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This paper introduces a novel method for the three-dimensional characterization of flyers based on microscopic photonic Doppler velocimetry (PDV) velocity field measurements. By strategically positioning 56 PDV velocity measurement spots within a circle of 0.50 mm diameter at an interval of approximately 58 μm, we achieve spatially resolved measurements of the velocity history of the flyer during its flight within the barrel and subsequent impact on a transparent window. Crucial data, such as displacement history, impact time, and impact pulse duration, can be extracted at each measurement spot. Furthermore, a correlation analysis of these datasets enables the reconstruction of the flyer's three-dimensional morphology, both during its flight inside the barrel and at the critical moment of impact with the window. This method offers a remarkable temporal resolution in the order of nanoseconds and a spatial resolution in the order of micrometers. With the characteristics of high spatial resolution and high experimental efficiency, the microscope PDV technology is poised to become an essential research tool in the study of action mechanisms, design optimization, and determination of initiation criteria for exploding foil initiators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NGC 5139 (⁠|$\omega$| Cen) is the closest candidate of a nuclear star cluster that has been stripped of its host galaxy in the Milky Way. Despite extensive studies through the last decades, many open questions about the cluster remain, including the properties of the binary population. In this study, we use MUSE multi-epoch spectroscopy to identify binary systems in |$\omega$| Cen. The observations span 8 yr, with a total of 312 248 radial velocity measurements for 37 225 stars. Following the removal of known photometric variables, we identify 275 stars that show RV variations, corresponding to a discovery fraction of |$1.4\pm 0.1~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$|⁠. Using dedicated simulations, we find that our data are sensitive to |$70 \pm 10~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$| of the binaries expected in the sample, resulting in a completeness-corrected binary fraction of |$2.1\pm 0.4~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$| in the central region of |$\omega$| Cen. We find similar binary fractions for all stellar evolutionary stages covered by our data, the only notable exception being the blue straggler stars, which show an enhanced binary fraction. We also find no distinct correlation with distance from the cluster centre, indicating a limited amount of mass segregation within the half-light radius of |$\omega$| Cen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

GD1400AB was one of the first known white dwarf |$+$| brown dwarf binaries and is the only one of these systems where the white dwarf is a ZZ Ceti pulsator. Here, we present both radial velocity measurements and time-series photometry, analysing both the white dwarf pulsations and the effects of irradiation on the brown dwarf. We find that the brightness temperatures of 1760 |$\pm $| 10 K for the nightside and 1860 |$\pm$| 10 K for the dayside indicate that the brown dwarf is hotter than spectra have previously suggested, although brightness temperatures calculated using a larger radius for the brown dwarf are consistent with previously determined spectral types. We also discuss the likely evolutionary pathway of this binary and put its common envelope phase into context with the other known systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since November 2021, the Tianwen-1 mission has activated its scientific instrument, the Mars Ion and Neutral Particle Analyzer (MINPA), to detect particles within Martian space. To evaluate the reliability of the plasma parameters from the MINPA measurements, in this study, we analyze and reduce the background signal (or noise) appearing in the MINPA data and then calculate the plasma moments based on the noise-reduced data. Remarkably, our findings reveal a strong correlation between the velocity measurements from MINPA and those from the Solar Wind Ion Analyzer (SWIA) onboard the MAVEN spacecraft, underscoring MINPA's accuracy. Similarly, temperature measurements correlate with SWIA data, albeit with a tendency towards underestimation and greater variability. A significant limitation, however, is MINPA's 2 π field of view (FOV), which restricts its ability to observe ions omnidirectionally, leading to a substantial underestimation of number density and thermal pressure compared to SWIA measurements. Addressing this challenge necessitates a sophisticated approach that fully accommodates the FOV constraints to derive accurate values for these parameters. Moreover, our comprehensive investigation into the noise origins traced it back to electronic noise within MINPA's circuitry. This study confirms MINPA's operational efficacy and potential to yield dependable plasma parameters with further procedures and contributes valuable insights for the design of future scientific instruments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pressure limit of the conventional cubic press is normally below 6 GPa, and the suitable pressure calibrant of the fixed-point method is scarce. In this study, we developed a new method for pressure determination using an acoustic travel time approach. Based on the reported ultrasonic travel times of polycrystalline molybdenum under high pressure in literature, an acoustic gauge of polycrystalline molybdenum was derived. The shear wave travel times of molybdenum were measured at high pressures and utilized for the pressure calibration in a cubic press. The pressures derived from this new travel time method are in excellent agreement with those from the fixed-point method. Subsequent compressional and shear wave velocities of polycrystalline tungsten were measured up to about 5 GPa at room temperature to further verify this method. This travel time method for pressure calibration is valuable for the sound velocity measurement of other materials in an offline laboratory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Values of laminar burning velocity obtained by the constant volume method suffer from the inaccuracies introduced by the semi-analytical burned gas mass fraction model and flame stretch. A cylindrical combustion chamber with full optical access was developed in the present study, enabling the photography of the flame until the flame touches the inner wall of the combustion chamber. This enables direct visualization of the flame, thus eliminating the dependency on burned gas mass fraction models. The values of laminar burning velocity obtained by simultaneous measurement of flame radius and pressure-time data using the constant volume method are not stretch-free. This paper also develops a methodology for stretch correction based on the determined laminar burning velocity. Experiments were performed on mixtures of methane and air at initial pressures (0.8–1.05 bar), initial temperatures (293–320 K) and equivalence ratios (0.8–1.2). Stretch-corrected laminar burning velocity for lean, stoichiometric, and rich methane-air flames has been obtained in the present study, and the results obtained are validated against available experimental data and 1-D flame computations. It is expected that the proposed method significantly reduces the inaccuracies in laminar burning velocity obtained by the constant volume method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an event-triggered adaptive neural prescribed performance admittance control (ETANPPAC) scheme is proposed to control the constrained robotic systems without velocity sensors. To ensure compliance during human–robot interaction, the reference trajectory is obtained by reshaping the desired trajectory for the robotic systems based on the admittance relationship, where a saturation function is used to constrain the reference trajectory, avoiding excessive contact forces that could render the trajectory inexecutable. Moreover, a barrier Lyapunov function is used to constrain the tracking errors for prescribed performance, where a velocity observer and a radial basis function neural network are designed to estimate the velocity and the uncertainty of the robotic systems, respectively, to enhance control performance. To reduce the communication burden, an event-triggered mechanism is introduced and the Zeno behavior is avoided with the event-triggered condition. The