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Product service system (PSS) is an effective approach to achieve win–win situation between service providers and consumers, and the design of PSS is the first step of its application. However, on the one hand, PSS is relatively an abstract concept, and what exactly should be considered when designing a PSS still require further exploration; on the other hand, the fast development of information and web technologies bring both opportunities and challenges for PSS design. For example, how to efficiently design the smart & connected products that support remote monitoring and control of service operation, how to build the dynamic service activity flow model that can be intuitively and visually read by human engineers and also can be conveniently deployed on computers, and how to realise edge–cloud collaboration between service providers and consumers. In this regard, a service requirement-oriented four-step generic PSS design method is established, including service mode selection and structured service order generation → smart & connected service product configuration → dynamic event-state knowledge graph-based service activity flow and service resource network configuration → industrial internet-based edge–cloud collaborative service delivering. Finally, a real design case of carbon block grinding and polishing PSS is used for verification. ABBREVIATIONS: AS: assembly service; C: controlling targets or objectives; I: input; M: enabling methods or mechanisms; MRO: maintenance, repair, and operation; MS: maintenance service; O: output; OEE: overall equipment effectiveness; PSS: product service system; PV: processing volume; RxEy-Sz: the relation from Event y to the State z of Service activity x; RxSz-Ey: the relation from the State z of Service activity x to Event y; StateAiCurrent: the current state of Service activity i; StateAiFuturek: the kth possible future state of Service activity i; StateAiHistoryj: the jth historical state of service activity i; StateEy: the state of Event y; Tq: the qth time point in the time line. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent technological advances in Automated Driving Systems (ADS) have fueled interest in the use and impact of vehicle fleetsinvolved in driverless passenger transport services. This research identifies key safety risks associated Level 4 ADS-equipped vehicleoperation for fleets employed for Mobility as a Service (MaaS) applications. The study goes beyond assessing the functional safety ofthe ADS-equipped vehicles to explore the role of fleet operators in ensuring the operational safety of the vehicle fleets through remote driving assistance functions. This work identifies key responsibilities of the fleet operators in implementing risk reductionmeasures related to organizational management of change, training remote supervisors, ensuring suitable working conditions, enforcing vehicle connectivity and dispatching requirements, and coordinating incident mitigation procedures, training, tools, and work conditions. The study employs a hazard identification methodology that combines traditional and innovative methods to analyze risks involving human, software, and hardware systems. The study identified twenty hazard scenarios arising from system failures, human errors, and unsafe interactions during different operational phases. These are ranked based on their impact on safety and resource intensity, enabling fleet operators to make better decisions regarding resource allocation. By implementing these actions, fleet operators can prevent and mitigate safety hazards in the operation of ADS-equipped fleets though remote monitoring and driving assistance functions. The hazards and risk mitigation activities identified in this report may also improve the operational safety of passenger vehicles equipped with ADS technology as they become more widely deployed in future large-scale commercialoperations.

In this paper, the designing and prototyping of a hybrid robotic lawnmower is presented. The main system components required for functionality are briefly described. All parts of the system are selected in order to enable coordinated operation of electrical and mechanical components. Robotic lawnmower prototyping is preceded by a design process that consists of a phase of selecting the main components and CAD modeling of parts and components. The goal is to position components and parts of the chassis with maximum compactness. The main subsystems of the prototype, the differential drive configuration, and the hybrid subsystem with a belt transmission for starting the alternator and the lawnmower blade are shown. The parts of the subsystem were tested and the final testing of the robotic lawnmower in the case of remote control was carried out. This prototype was made with total costs many times lower than similar commercial robotic lawnmowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we transition from the theoretical and experimental groundwork of manipulating and measuring Sense of Embodiment (SoE) to addressing a fundamental question: What is the purpose of optimizing the SoE in a teleoperation system? This exploration centers on investigating the potential positive effects of SoE on motor adaptation, the acceleration of motor learning, and the potential enhancement of task performance. The article delves into this investigation by focusing on two critical research questions: (1) what is the effect of SoE on task performance in a perceptual-motor task? (2) What is the effect of SoE on the asymptote of the learning curve in a perceptual-motor task? Drawing insights from the existing literature, the hypothesis emerges that enhancing SoE yields positive effects not only on task performance (H1) but also on the overall embodiment experience (H2). An additional layer of exploration is introduced through an exploratory research question: Are these results consistent across diverse scenarios and tasks? The study design encompasses two distinct user studies, each set in different applications and featuring various avatars, yet all anchored in