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High quality, safe, and reliable batteries are essential for widespread adoption of electric vehicles. Current Li-ion battery pack manufacturing processes rely on manual inspections to ensure electric vehicle battery quality. Such manual quality control is prone to errors, increasing the chances of defective batteries. This is likely to increase safety and reliability concerns in the public imagination, slowing down the adoption of electric vehicles. Furthermore, manual inspection is time-consuming and likely to become a bottleneck in scaling up electric vehicle battery production. A potential solution to address this need for fast and accurate inspection of batteries is the use of machine vision and robotics. In this study, we use digital twin design and simulation to develop a battery module inspection system that uses cobots and machine vision to inspect electric vehicle batteries for defects. Our proposed system can automate visual quality checks that are currently being done by human operators. The proposed cobotic system has been simulated and validated for a variety of battery defects to achieve fast and reliable detection. Since a digital twin of the cobotic inspection workcell has been used, the battery inspection system, as designed and validated, is ready for immediate implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automation via robotic systems is becoming widely adopted across many industries, but intelligent autonomy in dynamic environments is challenging to implement due to the difficulty of 3D vision. This paper proposes a novel method that utilizes in-situ 2D image processing to simplify 3D segmentation for robotic workspace detection in industrial applications. Using a TOF sensor mounted on a robotic arm, depth images of the workspace are collected. The algorithm identifies the contour of a table, filters extraneous data points, and converts only relevant data to a 3D pointcloud. This pointcloud is processed to identify the precise location of the workspace with regard to the robot. This method has been shown to be 10% more accurate and over 10,000% faster than a human analyzing the data in a GUI-based software using an octree region-based segmentation algorithm and provides consistent results, only limited by the resolution of the camera itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Critical global challenges, such as climate change and the insufficient availability of resources, mean that it is a pivotal time to make cities more intelligent, efficient, and sustainable in a drive towards a net-zero carbon future. This requires intelligent, interactive, and responsive structural health monitoring (SHM) to assure the longevity and safety of ageing infrastructure. Drones have the potential to revolutionise SHM. Drone-based SHM (as a potential fly-by technique) involves equipping drones with various sensors, or using inbuilt sensors, to capture data and images of structures from different angles and perspectives. The data is then processed and analysed to facilitate accurate assessment of the structure's health and early diagnosis of damage. Although the use of fly-by is relatively new, the speedy advances in various technologies that could be integrated with it, such as computer vision with artificial intelligence, deep learning, and links to digital twins, put these systems on the verge of a potential breakthrough. This paper provides an overview of fly-by SHM technique using both scientometric and qualitative systematic literature review processes, in order to provide a distinct understanding of the state of the art of research. As an original contribution, our research identified four main clusters of research within the field of fly-by SHM: (1) the application of UAV-enabled vision-based monitoring; (2) the integration of drones, advanced sensor technologies, and artificial intelligence; (3) drone-based SHM integrating modal analysis, energy harvesting, and deep learning; and (4) automation and robotics in drone-based SHM. The paper highlights the integration of new technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and sensors with the fly-by technique for SHM, identifies the gaps in current fly-by SHM research, and suggests new directions for research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a simulation investigation into the individual time of parcel transportation in a multi-agent robot operated warehouse for two different artificial intelligence planning strategies (independent and cooperative), two different warehouse setups and different number of robots operating at the same time. The robots are assumed to operate in a non-communicating manner, and their only physical interactions are the collision detection and avoidance maneuvers. It is additionally assumed, that every robot is aware of its location, is able to compute the shortest path to the required destination and has access to a global orders list from which orders can be reserved and removed. The warehouse setup and robots movement is simulated using a cellular automata paradigm, and the simulation is implemented in Python. It has been shown that the cooperation of robots passing packages to each other significantly improves the overall work time needed to complete the task and reduces the number of empty runs compared to an individual approach. The presented simulation results suggest it is possible to design a multi-robot delivery system in such a way, that robots do not communicate with each other and that no central planning or global optimization center is needed. The novel cooperative planning algorithm brings a contribution in engineering solutions, mainly for robot development in automated warehouses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In manufacturing, visual inspection of parts' surface is traditionally an important examination before the parts can proceed to the next manufacturing step. For example, the timely detection of minor surface defects, such as dents and scratches, in small-sized airfoils of aircraft engine, is typically the final stage of quality assurance before acceptance for assemblage. While such a process is critically important, current practices rely heavily on human operator's judgment, which is subjective and labor-intensive. In this study, we establish an automated, image-based inspection system that utilizes robotic automation to acquire high-resolution images of the parts under inspection and employs a specifically tailored machine learning technique to facilitate decision-making of inspection. Leveraging deep learning as the underlying methodology, we address a key challenge in the flexible automation of surface inspection, i.e., the scarcity of labeled data during the initial training process. In other words, we tackle the challenge of limited samples with known defects. Specifically, we synthesize an adaptive semi-supervised learning framework, building upon the residual neural network (ResNet) and the deep convolutional generative adversarial network (DCGAN) to extract features from both ground truth and synthetic data. This approach can overcome the shortcomings of the current approaches, leading to more objective and accurate defect detection right from the beginning of implementation with a small labeled