An Approach to Networking a New Type of Artificial Orthogonal Glands within Orthogonal Endocrine Neural Networks

Currently, artificial intelligence and intelligent algorithms for the control of dynamic systems are the main focus for building Industry 4.0 services and developing novel, innovative industrial solutions. This paper proposes a novel intelligent control structure specifically tailored for treating environmental stimuli and disturbances in operational environments of dynamic systems. The structure is based on the Orthogonal Endocrine Neural Network (OENN) and Artificial Orthogonal Glands (AOGs). The operational mechanism of each AOG acquires and processes environmental stimuli and generates artificial hormone concentration values at the gland output. These values are introduced to the appropriate OENN layer to provoke the network with collected environmental insights. To verify the applicability of the proposed structure on a complex dynamical nonlinear system, it was tested in a laboratory environment on the laboratory magnetic levitation system (MLS). The main experimental goal was to test the tracking performance of a levitation object when the new control logic was applied. The results were compared with two additional intelligent algorithms and a default linear quadratic (LQ) control logic. OENN + AOG structure showed improved tracking performances compared with traditional LQ control and better adaptability to environmental conditions compared with similar existing solutions

Comparative Study Using CAD Optimization Tools for the Workspace of a 6DOF Parallel Kinematics Machine

This paper deals with an up-to-date topic among robotic industrial applications that require a high degree of speed, rigidity, and orientation. Currently, when technology and software applications reach a high level of performance, in various robotic industrial applications that start from certain concepts, the implementation of efficient structures has proven to be challenging. New structures such as the parallel kinematic machine (PKM) category has proven its efficiency through its structure in terms of high inertia rigidity and high speeds during processes. This paper deals with the subject of PKM-type structures in terms of the optimal design workspace of such a structure. The calculation of the workspace is considered the premise from which it starts in terms of its implementation in a robotic production line. The entire process of calculating the workspace for a given PKM structure is carried out through modern CAD applications that have specific modules in place in this direction. CATIA V5 offers the possibility through the product engineering optimizer module, simulation and calculation of different scenarios aimed at identifying the volume of the workspace for a PKM structure. In the article, we demonstrate the relations between the robot workspace and the design parameters, a method that can also be applied for other parallel structures. The method is useful for robot designers in the optimization of parallel robots with regard to the workspace by using CAD tools. Previous research in the field refers of the usage of CAD tools only for visual representation and not for optimizing the workspace, while this study and test results show that CAD tools are suitable for analyzing and optimizing the robot workspace of the 6DOF parallel robot, due to its easiness in application and fast implementation time

An Approach to Networking a New Type of Artificial Orthogonal Glands within Orthogonal Endocrine Neural Networks

Currently, artificial intelligence and intelligent algorithms for the control of dynamic systems are the main focus for building Industry 4.0 services and developing novel, innovative industrial solutions. This paper proposes a novel intelligent control structure specifically tailored for treating environmental stimuli and disturbances in operational environments of dynamic systems. The structure is based on the Orthogonal Endocrine Neural Network (OENN) and Artificial Orthogonal Glands (AOGs). The operational mechanism of each AOG acquires and processes environmental stimuli and generates artificial hormone concentration values at the gland output. These values are introduced to the appropriate OENN layer to provoke the network with collected environmental insights. To verify the applicability of the proposed structure on a complex dynamical nonlinear system, it was tested in a laboratory environment on the laboratory magnetic levitation system (MLS). The main experimental goal was to test the tracking performance of a levitation object when the new control logic was applied. The results were compared with two additional intelligent algorithms and a default linear quadratic (LQ) control logic. OENN + AOG structure showed improved tracking performances compared with traditional LQ control and better adaptability to environmental conditions compared with similar existing solutions

Detection and Monitoring of Pitting Progression on Gear Tooth Flank Using Deep Learning

Gears are essential machine elements that are exposed to heavy loads. In some cases, gearboxes are critical elements since they serve as machine drivers that must operate almost every day for a more extended period, such as years or even tens of years. Any interruption due to gear failures can cause significant losses, and therefore it is necessary to have a monitoring system that will ensure proper operation. Tooth surface damage is a common occurrence in operating gears. One of the most common types of damage to teeth surfaces is pitting. It is necessary for normal gear operations to regularly determine the occurrence and span of a damaged tooth surface caused by pitting. In this paper, we propose a machine vision system as part of the inspection process for detecting pitting and monitoring its progression. The implemented inspection system uses a faster R-CNN network to identify and position pitting on a specific tooth, which enables monitoring. Prediction confidence values of pitting damage detection are between 99.5–99.9%, while prediction confidence values for teeth recognized as crucial for monitoring are between 97–99%