stability of the whole control scheme is analyzed by the Lyapunov function. Simulation and experimental tests demonstrate that the proposed ETANPPAC scheme can track the desired trajectory well under constraints and reduce the communication burden, thereby achieving better efficiency for controlling the robotic systems compared with similar control schemes. • The ETANPPAC scheme achieves compliance and prescribed performance with constraints. • Barrier Lyapunov function constrains tracking errors, achieving desired performance. • Event-triggered method reduces the system burden and the Zeno behavior is avoided. • The proposed ETANPPAC scheme is tested on a numerical model and actual manipulator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing automated software for vascular ultrasound data extraction lacks free, open‐source options suitable for professionals without coding experience. These programs typically include signal‐cleaning algorithms, resulting in processed output without access to raw data. To address these needs, we developed TG Vascutrack, an open‐source and user‐friendly software tailored for non‐coder professionals. It features a graphical interface, multiple functionalities, and provides access to raw data. Comparative analysis against validated software and manual extraction revealed minimal biases and standard deviations in diameter and velocity measurements. TG Vascutrack offers a free, promising solution for non‐coders needing automated vascular ultrasound data extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared with the general urban rail transit, some of the current rapid urban rail transit can reach a maximum speed of 140 km/h when the train is running, which exceeds the speed level of the general urban rail transit. To consider the influence of different speeds and loads on the vibration of viaducts and the surrounding soil environment, this paper establishes a three-dimensional finite element model of rail-viaduct soil. The results show that: the frequency domain acceleration of each measurement point increases with the increase of train speed; except for the measurement point which is 20 m away from the centerline of the track, the frequency domain speed of each measurement point increases with the increase of train speed; the frequency domain speed under the low-frequency component of the viaduct measurement point increases with the increase of train loading, and the growth rate is obviously larger than that of the middle and high frequency bands, and the frequency domain speed of the measurement points in the site also increases with the increase of train loading, and the growth rate of the low-frequency band is obviously larger than that of the middle and high frequency bands. The frequency domain velocity at each measurement point of the site also increases with the increase of train load, and the growth rate of the low-frequency band is obviously larger than that of the middle and high-frequency bands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the fixed-time prescribed performance control problem for a class of axis-motion servo systems subject to the external disturbances and parameter uncertainties. To eliminate the requirement for velocity measurements in the control process, an auxiliary observer is first designed to reconstruct the velocity signal of the controlled plant. Subsequently, an error transformation procedure incorporating a prescribed performance index is integrated into the control system architecture. To overcome the limitations of periodic control design, a robust event-triggered controller is developed, ensuring that the dynamic error of the closed-loop system exhibits fixed-time convergence. Through rigorous theoretical analysis and proofs, it is demonstrated that the proposed event-triggered strategy guarantees Zeno-behavior-free operation. Finally, simulation results are presented to validate the effectiveness of the proposed control algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper describes the development of a low-cost device for measuring wastewater flow rates in open channels, a significant advancement enabled by the evolution of microcomputers and processing techniques. A laboratory setup was constructed to validate the device's accuracy against a standard flow measurement method, optimizing key parameters to achieve a linear relationship between detected and set flow rates, while considering hardware limitations and energy efficiency. The central focus of the research was developing a method to measure the velocity of contaminated fluid using ultrasonic signals, employing the cross-correlation method for signal delay analysis in a stochastic environment. This was complemented by a procedure to measure fluid levels, also based on ultrasonic signals. The device's reliability was assessed through repeatability and uncertainty measurements, confirming its accuracy with an extended uncertainty not exceeding an average of 3.47% for flows above 40 L/min. The device has potential to provide valuable data on the operational dynamics of sanitary networks, crucial for developing and calibrating simulation models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helical structures are a hallmark of hydrodynamic turbulence, and they play a key role in determining the transport and diffusion properties of the flow. Helicity, defined by the linking of velocity and vorticity, is, thus, of primary significance, particularly in systems such as propelled jet wakes. In this paper, we present a novel approach for determining helicity in turbulence, based on one-dimensional filtering methods. First, we test our new technique using analytical solutions and numerical simulations and find that the model can identify high-helicity patterns qualitatively well. Then, we employ the technique in experiments with propelled, helical turbulent flows. The model reliance on single-point velocity measurement may be especially advantageous for measurements with limited acquisition dimensionality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The measurement of high-pressure sound velocity in solid materials is crucial for developing constitutive equations and equations of state for materials in extreme stress–strain rate conditions. In this study, we propose a novel method for high-pressure sound velocity measurement using laser-induced micro-flyer technology. By optimizing laser driving conditions and target structure design, we measure high-pressure sound velocity using the "reverse-impact geometry" approach. The well-established Photon Doppler Velocimetry system allows for high-precision, single-shot measurements of both flyer velocity and particle velocity histories. A systematic error analysis shows that the longitudinal sound velocity of aluminum obtained in this experiment is consistent with data from traditional devices, such as gas guns, within the error margin. Finally, we analyze the potential application value of this method in laser technology as well as high-pressure dynamic responses of materials, and conclude the current shortcomings and possible improvements of this method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quality assessment of ultrasound medical systems is a demanding task due to the high number of parameters to quantify their performance: in the present study, a Kiviat diagram-based integrated approach was proposed to effectively combine the contribution of some experimental parameters and quantify the overall performance of pulsed wave Doppler (PWD) systems for clinical applications. Four test parameters were defined and assessed through custom-written measurement methods based on image analysis, implemented in the MATLAB environment, and applied to spectral images of a flow phantom, i.e., average maximum velocity sensitivity (AMVS), velocity measurements accuracy (VeMeA), lowest detectable signal (LDS), and the velocity profile discrepancy index (VPDI). The parameters above were scaled in a standard range to represent the four vertices of a Kiviat plot, whose area was considered the overall quality index of the ultrasound system in PWD mode. Five brand-new ultrasound diagnostic systems, equipped with linear array probes, were tested in two different working conditions using a commercial flow phantom as a reference. The promising results confirm the robustness of AMVS, VeMeA, and LDS parameters while suggesting further investigations on the VPDI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past two decades or so, ambient noise tomography (ANT) has emerged as a powerful tool for investigating high-resolution crustal and upper-mantle structures. A crucial step in the ANT involves extracting phase velocities from cross-correlation functions (CCFs). However, obtaining precise phase velocities can be a formidable challenge, particularly when significant lateral velocity variations exist in shallow subsurface imaging that relies on short-period surface waves from ambient noise. To address this challenge, we propose an unwrapping correction method that enables the accurate extraction of short-period dispersion curves. Our method relies on the examination of the continuity of phase velocities extracted from CCFs between a common station and other neighbouring stations along a linear array. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach by applying our method to both synthetic and field data. Both applications suggest our unwrapping correction method can identify and correct unwrapping errors in phase velocity measurements, ensuring the extraction of accurate and reliable dispersion curves at short periods from ambient noise, which is essential for subsequent inversion for subsurface structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work tackles the tracking control problem of robotic manipulators where the robot dynamics contains uncertain parameters and joint velocity measurements are not available. Specifically when the robotic manipulator is required to perform a periodic task repetitively, as in most industrial applications, a repetitive learning controller is proposed that does not require joint velocity measurements and can compensate the uncertainties of the robot dynamical parameters and additive disturbances caused due to the periodic joint motion. The proposed solution is achieved via the use of a novel learning component in the controller design in conjunction with a novel model‐free joint velocity observer design. The stability of the closed‐loop system and the convergence of both the joint position tracking error and the joint velocity observation error to the origin are guaranteed via Lyapunov based arguments. Experimental results performed on a 2 degree of freedom robot manipulator are presented to demonstrate the performance of the proposed observer–controller couple. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To date, there is a lack of in-situ turbulence data in natural aquatic systems. Adapting particle image velocimetry (PIV) to field use is of interest to provide such data. Past field PIV systems have been successful, but suffer from high costs, lack of portability, and flow disruption. We present a new field PIV system designed to address these limitations and capture turbulence metrics significant to aquatic biota: velocity, turbulent kinetic energy (TKE), vorticity, eddy size, and eddy circulation. Velocity measurements by the novel PIV system were compared to measurements by an acoustic doppler velocimeter (ADV) and an electromagnetic flowmeter for validation, and its results agreed with these other two methods. The PIV's TKE results were compared to those of an ADV, and they agreed as well. Vorticity, eddy size, and eddy circulation were validated in the field through repeating past measurements. Each of these data sets generated by the novel PIV fell within the range of the validation measurements. The novel system thus provides accurate turbulence and velocity measurements; further, its design is low-cost, uses widely available materials, is minimally disruptive to the flow, and is highly portable and adjustable, offering an accessible method for acquiring meaningful field turbulence data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, combustion characteristics of premixed n-dodecane/air mixtures are investigated at elevated mixture temperatures through laminar burning velocity measurements at atmospheric pressure and elevated temperatures using an externally heated diverging channel method. The experiments were conducted up to high-temperature conditions of 610 K at varying equivalence ratios (ϕ = 0.7–1.3) to mimic the conditions of practical application devices. With an increase in the mixture temperature, the laminar burning velocity increases because of the rise in reactant enthalpy. The peak laminar burning velocity is observed at ϕ = 1.1 for all the mixture temperatures, except at 600 K, where the maximum laminar burning velocity is observed for stoichiometric conditions. The minimum temperature exponent exists for a slightly rich mixture condition (ϕ = 1.1). Out of all mechanisms, the laminar burning velocity predictions using the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory model are consistent with the present data at all mixture temperatures. Normalized sensitivity analysis is analyzed using the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory mechanism to understand the key reactions affecting the laminar burning velocity of the n-dodecane/air mixture. The chain branching reaction R16: H + O2 <=> O + OH has a major influence on the enhancement of the laminar burning velocity. Reaction pathway analysis is carried out at stoichiometric conditions for mixture temperatures of 400 K and 600 K, where it is observed that the elemental flux of the reaction, converting CO to CO2, gets reduced by 42.91% at the high-temperature condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Particle image velocimetry and particle tracking velocimetry (PTV) have developed from two-dimensional two-component (2D2C) velocity vector measurements to 3D3C measurements. Rainbow particle tracking velocimetry is a low-cost 3D3C measurement technique adopting a single color camera. However, the vector acquisition rate is not so high. To increase the number of acquired vectors, this paper proposes a high probability and long-term tracking method. First, particles are tracked in a raw picture instead of in three-dimensional space. The tracking is aided by the color information. Second, a particle that temporarily cannot be tracked due to particle overlap is compensated for using the positional information at times before and after. The proposed method is demonstrated for flow under a rotating disk with different particle densities and velocities. The use of the proposed method improves the tracking rate, number of continuous tracking steps, and number of acquired velocity vectors. The method can be applied under the difficult conditions of high particle density (0.004 particles per pixel) and large particle movement (maximum of 60 pix). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the challenges of underwater Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) using multibeam sonar imaging. The widely used Iterative Closest Point (ICP) often falls into local optima due to non-convexity and the lack of features for correct registration. To overcome this, we propose a novel registration algorithm based on Gaussian clustering and Graph Matching with maximal cliques. The proposed approach enhances feature-matching accuracy and robustness in complex underwater environments. Inertial measurements and velocity estimates are also fused for global state estimation. Comprehensive tests in simulated and real-world underwater environments have demonstrated that the proposed registration method effectively addresses the issue of the ICP algorithm easily falling into local optima while also exhibiting excellent inter-frame registration performance and robustness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study implements an entropy theory-based approach to infer bathymetry for 29 selected cross-sections along a 1740 km reach of the Congo River. A genetic algorithm optimization approach is used based on an analysis of near-surface velocity measurements to generate a random sample of 1000 bathymetry profiles from which the analysis is carried out. The resulting simulated bathymetry shows good agreement compared to the measurements obtained via Accoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP), with a correlation that varies from 0.49 to 0.88. The bathymetry results are subsequently used to estimate the two-dimensional cross-sectional flow velocity distribution and, consequently, to calculate the river discharge. The mean errors observed for flow area, discharge, and mean velocity are found to be 2.7%, 1.3%, and 1%, respectively. This study demonstrates, for the first time, the successful application of an entropy-based approach to estimate bathymetry and discharge in large rivers and has significant implications for