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10th Anniversary of Actuators
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10th Anniversary of Actuators

A special issue of Actuators (ISSN 2076-0825).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2022) | Viewed by 35192

Printed Edition Available!
A printed edition of this Special Issue is available here.

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Zhuming Bi

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Guest Editor
Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne, IN, USA
Interests: enterprise information systems; digital manufacturing; finite element analysis; machine designs; robotics and automation; enterprise systems
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

In 2022, we are celebrating the 10th anniversary of the journal Actuators (ISSN: 2076-0825). Since 2012, when the inaugural issue of Actuators was launched, we have already published more than 700 papers from more than 2200 authors. More than 1400 reviewers have submitted at least one review report. In 2019, Actuators was covered by the Science Citation Index Expanded (SCIE) from Vol. 6 (2017). Our sincerest thanks go to our readers, innumerable authors, anonymous peer reviewers, editors, and all the people working for the journal in some way who have contributed their efforts for years. These highlights would not have occurred without your participation.

To mark this significant milestone, a Special Issue entitled “10th Anniversary of Actuators” is being launched. This Special Issue includes high-quality papers under the broad scope of Actuators. We would like to invite you to contribute an original research paper or a comprehensive review article on a trending or hot topic for peer review and possible publication.

New ideas and unique proposals for future research and tutorial manuscripts for use in the instruction of junior researchers in this field are also encouraged.

Prof. Dr. Zhuming Bi
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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

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

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

Keywords

DBD plasma actuators; icing mitigation;Thermal effects

Published Papers (18 papers)