Peer learning semester/module through project-based learning in mechatronics

The European Commission's support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents, which reflect the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.This document is one of the results of the Intellectual Output 4 of the Erasmus+ XP2P project "Crossing borders: Peer-to-Peer Education in Mechatronics" developed through the collaboration of the University of Applied Sciences Kaiserslautern (HSKL), the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca (TUCN) and the University Savoie Mont Blanc (USMB).The aim of the XP2P-project was to implement peer-to-peer learning during a whole semester or a module for master students in mechatronics, connected to the implementation of a suitable Competency Portfolio Assessment for guidance and documentation of the students’ progress. Thanks to collaborative projects proposed by partners’ staff or by their partner companies, project-based learning in combination with this innovative approach using peer-to-peer learning should allow the students to acquire improved cross-functional skills.Mechatronics is usually defined as a synergistic and integrated process of several sciences and skills (among which control science, computer science, electronics and mechanics). This document corresponds to the Intellectual Output 4 of the XP2P project. It consists of the proposal of a semester or module-based curriculum for Master programmes in Mechatronics, based on peer learning combined with project- and competency-based learning.Within each partner university, the teaching teams involved in the project have implemented peer learning in combination with a competency-based approach in teaching methods and the use of an eportfolio in the framework of several courses of their master’s programmes. During the first run (winter 2020/2021), the impacted courses dealt essentially with mechatronics while during the second run (2021/2022), the process has been extended to other domains. Regular online meetings allowed the partners to discuss and overcome difficulties and to share experiences and feedback to enrich the implementation of the eportfolio for the student.This has been achieved through the use of different learning management system platforms and collaborative working tools. However, the Mahara platform to implement the eportfolio was the common platform for the 3 universities.The Bologna process requires higher education to focus more on the acquisition of competencies . The XP2P project was thus an opportunity to introduce the competency approach using peer learning, project-based learning and eportfolio in master courses in Mechatronics in 3 master programmes of 3 European universities. The corresponding teaching teams worked collaboratively to continuously improve the quality of the teaching offered to their students in order to achieve success.The Covid-19 crisis was an additional challenge to face during most of the project. This was indeed a hindrance to face-to-face meetings and exchanges between students, but the teaching teams were able to implement workarounds to allow optimal learning for the students and to implement the competency-based approach in their teaching practices.From our experience, it seems that the collaboration and the active and motivated involvement of several actors are necessary for the implementation of innovative teaching methods to be successful for the students, especially in a multicultural and European project.The documents is also available in French, German and Romanian languages from the website of the project: https://xp2p-project.eu/Project ref.: 2019-1-FR01-KA203-06220

Peer learning semester/module through project-based learning in mechatronics

The European Commission's support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents, which reflect the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.This document is one of the results of the Intellectual Output 4 of the Erasmus+ XP2P project "Crossing borders: Peer-to-Peer Education in Mechatronics" developed through the collaboration of the University of Applied Sciences Kaiserslautern (HSKL), the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca (TUCN) and the University Savoie Mont Blanc (USMB).The aim of the XP2P-project was to implement peer-to-peer learning during a whole semester or a module for master students in mechatronics, connected to the implementation of a suitable Competency Portfolio Assessment for guidance and documentation of the students’ progress. Thanks to collaborative projects proposed by partners’ staff or by their partner companies, project-based learning in combination with this innovative approach using peer-to-peer learning should allow the students to acquire improved cross-functional skills.Mechatronics is usually defined as a synergistic and integrated process of several sciences and skills (among which control science, computer science, electronics and mechanics). This document corresponds to the Intellectual Output 4 of the XP2P project. It consists of the proposal of a semester or module-based curriculum for Master programmes in Mechatronics, based on peer learning combined with project- and competency-based learning.Within each partner university, the teaching teams involved in the project have implemented peer learning in combination with a competency-based approach in teaching methods and the use of an eportfolio in the framework of several courses of their master’s programmes. During the first run (winter 2020/2021), the impacted courses dealt essentially with mechatronics while during the second run (2021/2022), the process has been extended to other domains. Regular online meetings allowed the partners to discuss and overcome difficulties and to share experiences and feedback to enrich the implementation of the eportfolio for the student.This has been achieved through the use of different learning management system platforms and collaborative working tools. However, the Mahara platform to implement the eportfolio was the common platform for the 3 universities.The Bologna process requires higher education to focus more on the acquisition of competencies . The XP2P project was thus an opportunity to introduce the competency approach using peer learning, project-based learning and eportfolio in master courses in Mechatronics in 3 master programmes of 3 European universities. The corresponding teaching teams worked collaboratively to continuously improve the quality of the teaching offered to their students in order to achieve success.The Covid-19 crisis was an additional challenge to face during most of the project. This was indeed a hindrance to face-to-face meetings and exchanges between students, but the teaching teams were able to implement workarounds to allow optimal learning for the students and to implement the competency-based approach in their teaching practices.From our experience, it seems that the collaboration and the active and motivated involvement of several actors are necessary for the implementation of innovative teaching methods to be successful for the students, especially in a multicultural and European project.The documents is also available in French, German and Romanian languages from the website of the project: https://xp2p-project.eu/Project ref.: 2019-1-FR01-KA203-06220