remote sensing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The numerical simulation is combined with high‐temperature measurement to study the effects of electromagnetic braking (EMBr) and casting speed on the flow field, the fluctuation of the interface of the steel and slag, the distribution of argon gas bubbles, and the removal ratios of inclusions in the mold with a size of 1050 × 230 mm. The numerical simulation results and the high‐temperature measurement results of the velocities of molten steel at the 1/4 width and center of the thickness near the mold surface are in good agreement. The EMBr can reduce the velocity near the mold surface, the fluctuation of the interface between steel and slag, and the number of argon gas bubbles near narrow walls and decrease the total removal ratio of inclusions from 27.29 to 23.24%. When the casting speed is increased from 1.6 to 2.0 m min−1 with EMBr, the velocity of molten steel near the mold surface is increased. Even under the condition of a high casting speed of 2.0 m s−1, the velocity of molten steel near the surface is still in a reasonable range with EMBr. The total removal ratio of inclusions increases from 20.76 to 23.90%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a thermal gradient, surface nanostructures have been experimentally observed to move due to thermomigration. However, analytical models that describe the thermomigration force acting on surfaces are still controversial. In this work, we start from a thermodynamic approach based on the Massieu function, which is used to describe thermomigration of single adatoms, to develop an expression for the velocity of thermomigrating 2D holes. The model can be simplified in two limiting cases: (i) When the hole motion is limited by adspecies diffusion, the velocity is independent from the hole size (as in our experiments). (ii) If the hole motion is limited by the attachment or detachment of species to or from steps, then the velocity is proportional to the hole width. We have studied the thermomigration of 2D monatomic deep holes on Si(100) using low energy electron microscopy. From the velocity measurements taken at different temperatures, we find, using our model, that the sum of the migration energy and the adatom creation energy is 1.95 ± 0.16 eV. This value is consistent with those found by other authors, reinforcing the validity of our thermomigration model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weathering features of sandstone heritage can be recognized by using artificial intelligence (AI) based surrogate models, and most models perform classification tasks for types based on precise labels. But there are lack of prior validated knowledge of the weathering or untagged historical data for complex weathering conditions in many cases. To this aim, a unsupervised graph neural network (GNN) based on the statistical features of the acoustic emission (AE) signals is constructed. Firstly, taking unweathered sandstone as a reference, we define 4 weathering levels of sandstone ranging from I to IV based on pore indicators. We selected 11 statistical features that are high correlated with pore of sandstone. Then, this GNN is constructed and trained by 2880 sets of statistical measured AE signals. Compared with AEs, LOF and IF models, GNN achieves the best identification performance among the four evaluation criteria. Each iteration of the GNN network is fitting the feature information of the signals and their neighbors. By data dimensionality reduction techniques, when the GNN stops iterating, it will be easy to distinguish unweathered AE signals from weathered one by comparing the reconstruction error of each signal. Furthermore, when the nearest neighbor's k gradually increases, the AUC of GNN also gradually increases and then tend to stable when k equals to 50–100. While the hidden layers of the network aggregates less information about the neighborhood features of the signals and cannot distinguish significantly between unweathered and weathered signals when the value of k is small. As the depth of the network deepens, the feature values between signals become more and more similar, their reconstruction errors in the output layer of the network to become more similar, making it difficult to distinguish unweathered AE signals from weathered AE signals via GNN. Meanwhile, GNN adopts more AE features and considers the similarity between each features. This can greatly eliminate various errors caused by wave velocity measurement, greatly improving the robustness of AE detection. Hence, the GNN model presented addresses the limitations of relying solely on P-wave velocity measurements to assess the degree of sandstone weathering at stone cultural heritage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on the discovery of three large diffuse dwarf (LDD) galaxies located in isolated triple systems. They have effective diameters of 3.6 ÷ 10.0 kpc and effective surface brightness of 26.2 ÷ 27.3 m/sq. arcsec. We note that the LDD galaxies tend to occur in small groups with a very low dispersion of radial velocities. The total (orbital) mass of the triplets approximately equals to their integral stellar mass within velocity measurement errors. The presence of LDD galaxies in cold multiple systems seems mysterious. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of micro-hot-wire anemometry probes for turbulence studies requires mitigating spatial filtering, end-conduction effects and probe intrusivity. Keeping these factors in mind, this work analytically and experimentally investigates the relevance of a micro-hot-wire probe design featuring elongated stubs, inspired by Wollaston-wire probes but fabricated using modern micro-fabrication techniques. The resulting probes are shown to be relatively easy to manufacture and capable of providing satisfactory velocity measurements in a zero-pressure-gradient turbulent boundary layer at Re τ ≈ 1150 with δ = 18 mm . Different probes were tested, all featuring a micro-wire length sufficiently small to alleviate spatial filtering of near-wall small-scale turbulent structures. The investigation focuses on assessing end-conduction effects and probe intrusivity, with the latter still observable close to the wall for such micro-probes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structural response of a cantilevered cylinder under free-stream conditions both with low and high turbulence intensity generated by turbulence-generating grids is analysed with concurrent measurements of the velocity field and the distributed strain. The thin-walled cylinder, with a diameter (D) of 50 mm, is mounted in a water flume as a cantilevered beam supported at one end, with 95% of its body submerged and exposed to cross flow yielding a Reynolds number of Re = 25000. We employ a novel combination of simultaneous particle image velocimetry and distributed strain measurements using Rayleigh backscattering fibre optic sensors. These sensors are embedded onto the surface of the cylinder to measure the experienced strain (ε ) of the structure along its spanwise direction, covering both the windward and leeward faces of the cylinder. The sensors fine spatial resolution allows us to discern the influence of the flow on the structural response of the cylinder in two distinct regions of the structure: upstream and downstream of the mean separation location. This differentiation allows us to isolate the local effects introduced by the free-stream conditions on the loading events over the body from the global force generated by the vortex shedding and other coherent motions present within the flow. Distinguishing between these direct and indirect effects helps determine which is more relevant for fatigue-life cycle analysis. The cross power spectral density between the fluctuating velocity field and the strain reveals that the load is dominated by the vortex shedding, and this relationship is intensified with the introduction of free-stream turbulence. It also helps to discern the different dynamics imposed by the two free-stream turbulence conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Particle streak velocimetry (PSV) is a Lagrangian velocity measurement method based on streak imaging of moving particles and is regarded as the origin of particle image velocimetry (PIV) and particle tracking velocimetry (PTV). Recently, the PSV technique has undergone further developments, realizing measurements of three velocity components in three dimensions (3D3C), by combining with stereoscopic