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Research

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15 pages, 3491 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of a Soft Sensor Concept for Indirect Flow Rate Estimation in Solenoid-Operated Spool Valves
by Simon Hucko, Hendrik Krampe and Katharina Schmitz
Actuators 2023, 12(4), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/act12040148 - 30 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1006
Abstract
Concepts, such as power and condition monitoring or smart systems, are becoming increasingly important but require extensive insight into the process or machine, which is mostly gained by additional sensors. However, this development is contrasted by growing global competition and cost pressure. The [...] Read more.
Concepts, such as power and condition monitoring or smart systems, are becoming increasingly important but require extensive insight into the process or machine, which is mostly gained by additional sensors. However, this development is contrasted by growing global competition and cost pressure. The measurement concept of a soft flow rate sensor presented here, addresses this discrepancy by means of a cost-effective software-based sensor, utilizing the dependence between flow rate and flow force in hydraulic spool valves. In the presented work, the feasibility of the introduced approach and the anticipated challenges, such as the modeling of disturbances in the mechanical, fluidic and electromagnetic subdomain, are assessed. For this purpose, important phenomena influencing measurement accuracy are identified on the basis of previous work. With the help of these findings, a greatly simplified version of the soft sensor is built and evaluated with a commercial valve to perform an initial test of the concept. Regardless of future implementations, the soft sensor concept presented here may have limitations in terms of dynamics and accuracy. However, the aim is not to replace a classic flow rate sensor, such as a gear sensor, but rather to create a cost-effective way to determine the flow rate without any additional integration effort. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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14 pages, 8907 KiB  
Communication
Fault Detection and Localisation of a Three-Phase Inverter with Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor Load Using a Convolutional Neural Network
by Dominik Łuczak, Stefan Brock and Krzysztof Siembab
Actuators 2023, 12(3), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/act12030125 - 15 Mar 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1935
Abstract
Fault-tolerant control of a three-phase inverter can be achieved by performing a hardware reconfiguration of the six-switch and three-phase (6S3P) topology to the four-switch and three-phase (4S3P) topology after detection and localisation of the faulty phase. Together with hardware reconfiguration, the SVPWM algorithm [...] Read more.
Fault-tolerant control of a three-phase inverter can be achieved by performing a hardware reconfiguration of the six-switch and three-phase (6S3P) topology to the four-switch and three-phase (4S3P) topology after detection and localisation of the faulty phase. Together with hardware reconfiguration, the SVPWM algorithm must be appropriately modified to handle the new 4S3P topology. The presented study focuses on diagnosing three-phase faults in two steps: fault detection and localisation. Fault detection is needed to recognise the healthy or unhealthy state of the inverter. The binary state recognition problem can be solved by preparing a feature vector that is calculated from phase currents (ia, ib, and ic) in the time and frequency domains. After the fault diagnosis system recognises the unhealthy state, it investigates the signals to localise which phase of the inverter is faulty. The multiclass classification was solved by a transformation of the three-phase currents into a single RGB image and by training a convolutional neural network. The proposed methodology for the diagnosis of three-phase inverters was tested based on a simulation model representing a laboratory test bench. After the learning process, fault detection was possible based on a 128-sample window (corresponding to a time of 0.64 ms) with an accuracy of 99 percent. In the next step, the localisation of selected individual faults was performed on the basis of a 256-sample window (corresponding to a time of 1.28 ms) with an accuracy of 100 percent. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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16 pages, 4127 KiB  
Article
Position Control of a Cost-Effective Bellow Pneumatic Actuator Using an LQR Approach
by Goran Gregov, Samuel Pincin, Antonio Šoljić and Ervin Kamenar
Actuators 2023, 12(2), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/act12020073 - 09 Feb 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1663
Abstract
Today, we are witnessing an increasing trend in the number of soft pneumatic actuator solutions in industrial environments, especially due to their human-safe interaction capabilities. An interesting solution in this frame is a vacuum pneumatic muscle actuator (PMA) with a bellow structure, which [...] Read more.