Methodological framework for peer learning in mechatronics

The European Commission's support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents, which reflect the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.This document is an intellectual production of the Erasmus+ XP2P project: "Crossing borders: Peer-to-Peer Education in Mechatronics" (09/2019-08/2022). It aims to provide a methodological framework for the implementation of peer learning, coupled with project-based learning in an international context and in a postgraduate programme (Master's level) in the teaching of a whole of a whole peer learning semester/module.The document presents the results of the study of the scientific literature to identify the existing methods in peer learning. Thus, the main methods used in peer learning are: reciprocal peer tutoring, class-wide peer tutoring, peer assessment, think-pair-share, discovery method, eportfolio evaluation, brainstorming, problem situations/case studies. Then, the document describes the methods implemented by the three partners respectively with their master’s students in mechatronics during the project. Finally, the feedback collected from the teachers and from the students is presented.This methodological framework should be helpful for further implementations in the future and in other disciplines by giving suggestions of peer activities, indicating their pros and cons according to the teaching team’s and students’ point of view.The document is also available is French, German and Romanian languages from the website of the project: https://xp2p-project.eu

Analysis of Available Solutions for the Improvement of Body Posture in Chairs

Due to the nature of current lifestyles, many people find themselves sitting for prolonged periods of time. Combined with an improper body posture, this leads to a rise in health issues. The most common ones consist of headaches and pain in the back and neck area. Other issues that may occur are changes to the spine and digestive problems, as well as anxiety and depression, which could result in declined productivity. The purpose of this study is to determine which of the available solutions is the most effective in improving the body posture while in a seated position by considering multiple aspects, such as the discrete characteristics of the solutions analyzed and the characteristics related to the manufacturability of products including the analyzed detection solution. This study considers specific criteria related to the manufacturing and behavior of systems to detect body posture in a seated position, such as invasiveness, accuracy, portability, reliability, manufacturability, privacy, and scalability. The main analysis methods involved in this study are AHP to determine the individual weights of the previously mentioned criteria, and PUGH to determine the optimal solution, taking into consideration the resulting weight of each criterion. Using the AHP method and comparing the criteria, we were able to set a priority order for the criteria. The next step consisted of constructing a PUGH matrix. This matrix is used to find out which of the available solutions is optimal based on the imposed criteria, while taking into consideration the weights resulting from the AHP method

Handbook to implement peer-to-peer learning in engineering studies (using the example of mechatronics)

The European Commission's support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents, which reflect the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.This document is one of the Intellectual Outputs of the Erasmus+ XP2P project: "Crossing borders: Peer-to-Peer Education in Mechatronics ". It consists in a manual/guide for the implementation of peer learning in Mechatronics/Engineering studies and it is one of the central elements to make the results of this project available in the long term. It will remain available on the homepages of the universities when possible as well on the project website after the end of the project. We produced a practical guide for the dissemination of the methods we have successfully tested. It consists of three levels: 1) the “theory” level (“what?”) gives a brief reference and overview of the topic, 2) the “method” level (“how?”) gives practical information how peer-to-peer-learning, E-portfolios and competency-based teaching can be combined in favourable ways. The third level finally, 3) “analysis” describes the “why?”-aspects of the project. In the form of a SWOT-analysis, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats are described in a way that we believe helps interested colleagues to easily find a mode for delivering their modules in an (X)P2P-way.The main three chapters of the handbook (on P2P-Learning, E-Portfolios and Competency-based teaching/learning) are designed to be read in any order. Interested readers may start with the third chapter, get a glance at the “what”-level or jump immediately to the “why”level. The expected impact is a broader perception of possible teaching and learning methods in an often conservative (engineering) teaching environment. Finally, based on our experience in this project, we believe that the potential for transferability to other teaching communities - in the field of engineering - is "high", considering the steps and partial implementation we have achieved. The initial limitation to engineering stems from our starting point, namely that peer-to-peer teaching is known in general, but we lack specific examples on a larger scale in our discipline. Based on our experiences and the outcome of the project, we are convinced of a good transferability to a wider range of study areas.Ref. of the project: 2019-1-FR01-KA203-06220

Cast Iron Parts Obtained in Ceramic Molds Produced by Binder Jetting 3D Printing—Morphological and Mechanical Characterization

Mechanical behavior and characteristics of two different types of materials: cast iron with lamellar graphite EN-GJL-250 and cast iron with spheroidal graphite EN-GJS-400-15 which were cast in ceramic molds using gravitational casting method has considered in this research. The ceramic molds were obtained by 3D printing method. First, a finite element analysis was developed to determine Tresca and von Mises stresses and the deformations of the ceramic molds under an applied pressure of 25 MPa. Samples were produced by gravitational casting using two types of cast iron materials. Mechanical tests were made using samples produced from these two types of materials and microstructure analysis evaluation of fractured zones was realized by scanning electron microscopy. Obtained results were finally used for designing, developing, and producing of one ‘hydraulic block’ of a railway installation by the Benninger Guss company of Switzerland