similar tasks, specifically a modified peg-in-hole task: (1) in the first experiment, participants operated a robotic arm with a human-like hand as end-effector, and they were required to perform a classic peg-in-hole task; (2) in user study 2, the task is transformed into a variation that we called "peg-on-button," wherein participants use a robotic arm with a gripper as the end-effector to press a lit button. In both studies, a consistent pattern emerges: a setup that fosters embodiment has a positive impact on motor learning and adaptation, resulting in improved task performance. A supportive setup also reduces the perception of the surrogate as a mere mediator between the operator and the remote environment, especially when contrasted with a setup that suppresses embodiment. The positive effects on motor learning and task performance advocate for the incorporation of embodiment-supportive designs in teleoperational setups. However, the nuanced relationship between SoE and long-term task performance prompts a call for further exploration and consideration of various factors influencing teleoperation outcomes across diverse scenarios and tasks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This thesis presents the preparation of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA)-based shape memory polymer composites (SMPC) (EVA/CuS) with near-infrared light photo-thermal response. The composites were prepared using EVA as the matrix material and copper sulphide (CuS) particles as the functional phase. The designability of SMPs was considered in the preparation of these composites. The results demonstrated that the incorporation of CuS, as a functional phase, enhanced the cross-linking degree and augmented the shape memory properties of EVA. Additionally, it served as a photo-thermal functional filler, imparting its photo-thermal properties. It can be observed that as the quantity of CuS particles incorporated into the EVA/CuS composite film increases, the photothermal conversion performance of the composite film improves, the shape fixation rate rises, and the rate of recovery of light-responsive shape memory accelerates. The temperature of the composites increased to 116.7°C in 20 s when the CuS addition was 2 wt% and the NIR light intensity was 0.5 W/cm2. At a NIR light intensity of 0.6 W/cm2, the "U" shape of the sample was restored to a straight state in 30 s, and the shape recovery rate reached 100%. In this experiment, optical near-infrared photostimulation-responsive EVA/CuS composites have been successfully prepared. These composites demonstrate the ability to achieve remote control and fast response of EVA shape memory behavior, offering a new avenue for the preparation of photo-responsive EVA-based shape memory materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IoT-based applications require effective anonymous authentication and key agreement (AKA) protocols to secure data and protect user privacy due to open communication channels and sensitive data. While AKA protocols for these applications have been extensively studied, achieving anonymity remains a challenge. AKA schemes using one-time pseudonyms face resynchronization issues after desynchronization attacks, and the high computational overhead of bilinear pairing and public key encryption limits its applicability. Existing schemes also lack essential security features, causing issues such as vulnerability to ephemeral secret leakage attacks and key compromise impersonation. To address these issues, we propose two novel AKA schemes, PUAKA and RCAKA, designed for different IoT traffic patterns. PUAKA improves end device anonymity in the periodic update pattern by updating one-time pseudonyms with authenticated session keys. RCAKA, for the remote control pattern, ensures anonymity while reducing communication and computation costs using shared signatures and temporary random numbers. A key contribution of RCAKA is its ability to resynchronize end devices with incomplete data in the periodic update pattern, supporting continued authentication. Both protocols' security is proven under the Real-or-Random model. The performance comparison results show that the proposed protocols exceed existing solutions in security features and communication costs while reducing computational overhead by 32% to 50%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Four web-based experiments investigated flexibility of disembodiment of a virtual object that is no longer actively controlled. Emphasis was on possibilities to modify the timescale of this process. Background: Interactions with virtual objects are commonplace in settings like teleoperation, rehabilitation, and computer-aided design. These objects are quickly integrated into the operator's body schema (embodiment). Less is known about how long such embodiment lasts. Understanding the dynamics of this process is crucial because different applied settings either profit from fast or slow disembodiment. Method: To induce embodiment, participants moved a 2D virtual hand through operating a computer mouse or touchpad. After initial embodiment, participants either stopped or continued moving for a fixed period of time. Embodiment ratings were collected continuously during each trial. Results: Results across all experiments indicated that embodiment for the virtual hand gradually increased during active use and gradually decreased after stopping to use it. Disembodiment unfolded nearly twice as fast as embodiment and showed a curved decay pattern. These dynamics remained unaffected by anticipation of active control that would be required in an upcoming task. Conclusion: The results highlight the importance of continuously experiencing active control in virtual interactions if aiming at inducing stable embodiment of a virtual object. Application: Our findings suggest that applications of virtual disembodiment such as virtual tools or interventions to affect a person's body representation critically depend on continuous updating of sensorimotor experience. However, if switching between virtual objects, for example, during teleoperation or video