Today, we are witnessing an increasing trend in the number of soft pneumatic actuator solutions in industrial environments, especially due to their human-safe interaction capabilities. An interesting solution in this frame is a vacuum pneumatic muscle actuator (PMA) with a bellow structure, which is characterized by a high contraction ratio and the ability to generate high forces considering its relatively small dimensions. Moreover, such a solution is generally very cost-effective since can be developed by using easily accessible, off-the-shelf components combined with additive manufacturing procedures. The presented research analyzes the precision positioning performances of a newly developed cost-effective bellow PMA in a closed-loop setting, by utilizing a Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controller and a Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR). In a first instance, the system identification was performed and a numerical model of the PMA was developed. It was experimentally shown that the actuator is characterized by nonlinear dynamical behavior. Based on the numerical model, a PID controller was developed as a benchmark. In the next phase, an LQR that involves a nonlinear pregain term was built. The point-to-point positioning experimental results showed that both controllers allow fast responses without overshoot within the whole working range. On the other hand, it was discovered that the LQR with the corresponding nonlinear pregain term allows an error of a few tens of micrometers to be achieved across the entire working range of the muscle. Additionally, two different experimental pneumatic solutions for indirect and direct vacuum control were analyzed with the aim of investigating the PMA response time and comparing their energy consumption. This research contributes to the future development of the pneumatically driven mechatronics systems used for precise position control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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22 pages, 4334 KiB  
Article
Iterative Feedback Tuning of Model-Free Intelligent PID Controllers
by Andrei Baciu and Corneliu Lazar
Actuators 2023, 12(2), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/act12020056 - 28 Jan 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1955
Abstract
In the last decades, model-free control (MFC) has become an alternative for complex processes whose models are not available or are difficult to obtain. Among the model-free control techniques, intelligent PID (iPID) algorithms, which are based on the ultralocal model parameterized with the [...] Read more.
In the last decades, model-free control (MFC) has become an alternative for complex processes whose models are not available or are difficult to obtain. Among the model-free control techniques, intelligent PID (iPID) algorithms, which are based on the ultralocal model parameterized with the constant α and including a classical PID, are used in many applications. This paper presents a new method for tuning iPID controllers based on the iterative feedback tuning (IFT) technique. This model-free tuning technique iteratively optimizes the parameters of a fixed structure controller using data coming from the closed-loop system operation. First, the discrete transfer functions of the iPID are deduced, considering the first and second order derivatives of the output variable from the ultralocal model. Using the discrete transfer functions, the iPID controllers become the fixed structure type, and the IFT parameter tuning method can be applied. Thus, in addition to the classical gains of the PID algorithm, the value of the parameter α is also obtained, which is usually determined by trial-and-error. The performances of the IFT-tuned iPID controllers were experimentally tested and validated in real-time using Quanser AERO 2 laboratory equipment with a one degree of freedom (1-DOF) configuration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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13 pages, 7344 KiB  
Article
Effect of the Magnetorheological Damper Dynamic Behaviour on the Rail Vehicle Comfort: Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulation
by Filip Jeniš, Michal Kubík, Tomáš Michálek, Zbyněk Strecker, Jiří Žáček and Ivan Mazůrek
Actuators 2023, 12(2), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/act12020047 - 19 Jan 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1389
Abstract
Many publications show that the ride comfort of a railway vehicle can be significantly improved using a semi-active damping control of the lateral secondary dampers. However, the control efficiency depends on the selection of the control algorithm and the damper dynamic behaviour, i.e., [...] Read more.
Many publications show that the ride comfort of a railway vehicle can be significantly improved using a semi-active damping control of the lateral secondary dampers. However, the control efficiency depends on the selection of the control algorithm and the damper dynamic behaviour, i.e., its force rise response time, force drop response time and force dynamic range. This paper examines the influence of these parameters of a magnetorheological (MR) damper on the efficiency of S/A control for several control algorithms. One new algorithm has been designed. Hardware-in-the-loop simulation with a real magnetorheological damper has been used to get close to reality. A key finding of this paper is that the highest efficiency of algorithms is not achieved with a minimal damper response time. Furthermore, the force drop response time has been more important than the force rise response time. The Acceleration Driven Damper Linear (ADD-L) algorithm achieves the highest efficiency. A reduction in vibration of 34% was achieved. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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17 pages, 2111 KiB  
