Online-Journals.org (International Association of Online Engineering)
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Design, Engineering Analysis, and Fabrication of a Prototype Electromechanical Finger Fixator Control System
This paper investigates a new external fixator system for treating finger contractures. This innovative system is electric and user-friendly, providing precise readings of the angles of diseased finger joints. Accurate measurements of the angles of the diseased finger joints can assist therapists and patients during rehabilitation procedures. The fixator consists of ten parts assembled using polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK) for the plastic components and stainless steel for the metal components. The design model was engineered, drawn, and analyzed using SolidWorks Computer-Aided Design software. The verification process utilizes finite element analysis to demonstrate that the maximum stress was lower than the yield strength of the chosen materials. As a result, the new device design is robust and stable enough to withstand the anticipated loading conditions of human fingers. Subsequently, a prototype was fabricated using advanced additive manufacturing technology, specifically fused deposition modeling (FDM). The proposed fixator is simple to control, reliable, easy to use, and reproducible. It enables device users to exercise their finger joints throughout the day without requiring the assistance of specialists
IoT Control and Visualization System with Digital Twins and Augmented Reality in a Digital Transformation Space
This paper describes the use of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, digital twins (DT), and augmented reality (AR) to raise awareness and disseminate the use of digital services within the INICTEL-UNI institutional project financed by the Inter-American Development Bank to strengthen technological services and satisfy the technological needs of companies, promoting digital transformation in Peru. Within various fields, such as technical education, construction, and manufacturing, challenges are faced related to the adoption of advanced technologies and the need to improve efficiency. The main objective of this paper is to implement an IoT control and visualization system with DT and AR in a digital transformation space. A system is shown to create a technological demonstrator environment that visualizes and monitors sensor data on physical IoT devices in real time, allowing users to interact and operate them through an ESP32 module with data transmission with the MQTT protocol and an AR application developed in Unity and Vuforia. The study results successfully demonstrated the efficiency of real-time communication between the IoT device and the AR application, as well as the efficient ability to perform tasks, validated by users with no prior experience
Investigating the Efficacy of a Virtual Reality-Based Testing Station of Flexible Manufacturing System: A Usability and Heuristic Evaluation
This study presents a comprehensive evaluation of a virtual reality-based testing station designed for flexible manufacturing systems. Given the intricate nature of flexible manufacturing systems and the demand for precision in learning, the integration of virtual reality emerges as a promising approach to enhance both student competence and engagement. By employing a combined assessment with the System Usability Scale and heuristic evaluation conducted by 36 students and 5 experts, respectively, the virtual reality-based testing station achieved an average usability score of 72.78, indicating good usability. Noteworthy heuristic challenges, particularly in the domains of ‘Realistic Feedback’ and ‘Navigation and Orientation Support,’ have been identified, providing valuable insights for potential refinements to the testing station. The outcomes of this study not only guide immediate improvements but also pave the way for future research endeavors aimed at elevating the learning outcomes in flexible manufacturing systems courses
Development of a Prototype Global Positioning System Based Stick for Blind Patients
This paper presents a novel vision impairment assistive device to improve mobility and independence. This device consists of Arduino Nano microcontroller technology that powers the Satellite/GPS-based stick, which tracks and navigates in real-time. Arduino Nano’s adaptability and compactness enable our portable, affordable white cane replacement. Satellite signals let the stick locate the user, compute the best routes, and provide aural navigation cues through speakers or headphones. The obstacle detection sensors notify users of adjacent risks, improving safety. The proposed device is a stable and user-friendly technology that delivers a potential answer to visually impaired navigation issues after rigorous development and testing
Hybrid Classification Approach Utilizing DenseUNet+ for Diabetic Macular Edema Disorder Detection
Diabetic macular edema (DME) poses a significant threat to vision. It is characterized by the enlargement of the macula due to the accumulation of plasma in the extracellular space of the retina. Detection of DME, crucial for timely intervention, traditionally relies on manual inspection of images, which is time-consuming and prone to human error. Leveraging advancements in computer-assisted diagnostics, this study proposes a novel approach utilizing the DenseUNet+ architecture tailored for precise segmentation across diverse image modalities. The proposed method integrates data from four modalities within dense block structures, followed by linear operations and concatenation to enhance feature representation. Evaluation using ResNet101V2 and DenseNet201 demonstrates superior performance, with accuracy exceeding 95% and 99%, respectively, showcasing their efficacy in screening retinal optical coherence tomography (OCT) images for DME. This research highlights the potential of deep learning techniques to enhance ophthalmologists’ abilities to efficiently screen, diagnose, and manage DME, thus reducing the risk of irreversible vision loss
A Narrative Review of Control Strategies for Blood Glucose Regulation
Effective blood glucose regulation is critical for managing type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). This narrative review explores various control strategies for blood glucose regulation, incorporating simulations of the Bergman minimal model. We provide an in-depth review of both single and dual hormone systems, evaluating their respective advantages and limitations. The review focuses on the most widely adopted controllers, including proportional-integral-derivative (PID), model predictive control (MPC), and fuzzy logic controllers, highlighting their design principles and performances. Additionally, we discuss coordinated control strategies that integrate multiple controllers to enhance overall glucose regulation. Through this comprehensive analysis, we aim to identify the most effective control strategies for artificial pancreas systems, contributing to improved diabetes management