gaming, after-effects are unlikely to affect performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The ground control station (GCS) is an important part of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) which provides the facility for human control. In previous work, the authors developed an enhanced virtual reality GCS (VR-GCS) for airships. Here, the authors incorporated haptic gloves to control the aerial vehicle with the use of a virtual controller defined within the virtual environment. Design/methodology/approach: The VR headset was connected to the haptics and the flight simulation tool. The VR headset was used to visualize basic flight simulation while the vehicle was controlled via the haptic gloves and a virtual controller defined in the virtual environment. Here, using the previous experience, the position and orientation data from the VR headset was sent to the FlightGear flight simulator (FGFS) via extensible markup language codes. This was used to drive the heads-up-display (HUD) as well within the VR headset. Then, the inputs from the pilot on the virtual controller were sent to the FGFS using an embedded code. To accurately simulate the final goal of deploying the haptic-based VR solution to monitor and pilot the airship in beyond visual line-of-sight scenarios, a VR application was developed using the Unity game engine. Finally, the integration of VR, haptics and FGFS was performed using another embedded code. Findings: A test procedure was conducted with a similar rating technique based on the NASA TLX questionnaire that identifies the pilot's spare mental capacity when completing an assigned task to assure the comfortability of the proposed haptics VR-HMD (HVR-HMD). Accordingly, 10 users participated in the test and a comparison has been made for the aircraft control using the physical remote control (RC) controller and the virtual one. The results from the repeated measures analysis of variance and Tukey's honestly significant difference post hoc tests revealed significant differences in mental demand, physical demand, effort and frustration across the different simulation conditions. Notably, the HVR-HMD system significantly lowered workload and frustration levels compared to both the desktop and VR-HMD setups, underscoring its effectiveness as a training tool. Results from the NASA TLX questionnaire showed that the current iteration of the system is ideal for training amateur users to replace traditional RC controllers by using similar virtual systems in a safe and immersive environment. Originality/value: Such an advanced portable system may increase the situational awareness of pilots and allow them to complete flights with the same data transmission procedures using virtual systems in simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Remote control of trains will be an intermediary step before reaching full automation. In trains, use cases for remote control have been studied only for the past few years. This research presents a project about remote control for the next generation of trains in France and how we carry out the design of a new teleoperation desk for future remote train drivers. We present an Ergonomic Work Analysis used to precisely understand driver's activity. This analysis allowed us to identify the needs of future drivers and to propose ways to overcome one of the main problems that drivers will face when remotely driving a train: loss and degradation of sense. We explain how innovative technologies developed within the Industry 4.0 can offer solutions to problems faced with remote-control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Automobile Technology & Material is the property of Automobile Technology & Material Editorial Office 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.)

Force feedback bilateral teleoperation represents a pivotal advancement in control technology, finding widespread application in hazardous material transportation, perilous environments, space and deep-sea exploration, and healthcare domains. This paper traces the evolutionary trajectory of force feedback bilateral teleoperation from its conceptual inception to its current complexity. It elucidates the fundamental principles underpinning interaction forces and tactile exchanges, with a specific emphasis on the crucial role of tactile devices. In this review, a quantitative analysis of force feedback bilateral teleoperation development trends from 2011 to 2024 has been conducted, utilizing published journal article data as the primary source of information. The review accentuates classical control frameworks and algorithms, while also delving into existing research advancements and prospective breakthrough directions. Moreover, it explores specific practical scenarios ranging from intricate surgeries to hazardous environment exploration, underscoring the technology's potential to revolutionize industries by augmenting human manipulation of remote systems. This underscores the pivotal role of force feedback bilateral teleoperation as a transformative human-machine interface, capable of shaping flexible control strategies and addressing technological bottlenecks. Future research endeavors in force feedback bilateral teleoperation are expected to prioritize the creation of more immersive experiences, overcoming technical hurdles, fortifying human-machine collaboration, and broadening application domains, particularly within the realms of medical intervention and hazardous environments. With the continuous progression of technology, the integration of human intelligence and robotic capabilities is expected to produce more innovations and breakthroughs in the field of automatic control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Construction machines, for example cranes, excavators, or bulldozers, are widely diffused systems operating outdoors in harsh and dangerous environments, such as building sites, forests, and mines. Typically, construction machines require the on-site presence of highly skilled users to manage the complexity of their control and the high power of hydraulic actuation. Construction