Article
Time-Optimal Current Control of Synchronous Motor Drives
by Václav Šmídl, Antonín Glac and Zdeněk Peroutka
Actuators 2023, 12(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/act12010015 - 29 Dec 2022
Viewed by 1489
Abstract
We are concerned with the problem of fast and accurate tracking of currents in the general synchronous drive. The problem becomes complicated with decreasing available voltage, which is common in high-speed and field weakening regimes. The existing time-optimal controllers rely on a simplified [...] Read more.
We are concerned with the problem of fast and accurate tracking of currents in the general synchronous drive. The problem becomes complicated with decreasing available voltage, which is common in high-speed and field weakening regimes. The existing time-optimal controllers rely on a simplified model, ignoring stator resistance and differences in inductances. We derive a solution for the general model considering all parameters and show how the parameters affect the current trajectory. One simplifying assumption had to be made, but we show in simulation that it has a negligible impact on accuracy. The simplification allowed for the design of a feed-forward controller that has a low computational cost and can be easily implemented in realtime. We provide experimental validation of the controller on the developed IPMSM drive prototype of the rated power of 4.5 kW using conventional industrial DSP. The controller is compared to conventional PI and deadbeat solutions, demonstrating that the time-optimal controller can reach the required setpoint four times faster than the competitors at the field weakening regime of the drive. The proposed feed-forward control can be seen as a universal building block that can be combined with existing feedback controllers and observers and thus incorporated into existing control solutions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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18 pages, 7366 KiB  
Article
Parameter Optimization of Large-Size High-Speed Cam-Linkage Mechanism for Kinematic Performance
by Guodong Zhu, Yong Wang, Guo-Niu Zhu, Minghao Weng, Jianhui Liu, Ji Zhou and Bing Lu
Actuators 2023, 12(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/act12010002 - 21 Dec 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1560
Abstract
The cam-linkage mechanism is a typical transmission mechanism in mechanical science and is widely used in various automated production equipment. However, conventional modeling methods mainly focus on the design and dimensional synthesis of the cam-linkage mechanism in the slow-speed scenario. The influence of [...] Read more.
The cam-linkage mechanism is a typical transmission mechanism in mechanical science and is widely used in various automated production equipment. However, conventional modeling methods mainly focus on the design and dimensional synthesis of the cam-linkage mechanism in the slow-speed scenario. The influence of component dimensions is not taken into consideration. As a result, the model accuracy dramatically falls when analyzing large-size cam-linkage mechanisms, especially in high-speed environments. The kinematic aspects of cam design have been investigated, but there are few studies discussing the motion characteristic and accuracy analysis models of the large-size cam-linkage mechanism under high-speed scenarios. To handle such issues, this paper proposes a parameter optimization methodology for the design analysis of the large-size high-speed cam-linkage mechanism considering kinematic performance. Firstly, the mathematical model of the cam five-bar mechanism is presented. The cam curve and motion parameters are solved forward with linkage length and output speed. Then, a particle swarm-based multi-objective optimization method is developed to find the optimal structure parameters and output speed curve to minimize cam pressure angle and roller acceleration and maximize linkage mechanism drive angle. A Monte Carlo-based framework is put forward for the reliability and sensitivity analysis of kinematic accuracy. Finally, a transverse device of a sanitary product production line is provided to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed method. With the parameter optimization, the productivity of the transverse device is doubled, from 600 pieces per minute (PPM) to 1200 PPM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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18 pages, 3103 KiB  
Article
A Robust Model Predictive Control for Virtual Coupling in Train Sets
by Jesus Felez, Miguel Angel Vaquero-Serrano and Juan de Dios Sanz
Actuators 2022, 11(12), 372; https://doi.org/10.3390/act11120372 - 10 Dec 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1572
Abstract
In recent decades, the demand for rail transport has been growing steadily and faces a double problem. Not only must the transport capacity be increased, but also a more flexible service is needed to meet the real demand. Both objectives can be achieved [...] Read more.