dataset. Our results show that the overall classification accuracy on this challenging dataset reaches 92.30%, a 27.79% improvement over the baseline model achieved through optimal use of synthetic and ground truth data. The system also investigates the impact of synthetic data, providing guidelines for integrating it effectively into iterative training. This approach offers a robust solution for surface inspection and quality assurance in diverse manufacturing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stiffness modeling is an essential subject for the composition of robot control. Accurate stiffness modeling is helpful for improving the control accuracy of industrial robots, particularly under dynamic load circumstances. The classic virtual joint modeling (VJM) method is challenging in predicting the deformation of the end-effector throughout the full workspace due to the nonlinear deformation of the robot joint and its serial articulated structure. This paper proposes a full-space stiffness modeling method for robots based on the integration of a multi-layer perceptual (MLP) model and VJM. To provide enough training data for the MLP model, VJM is used to build a stiffness model with a small set of experimental data to generate 106,400 training data. A model-based transfer learning approach is proposed to improve the model's accuracy and generalization regarding the difference between generated training data and actual experimental data. The VJM stiffness model is compared with the MLP stiffness model and the existing CNN-based transfer learning model based on the same experimental data. Considering the deformation prediction in the three directions in Cartesian space, the mean absolute error, standard deviation, and maximum error of the MLP model are decreased by at least 24.90%, 14.20%, and 8.50%, respectively, than the VJM. These prediction results demonstrate that the proposed modeling technique can significantly increase the accuracy of robot stiffness modeling, which is essential for position compensation in precise motion control of robots under dynamic load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Against the background of China's economic transformation, it is of great practical significance to explore the impact of artificial intelligence on enterprise innovation to promote innovation-driven development strategies. Using patent data from Chinese industrial enterprises and robot data provided by the International Federation of Robotics, this study empirically tests the impact of artificial intelligence on improving the innovation abilities of Chinese enterprises. The study finds the following: (1) Artificial intelligence significantly improves enterprise innovation, and this conclusion remains valid after robustness tests. (2) Artificial intelligence optimizes the skill structure of the enterprise labour force, increases enterprise R&D expenditure, and strengthens the technology spillover effect, thus improving enterprise innovation. (3) The domestic market and the development of the Internet have further strengthened the role of artificial intelligence in promoting enterprise innovation. (4) Artificial intelligence is more helpful in promoting the innovation ability of technology-intensive, general trading, mixed trading, and non-state-owned enterprises. This study provides important policy implications for promoting the deep integration of artificial intelligence and real economy and realizing high-quality economic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the evolution and impact of research on the challenges and opportunities in the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in manufacturing between 2019 and August 2024. By addressing the growing integration of AI technologies in the manufacturing sector, the research seeks to provide a comprehensive view of how AI applications are transforming production processes, improving efficiency, and opening new business opportunities. A bibliometric analysis was conducted, examining global scientific production, influential authors, key sources, and thematic trends. Data were collected from Scopus, and a detailed review of key publications was carried out to identify knowledge gaps and unresolved research questions. The results reveal a steady increase in research related to AI in manufacturing, with a strong focus on automation, predictive maintenance, and supply chain optimization. The study also highlights the dominance of certain institutions and key authors driving this field of research. Despite the progress, significant challenges remain, particularly regarding the scalability of AI solutions and ethical considerations. The findings suggest that while AI holds considerable potential for the manufacturing industry, more interdisciplinary research is needed to address existing gaps and maximize its benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The robots that entered the manufacturing sector in the second and third Industrial Revolutions (IR2 and IR3) were designed for carrying out predefined routines without physical interaction with humans. In contrast, IR4* robots (i.e., robots since IR4 and beyond) are supposed to interact with humans in a cooperative way for enhancing flexibility, autonomy, and adaptability, thus dramatically improving productivity. However, human–robot cooperation implies cognitive capabilities that the cooperative robots (CoBots) in the market do not have. The common wisdom is that such a cognitive lack can be filled in a straightforward way by integrating well-established ICT technologies with new AI technologies. This short paper expresses the view that this approach is not promising and suggests a different one based on artificial cognition rather than artificial intelligence, founded on concepts of embodied cognition, developmental robotics, and social robotics. We suggest giving these IR4* robots designed according to such principles the name CoCoBots. The paper also addresses the ethical problems that can be raised in cases of critical emergencies. In normal operating conditions, CoCoBots and human partners, starting from individual evaluations, will routinely develop joint decisions on the course of action to be taken through mutual understanding and explanation. In case a joint decision cannot be reached and/or in the limited case that an emergency is detected and declared by top security levels, we suggest that the ultimate decision-making power, with the associated responsibility, should rest on the human side, at the different levels of the organized structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The food industry uses artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance food quality and security while proposing significant capital savings and resource optimization. Additionally, understanding machine learning (ML) techniques is essential for their effectiveness. Therefore, the gap lies in examining how industrial automation plays a crucial role in successfully implementing this new technology. To address this gap, this review explores AI's potential to significantly enhance food safety by creating a more transparent supply chain management system. Therefore, the primary focus is exploring potential AI applications, such as artificial neural networks (ANN) and convolutional