machines could benefit from recent developments of robot avatar technology that has demonstrated the viability of remotizing human physical activities, leveraging on intuitive interfaces and controls. Similar approaches could also improve the overall usability of construction machines, making them safer and accessible for untrained users. With this in mind, we developed a novel system for the remote control of cranes through intuitive and immersive interfaces. To validate the solution, we evaluated the experience of approximately 80 untrained users that remotely operated a crane during the 33rd Edition of Bauma, the world's leading fair for construction machines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with a "digital twin" (DT) approach for processing, reprocessing, and scrapping (P/R/S) technology running on a modular production system (MPS) assisted by a mobile cyber–physical robotic system (MCPRS). The main hardware architecture consists of four line-shaped workstations (WSs), a wheeled mobile robot (WMR) equipped with a robotic manipulator (RM) and a mobile visual servoing system (MVSS) mounted on the end effector. The system architecture integrates a hierarchical control system where each of the four WSs, in the MPS, is controlled by a Programable Logic Controller (PLC), all connected via Profibus DP to a central PLC. In addition to the connection via Profibus of the four PLCs, related to the WSs, to the main PLC, there are also the connections of other devices to the local networks, LAN Profinet and LAN Ethernet. There are the connections to the Internet, Cloud and Virtual Private Network (VPN) via WAN Ethernet by open platform communication unified architecture (OPC-UA). The overall system follows a DT approach that enables task planning through augmented reality (AR) and uses virtual reality (VR) for visualization through Synchronized Hybrid Petri Net (SHPN) simulation. Timed Petri Nets (TPNs) are used to control the processes within the MPS's workstations. Continuous Petri Nets (CPNs) handle the movement of the MCPRS. Task planning in AR enables users to interact with the system in real time using AR technology to visualize and plan tasks. SHPN in VR is a combination of TPNs and CPNs used in the virtual representation of the system to synchronize tasks between the MPS and MCPRS. The workpiece (WP) visits stations successively as it is moved along the line for processing. If the processed WP does not pass the quality test, it is taken from the last WS and is transported, by MCPRS, to the first WS where it will be considered for reprocessing or scrapping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current teleoperated robotic systems for retinal surgery cannot effectively control subtle tool-to-tissue interaction forces. This limitation may lead to patient injury caused by the surgeon's mistakes. To improve the safety of retinal surgery, this paper proposes a haptic shared control framework for teleoperation based on a force-constrained supervisory controller. The supervisory controller leverages Control Barrier Functions (CBFs) and the interaction model to modify teleoperated inputs when they are deemed unsafe. This method ensures that the interaction forces at the slave robot's end-effector remain within the safe range without the robot's dynamic model and the safety margin. Additionally, the master robot provides haptic feedback to enhance the surgeon's situational awareness during surgery, reducing the risk of misjudgment. Finally, simulated membrane peeling experiments are conducted in a controlled intraocular surgical environment using a teleoperated robotic system controlled by a non-expert. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed control framework significantly reduces the rate of force constraint violation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the wake of recent advancements in the field of AI, this paper investigates the impact of recommender systems and generative models on human decisional and creative autonomy. For this purpose, we adopt Dennett’s conception of autonomy as self-control. We show that recommender systems can play a double role in relation to decisional autonomy: as information filter, they can augment self-control in decision-making, but also act as mechanisms of remote control that clamp degrees of freedom. As for generative models in AI, we show that they can be seen as a powerful system of selection and suggestion (similar to standard recommender systems) but also as an instrument for information production. We suggest that the latter perspective opens new possibilities in terms of creative autonomy. Additionally, for both systems we propose a distinction between “extrinsic” and “intrinsic” mechanisms and effects. Through Dennett’s theory of self-control, this paper offers new insights into the relation between AI and human autonomy by framing it in terms of remote or self-control and by addressing the impact of generative models on creative autonomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cr3+‐doped near‐infrared (NIR) phosphors have attracted significant attention in recent years. Despite this, achieving high‐performance NIR phosphors with broadband emission and excellent thermal stability remains a considerable challenge. This study presents Lu3Ga5O12:Cr3+, which demonstrates a tunable emission peak ranging from 705 to 759 nm and an increased full‐width at half‐peak maximum (FWHM) from 46 to 139 nm by substituting the [Mg2+‐Ge4+] chemical unit for the [Ga3+‐Ga3+] unit. Additionally, in Lu3MgGa3GeO12:Cr3+, Yb3+, an energy transfer channel (Cr3+‐Yb3+) is constructed. Under blue light excitation, the characteristic emission peaks of Cr3+ (600–900 nm) and Yb3+ (900–1100 nm) are observed simultaneously. However, the emission band between 850 and 900 nm is relatively weak, resulting in a discontinuous emission spectrum. To address this, Lu3MgGa3GeO12:Cr3+, Yb3+, Nd3+ phosphors are proposed, which exhibit a continuous broadband NIR emission with a FWHM of 253 nm and internal quantum efficiency of 47.3%. The luminescence intensity retains 81% of its room