In recent decades, the demand for rail transport has been growing steadily and faces a double problem. Not only must the transport capacity be increased, but also a more flexible service is needed to meet the real demand. Both objectives can be achieved through virtual coupling (VC), which is an evolution of the current moving block systems. Trains under VC can run much closer together, forming what is called a virtually coupled train set (VCTS). In this paper, we propose an approach in which virtual coupling is implemented via model predictive control (MPC). For this purpose, we define a robust controller that can predict, based on a dynamic model of the train, the state of the system at later moments of time and make the appropriate control decisions. A robust MPC (RMPC) is obtained by introducing two uncertain variables. The first uncertain variable is added to the acceleration equation of the dynamic model, while the second uncertain variable is used to define the uncertainty in the train positioning. To test the RMPC for virtual coupling, two simulation cases are performed for a metro line, analysing the influence of both the uncertainties. In all cases, the results obtained show a safer operation of the virtual coupling without significantly affecting the service. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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16 pages, 6979 KiB  
Article
Force Characteristics of Centrifugal Pump as Turbine during Start-Up Process under Gas–Liquid Two-Phase Conditions
by Baodui Chai, Junhu Yang and Xiaohui Wang
Actuators 2022, 11(12), 370; https://doi.org/10.3390/act11120370 - 08 Dec 2022
Viewed by 1303
Abstract
The start-up process of a centrifugal pump as turbine (PAT) under gas–liquid two-phase conditions was simulated based on Fluent, and the evolution mechanism of the internal flow field and the variation law of force characteristics were studied in its start-up process under gas–liquid [...] Read more.
The start-up process of a centrifugal pump as turbine (PAT) under gas–liquid two-phase conditions was simulated based on Fluent, and the evolution mechanism of the internal flow field and the variation law of force characteristics were studied in its start-up process under gas–liquid two-phase conditions. The results show that the area with high gas phase concentration corresponds to a strong vortex at the beginning of the start-up. The vortex intensity in the impeller gradually decreases with an increase in rotational speed. The gas volume fraction of the blade suction surface is more significant than that of the blade pressure surface. The higher the inlet gas volume fraction (IGVF) is, the more severely the blade load will fluctuate during the start-up process. As the rotational speed increases, the fluctuation of the blade load gradually weakens, and the maximum load is distributed near the inner edge of the blade after the rotational speed is stable. The periodic unbalanced radial force is produced in the start-up process. From the pure liquid conditions to the gas–liquid two-phase conditions with increasing IGVF, the dominant frequency amplitude of radial force shows a similar trend of decreasing first but then increasing. After the rotational speed tends to be stable, the dominant frequency of radial force is equal to the rotational frequency of the blade. With the increase in rotational speed, the dominant frequency amplitude of axial force decreases gradually. The higher the IGVF, the greater the dominant frequency amplitude of axial force at the same time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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23 pages, 10279 KiB  
Article
Image Servo Tracking of a Flexible Manipulator Prototype with Connected Continuum Kinematic Modules
by Ming-Hong Hsu, Phuc Thanh-Thien Nguyen, Dai-Dong Nguyen and Chung-Hsien Kuo
Actuators 2022, 11(12), 360; https://doi.org/10.3390/act11120360 - 02 Dec 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1662
Abstract
This paper presents the design and implementation of a flexible manipulator formed of connected continuum kinematic modules (CKMs) to ease the fabrication of a continuum robot with multiple degrees of freedom. The CKM consists of five sequentially arranged circular plates, four universal joints [...] Read more.
This paper presents the design and implementation of a flexible manipulator formed of connected continuum kinematic modules (CKMs) to ease the fabrication of a continuum robot with multiple degrees of freedom. The CKM consists of five sequentially arranged circular plates, four universal joints intermediately connecting five circular plates, three individual actuated tension cables, and compression springs surrounding the tension cables. The base and movable circular plates are used to connect the robot platform or the neighboring CKM. All tension cables are controlled via linear actuators at a distal site. To demonstrate the function and feasibility of the proposed CKM, the kinematics of the continuum manipulator were verified through a kinematic simulation at different end velocities. The correctness of the manipulator posture was confirmed through the kinematic simulation. Then, a continuum robot formed with three CKMs is fabricated to perform Jacobian-based image servo tracking tasks. For the eye-to-hand (ETH) experiment, a heart shape trajectory was tracked to verify the precision of the kinematics, which achieved an endpoint error of 4.03 in Root Mean Square Error (RMSE). For the eye-in-hand (EIH) plugging-in/unplugging experiment, the accuracy of the image servo tracking system was demonstrated in extensive tolerance conditions, with processing times as low as 58±2.12 s and 83±6.87 s at the 90% confidence level in unplugging and plugging-in tasks, respectively. Finally, quantitative tracking error analyses are provided to evaluate the overall performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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13 pages, 3357 KiB  