neural networks (CNN), for detecting food and agricultural product quality. The primary goal of utilizing these AI applications is to reduce human intervention and effort. These methodologies have advantages and disadvantages regarding theoretical knowledge and model interpretation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address the unprecedented challenges of construction pressurized by the global climate crisis, housing shortage, and growing shortage of skilled labor, this research presents a radical shift in the construction lifecycle of buildings, from linear processes that produce static continuous buildings to interrelational processes linking adaptative eco-systems of collaborative robots and reconfigurable building parts. Inspired by natural builders, the interdisciplinary field of collective robotic construction (CRC) offers the potential for scalable, adaptive, and resilient construction with simple robots. We establish a design framework for autonomous collaborative robotic construction (ACRC) through modular robotic material eco-systems (MRMES) trained with deep multi-agent reinforcement learning (DMARL). This involves the integration of three core aspects: (1) modular robotic material eco-systems (2) cyber-physical simulation and control with bidirectional feedback (3) adaptive intelligence through deep multi-agent reinforcement learning. The framework is implemented through three comparable case studies for collaborative modular robotic assembly of reconfigurable building parts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Path planning is an intertemporal problem in the robotics industry. Over the years, several algorithms have been proposed to solve it, but weaknesses are constantly identified by researchers, especially in creating an optimal path in a three-dimensional (3D) environment with obstacles. In this paper, a method to reduce the lengths of optimal 3D paths and correct errors in path planning algorithms is proposed. Optimization is achieved by combining the information of a generated two-dimensional (2D) path with the input 3D path. The 2D path is created by a proposed improved artificial fish swarm algorithm (AFSA) that contains several improvements, such as replacing the random behavior of the fish with a proposed one incorporating the model of the 24 possible movement points and utilizing an introduced model to assist the agent's navigation called obstacles heatmap. Moreover, a simplified ray casting algorithm is integrated with the improved AFSA to further reduce the length of the final path. The improved algorithm effectually managed to find the optimal path in complex environments and significantly reduce the length of the formed path compared with other state-of-the-art methods. The path was implemented in real-world scenarios of drone and industrial robotic arm applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High product diversity, dynamic market conditions, and a lack of skilled workers are current challenges in manufacturing. Industrial robots autonomously planning and completing upcoming production tasks can help companies address these challenges. In this publication, we focus on autonomous task planning within industrial robotics and investigate how to facilitate the use of automated planning techniques from the field of artificial intelligence for this purpose. First, we present a novel methodology to automatically adapt abstractly modeled planning domains to the characteristics of individual application cases a user intends to implement. A planning domain is a formalized representation of the robot's working environment that builds the basis for automated planning. Second, we integrate this approach into the procedure for developing skills-based industrial robotic applications to enable them to perform autonomous task planning. Finally, we demonstrate the use of the methodology within the application field kitting in two reference scenarios with a mobile robot and a stationary robot cell. Using our methodology, persons without expertise in automated planning can enable a robot for autonomous task planning without much extra effort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to summarise the state-of-the-art debate on impact of artificial intelligence on unemployment and reporting up-to-date academic findings. Design/methodology/approach: The paper is designed as a review of the labour vs capital conundrum, the differences between industrial automation and artificial intelligence, threat to employment, the difficulty of substituting, role of soft skills and whether technology leads to the deskilling of human workers or favors increasing human capabilities. Findings: Some authors praise the bright future developments of artificial intelligence while others warn about mass unemployment. Therefore, it is paramount to present an up-to-date overview of the problem, compare and contrast its features with what happened in past innovation waves and contribute to academic discussion about the pros/cons of current trends. Originality/value: The main value of this paper is presenting a balanced view of 100+ different studies, the vast majority from the last five years. Reading this paper will allow to quickly grasp the main issues around the thorny topic of artificial intelligence and unemployment. Peer review: The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-05-2023-0338 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this article is to propose a fuzzy logic system as a tool for automated risk identification of potential technical challenges and social barriers during the implementation of artificial intelligence-based co-bots on work-stations in manufacturing enterprises. On the basis of an extensive literature review, as well as industry reports and expert consultations, the basic challenges and enterprise barriers occurring during the implementation of changes in enterprises, especially during the implementation of the latest technologies, were selected. A fuzzy logic model was then developed that, based on the values of the input factors, generates an answer as to whether there is a risk of technical or social challenges in an enterprise when implementing the latest technologies. The results generated by the developed model, when confronted with expert knowledge, experience and subjective assessments, showed that the model works as expected. The results of the study suggest that the use of fuzzy logic can effectively support companies in detecting challenges and obstacles, thereby facilitating decision-making in reducing the risk of their occurrence. Adaptation to the conditions currently prevailing in the company allows for dynamic adjustment of co-bot deployment strategies, which in turn can lead to more effective management of technological changes and minimization of potential operational disruptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The editorial discusses the advancements and future directions in autonomous systems for cyber-physical systems and smart industry, highlighting the critical role of these systems in improving efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability in various industrial sectors. The document presents seven contributions that explore innovations and challenges in autonomous systems, covering areas such as real-time production scheduling, process control in Industry 4.0, environmental sensing automation, human-robot collaboration, industrial IoT optimization, and traffic modeling for autonomous vehicles. These contributions emphasize the transformative potential of autonomous systems in optimizing industrial processes and enhancing decision-making in smart environments, while also addressing technical challenges that need further exploration. [Extracted from the article]

