Topic Editors

Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technologies, University of Naples Federico II, 80125 Naples, Italy
Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, University of Naples Federico II, 80125 Naples, Italy

Industrial Control Systems

Abstract submission deadline
31 July 2025
Manuscript submission deadline
31 October 2025
Viewed by
17874

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

The industrial control systems sector has experienced significant growth in the last few decades. Technological innovations, combined with immense pressure on manufacturers to meet deadlines, have led to increased adoption of automation in factories. Due to the Internet of Things, collaborative robots, automated test equipment and smart sensors, human error is minimized, while system efficiency, reliability and work rates are expedited. Connecting machines through sensor networks and collecting measurement data in real time has made it possible to reduce product defects and downtime and shift to predictive maintenance. In more recent times, the work of researchers has also focused on how industrial automation can help in reducing energy consumption, emissions, and waste. Therefore, we are pleased to invite the research community to submit review or regular research papers on, but not limited to, the following relevant topics related to industrial control systems:

  • Instrumentation and measurement;
  • Supervisory control and data acquisition;
  • Smart sensing and monitoring;
  • Human activity recognition;
  • Fault detection;
  • Edge artificial intelligence;
  • Smart applications;
  • Predictive maintenance in manufacturing;
  • Embedded intelligence;
  • Visual recognition;
  • Distributed control systems;
  • Wireless sensor network;
  • Sustainability.

Prof. Dr. Mauro D'Arco
Dr. Francesco Bonavolontà
Topic Editors

Keywords

  • instrumentation and measurement
  • supervisory control and data acquisition
  • smart sensing and monitoring
  • human activity recognition
  • fault detection
  • edge artificial intelligence
  • smart applications
  • predictive maintenance in manufacturing
  • embedded intelligence
  • visual recognition
  • distributed control systems
  • wireless sensor network
  • sustainability

Participating Journals

Journal Name Impact Factor CiteScore Launched Year First Decision (median) APC
Energies
energies
3.0 6.2 2008 17.5 Days CHF 2600 Submit
Materials
materials
3.1 5.8 2008 15.5 Days CHF 2600 Submit
Sensors
sensors
3.4 7.3 2001 16.8 Days CHF 2600 Submit
Sustainability
sustainability
3.3 6.8 2009 20 Days CHF 2400 Submit

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Published Papers (12 papers)