temperature value even at 423 K. Combining this new phosphor with a blue LED chip results in a portable NIR light source with potential applications in non‐destructive detection, information encryption, bio‐imaging, and NIR remote control. This work offers a novel perspective for developing high‐performance NIR phosphors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since European Union states began externalising their migration control regime, by delegating to third states, their own remote institutions and non-state actors, scholars have widened the 'destination state-centric' perspective of Zolberg's influential 'remote control' interpretative framework. Border externalisation is, therefore, regarded as a complex 'battlefield, in which different actors are positioning themselves' and which produces multifaceted transnational effects. Based on autoethnography and semi-structured interviews with spouses from several post-Soviet states who are married to German citizens, this paper illuminates how tightening border policies and vigilant practices at German consulates directed at marriage migrants from third countries influence households and couples' life trajectories. The reverberations encompass the evolving nature of transnational borderscapes in response to state policies, as well as changing conditions of marriage, family planning, the maintenance of two households and (re)negotiation of gender roles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article proposes a two-scale analysis of how US border externalisation is spatially embedded in Ecuador, producing place-making transformations. On a national scale, it has turned Ecuador into a 'soft' buffer to halt unwanted global migration to the US. On a cuerpo-territorio scale, it has had at least two effects. On the one hand, it has transformed migrant-sending communities into mourning and orphaned places as a direct effect of Ecuadorean migrant disappearances and deaths en route and the multiplication of child orphanages. On the other, instead of halting illegalised crossings of global migrants heading to the US, it has multiplied them via unlawful river and land border pathways locally known as trochas, which have increased across the Ecuador-Colombia border. Trochas are socially built spaces embodying fear, anguish, pain, struggle and resistance. As the article proves, mourning and orphaned places and trochas are shaped at the convergence of the effects of the geopolitics of externalised control and the politics of life that Ecuadorean families and global migrants continually deploy to sustain their mobilities and lives. These place-making effects derive from Ecuador's twofold role as a sending and transit country for global migration to the US, an effect which ends up being highly productive to justify the redoubling of US border enforcement across the region and its increasingly overt meddling in security and border control matters in Ecuador. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A heavy machinery operators' ability to adhere to schedules is crucial for the success of construction projects. However, unforeseen delays often occur during projects, forcing operators to expedite their work. This pressure often presents challenges for teleoperators. Completing tasks remotely typically takes longer than performing the same tasks on-site due to reduced situational awareness and reliance on technology for perception and understanding in remote workplaces. These inherent aspects of teleoperation add complexity to tasks, especially under time-constrained conditions. This study explores operators' cognitive and task performance during teleoperation of challenging tasks under various time pressures. Thirty-one participants operated a virtual excavator under four different levels of time pressure during the experiments. Results show that appropriate time pressure enhances task performance in aspects of safety, productivity, and quality, whereas excessive pressure results in cognitive overload, disengagement, impaired situational awareness, increased errors, and reduced productivity. This research contributes to enhancing the understanding of teleoperation from the operator's perspective, addressing cognitive challenges to improve safety and efficiency during the remote operation of heavy machinery in construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An advance safety system has been developed to effectively address the critical risks associated with fire and gas leakages in both industrial and residential environments. This advanced system integrates a range of sensors, including flame sensors, gas sensors, and temperature sensors, all connected to a microcontroller. The microcontroller is responsible for processing data from these sensors to continuously monitor and evaluate environmental conditions for any signs of fire or gas leaks. Upon recognizing an anomaly, the system activates an alert mechanism that includes displaying status updates on an LCD screen, sounding an audible alarm via a buzzer, and sending instant notifications through SMS via a GSM module to prompt immediate response. A key innovation of this system is its utilization of the Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol for cloud-based monitoring and data management. This protocol supports real-time data transmission and analysis through the Ubidots platform, facilitating efficient and reliable communication between the system and cloud services. The lightweight and efficient MQTT protocol ensures seamless remote monitoring and control, while the cloud integration allows for continuous data storage and detailed analysis. This combination of real-time monitoring, remote access, and advanced alerting mechanisms provides a comprehensive solution for hazard recognition and management, significantly enhancing safety by enabling prompt responses and safeguarding both lives and property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Machine Tool & Hydraulics is the property of Guangzhou Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (GMERI) 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.)