Industrial robots, both in manufacturing and nonmanufacturing sectors, are evolving rapidly, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). This paper presents a comprehensive survey of industrial robots, framed through the lens of Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences. By categorising various AI capabilities in industrial robots--such as visual recognition, decision-making, and collaborative interaction--based on Gardner's intelligence framework, we provide a novel taxonomy that bridges human cognitive abilities and artificial systems. The survey explores the historical development of industrial robots, the current state of AI implementation, and future trends in robotics. Additionally, we discuss the implications of these advancements for industries and their workforce, as well as the ethical considerations surrounding the growing autonomy of AI systems. This paper aims to serve as a reference point for researchers and professionals seeking to understand the intersection of cognitive science and industrial AI, highlighting the potential and challenges of integrating AI into robotic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The key technologies analysis of modern high-tech production digitalization within the "Industry 4.0" concept implementation is proposed, related to its organization, hardware and software automation, creation of new mechanisms of inter-machine interaction, taking into account the place and functions of such technologies in the structure of the general scientific and technological development of high-tech enterprises. The concept, essence and application potential of following basic tools are considered - digital transformation as a cyber-physical system, Industrial IoT, product life cycle management system, collaborative work, technological analysis of big data, artificial intelligence and adaptive 3D printing technologies. The deep interconnection and mutual influence of such technologies in high-tech production reflects the systemic nature of the industrial structures transformation and complex application in accordance with the level of automation and robotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The application of computer technologies associated with sensors and artificial intelligence (AI) in the quantification and qualification of quality parameters of meat products of various domestic species is an area of research, development, and innovation of great relevance in the agri‐food industry. This review covers the most recent advances in this area, highlighting the importance of computer vision, artificial intelligence, and ultrasonography in evaluating quality and efficiency in meat products' production and monitoring processes. Various techniques and methodologies used to evaluate quality parameters such as colour, water holding capacity (WHC), pH, moisture, texture, and intramuscular fat, among others related to animal origin, breed and handling, are discussed. In addition, the benefits and practical applications of the technology in the meat industry are examined, such as the automation of inspection processes, accurate product classification, traceability, and food safety. While the potential of artificial intelligence associated with sensor development in the meat industry is promising, it is crucial to recognise that this is an evolving field. This technology offers innovative solutions that enable efficient, cost‐effective, and consumer‐oriented production. However, it also underlines the urgent need for further research and development of new techniques and tools such as artificial intelligence algorithms, the development of more sensitive and accurate multispectral sensors, advances in computer vision for 3D image analysis and automated detection, and the integration of advanced ultrasonography with other technologies. Also crucial is the development of autonomous robotic systems for the automation of inspection processes, the implementation of real‐time monitoring systems for traceability and food safety, and the creation of intuitive interfaces for human‐machine interaction. In addition, the automation of sensory analysis and the optimisation of sustainability and energy efficiency are key areas that require immediate attention to address the current challenges in this agri‐food and agri‐industrial sector, highlighting and emphasising the importance of ongoing innovation in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate control robotic arms in twodimensional environments present significant challenges, particularly in dynamic, real-time applications. Traditional model-based approaches require substantial system modeling, rendering them computationally extensive. This paper presents an adaptive Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven approach through the use of Deep Q-Networks (DQN) control for a two-link robotic arm thus supporting better scalability. The DQN algorithm, a model-free Reinforcement Learning (RL) technique, allows the robotic arm to independently learn optimal control strategies by interaction with the environment and adapting to dynamic conditions. The task of the robot established reaches a specific target (red point) within a limited number of episodes. Key components of the methodology contain problem statement, DQN architecture, representation of the state and action spaces, a reward function, and the training process. Experimental results indicate that the DQN agent effectively learns to find optimal actions with high accuracy and robustness in guiding the arm to the target. The performance steadily improves during initial training, followed by stabilization, indicating an effective control policy. This study contributes to the knowledge of reinforcement learning in robotic control tasks and demonstrates, in particular, the potential of DQN for solving complex, goal-oriented tasks with minimal prior modeling. Compared to conventional control approaches, the DQN-driven one reveals higher flexibility, scalability, and efficiency. Although carried out in a simplified 2D environment, the novelty of this research lies in its emphasis on enabling the robotic arm to accomplish goaloriented reaching tasks, lays a strong foundation for future applications in industrial automation and service robotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Distance Education (1672-0008) is the property of Zhejiang Open University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This paper presents a comprehensive fault diagnosis approach for a delta robot utilizing advanced feature extraction and classification techniques. A four-arm delta robot prototype is designed in SolidWorks for realistic fault analysis. Two case studies investigate faults through control effort and vibration signals, with control effort detecting motor and encoder faults, while