observation, defocused imaging, light field photography and /or holography. Moreover, image processing algorithms based on deep learning have been successfully applied to PSV. Compared with PIV and PTV, the PSV technique can exhibit several advantages, including extending the upper limit of the velocity measurement range under the same equipment conditions, measuring with lower illumination intensity, often an overall lower equipment complexity and cost for the same measuring requirement, as well as avoiding the particle matching problems of PTV. However, the PSV method also has obstacles to overcome, such as directional ambiguity and the difficulty in identifying streak crossings. For the directional ambiguity problem, there are currently time-coding, color-coding, brightness-coding and determination methods using additional image frames that can be employed. The main application areas of PSV currently include microfluidics, high-velocity flows and large-scale flow field measurements. This review presents the state of the art of PSV and summarizes advantages, disadvantages, accuracy, complexity and application of various configurations. The configurations discussed are focused on those measuring three velocity components and several examples are described in which PSV can be advantageously applied. The review concludes with some future developments that can be anticipated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Velocity, density, and magnetic fluctuations of the geodesic acoustic mode (GAM) have been measured using the Doppler backscattering system, Faraday-effect polarimeter-interferometer, and external pick-up coils in the Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak. Simultaneous measurements of density and velocity fluctuations at the midplane and top of plasmas demonstrate that m = 1 density fluctuations are quantitatively balanced by the compression of perpendicular flow fluctuations. Furthermore, internal magnetic fluctuations associated with GAM have now been directly measured by laser-based Faraday-effect polarimetry for the first time. Line-averaged magnetic fluctuations (up to 16 Gauss, B ̃ ¯ R , GAM B T ∼ 0.066 %) are significantly larger than those extrapolated from edge coils (a few Gauss) and that magnetic fluctuations increase with β. The observed discrepancy between finite β theory and experimental data indicates the need for further theoretical investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phase-resolved volumetric velocity measurements of a pulsed jet are conducted by means of three-dimensional particle tracking velocimetry (PTV). The resulting scattered and relatively sparse data are densely reconstructed by adopting physics-informed neural networks (PINNs), here regularized by the Navier–Stokes equations. It is shown that the assimilation remains robust even at low particle densities (ppp < 10 − 3 ) where the mean particle distance is larger than 10% of the outlet diameter. This is achieved by enforcing compliance with the governing equations, thereby leveraging the spatiotemporal evolution of the measured flow field. Thus, the PINN reconstructs unambiguously velocity, vorticity, and pressure fields, enabling a robust identification of vortex structures with a level of detail not attainable with conventional methods (binning) or more advanced data assimilation techniques (vortex-in-cell). The results of this article suggest that the PINN methodology is inherently suited to the assimilation of PTV data, in particular under conditions of severe data sparsity encountered in experiments with limited control of the seeding concentration and/or distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The densification mechanisms of silicate melts under high pressure are of key interest in understanding the evolution of the early Earth and its present‐day internal structure. Here, we report Brillouin spectroscopy‐derived transverse acoustic wave velocities VS $\left({V}_{S}\right)$ from a basaltic glass at high pressures up to 163 GPa and ambient temperature to provide insight into pressure‐induced changes in its elasticity and, by extension, its density. We find that the pressure dependence of VS ${V}_{S}$ below 110–140 GPa follows a trend nearly tantamount to those of pyrolite and Fe‐ and (Fe,Al)‐bearing MgSiO3 glasses, indicating that the large compositional differences among these glasses do not exert variable acoustic wave velocity trends. However, at higher pressures we observe a small departure from the VS ${V}_{S}$ profiles of the Al‐poor compositions toward higher acoustic wave velocities to eventually become stiffer. This pressure‐induced steepening in VS ${V}_{S}$ is comparable to that of (Mg, Fe, Al)(Si, Al)O3 glass, and suggests a possible structural change toward a denser state caused by more rapidly changing Al–O coordination in network‐forming Al. Coupled with the high Fe content in basalt, this may render basaltic melt denser than surrounding minerals in the deep lower mantle, and may provide an additional mechanism for the existence of ultralow‐velocity zones. Plain Language Summary: Silicate melts are subject to different densification mechanisms from the counterpart solids. Although less dense at ambient/low pressures and for most of the mantle, it has long been speculated that at high enough pressures a density inversion may take place, where melts may become denser than the corresponding solids. This would have profound implications for the present‐day structure and dynamics of the Earth and its evolution through geological history. We have experimentally measured the sound wave velocities of a basaltic glass, which serves as a laboratory analogue to melt, up to 163 GPa. Through comparison of our sound wave velocity‐pressure profile to other glass compositions we observe a slight deviation in steepness above 110–140 GPa to a potentially stiffer and denser state. This pressure‐induced change may be the result of changes in the Al–O coordination environment. Extrapolated onto expected melt compositions in the lower mantle, which are enriched in both Al and heavy Fe, this may render dense pools of silicate melt gravitationally stable at the bottom of the mantle. Key Points: We have carried out acoustic wave velocity measurements of a basaltic glass up to 163 GPaThe VS‐pressure profile of basalt shows close similarities to other, more depolymerized glasses up to 110–140 GPa, where it becomes steeperThis anomaly is likely induced by changes in Al–O coordination [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the influence of the errors of time difference of arrivals (TDOA) and the premeasured velocity in the propagation medium, the existing methods always hold the low location accuracy and efficiency. To increase the location accuracy, the joint inversion of AE/MS sources and propagation velocity is proposed using the full measurements and residual estimation. First, the control equation of the unknown wave velocity is constructed using sensor coordinates and full TDOA measurements, and it is linearized by introducing the additive variables. Second, considering the influence of TDOA errors, the residuals of the TDOA equations are calculated to obtain weights. Finally, the orthogonal projection is applied to separate the additive variables and solve the weighted linear equations for source coordinates. The pencil–lead breaks experiments are carried out to verify the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed method. The results show that the novel method holds better accuracy and wave velocity inversion than the pre-existing methods. The average positioning error of the novel method is only 3.49 mm, while the errors of the traditional methods are 4.62 mm, 5.08 mm, 6.57 mm, and 11.93 mm, respectively. The positioning performance of the proposed method under different TDOA errors is further proved by simulation tests. The simulation results demonstrate that the positioning performance of the proposed method is better than that of the existing methods under different errors. Moreover, the blast vibration experiment validates that the proposed method holds the location accuracy of 16.65 m, which presents good prospects in engineering applications. Highlights No prior measurement of wave speeds and selection of reference sensors reduce the effect of velocity and arrival errors. Analytical solution being given by linearizing the control equation, complex computations and local convergence are circumvented. Estimating the noise term in the arrival time difference, the tolerance to