Article
Design of a Non-Back-Drivable Screw Jack Mechanism for the Hitch Lifting Arms of Electric-Powered Tractors
by Marco Claudio De Simone, Salvio Veneziano and Domenico Guida
Actuators 2022, 11(12), 358; https://doi.org/10.3390/act11120358 - 02 Dec 2022
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2372
Abstract
The agricultural sector is constantly evolving. The rise in the world’s population generates an increasingly growing demand for food, resulting in the need for the agroindustry to meet this demand. Tractors are the vehicles that have made a real difference in agriculture’s development [...] Read more.
The agricultural sector is constantly evolving. The rise in the world’s population generates an increasingly growing demand for food, resulting in the need for the agroindustry to meet this demand. Tractors are the vehicles that have made a real difference in agriculture’s development throughout history, lowering costs in soil tillage and facilitating activities and operations for workers. This study aims to successfully design and build an autonomous, electric agricultural tractor that can autonomously perform recurring tasks in open-field and greenhouse applications. This project is fully part of the new industrial and agronomic revolution, known as Factory 4.0 and Agriculture 4.0. The predetermined functional requirements for the vehicle are its lightweight, accessible price, the easy availability of its spare parts, and its simple, ordinary maintenance. In this first study, the preliminary phases of sizing and conceptual design of the rover are reported before subsequently proceeding to the dynamical analysis. To optimize the design of the various versions of the automated vehicle, it is decided that a standard chassis would be built based on a robot operating inside a greenhouse on soft and flat terrains. The SimScape multi-body environment is used to model the kinematics of the non-back-drivable screw jack mechanism for the hitch-lifting arms. The control unit for the force exerted is designed and analyzed by means of an inverse dynamics simulation to evaluate the force and electric power consumed by the actuators. The results obtained from the analysis are essential for the final design of the autonomous electric tractor. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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17 pages, 3435 KiB  
Article
Implementation and Control of a Wheeled Bipedal Robot Using a Fuzzy Logic Approach
by Chun-Fei Hsu, Bo-Rui Chen and Zi-Ling Lin
Actuators 2022, 11(12), 357; https://doi.org/10.3390/act11120357 - 02 Dec 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2708
Abstract
This study designs and implements a wheeled bipedal robot (WBR) that combines the mobility of wheeled robots and the dexterity of legged robots. The designed WBR has extra knee joints to maintain body balance when encountering uneven terrain. Because of the robot’s highly [...] Read more.
This study designs and implements a wheeled bipedal robot (WBR) that combines the mobility of wheeled robots and the dexterity of legged robots. The designed WBR has extra knee joints to maintain body balance when encountering uneven terrain. Because of the robot’s highly nonlinear, dynamic, unstable, and under-actuated nature, an intelligent motion and balance controller (IMBC) based on a fuzzy logic approach is proposed to maintain the balance of the WBR while it is standing and moving on the ground. It should be emphasized that the proposed IMBC system does not require prior knowledge of system dynamics and the controller parameters are tuned using the qualitative aspects of human knowledge. Furthermore, a 32-bit microcontroller that has memory, programmable I/O peripherals, and a processor core is used to implement the IMBC method. Finally, moving and rotating, height-changing, posture-keeping, and “one leg on slope” movement scenarios are tested to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed IMBC system. The experimental results show that, by using the proposed IMBC system, the WBR can not only balance and move well both on flat ground and in complex terrain but also extend each leg independently to maintain body balance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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20 pages, 4660 KiB  
Article
Comparing Different Resonant Control Approaches for Torque Ripple Minimisation in Electric Machines
by Thomas Steffen, Muhammad Saad Rafaq and Will Midgley
Actuators 2022, 11(12), 349; https://doi.org/10.3390/act11120349 - 27 Nov 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1675
Abstract