vibration signals identify bearing faults. This study compares time-domain signal features and wavelet scattering networks, applied by classification algorithms including wide neural networks (WNNs), efficient linear support vector machine (ELSVM), efficient logistic regression (ELR), and kernel naive Bayes (KNB). Results indicate that a WNN, using wavelet scattering features ranked by one-way anova, is optimal due to its consistency and reliability, while these features enhance computational efficiency by reducing classifier size. Sensitivity analysis demonstrates the classifier's capacity to detect untrained faults, highlighting the importance of effective feature extraction and classification methods for fault diagnosis in complex robotic systems. This research significantly contributes to fault diagnosis in delta robots and lays the groundwork for future studies on fault tolerance control and predictive maintenance planning. Future work will focus on the physical implementation of the delta robot in laboratory settings, aiming to improve operational efficiency and reliability in industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial intelligence (AI)—the field of computer science that designs machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence—has seen rapid advances in the development of foundation systems such as large language models. In the workplace, the adoption of AI technologies can result in a broad range of hazards and risks to workers, as illustrated by the recent growth in industrial robotics and algorithmic management. Sources of risk from deployment of AI technologies across society and in the workplace have led to numerous government and private sector guidelines that propose principles governing the design and use of trustworthy and ethical AI. As AI capabilities become integrated in devices, machines, and systems across industry sectors, employers, workers, and occupational safety and health practitioners will be challenged to manage AI risks to worker health, safety, and well‐being. Five risk management options are presented as ways to assure that only trustworthy and ethical AI enables workplace devices, machinery, and processes. AI technologies will play a significant role in the future of work. The occupational safety and health practice and research communities need to ensure that the promise of these new AI technologies results in benefit, not harm, to workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of modern robotic technology and artificial intelligence (AI) enables a transformation in the textile sector. Manual fabric defect inspection is time-consuming, error-prone, and labor-intensive. This offers a great possibility for applying more AI-trained automated processes with safe human–robot interaction (HRI) to reduce risks of work accidents and occupational illnesses and enhance the environmental sustainability of the processes. In this experimental study, we developed, implemented, and tested a novel algorithm that detects fabric defects by utilizing enhanced deep convolutional neural networks (DCNNs). The proposed method integrates advanced DCNN architectures to automatically classify and detect 13 different types of fabric defects, such as double-ends, holes, broken ends, etc., ensuring high accuracy and efficiency in the inspection process. The dataset is created through augmentation techniques and a model is fine-tuned on a large dataset of annotated images using transfer learning approaches. The experiment was performed using an anthropomorphic robot that was programmed to move above the fabric. The camera attached to the robot detected defects in the fabric and triggered an alarm. A photoelectric sensor was installed on the conveyor belt and linked to the robot to notify it about an impending fabric. The CNN model architecture was enhanced to increase performance. Experimental findings show that the presented system can detect fabric defects with a 97.49% mean Average Precision (mAP). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facing the challenge of improving efficiency and stability in industrial processes, this study examines the impact of implementing advanced human-machine interface (HMI) systems, complemented by the internet of things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI). The integration of a PLC and HMI-controlled system has resulted in a 22.85% increase in efficiency, stabilizing production and reducing process variability. Tools such as PLCSIM and TIA PORTAL were crucial for validating control logic and programming. Additionally, the study explores the potential of AI and IoT to amplify these benefits, suggesting a significant advancement in automation that could transform operational efficiency and quality in related industries. These findings provide a relevant framework for companies looking to integrate emerging technologies into their operations, promoting continuous improvement and more informed management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing complexity and novel features of industrial robots have made their selection for specific applications a challenging task. Decision-makers are faced with the daunting task of navigating through various attributes and specifications, often under conditions of ambiguity and uncertainty. To assist in this complex decision-making process, this paper introduces a novel decision-making framework based on probabilistic uncertain linguistic q-rung orthopair fuzzy sets (PULq-ROFS). This framework effectively combines the strengths of probabilistic uncertain linguistic term set (PULTS) and q-rung orthopair fuzzy set (q-ROFS) to provide a more robust approach for handling ambiguity and uncertainty in the robot selection process. The proposed methodology integrates a multi-attribute group decision-making (MAGDM) approach. This approach utilizes the VIseKriterijumska Optimizacija I KOmpromisno Resenje (VIKOR) method in conjunction with the criterion importance via inter-criteria correlation (CRITIC) method. The CRITIC method determines attribute weights by analyzing both the differences and contrast intensity of criteria, thereby accounting for the relative strength and conflict among them. VIKOR is then employed to aggregate individual regret and group utility, resulting in a compromise solution that guides decision-makers toward the optimal robot selection. Proposed method provide the clarity and confidence to decision makers for choice of attributes and crediting this enhancement to the framework's transparency and its ability to incorporate a wide range of stakeholder perspectives. This framework facilitates a more inclusive decision-making process that acknowledges differing viewpoints and preferences. This proposed approach not only directs users toward optimal selections but also encourages collaboration among decision-makers, promoting a sense of shared ownership and responsibility in the selection process. This paper select the best robot by utilizing the benefits of both CRITIC and VIKOR method. The effectiveness of this integrated approach is validated through parameter and comparative analysis. The results demonstrate the potential applicability of the proposed methodology in real-world industrial robot selection scenarios, providing decision-makers with a powerful tool to navigate the complexities of modern robotic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective weed management is a significant challenge in agronomic crops which necessitates innovative solutions to reduce negative environmental impacts and minimize crop damage. Traditional methods often rely on indiscriminate herbicide application, which lacks precision and sustainability. To address this critical need, this study demonstrated an AI-enabled robotic system, Weeding robot, designed for targeted weed management. Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri S. Watson) was selected as it is the most troublesome weed in Nebraska. We developed the full stack (vision, hardware, software, robotic platform, and AI model) for precision spraying using YOLOv7, a state-of-the-art object detection deep learning technique. The Weeding robot achieved an average of 60.4% precision and 62% recall in real-time weed identification and spot spraying with the developed gantry-based sprayer system. The Weeding robot successfully identified Palmer amaranth across diverse growth stages in controlled outdoor conditions. This study demonstrates the potential of AI-enabled robotic systems for targeted weed management, offering a more precise and sustainable alternative to traditional herbicide application methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The precision of robotic manipulators in the industrial or medical field is very important, especially when it comes to repetitive or exhaustive tasks. Geometric deformations are the most common in this field. For this reason, new robotic vision techniques have been proposed, including 3D methods that made it possible to determine the geometric distances between the parts of a robotic manipulator. The aim of this work is to measure the angular position of a robotic arm with six degrees of freedom. For this purpose, a stereo camera and a convolutional neural network algorithm are used to reduce the degradation of precision caused by geometric errors. This method is not intended to replace encoders, but to enhance accuracy by compensating for degradation through an intelligent visual measurement system. The camera is tested and the accuracy is about one millimeter. The implementation of this method leads to better results than traditional and simple neural network methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper falls within the opinion of specialists that Industry 5.0 is characterized by humancentricity and sustainability. Engineers are the first to interact with the technology they produce, so they will likely be the first to interact with future generations of robots based on artificial intelligence. Engineers can help us discover what social problems need to be avoided in the context of humans working with collaborative robots and how. In this context, the paper is based on a selective questionnaire-based research, with the aim of discovering the opinions of Romanian engineers from Sibiu regarding the impact that Industry 5.0 can have on a community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Informatics Control Measurement in Economy & Environment Protection / Informatyka, Automatyka, Pomiary w Gospodarce i Ochronie Środowiska is the property of Lublin University of Technology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study developed a model that examines the nexus between gastronomy students' vocational commitment, postgraduate intentions, and level of concern regarding how RAISA can replace their profession. We adopted a survey to collect data from undergraduate gastronomy students in Turkey to measure the association between the designed constructs by adopting PLS-SEM (partial least squares-structural equation modeling) approach. The results revealed that vocational commitment influences RAISA-based economy concerns and students' intention to join the food industry and academia (i.e., postgraduate study). In contrast, RAISA-based economy concerns did not influence students' intention to join the food industry but directly influenced their intention to join academia. Furthermore, RAISA-based economy concern only mediated the link between vocational commitment and students' intention to join academia. Following the results, we suggested imperative implications that transpired from the analyses and proffer directions for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human–robot collaboration (HRC) is a natural progression of technological development and can improve job performance, address labor shortages, and reduce labor costs. However, it is still uncertain whether joint action, similar to that occurring between humans, can be replicated between humans and robots. Many robotic researchers have focused on joint action, and it has been demonstrated that gaze cueing plays a significant role in this context. Currently, previous studies on joint action use humanoids; however, robots utilized in the research on human-robot collaboration lack human-like eyes needed for verification. Therefore, this study focuses on the development of an eye robot with gaze-cueing behaviors that can be easily integrated into existing robotic systems. As another theme of this study, we proposed the use of fixation duration as a new metric, which is distinct from the commonly used response time, for the quantitative evaluation of joint action research. These are verified through a Go/No-go task under six conditions—three behavioral (i.e., joint action, joint attention-only, and alone), each with two partner conditions (robot or human partner). While developing a human-like eye robot, this study demonstrates the potential of a robot to be a better joint action partner than an uncertain human, with participants exhibiting the best reaction times when partnered with a robot. The shared action space of the participants was investigated, where a transference of the action space indicates the expression of joint action. The fixation duration indicates that the proposed robot cause participants to move their action space to include that of the robot. These results suggest that the proposed collaborative robot can initiate a joint action between a robot and a human, and can perform as a more effective partner in joint actions compared to an unfamiliar human. This study showcased the capacity of fixation duration as a quantitative assessment metric for joint action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Modern Science is the property of Alcide De Gasperi University of Euroregional Economy and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This paper presents a tangleand contact-free path planning (TCFPP) for a mobile robot attached to a base station with a finite-length cable. This type of robot, called a tethered mobile robot, can endure long-time exploration with a continuous power supply and stable communication via its cable. However, the robot faces potential hazards that endanger its operation such as cable snagging on and cable entanglement with obstacles and the robot. To address these challenges, our approach incorporates homotopy-aware path planning into deep reinforcement learning. The proposed reward design in the learning problem penalizes the cable-obstacle and cable-robot contacts and encourages the robot to follow the homotopy-aware path toward a