TDOA errors is improved. Redundant time-difference-of-arrival measurements are fully used to provide new constraints. Blasting experiments reveal that positioning accuracy of the method is 72% more accurate than the traditional method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrasound beams sometimes need to be steered from the edge of linear array transducers to reach the sample volume with a desired Doppler angle in vascular exams. This phantom study aims to evaluate the impact of apertures located at the array edge on peak velocity (PV) measurements. Three ultrasound scanner systems equipped with eight transducers from 3 major ultrasound vendors were tested using a flow phantom with a horizontal tube. Five spectral Doppler measurements with the aperture positioned at one edge of the array and 5 with the aperture at the center of the array were obtained using all available scanner-transducer combinations while maintaining all scan parameters and the sample volume in the same tube location. Differences in PVs between center and edge apertures were compared across 4 constant flow rates. The averaged PVs for all phantom flow rates ranged from 24.4 cm/s to 138.2 cm/s from the array center. The averaged PVs from the center aperture were significantly greater than the corresponding measurements from the edge aperture for each flow rate (all p < 0.001). The relative PV differences ranged from 6.7% to 19.4% across all transducers and flow rates. Significantly lower PVs were consistently shown with the Doppler beam aperture at the array edge compared to center among all tested systems. This may be due to a narrower aperture width, shifted central axis, and less intrinsic spectral broadening error at the array edge. Controlling variations in Doppler aperture location is important in clinical applications which depend on consistent velocity measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study developed a fibre-optic laser Doppler velocimetry sensor for use in opaque, high-temperature, and high-pressure fluid flows by inserting the fibre perpendicular to the main flow. The tip of the optical fibre was obliquely polished and chemically etched using a buffered hydrofluoric acid solution, and a reflective mirror was deposited on the surface of the oblique fibre tip. Based on the results of the verification test using the rotating annular open channel, the fabrication conditions of the fibre tip were optimized for measuring the lubricating oil flow. The flow velocity profiles in the engine's oil flow of the lubrication system during engine bench testing were measured. These velocity profiles were influenced by variations in the measurement position, oil temperature, and engine speed. The measurement accuracy of this sensor was compared with the volumetric flow rate obtained by cross-sectional area integration of the flow velocity profile, as measured using a Coriolis flowmeter, and the difference was within 1%. By combining computational simulation for flow and optical attenuation and particle scattering in light transmission through a working fluid, this fibre-optic sensor achieved a measurement volume of 200 microns in length and 200 microns in width at a distance of 900–1000 microns from the sensor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and the level of agreement of the ADR encoder to measure the mean propulsive velocity (MPV) of the bar in the bench press (BP) exercise on the Smith machine. Eleven males (21.6 ± 1.5 years; body mass 76.05 ± 9.73 kg) performed the protocol with isometric phase prior to concentric muscle action (PP) and the protocol in the absence of isometric phase (N-PP) for BP exercise on Smith machine. ADR encoder reported reliability values with almost perfect correlations in all training zones and protocols (PP: ICC = 0.940–0.999, r = 0.899–0.997, CV = 1.56%–4.05%, SEM = 0.0022–0.0153,and MDC = 0.006–0.031 m/s; N-PP: ICC = 0.963–0.999, r = 0.946–0.998, CV = 0.70%–3.01%, SEM = 0.0012–0.0099, and MDC = 0.003–0.027 m/s). Although the levels of agreement were high in both protocols (PP: SEM = 0.0024–0.0204 m/s, MDC = 0.007–0.057 m/s; N-PP: SEM = 0.0034–0.0288 m/s, MDC = 0.009–0.080 m/s), ADR encoder considerably underestimated the MPV values in both protocols (PP: t = −2.239 to −9.486, p < 0.001–0.01; N-PP: t = −6.901 to −17.871, p < 0.001) with respect to the gold standard (T-Force). In conclusion, ADR encoder offers high reliability for the measurement of MPV in bench press exercise performed on Smith machine regardless of their execution mode, in the entire range of intensities. However, this device is not interchangeable with T-Force since it considerably underestimates the MPV values, especially at low loads (0%–40%). Furthermore, the use of too wide load ranges suggests that the data be interpreted with caution, pending further research to corroborate the findings presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Performance tracking devices in the form of wrist-worn watches are common in rowing; however, the accuracy of relevant output variables (i.e. stroke rate [SR] and velocity) during on-water training is unknown. To assess the quality of wrist-watch data output, 16 rowing athletes recorded 118 on-water rowing sessions using a Garmin Forerunner 735XT, which was compared to a Catapult Optimeye R4 tracking device. Garmin recording function was set to 'Every Second' (N = 68 sessions) or 'Smart' (N = 50 sessions). Catapult velocity was calculated as the average velocity per stroke, while a 15 s velocity moving average was determined for Garmin data. Catapult and Garmin were filtered for training-specific data (SR = 14–50 strokes per minute [spm]; velocity = 2.1–7.0 m/s−1). Efficacy and reliability of the Garmin was assessed via the difference between devices (% error), intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC ± 95% confidence interval (CI)) and coefficient of variation (CV%). Error in 15 s smoothed velocity was 3.8% ('Every Second') and 8.2% ('Smart'). Both recording functions demonstrated 'good' reliability (ICC = 0.75–0.9, CV < 10%) for SR and velocity; the exception was SR using 'Smart' recording. Our data suggests that when using the 'Every Second' recording function, data is filtered and velocity is smoothed over 15 s, the Garmin device can be reliable for SR and velocity measurement within 1 spm and <0.20 m/s−1 respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic phase transitions are important for the application of individual materials toward modern spintronics and sensing. Using high-resolution sound velocity and pyrocurrent measurements, we have obtained a detailed magnetic phase diagram of multiferroic Ca2CoSi2O7 for magnetic fields applied along the crystallographic [100]- and [001]-directions. The magneto-acoustic measurements were conducted for both longitudinal and transverse modes in both static and pulsed magnetic fields up to 17 and 68 T, respectively. Distinct anomalies with significant changes in sound velocity and sound attenuation were observed at the onset of the structural and magnetic phase transitions. Interestingly, results obtained for fields parallel to the [100]-direction reveal a hysteresis and step-like decrements in ultrasound indicating a transition into a different metastable structural distortion below TN and at magnetic fields between 4 and 10 T that has not been previously reported. We believe that this field-induced distorted structure phase may be the cause of the subsequent phase transition at 11 T. At low temperatures, a softening of the lattice within the ordered phases is also observed, which may be due to residual spin fluctuations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic phase transitions are important for the application of individual materials toward modern spintronics and sensing. Using high-resolution sound velocity and pyrocurrent measurements, we have obtained a detailed magnetic phase diagram of multiferroic Ca2CoSi2O7 for magnetic fields applied along the crystallographic [100]- and [001]-directions. The magneto-acoustic measurements were conducted for both longitudinal and transverse modes in both static and pulsed magnetic fields up to 17 and 68 T, respectively. Distinct anomalies with significant changes in sound velocity and sound attenuation were observed at the onset of the structural and magnetic phase transitions. Interestingly, results obtained for fields parallel to the [100]-direction reveal a hysteresis and step-like decrements in ultrasound indicating a transition into a different metastable