Electric machines are highly efficient and highly controllable actuators, but they do still suffer from a number of imperfections. One of them is torque ripple, which introduces high frequency harmonics into the motion. One (cost- and performance-neutral) countermeasure is to apply control that [...] Read more.
Electric machines are highly efficient and highly controllable actuators, but they do still suffer from a number of imperfections. One of them is torque ripple, which introduces high frequency harmonics into the motion. One (cost- and performance-neutral) countermeasure is to apply control that counters the torque ripple. This paper compares several single-input single-output (SISO) control approaches for feedback control of torque ripple of a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine (PMSM). The baseline is PI (proportional-integral) control, which does not suppress torque ripple, and the most popular control approach is proportional-integral resonant (PIR) control. Both are compared to an advanced PIR controller (PIRA), frequency modulation, a mixed sensitivity design, and an iterative learning controller (ILC). The analysis demonstrates that PIR control, mixed sensitivity state feedback, and the modulating controller achieve identical behaviour. The choice between these three options is therefore dependent on preferences for the design methodology, or on implementation factors. The PIRA and the ILC on the other hand show more sophisticated behaviour that may be advantageous for certain applications, at the expense of higher complexity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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20 pages, 7850 KiB  
Article
Performance Assessment of a Low-Cost Miniature Electrohydrostatic Actuator
by Brendan Deibert and Travis Wiens
Actuators 2022, 11(11), 334; https://doi.org/10.3390/act11110334 - 18 Nov 2022
Viewed by 1622
Abstract
Low-cost small-scale (<100 W) electrohydrostatic actuators (EHAs) are not available on the market, largely due to a lack of suitable components. Utilizing plastic 3D printing, a novel inverse shuttle valve has been produced which, when assembled with emerging small-scale hydraulic pumps and cylinders [...] Read more.
Low-cost small-scale (<100 W) electrohydrostatic actuators (EHAs) are not available on the market, largely due to a lack of suitable components. Utilizing plastic 3D printing, a novel inverse shuttle valve has been produced which, when assembled with emerging small-scale hydraulic pumps and cylinders from the radio-controlled hobby industry, forms a low-cost and high-performance miniature EHA. This paper presents experimental test results that characterize such a system and highlight its steady, dynamic, and thermal performance capabilities. The results indicate that the constructed EHA has good hydraulic efficiency downstream of the pump and good dynamic response but is limited by the efficiency of the pump and the associated heat generated from the pump’s losses. The findings presented in this paper validate the use of a 3D printed plastic inverse shuttle valve in the construction of a low-cost miniature EHA system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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17 pages, 3113 KiB  
Article
A Novel High-Speed Third-Order Sliding Mode Observer for Fault-Tolerant Control Problem of Robot Manipulators
by Van-Cuong Nguyen, Xuan-Toa Tran and Hee-Jun Kang
Actuators 2022, 11(9), 259; https://doi.org/10.3390/act11090259 - 08 Sep 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2019
Abstract
In this paper, a novel fault-tolerant control tactic for robot manipulator systems using only position measurements is proposed. The proposed algorithm is constructed based on a combination of a nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode control (NFTSMC) and a novel high-speed third-order sliding mode [...] Read more.
In this paper, a novel fault-tolerant control tactic for robot manipulator systems using only position measurements is proposed. The proposed algorithm is constructed based on a combination of a nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode control (NFTSMC) and a novel high-speed third-order sliding mode observer (TOSMO). In the first step, the high-speed TOSMO is proposed for the first time to approximate both the system velocity and the lumped unknown input with a faster convergence time compared to the TOSMO. The faster convergence speed is obtained thanks to the linear characteristic of the added elements. In the second step, the NFTSMC is designed based on a nonsingular fast terminal sliding (NFTS) surface and the information obtained from the proposed high-speed TOSMO. Thanks to the combination, the proposed controller–observer tactic provides excellent features, such as a fast convergence time, high tracking precision, chattering phenomenon reduction, robustness against the effects of the lumped unknown input and velocity requirement elimination. Especially, the proposed observer does not only improve the convergence speed of the estimated signals, but also increases the system dynamic response. The system’s finite-time stability is proved using the Lyapunov theory. Finally, to validate the efficiency of the proposed strategy, simulations on a PUMA560 robot manipulator are performed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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Review