The forest sector is a significant contributor to Swedish society but requires continuous improvements in logging operations. Implementing innovations in operations is dependent on advances in other sectors, since forest machine manufacturers have only a fraction of the development capacity of, e.g., car or truck manufacturers. The aim of this study was to identify the most promising logging-machine systems, with different innovations, for implementation within ten years. The Delphi method was used to gather expert views on the importance of criteria in their decision making, their expectations regarding developments in external factors, and the most promising machine systems. Environmental and social criteria were ranked higher than economic criteria, but the rankings were relatively close. A future with greater and more stringent regulation was expected, but with scope to improve operations through technological developments such as automation and remote control. There was interest in new machine systems, but the established system dominated. Of the expected innovations, renewable energy sources were ranked highly, along with the automation of the work elements that are easiest to automate. The study provides stakeholders with a basis for decision making regarding which technologies to evaluate and test in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study uses a full scale cut to length forwarder prototype to explore crane log handling during teleoperation (remote-control). Visual feedback is provided from stereo cameras into a VR headset. Details of the system are provided along with measurements on key properties. The system allows for an artificial latency (the delay between a command and the observed response) to be introduced. A setup to allow repeated crane operations is used to evaluate operator performance at different latencies and also to compare teleoperation with in-machine operation. The results indicate that teleoperation of crane log handling can achieve comparable performance to traditional in-machine operation. Notably, the performance is consistent even at transmission latencies that surpass those expected in 4 G internet connections. This suggests a potential for remotely operating forwarders from both on-site and potentially off-site locations. This research did not delve into actual forwarding work or the implications of wireless connection bandwidth or alternative technologies like Wi-Fi or 5 G. Future investigations should consider these factors, along with the requirement for enhanced camera systems to ensure holistic machine visibility and consequently, safe teleoperation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, providing additional visual feedback about the interaction forces has been found to offer benefits to haptic-assisted teleoperation. However, there is limited insight into the effects of the design of force feedback-related visual cues and the type of visual display on the performance of teleoperation of robotic arms executing industrial tasks. In this study, we provide new insights into this interaction by extending these findings to the haptic assistance teleoperation of a simulated robotic arm in a virtual environment, in which the haptic assistance is comprised of a set of virtual fixtures. We design a novel method for providing visual cues about the interaction forces to complement the haptic assistance and augment visual feedback in virtual reality with a head-mounted display. We evaluate the visual cues method and head-mounted display method through human factors experiments in a teleoperated dross removal use case. The results show that both methods are beneficial for task performance, each of them having stronger points in different aspects of the operation. The visual cues method was found to significantly improve safety in terms of peak collision force, whereas the head-mounted display additionally improves the performance significantly. Furthermore, positive scores of the subjective analysis indicate an increased user acceptance of both methods. This work provides a new study on the importance of visual feedback related to (interaction) forces and spatial information for haptic assistance and provides two methods to take advantage of its potential benefits in the teleoperation of robotic arms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the challenge of providing kinesthetic feedback in bilateral teleoperation by designing a wearable, lightweight (20 g), and compact haptic device, the HJ-Haptic, utilizing a honeycomb jamming mechanism for object stiffness rendering. The HJ-Haptic device can vary its stiffness, from 1.15 N/mm to 2.64 N/mm, using a 30 kPa vacuum pressure. We demonstrate its implementation in a teleoperation framework, enabling operators to adjust grip force based on a reliable haptic feedback on object stiffness. A three-point flexural test on the honeycomb jamming mechanism and teleoperated object-grasping tasks were conducted to evaluate the device's functionality. Our experiments demonstrated a small RMSE and strong correlations in teleoperated motion, stiffness rendering, and interaction force feedback. The HJ-Haptic effectively adjusts its stiffness in response to real-time gripper feedback, mimicking the sensation of direct object grasping with hands. The device's use of vacuum pressure ensures operator safety by preventing dangerous outcomes in case of gas leakage or material failure. Incorporating the HJ-Haptic into the teleoperation framework provided the reliable perception of object stiffness and stable teleoperation. This study highlights the potential of the honeycomb jamming mechanism for enhancing haptic feedback in various applications, including teleoperation scenarios, as well as interactions with extended-reality environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Frontiers of Computer Science & Technology is the property of Beijing Journal of Computer Engineering & Applications Journal Co Ltd. 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.)