goal. We consider two distinct scenarios for the initial cable configuration: 1) the robot pulls the cable sequentially from the base while heading for the goal, and 2) the robot moves to the goal starting from a state where the cable has already been partially deployed. The proposed method is compared with naive approaches in terms of contact avoidance and path similarity. Simulation results revealed that the robot can successfully find a contact-minimized path under the guidance of the reference path in both scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven predictive maintenance (PM) into the management of medical 3D printing machines promises a revolutionary advancement in operational efficiency and reliability. Traditional maintenance approaches often fail to optimize machine uptime and reduce costs effectively. AI and Machine Learning (ML) techniques, however, enable a proactive maintenance strategy by predicting potential failures and facilitating timely interventions. This ensures continuous high-quality production, which is critical for patient safety and effective medical care. AI-driven PM employs various methods, including supervised and unsupervised learning, neural networks, and natural language processing, to analyze vast datasets and perform intelligent diagnostics. The incorporation of advanced technologies such as digital twins, generative AI, collaborative robots, blockchain, and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) further enhances fault detection, transparency, and efficiency in maintenance processes. The benefits of this approach include minimized downtime, cost savings, improved safety, and increased equipment reliability. As AI technology advances, its role in PM will become more sophisticated, establishing new benchmarks for the operation and management of 3D printing machines. This proactive maintenance strategy not only improves performance but also provides a competitive advantage in the healthcare sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automation is critically important for sustainability in meat production, where heavy reliance on human labour is a growing challenge. In this work, a novel robotic Meat Factory Cell (MFC) platform presents the opportunity for unconventional automation in pork meat processing, particularly abattoirs. Instead of following line-based approaches, which are the main option today, it uses robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to perform complex cutting and manipulation operations on entire unchilled pork carcasses, with awareness of biological variation and deformation. The long-term goal of the MFC is to take a pork carcass as an input and produce seven primal outputs: hams, shoulders, saddle, belly and entire organ set. However, the MFC platform is under continuous development – therefore, this paper aims to demonstrate it through a specific use-case: shoulder removal. The system is evaluated based on data from testing and development sessions (June–November 2022), with a total of 34 attempted shoulder removals. Data regarding the MFCs' ability to handle variation, in addition to success rate and process timing models are presented. Qualitative feedback from skilled butchers is also discussed. The authors propose that, as well as technical development of the platform, it is important to consider new ways of comparing unconventional systems with their conventional counterparts. Innovative manufacturing systems have more to offer than raw speed and volume; traits such as flexibility, robustness and scalability – particularly economic scalability – should play a prominent role. Future legislation and standards must also encourage innovation rather than hinder innovative robotics solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the relationship between artificial intelligence (AI), industrial robots, and renewable energy consumption, driven by the rapid technological advancements and widespread adoption of AI tools in various industries. This research aims to evaluate the environmental implications of these technologies, specifically their impact on renewable energy usage. Employing a comprehensive analytical framework, this study utilizes advanced methodologies, including regularization factors, to accurately estimate the effects of these variables. Through a thorough data analysis, the research quantifies how AI and industrial robots influence the shift towards renewable energy sources. The findings reveal that investments in AI significantly enhance renewable energy consumption, as demonstrated by both conventional estimation techniques and those that integrate regularization factors. Conversely, the use of industrial robots is found to have a detrimental effect on renewable energy consumption. These results have important implications for policymakers, industry leaders, and sustainability researchers. This study encourages policymakers and investors to prioritize funding for AI solutions that promote renewable energy adoption, while it advises industry managers to strategically modify their use of industrial robots to reduce their environmental impact. Ultimately, this research lays a critical foundation for future inquiries and policy initiatives aimed at aligning technological advancements with sustainable energy practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In today's competitive and globalized world, innovation is essential for organizational survival, offering a means for companies to address environmental impacts and social challenges. As innovation processes accelerate, managers need to rethink the entire value-creation chain, with digital transformation emerging as a continuous process of organizational adaptation to the evolving societal landscape. The research question focuses on how digital technologies—such as artificial intelligence, Big Data, cloud computing, industrial and service robots, and the Internet of Things—influence innovation-driven revenues among enterprises within the European Union (EU). The paper examines, using neural network analysis, the specific impact of each digital technology on innovation revenues while exploring how these technologies affect various types of social innovation within organizations. Through cluster analysis, the study identifies patterns among EU countries based on their digital technology adoption, innovation expenditures, and revenues and the proportion of enterprises engaged in innovation activities. The findings highlight the central role of digital technologies in enhancing innovation and competitiveness, with significant implications for managers and policymakers. These results underscore the necessity for companies to strategically integrate digital technologies to sustain long-term competitiveness in the rapidly evolving digital landscape of the EU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human-centered robotic applications are becoming pervasive in the context of robotics and smart manufacturing, and such a pervasiveness is even more expected with the shift to Industry 5.0. The always increasing level of autonomy of modern robotic platforms requires the integration of software applications from different domains to implement artificial intelligence, cognition, and human-robot/robot-robot interaction. Developing and (re)configuring such