based on Hierarchical Multi-Sensor Perception Fusion
by Chen Huang, Yang Liu, Xiaoqiang Sun and Yiqi Wang
Sensors 2025, 25(15), 4723; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25154723 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 223
Abstract
Sensor fusion in intelligent suspension systems constitutes a fundamental technology for optimizing vehicle dynamic stability, ride comfort, and occupant safety. By integrating data from multiple sensor modalities, this study proposes a hierarchical multi-sensor fusion framework for active suspension control, aiming to enhance control [...] Read more.
Sensor fusion in intelligent suspension systems constitutes a fundamental technology for optimizing vehicle dynamic stability, ride comfort, and occupant safety. By integrating data from multiple sensor modalities, this study proposes a hierarchical multi-sensor fusion framework for active suspension control, aiming to enhance control precision. Initially, a binocular vision system is employed for target detection, enabling the identification of lane curvature initiation points and speed bumps, with real-time distance measurements. Subsequently, the integration of Global Positioning System (GPS) and inertial measurement unit (IMU) data facilitates the extraction of road elevation profiles ahead of the vehicle. A BP-PID control strategy is implemented to formulate mode-switching rules for the active suspension under three distinct road conditions: flat road, curved road, and obstacle road. Additionally, an ant colony optimization algorithm is utilized to fine-tune four suspension parameters. Utilizing the hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation platform, the observed reductions in vertical, pitch, and roll accelerations were 5.37%, 9.63%, and 11.58%, respectively, thereby substantiating the efficacy and robustness of this approach. Full article
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