Thanks to the self-floating, crosslinking, and initiating properties, the designed polysiloxane acrylate monomer PA-Si endows the hydrogel with compositional and crosslinking gradients along the vertical direction, resulting in top–down variations in contraction stress. The gradient hydrogels possess excellent NIR photoresponsive properties and hold remarkable potential for applications in light-driven bionic deformation. [Display omitted] • Gradient hydrogels were fabricated utilizing polysiloxane and organic co-crystal. • The self-floating property of polysiloxane gives the hydrogel a gradient structure. • Organic co-crystal endows hydrogels with photothermal conversion properties. • Gradient hydrogels possess near-infrared light response and cyclic stability. Creating gradient hydrogels for remote control of bionic systems continues to be challenging due to the complexity of the preparation process. Herein, we have proposed a strategy to prepare near-infrared photothermal conversion gradient hydrogel featuring self-floating-induced gradient structures through fast LED light-triggered photopolymerization. A judiciously designed polysiloxane acrylate crosslinker (PA-Si) possesses the self-floating, crosslinking, and initiating properties. The self-floating ability of the PA-Si enables the autonomous formation of compositional and crosslinking gradients within the hydrogel, resulting in top-down variations in contraction stress. The gradient hydrogel demonstrates excellent NIR light-driven response (50°/s), cyclic stability, and mechanical properties (4392.84 kJ/m3). Cargo four times its mass is grasped and lifted by the gradient hydrogel actuator under the NIR light irradiation, displaying impressive performance in light-driven bionics. This study delivers a convenient strategy for manufacturing gradient hydrogels with actuation capabilities and shows potential for application in soft actuators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stroke patients with hemiparesis often face significant challenges in accessing consistent and effective rehabilitation therapy due to limitations in mobility and the availability of specialized care. To address this, a new telerehabilitation system is introduced for stroke patients with hemiparesis. It consists of two internetconnected robots for remote wrist rehabilitation. A cloudbased website serves as a centralized interface for patients and doctors, allowing remote control of the system during therapy sessions. To enhance the haptic feedback and stability of the system, a torque/velocity control algorithm is implemented. These control algorithms incorporate damping and spring terms from an impedance control algorithm to synchronize and maintain the positions of both end effectors. Additionally, a wrist evaluation model has been introduced to calculate stiffness and damping coefficients, essential for monitoring patient progress and improving treatment efficacy. The wrist model is evaluated using multiple linear regression method. Experimental testing demonstrates the potential of the proposed approach in enhancing telerehabilitation system performance.

Developing remote control and supervision technology can help in addressing current and future safety issues at sea owing to human errors resulting from an individual’s watch-keeping. This paper presents a remote navigational watch-keeping system that uses virtual reality (VR) to reduce the risk of human errors and alleviate officers’ workload. The system creates a VR environment that replicates the state and navigational instruments of a ship, with limited connectivity via satellite, enabling an operator at an office onshore to have a comprehensive understanding of the surroundings as through the operator is on the navigational bridge. Two navigation experiences were used to evaluate the system. The results demonstrate that the proposed system is effective for double-checking purposes.

Abstract Musk, secreted by adult male forest musk deer, is a kind of precious Chinese traditional medicine for treating cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and neurogenic diseases. However, a lack of knowledge on musk biosynthetic mechanism and limited musk deer population have seriously hindered the development of the musk industry. Fortunately, given that muskrat musk has similar constituents and pharmacological action with deer musk, muskrat is an ideal model animal for exploring musk biosynthetic mechanism. To explore the biosynthetic mechanism of muskrat musk, in the current study, transcriptomic analysis in the liver, kidney and musk glands of male muskrats between musk secreting and non-musk secreting stages was conducted. The findings indicated that the role of muskrat liver on musk biosynthesis was altering sugar, lipid and amino acid metabolism as well as producing basic resources to support musk glands. Moreover, Tigar, Slc11a2, Gpt, Hmgcr, Slc27a4, and Elovl1 were identified as candidate genes for musk biosynthesis via a remotely controlled process. Expression of the Tigar, Slc11a2, and Gpt genes in the liver are downregulated to support the production of musk in muskrat musk gland. And the Hmgcr, Slc27a4, and Elovl1 genes in the musk gland participate in muskrat musk synthesis by influencing lipid metabolism in the musk secreting period. This study provided novel insights into the musk biosynthetic pathway in muskrat by transcriptomic analysis and preliminarily suggested the remote control of metabolism from the liver to musk gland during musk biosynthesis, which was useful to further understanding the musk biosynthetic process and improve musk production in the future.