Jump to: Research

22 pages, 3021 KiB  
Review
Gelatin Soft Actuators: Benefits and Opportunities
by Sandra Edward and Holly M. Golecki
Actuators 2023, 12(2), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/act12020063 - 31 Jan 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2504
Abstract
Soft robots are being developed as implantable devices and surgical tools with increasing frequency. As this happens, new attention needs to be directed at the materials used to engineer these devices that interface with biological tissues. Biocompatibility will increase if traditional materials are [...] Read more.
Soft robots are being developed as implantable devices and surgical tools with increasing frequency. As this happens, new attention needs to be directed at the materials used to engineer these devices that interface with biological tissues. Biocompatibility will increase if traditional materials are replaced with biopolymers or proteins. Gelatin-based actuators are biocompatible, biodegradable, versatile, and tunable, making them ideal for biomedical and biomechanical applications. While building devices from protein-based materials will improve biocompatibility, these new materials also bring unique challenges. The properties of gelatin can be tuned with the addition of several additives, crosslinkers, and plasticizers to improve mechanical properties while altering the characteristic fluid absorption and cell proliferation. Here, we discuss a variety of different gelatin actuators that allow for a range of actuation motions including swelling, bending, folding, and twisting, with various actuation stimulants such as solvent, temperature, pneumatic pressure, electric field, magnetic field, or light. In this review, we examine the fabrication methods and applications of such materials for building soft robots. We also highlight some ways to further extend the use of gelatin for biomedical actuators including using fiber-reinforced gelatin, gelatin cellular solids, and gelatin coatings. The understanding of the current state-of-the-art of gelatin actuators and the methods to expand their usage may expand the scope and opportunities for implantable devices using soft hydrogel robotics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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38 pages, 10694 KiB  
Review
Recent Developments on Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD) Plasma Actuators for Icing Mitigation
by Frederico Rodrigues, Mohammadmahdi Abdollahzadehsangroudi, João Nunes-Pereira and José Páscoa
Actuators 2023, 12(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/act12010005 - 21 Dec 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2809
Abstract
Ice accretion is a common issue on aircraft flying in cold climate conditions. The ice accumulation on aircraft surfaces disturbs the adjacent airflow field, increases the drag, and significantly reduces the aircraft’s aerodynamic performance. It also increases the weight of the aircraft and [...] Read more.
Ice accretion is a common issue on aircraft flying in cold climate conditions. The ice accumulation on aircraft surfaces disturbs the adjacent airflow field, increases the drag, and significantly reduces the aircraft’s aerodynamic performance. It also increases the weight of the aircraft and causes the failure of critical components in some situations, leading to premature aerodynamic stall and loss of control and lift. With this in mind, several authors have begun to study the thermal effects of plasma actuators for icing control and mitigation, considering both aeronautical and wind energy applications. Although this is a recent topic, several studies have already been performed, and it is clear this topic has attracted the attention of several research groups. Considering the importance and potential of using dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma actuators for ice mitigation, we aim to present in this paper the first review on this topic, summarizing all the information reported in the literature about three major subtopics: thermal effects induced by DBD plasma actuators, plasma actuators’ ability in deicing and ice formation prevention, and ice detection capability of DBD plasma actuators. An overview of the characteristics of these devices is performed and conclusions are drawn regarding recent developments in the application of plasma actuators for icing mitigation purposes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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15 pages, 5508 KiB  
Review
Development of Composite Hydraulic Actuators: A Review
by Marek Lubecki, Michał Stosiak, Paulius Skačkauskas, Mykola Karpenko, Adam Deptuła and Kamil Urbanowicz
Actuators 2022, 11(12), 365; https://doi.org/10.3390/act11120365 - 06 Dec 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2254
Abstract
With the development of engineering materials, as well as the growing requirements for weight reduction and the reduction of energy consumption by mechanical systems, attempts have been made to utilize composite materials in the design of hydraulic cylinders. In many cases, the reduction [...] Read more.
With the development of engineering materials, as well as the growing requirements for weight reduction and the reduction of energy consumption by mechanical systems, attempts have been made to utilize composite materials in the design of hydraulic cylinders. In many cases, the reduction in the weight of the actuators may lead to a reduction in the values of bending moments acting on the booms of working machines, as well as leading to a reduction in the power demand in drive systems. The use of composite materials can also increase the reliability of cylinders in corrosive environments and places with strong electromagnetic fields. This paper presents the development of hydraulic actuators made of composite materials, presenting both the achievements of research centers and commercial companies. The main research and engineering problems are presented along with the methods of solving them resulting from the literature available. The directions for further research that should be undertaken in order to increase reliability, improve efficiency, and reduce weight are also outlined. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Actuators)
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