structural distortion below TN and at magnetic fields between 4 and 10 T that has not been previously reported. We believe that this field-induced distorted structure phase may be the cause of the subsequent phase transition at 11 T. At low temperatures, a softening of the lattice within the ordered phases is also observed, which may be due to residual spin fluctuations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: An automatic method is presented for estimating 4D flow MRI velocity measurement uncertainty in each voxel. The velocity distance (VD) metric, a statistical distance between the measured velocity and local error distribution, is introduced as a novel measure of 4D flow MRI velocity measurement quality. Methods: The method uses mass conservation to assess the local velocity error variance and the standardized difference of means (SDM) velocity to estimate the velocity error correlations. VD is evaluated as the Mahalanobis distance between the local velocity measurement and the local error distribution. The uncertainty model is validated synthetically and tested in vitro under different flow resolutions and noise levels. The VD's application is demonstrated on two in vivo thoracic vasculature 4D flow datasets. Results: Synthetic results show the proposed uncertainty quantification method is sensitive to aliased regions across various velocity‐to‐noise ratios and assesses velocity error correlations in four‐ and six‐point acquisitions with correlation errors at or under 3.2%. In vitro results demonstrate the method's sensitivity to spatial resolution, venc settings, partial volume effects, and phase wrapping error sources. Applying VD to assess in vivo 4D flow MRI in the aorta demonstrates the expected increase in measured velocity quality with contrast administration and systolic flow. Conclusion: The proposed 4D flow MRI uncertainty quantification method assesses velocity measurement error owing to sources including noise, intravoxel phase dispersion, and velocity aliasing. This method enables rigorous comparison of 4D flow MRI datasets obtained in longitudinal studies, across patient populations, and with different MRI systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some new, low-global warming potential refrigerants will be flammable, and the laminar burning velocity is a useful parameter for quantifying fire risk. Laminar burning velocity measurements have been made using a constant volume experiment with dry air and the refrigerant R-152a (CH3CHF2), pure and blended with R-134a (CH2FCF3), or R-1234yf (CF3CFCH2). The resulting burning velocity data deduced from the pressure rise in the chamber are presented for a range of fuel air equivalence ratio and loading of the less flammable refrigerant, for unburned gases at 298 K and 101 kPa as well as at 375 K and 253 kPa. For comparison, the 1-D, planar laminar burning velocity was numerically simulated using a recently developed kinetic mechanism that includes a wide range of refrigerants with air. The predicted burning velocities agree reasonably well with the experimental values, and the numerical results are used to understand the kinetic mechanism of the reaction of the refrigerants. Uncertainties in the experimental data from radiation heat losses as well as extrapolation to ambient conditions are explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates the fixed‐time rotating consensus problem of second‐order multi‐agent systems in both the leaderless and leader‐following cases. Specifically, in the leaderless case, a distributed controller is developed to drive all agents to reach rotating consensus in fixed‐time. In the leader‐following case, a distributed fixed‐time observer is first proposed to estimate the position of a rotating leader. Then, a local fixed‐time output feedback controller without any velocity measurements is proposed to achieve the leader‐following motion. Furthermore, an integral sliding mode control technique is applied to handle the case where the multi‐agent system is subject to time varying external disturbances. Based on the bi‐limit homogeneity method and Lyapunov theory, we prove that all the agents reach the rotating consensus within a fixed time independent of initial conditions. Finally, simulations illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed controllers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addressing the challenging issue of impact source localization for large-scale anisotropic stiffened compartmental cylindrical shell structures, this paper presents a novel impact localization method. The method is based on a time-reversal virtual focusing triangulation approach and does not rely on prior knowledge of the structure or specific measurements of wave velocity. By employing energy power filtering to select key sensors, wavelet packet decomposition is utilized to extract narrowband Lamb wave signals, which are then synthesized. Further enhancement of signal recognition is achieved through time-reversal amplification techniques. Experimental results demonstrate that under non-motorized operating conditions, this method achieves an average error of 0.89 m. Under motorized operating conditions, the average error is 1.12 m. Although the presence of background noise leads to an increase in error, the overall localization performance is superior to traditional triangulation methods. Additionally, selecting the top three sensors in terms of energy power ranking can more accurately record impact response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We estimated hourly air–water gas transfer velocities (k600) for carbon dioxide in the Rhode River, a mesohaline sub-estuary of the Chesapeake Bay. Gas transfer velocities were calculated from estuary-specific parameterizations developed explicitly for shallow microtidal estuaries in the mid-Atlantic region of the United States, using standardized wind speed measurements. Combining the gas transfer velocity with continuous measurements of pCO2 in the water and in the overlying atmosphere, we determined the direction and magnitude of CO2 flux at hourly intervals across a 3-year record (1 July 2018 to 1 July 2021). Continuous year-round measurements enabled us to document strong seasonal cycling, whereby the Rhode River is primarily autotrophic during cold-water months (December–May) and largely net heterotrophic in warm-water months (June–November). Although there is inter-annual variability in CO2 flux in the Rhode River, the annual mean condition is near carbon neutral. Measurement at high temporal resolution across multiple years revealed that CO2 flux and apparent trophic status can reverse during a single 24 h period. pCO2 and CO2 flux are mediated by temperature effects on biological activity and are inverse to temperature-dependent physical solubility of CO2 in water. Biological/biogeochemical carbon fixation and mineralization are rapid and extensive, so sufficient sampling frequency is crucial to capture unbiased extremes and central tendencies of these estuarine ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High spectral resolution imaging spectroscopy plays a crucial role in solar observation, regularly serving as a backend instrument for solar telescopes. These instruments find direct application in deriving Doppler velocity from hyperspectral images, offering insights into the dynamic motion of matter on the solar surface. In this study, we present the development of a Fabry–Pérot interferometer (FPI) based imaging spectrometer operating at the Fe I (617.3 nm) wavelength for precise Doppler velocity measurements. The spectrometer features a moderate spectral resolution of λ / Δ λ ≈ 60 , 000 , aiming to balance the imaging signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). The instrument underwent successful observational experiments on the 65-cm Educational Adaptive-Optics Solar Telescope (EAST) at the Shanghai Astronomy Museum. Obtained Doppler velocities were compared with data from the Helioseismic and Magnetic Imager (HMI), the maximum column and row correlation coefficients are 0.9261 and 0.9603, respectively. The estimated cut-off normalized frequency of the power spectral density (PSD) curve for velocity map is approximately 0.4/0.21 times higher than that observed in the HMI data, with potentially higher spatial resolution achievable under better seeing conditions. Based on the estimated imaging SNR levels, the accuracy of velocity measurements is approximately 50 m s−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report two