Comprehensive Summary Key Scientists As well known, cilia play an irreplaceable role in sensing and movement of natural organisms because they can respond to external signals and generate net flow in complex environments. Based on these findings, scientists further explored the functions of natural cilia and have developed many artificial cilia in the past nearly thirty years. This review provides an overview of recent progress of artificial cilia. Firstly, we summarize the characteristics of natural cilia. Subsequently, we introduce the fabrication methods including template, magnetic assembly, lithography, and 3D printing. Then we discuss the stimulus actuation of artificial cilia from two major modes: contact control and remote control. In addition, five typical types of applications, including adhesion regulation, intelligent control, mobile microrobot, biological sensor and anti‐counterfeiting, were reviewed in detail. Finally, we present the challenges and future development in the fields of advanced artificial cilia.From 1994 to 1997, research teams including Bohringer, Donald, and Macdonald from Cornell University and Suh and Kovacs from Stanford University reported on the application of artificial cilia in the field of micro‐electro‐mechanical systems (MEMS) technology,[1‐3] while Fujita from the University of Tokyo and Stemme from KTH were also conducting research in artificial cilia fields at the same time. In 2006, Krijnen's team designed a combination of cricket cerci cilia and MEMS technology to further extend the application of artificial cilia to flow sensors.[4] In 2007, Superfine's crew introduced the polycarbonate track‐etched (PCTE) membrane method into the fabrication of artificial cilia, achieving the fabrication of high aspect ratio cilia in a liquid free environment.[5] Since 2008, Toonder's lab has been focusing on the research of artificial cilia and have made outstanding contributions in lab on chip and achieve various stimuli responsive actuation of artificial cilia.[6‐8] In 2010, Alexeev's research team used computer simulations to design a hydrodynamic model of ciliary strike.[9] Since 2017, Jiang and his coworkers have made progress in the application of directional manipulation of artificial cilia, including research on solids, droplets and bubbles.[10‐13] In 2020—2024, Sitti's research group has introduced cilia into the field of bioinspired microrobot and realized the programmed actuation of artificial cilia from the perspectives of electricity, photothermal and magnetic.[14‐19] In 2022, Jeong's group innovated the traditional magnetic assembly method to fabricate three‐dimensional nanoscale cilia with regular spatial distribution and controllable geometry.[20‐21] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Robotics holds the potential to streamline the execution of repetitive and dangerous tasks, which are difficult or impossible for a human operator. However, in complex scenarios, such as nuclear waste management or disaster response, full automation often proves unfeasible due to the diverse and intricate nature of tasks, coupled with the unpredictable hazards, and is typically prevented by stringent regulatory frameworks. Consequently, the predominant approach to managing activities in such settings remains human teleoperation. Teleoperation can be demanding, especially in high-stress situations, and involves a complex blend of both cognitive and physical workload. We present an experiment to explore a range of physiological and performance-related metrics for workload assessment during robotic teleoperation. Thirty-five participants performed a teleoperation task, during which we manipulated cognitive and physical workload conditions. We recorded multiple metrics, including brain activity using functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy, galvanic skin responses, cardiovascular responses, subjective workload ratings, task and robot performance data. Our results suggest that robotic teleoperation performance may be the most robust metric for distinguishing between different levels of workload experienced during teleoperation, with most physiological measures becoming insignificant to distinguish high cognitive workload. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial haptics has the potential to revolutionize the way we integrate physical and virtual technologies in our daily lives, with implications for teleoperation, motor skill acquisition, rehabilitation, gaming, interpersonal communication, and beyond. Here, we delve into the intricate interplay between the somatosensory system and engineered haptic inputs for perception and action. We critically examine the sensory feedback's fidelity and the cognitive demands of interfacing with these systems. We examine how artificial touch interfaces could be redesigned to better align with human sensory, motor, and cognitive systems, emphasizing the dynamic and context-dependent nature of sensory integration. We consider the various learning processes involved in adapting to artificial haptics, highlighting the need for interfaces that support both explicit and implicit learning mechanisms. We emphasize the need for technologies that are not only physiologically biomimetic but also behaviorally and cognitively congruent with the user, affording a range of alternative solutions to users' needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecular photoswitches can undergo isomerization under light exposure, making them uniquely attractive for high spatiotemporal resolution remote control of biological functions. Visible and near‐infrared (NIR) light, with their low energy consumption, high safety, and strong tissue penetration, are particularly suitable for biological applications. Therefore, developing visible‐ and NIR light‐driven molecular photoswitches for biological use is of great significance. This review introduces the most common visible‐ and NIR light‐driven molecular photoswitches and presents the state‐of‐art of their applications in bioimaging, biosensing, drug delivery, photocontrolled cancer phototherapy, and photopharmacology. The opportunities and challenges of the photoswitches for their future development in biological applications are outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In response to the high demand for dynamic characteristics and control in current electromechanical automatic control systems. Methods: This study first analyzes the dual motor system. A novel electromechanical control automation model based on a dual motor control algorithm is proposed through the control strategy of dual motor backlash elimination and digital proportional integral derivative control algorithm. Results and Discussion: The results indicated that the optimization of the model had a promoting effect on the control performance of the electromechanical automatic control system. Compared with other popular electromechanical control automation models of the same type, the performance of the research method was the best. During the no-load start-up phase, the maximum tracking error and synchronization error speed of the proposed new electromechanical control automation model showed a significant decreasing trend, with the maximum synchronization error between the two motors being only 0.02%. Under steady-state sudden load, the research model could reach a stable state within 3 s, with errors within ±5%. Conclusion: In summary, combining the dual motor control algorithm with the electromechanical control automation method can provide a theoretical basis and practical guidance for designing and implementing efficient dual motor electromechanical control systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]