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37 pages, 7983 KiB  
Article
Loss Model Control for Efficiency Optimization and Advanced Sliding Mode Controllers with Chattering Attenuation for Five-Phase Induction Motor Drive
by Hassen Moussa, Saber Krim, Hichem Kesraoui, Majdi Mansouri and Mohamed Faouzi Mimouni
Energies 2024, 17(16), 4192; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17164192 - 22 Aug 2024
Viewed by 724
Abstract
This paper proposes firstly a Second Order Sliding Mode Control (SOSMC) based on a Super Twisting Algorithm (STA) (SOSMC-STA) combined with a Direct Field-Oriented Control (DFOC) strategy of a Five-Phase Induction Motor (FPIM). The SOSMC-STA is suggested for overcoming the shortcomings of the [...] Read more.
This paper proposes firstly a Second Order Sliding Mode Control (SOSMC) based on a Super Twisting Algorithm (STA) (SOSMC-STA) combined with a Direct Field-Oriented Control (DFOC) strategy of a Five-Phase Induction Motor (FPIM). The SOSMC-STA is suggested for overcoming the shortcomings of the Proportional Integral Controller (PIC) and the Conventional Sliding Mode Controller (CSMC). Indeed, the main limitations of the PIC are the slower speed response, the tuning difficulty of its parameters, and the sensitivity to changes in system parameters, including variations in process dynamics, load changes, or changes in setpoint. It is also limited to linear systems. Regarding the CSMC technique, its limitation is the chattering phenomenon, characterized by the rapid switching of the control signal. This phenomenon includes high-frequency oscillations which induce wear and tear on mechanical systems, adversely affecting performance. Secondly, this paper also proposes a Loss Model Controller (LMC) for FPIM energy optimization. Thus, the suggested LMC chooses the optimal flux magnitude required by the FPIM for each applied load torque, which consequently reduces the losses and the FPIM efficiency. The performance of the optimized DFOC-SOSMC-STA based on the LMC is verified using numerical simulation under the Matlab environment. The analysis of the simulation results shows that the DFOC-SOSMC-STA guarantees a high dynamic response, chattering reduction, good precision, and robustness in case of external load or parameter disturbances. Moreover, the DFOC-SOSMC-STA, combined with the LMC, reduces losses and increases efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Industrial Control Systems)
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19 pages, 4230 KiB  
Article
Effortless Totem-Pole Converter Control Using a Power Factor Correction Peak Current-Mode Controller
by Abdulazeez Alsalemi and Ahmed Massoud
Sensors 2024, 24(15), 4910; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24154910 - 29 Jul 2024
Viewed by 972
Abstract
This paper expands a recently proposed peak current-mode (PCM) control method for a power factor correction (PFC) boost converter to include the totem-pole converter and solves the controller’s compatibility problem with the totem-pole converter by proposing three input current sensing methods. Using MATLAB/Simulink [...] Read more.
This paper expands a recently proposed peak current-mode (PCM) control method for a power factor correction (PFC) boost converter to include the totem-pole converter and solves the controller’s compatibility problem with the totem-pole converter by proposing three input current sensing methods. Using MATLAB/Simulink 2023b, simulation experiments on a 2 kW totem-pole converter utilizing the PFC PCM controller were carried out to assess the performance of the controller with the proposed sensing methods. The findings indicate that under steady-state conditions, all three proposed sensing methods performed input current shaping successfully and yielded nearly identical THD% of about 4.4% in the input current waveform. However, it is noteworthy that method 2, referred to as the memory method, exhibited a sluggish and less robust transient response in comparison to the swift and resilient responses observed with method 1 and method 3. Additionally, the third proposed method, which involves a single current sensor positioned across the input inductor, emerged as the optimal and cost-effective sensing solution. This method achieved the same desirable attributes of fast and robust control while utilizing only a single current sensor, a notable advantage over method 1, which employs two current sensors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Industrial Control Systems)
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17 pages, 1246 KiB  
Article
Centralized Finite State Machine Control to Increase the Production Rate in a Crusher Circuit
by Moisés T. da Silva, Santino M. Bitarães, Andre S. Yamashita, Marcos P. Torre, Vincius da S. Moreira and Thiago A. M. Euzébio
Energies 2024, 17(14), 3374; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17143374 - 9 Jul 2024
Viewed by 826
Abstract
Crushing is a critical operation in mineral processing, and its efficient performance is vital for minimizing energy consumption, maximizing productivity, and maintaining product quality. However, due to variations in feed material characteristics and safety constraints, achieving the intended circuit performance can be challenging. [...] Read more.
Crushing is a critical operation in mineral processing, and its efficient performance is vital for minimizing energy consumption, maximizing productivity, and maintaining product quality. However, due to variations in feed material characteristics and safety constraints, achieving the intended circuit performance can be challenging. In this study, a centralized control strategy based on a finite state machine (FSM) is developed to improve the operations of an iron ore crushing circuit. The aim is to increase productivity by manipulating the closed-side-setting (CSS) of cone crushers and the speed of an apron feeder while considering intermediate storage silo levels and cone crusher power limits, as well as product quality. A dynamic simulation was conducted to compare the proposed control strategy with the usual practice of setting CSS to a constant value. Four scenarios were analyzed based on variations in bond work index (BWI) and particle size distribution. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed control strategy increased average productivity by 6.88% and 48.77% when compared to the operation with a constant CSS of 38 mm and 41 mm, respectively. The proposed strategy resulted in smoother oscillation without interlocking, and it maintained constant flow rates. This ultimately improved circuit reliability and predictability, leading to reduced maintenance costs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Industrial Control Systems)