a multi-domain software to meet functional constraints is a challenging task. Even more challenging is customizing the software to satisfy non-functional requirements such as real-time, reliability, and energy efficiency. In this context, the concept of Edge-Cloud continuum is gaining consensus as a solution to address functional and non-functional constraints in a seamless way. Containerization and orchestration are becoming a standard practice, as they allow for better information flow among different network levels as well as increased modularity in the use of multi-domain software components. Nevertheless, the adoption of such a practice along the design flow, from simulation to the deployment of complex robotic applications by addressing the de facto development standards (e.g., ROS - Robotic Operating System) is still an open problem. We present a design methodology based on Docker and Kubernetes that enables containerization and orchestration of ROS-based robotic SW applications for heterogeneous and hierarchical HW architectures. The methodology aims at (i) integrating and verifying multi-domain components since early in the design flow, (ii) mapping software tasks to containers to minimize the performance and memory footprint overhead, (iii) clustering containers to efficiently distribute load across the edge-cloud architecture by minimizing resource utilization, and (iv) enabling multi-domain verification of functional and non-functional constraints before deployment. The article presents the results obtained with a real case of study, in which the design methodology has been applied to program the mission of a Robotnik RB-Kairos mobile robot in an industrial agile production chain. We have obtained reduced load on the robot's HW with minimal performance and network overhead, thanks to the optimized distributed system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Collaborative robots are growing exponentially, with applications in the most diverse domains and operating side by side with humans in unstructured and changing environments. Such a scenario requires robot programmers to develop complex applications, integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI), sensing and control, both rapidly and efficiently. Python and model-based design software packages such as Simulink are widely used in engineering, and when it comes to robotics those tools are very important for robot design, simulation and the development of control algorithms before the implementation on the real robot. Python is widely used in AI while Simulink supports several hardware components, facilitating rapid deployment of the developed programs on the target hardware. In this study, a novel Python library (iiwaPy) and SimulinkIIWA are presented to interface KUKA iiwa robots. The iiwaPy is based on the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and the SimulinkIIWA on the User Datagram Protocol (UDP). Both support robot motion control (point-to-point and real-time) at the joint level and the end-effector (EEF) level, as well as the monitoring of the robot state (position, orientation, torques feedback). Open-source code and example applications are provided showing the flexibility and the ease of use of the proposed interfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Collaborative robots are increasingly recognized as potential assistants to relieve workers from repetitive and physically demanding tasks on construction jobsites. Despite the great potential, most efforts have focused on developing various artificial intelligence (AI) and robotic technologies to achieve specific human–robot collaboration (HRC) functions. However, there is a significant lack of research regarding the impacts of such collaboration on construction work performance and workers' perception and acceptance of collaborative robots, which could be a critical influence factor on the feasibility and effectiveness of HRC on construction jobsites. To this end, this study aims to evaluate the multidimensional impacts of collaborative robots on work efficiency, quality, and workload as well as workers' perception and acceptance. HRC experiments on sample construction tasks (i.e., wood assembly) were conducted in conjunction with quantitative measurements and subject surveys. Through comparison between HRC experiments and human–human collaboration (HHC) experiments based on this case study, it was found that HRC could improve up to 29.3% and 88.6% in work efficiency and assembly accuracy, respectively, and reduce workers' workload by up to 20.3%. Furthermore, workers' perception of HRC is found to be positive overall with higher acceptance after HRC experience, characterized by questionnaires designed based on the technology acceptance model. Through physical experiments, this research is expected to produce more reliable results compared with conventional approaches where participants are simply provided with imaginary scenarios. The findings will also guide the development of robotic technologies to enhance the practical application of HRC in construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of the rapid development of artificial intelligence, industrial robots, as an important manifestation of artificial intelligence technology application, provide enterprises with a "creative destruction" environment, and play a positive role in energy utilization and environmental governance. Therefore, academics have focused a lot of attention on the question of whether industrial robot application can successfully improve corporate green innovation (CGI), thus achieving green transformation, and upgrading the manufacturing industry. This paper builds a "Bartik instrument variable" to calculate the micro-enterprise robot penetration rate from 2007 to 2019, looks at the effect of industrial robot application on CGI using data from manufacturing listed companies, and discusses the mechanism, heterogeneity, and robustness of this effect. The research finds that industrial robot application significantly improve CGI, indicating that they can promote corporate green technology transformation. This effect not only enhances the scale of CGI but also strengthens the quality of CGI. In addition, the above conclusion still holds after a series of endogeneity and robustness tests. Mechanism research shows that industrial robot application contribute to CGI by improving production efficiency, human capital, and environmental governance levels. It has a good complementary optimization effect on CGI. Furthermore, heterogeneity research shows that industrial robot application has a more significant role in enhancing green innovation for enterprises that are labor-intensive, more intense market competitive, more serious environmental pollution, and have lower level of digital economy development. The research conclusion verifies the effect of artificial intelligence technology and explores its mechanism, which provides empirical references for improving corporate environmental performance and green transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Transactions of Nanjing University of Aeronautics & Astronautics is the property of Editorial Department of Journal of Nanjing University of Aeronautics & Astronautics and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)