Using Flipgrid Videos to Enhance Speaking and Presenting in English for Non-Native Learners
Many previous studies have explored the use of technology-based media in language learning, particularly in speaking lessons. One of the most popular platforms being used today is Flipgrid (FG). The primary objective of this study is to examine how non-native learners respond to the use of FG, which is aimed at enhancing their speaking skills. 40 Japanese students were recruited for this quantitative and qualitative research study. The data collection instruments utilized in this study were questionnaires and interviews. The study revealed that the outstanding positive responses towards FG use are its user-friendly interface, confidence in speaking performance, collaborative peer reviews and feedback, and self-enhancement in learning to speak English, whereas the most negative response is related to the difficulty in the editing and uploading process, which is perceived to be a technological challenge. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that FG, as a viable option, received more positive feedback for effectiveness than negative responses from non-native learners
A New Online Tool to Evaluate Transferable Skills in the European Framework
According to the European classification of skills, competencies, qualifications, and occupations (ESCO), transversal knowledge, skills, and competencies are pertinent to a wide array of occupations and sectors. Transversal knowledge, skills, and competencies are the foundational elements for developing the “hard” skills and competencies necessary for success in the labor market. In this paper, we introduce an online platform for assessing the attainment of transversal and soft skills. This tool allows us to define levels of competency acquisition and measure students’ development. The use of these competency levels helps improve the understanding of these skills and the evaluation process. The tool also enhances coordination among courses and teachers. The evaluation process can be established on three different levels: self-evaluation, peer evaluation, and teacher assessment. Developers, students, and teachers have assessed the tool has been developed following a lifecycle of evolutionary prototypes with successive refinements
Construction of Big Data Analysis Platform for College Students’ Sports Training Driven by Wireless Communication Network
College students’ physical training is an important aspect of their studies and lives. In light of the existing issues with the accuracy of the physical training evaluation index for college students and other issues. Based on the theory of wireless communication networks, model definition and stability analysis methods are used to optimize the original model. The optimization model of a wireless communication network is obtained by considering the data output control theory, trained by college students. This model can analyze the big data of college students’ physical training and construct the corresponding data platform. Through calculations, the rules for data changes under different indicators can be obtained. Finally, the accuracy of the optimized model is verified by comparing it with the original model. Related studies show that the variable parameters in the control system include model parameters, network upper limit, and corresponding control system parameters. On the whole, the model parameters exhibit a consistent trend of change, while the upper limit of the network displays a characteristic three-stage linear pattern. The control system first increases rapidly and then exhibits a gradual decline in exponential function type. The control system and the switching system can be switched using model calculations. The two different change curves exhibit obvious symmetry characteristics when influenced by the output times. It shows that the two change systems have opposite effects on the model, and the overall volatility is relatively high. The wireless communication network model can analyze and build a platform for collecting college students’ sports training data. According to the model calculation, it can be seen that the changes in different indexes exhibit clear linear characteristics. Among them, the concepts of sports, personalized training, and basic training show linearly increasing changes. However, the training structure and content exhibit a typical linear decline. Finally, the advantages of the wireless communication network model are illustrated with the experimental data. This study can provide guidance and ideas for the construction of a data platform for college students’ physical training
The Impact of Online Learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic on Language Learning Strategies, Proficiency, and Enjoyment among Thai EFL Students
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, individuals worldwide found themselves compelled to adapt to unforeseen circumstances. An integral part of this adjustment was the transformation of conventional instructional methods, shifting from traditional classroom-based learning to the realm of online education. In this new educational landscape, online learning has emerged as the only avenue for both educators and learners to sustain their academic journeys. The objective of this study was to examine potential changes in the application of language learning strategies (LLSs) in the context of online English learning amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The study also aimed to explore whether these variations were influenced by individuals’ levels of language proficiency and their level of enjoyment of learning English. If any variations were identified, the study aimed to analyze the specific patterns that emerged. The study included 205 students who were enrolled in a public university in northeastern Thailand. Data collection involved administering both the LLS questionnaire and the enjoyment of the English learning questionnaire. Quantitative data analysis involved the use of descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and Chi-square tests. The study revealed significant variations in the frequency of overall strategy utilization based on two variables: language proficiency and individual enjoyment with the process of learning English. While there were no significant variations in overall strategy usage based on language proficiency, notable differences were observed based on their level of enjoyment of learning English. In terms of distinct categories, significant differences were observed in the utilization of LLS within the metacognitive (MET) and affective (AFF) categories, especially concerning language proficiency. Moreover, substantial variances were evident across all six categories—memory (MEM), cognitive (COG), compensation (COM), MET, AFF, and social (SOC)—in the level of satisfaction derived from the process of learning English