binary systems, LAMOST J035540 + 381550 (hereafter J035540) and LAMOST J035916 + 400732 (hereafter J035916), identified through the Large Sky Area Multi-Object Fiber Spectroscopic Telescope (LAMOST) low-resolution survey (LRS). Each of these two systems contains an M-type star orbiting with a invisible compact object candidate. Follow-up spectroscopic observations of Palomar 200-in. telescope (P200) enhance radial velocity measurements. We use radial velocities from LAMOST and P200, as well as light curves from Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF) to constrain orbital parameters. The masses of the visible M-type stars are estimated by fitting the MIST isochrones and spectral energy distributions. The mass functions for the unseen companions are: |$0.22\pm 0.01\,{\rm M}_{\odot }$| for J035540 and |$0.16\pm 0.01\, {\rm M}_{\odot }$| for J035916. With the orbital and stellar parameters derived above and assuming the orbital inclination is 90° (edge-on), we find that the minimum masses of the invisible companions exceeds that of the visible stars. The single-lined feature and the dynamical evidence suggest the presence of compact objects. J035540's ZTF light curve, modelled with phoebe , yields a compact object mass of |$0.70^{+0.12}_{-0.05}\, {\rm M}_{\odot }$|⁠. For J035916, ellipsoidal modulation analysis constrains the light-curve amplitude, yielding a compact object mass range of |$0.57-0.90\, {\rm M}_{\odot }$|⁠. The mass estimates indicate that both are likely white dwarfs. These findings underscore the efficiency of optical time-domain surveys and dynamical methods in identifying faint, massive white dwarfs, along with other compact objects in binaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discovering transiting exoplanets with relatively long orbital periods (>10 d) is crucial to facilitate the study of cool exoplanet atmospheres (T eq < 700 K) and to understand exoplanet formation and inward migration further out than typical transiting exoplanets. In order to discover these longer period transiting exoplanets, long-term photometric, and radial velocity campaigns are required. We report the discovery of TOI-2447 b (=NGTS-29 b), a Saturn-mass transiting exoplanet orbiting a bright (T = 10.0) Solar-type star (Teff = 5730 K). TOI-2447 b was identified as a transiting exoplanet candidate from a single transit event of 1.3 per cent depth and 7.29 h duration in TESS Sector 31 and a prior transit event from 2017 in NGTS data. Four further transit events were observed with NGTS photometry which revealed an orbital period of P = 69.34 d. The transit events establish a radius for TOI-2447 b of |$0.865 \pm 0.010\, \rm R_{\rm J}$|⁠ , while radial velocity measurements give a mass of |$0.386 \pm 0.025\, \rm M_{\rm J}$|⁠. The equilibrium temperature of the planet is 414 K, making it much cooler than the majority of TESS planet discoveries. We also detect a transit signal in NGTS data not caused by TOI-2447 b, along with transit timing variations and evidence for a ∼150 d signal in radial velocity measurements. It is likely that the system hosts additional planets, but further photometry and radial velocity campaigns will be needed to determine their parameters with confidence. TOI-2447 b/NGTS-29 b joins a small but growing population of cool giants that will provide crucial insights into giant planet composition and formation mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work introduces an innovative robust partial state feedback controller designed for robotic manipulators actuated by brushless DC motors. The proposed controller/observer structure relies solely on actuator current and robot joint position measurements, while effectively compensating for dynamic uncertainties in both the electrical (actuator dynamics) and mechanical (robot's dynamical terms) subsystems. Specifically, a model–based robust observer, eliminating the need of joint velocity measurements, is combined with a backstepping‐type controller design. As opposed to the previous model based observers that depend on the actual model parameters, the proposed observer structure utilizes the best guest estimates of the system parameters supported with a robust compensation term. This approach eliminates the need for precise knowledge of system parameters of the observer design which is a significant improvement over most of the previous results. This approach ensures the semi‐global, uniformly ultimately bounded joint tracking error signal. The overall stability of the closed‐loop system is affirmed through Lyapunov‐based arguments. Experimental studies conducted on an in‐house‐built two‐link robotic manipulator, actuated by brushless DC motors, are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In multi‐agent systems, most commonly, consensus consists in all agents converging to a common equilibrium point. For nonholonomic vehicles, which move on a Cartesian plane and occupy a physical space, it is more appropriate to speak of consensus‐based formation, which implies that the vehicles are required to converge to a relative position in a given formation while, distributively, agreeing on the center of such formation and on their orientation. In this paper we solve such a problem via a smooth, time‐varying, output‐feedback control; more precisely, without velocity measurements. In addition, and this is our main contribution, the controller is designed to satisfy pre‐imposed bounds to avoid input saturation. To the best of the authors' knowledge this is the first controller that solves the consensus‐based formation problem in networks of nonholonomic vehicles via a bounded, output‐feedback controller. The paper also provides a simulation comparison between our proposal and its unbounded counterpart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a variety of production and development processes, there is a need for precise and reliable measurements of rotating machinery or objects. In this article, an alternative approach is introduced to assess both rotational and translational movements in a rotor by employing the technique known as "visual encoder." This methodology combines principles of computer vision with visual components, operating analogously to conventional optical encoders. Non-contact measurements provided by visual encoders offer several advantages, including the ability to withstand free movements and oscillations along the rotation axis, as well as application in hostile environments, such as high-temperature conditions that might pose challenges for conventional measurement methods. The proposed method incorporates translational motion tracking into rotational velocity measurement using cost-effective conventional equipment. Experimental tests demonstrate that the developed system exhibited high precision and robustness under various operating conditions, successfully operating even at rotational frequencies close to the sampling rate. The results validate the developed technique as a viable alternative for measuring rotation and translational movement in rotor applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of the energetic characterization of two drip-type rainfall simulators, differing in the length of their capillary tubes, are presented. The rainfall kinetic power and momentum were measured using a single capillary tube and applying weighing and photographic techniques to determine the raindrop mean equivalent diameter and fall velocity, respectively. The measurements highlighted that the simulated rainfall intensity is the only variable affecting raindrop diameter, and the increase in the capillary tube length produces a reduction in rainfall intensity and raindrop diameter. Finally, an empirical relationship relating fall velocity with raindrop falling height and diameter found in the literature was developed and positively tested using both the experimental data of the velocity measurements from the present research and the literature. Relationships to estimate the rainfall kinetic power and momentum based on the knowledge of mass and raindrop falling height were proposed and positively tested for the two simulators in the present investigation. In conclusion, operative guidelines for a drip-type simulator characterization are proposed in this paper, considering that the knowledge of the geometric characteristics of the capillary tube, pressure head, and falling height values are fundamental to having a complete energetic characterization of the rainfall simulator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]