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16 pages, 1233 KiB  
Article
Delay Compensation in a Feeder–Conveyor System Using the Smith Predictor: A Case Study in an Iron Ore Processing Plant
by Tiago A. Moraes, Moisés T. da Silva and Thiago A. M. Euzébio
Sensors 2024, 24(12), 3870; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24123870 - 14 Jun 2024
Viewed by 708
Abstract
Conveyor belts serve as the primary mode of ore transportation in mineral processing plants. Feeders, comprised of shorter conveyors, regulate the material flow from silos to longer conveyor belts by adjusting their velocity. This velocity manipulation is facilitated by automatic controllers that gauge [...] Read more.
Conveyor belts serve as the primary mode of ore transportation in mineral processing plants. Feeders, comprised of shorter conveyors, regulate the material flow from silos to longer conveyor belts by adjusting their velocity. This velocity manipulation is facilitated by automatic controllers that gauge the material weight on the conveyor using scales. However, due to positioning constraints of these scales, a notable delay ensues between measurement and the adjustment of the feeder speed. This dead time poses a significant challenge in control design, aiming to prevent oscillations in material levels on the conveyor belt. This paper contributes in two key areas: firstly, through a simulation-based comparison of various control techniques addressing this issue across diverse scenarios; secondly, by implementing the Smith predictor solution in an operational plant and contrasting its performance with that of a single PID controller. Evaluation spans both the transient flow rate during step change setpoints and a month-long assessment. The experimental results reveal a notable increase in production by 355 t/h and a substantial reduction in flow rate oscillations on the conveyor belt, evidenced by a 55% decrease in the standard deviation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Industrial Control Systems)
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20 pages, 5450 KiB  
Article
Multivariable Iterative Learning Control Design for Precision Control of Flexible Feed Drives
by Yulin Wang and Tesheng Hsiao
Sensors 2024, 24(11), 3536; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24113536 - 30 May 2024
Viewed by 515
Abstract
Advancements in machining technology demand higher speeds and precision, necessitating improved control systems in equipment like CNC machine tools. Due to lead errors, structural vibrations, and thermal deformation, commercial CNC controllers commonly use rotary encoders in the motor side to close the position [...] Read more.
Advancements in machining technology demand higher speeds and precision, necessitating improved control systems in equipment like CNC machine tools. Due to lead errors, structural vibrations, and thermal deformation, commercial CNC controllers commonly use rotary encoders in the motor side to close the position loop, aiming to prevent insufficient stability and premature wear and damage of components. This paper introduces a multivariable iterative learning control (MILC) method tailored for flexible feed drive systems, focusing on enhancing dynamic positioning accuracy. The MILC employs error data from both the motor and table sides, enhancing precision by injecting compensation commands into both the reference trajectory and control command through a norm-optimization process. This method effectively mitigates conflicts between feedback control (FBC) and traditional iterative learning control (ILC) in flexible structures, achieving smaller tracking errors in the table side. The performance and efficacy of the MILC system are experimentally validated on an industrial biaxial CNC machine tool, demonstrating its potential for precision control in modern machining equipment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Industrial Control Systems)
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16 pages, 3769 KiB  
Article
Adaptive Super-Twisting Sliding Mode Control for Robot Manipulators with Input Saturation
by Chenghu Jing, Hui Zhang, Yafeng Liu and Jing Zhang
Sensors 2024, 24(9), 2783; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24092783 - 26 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1154
Abstract
The paper investigates a modified adaptive super-twisting sliding mode control (ASTSMC) for robotic manipulators with input saturation. To avoid singular perturbation while increasing the convergence rate, a modified sliding mode surface (SMS) is developed in this method. Using the proposed SMS, an ASTSMC [...] Read more.
The paper investigates a modified adaptive super-twisting sliding mode control (ASTSMC) for robotic manipulators with input saturation. To avoid singular perturbation while increasing the convergence rate, a modified sliding mode surface (SMS) is developed in this method. Using the proposed SMS, an ASTSMC is developed for robot manipulators, which not only achieves strong robustness but also ensures finite-time convergence. The boundary of lumped uncertainties cannot be easily obtained. A modified adaptive law is developed such that the boundaries of time-varying disturbance and its derivative are not required. Considering input saturation in practical cases, an ASTSMC with saturation compensation is proposed to reduce the effect of input saturation on tracking performances of robot manipulators. The finite-time convergence of the proposed scheme is analyzed. Through comparative simulations against two other sliding mode control schemes, the proposed method has been validated to possess strong adaptability, effectively adjusting control gains; simultaneously, it demonstrates robustness against disturbances and uncertainties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Industrial Control Systems)
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13 pages, 5492 KiB  
Communication
Optimizing Yarn Tension in Textile Production with Tension–Position Cascade Control Method Using Kalman Filter
by Ahmed Neaz, Eun Ha Lee, Tae Hwan Jin, Kyung Chul Cho and Kanghyun Nam
Sensors 2023, 23(12), 5494; https://doi.org/10.3390/s23125494 - 11 Jun 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1959
Abstract
The production of textiles has undergone a considerable transformation, progressing from its primitive origins in hand-weaving to the implementation of contemporary automated systems. Weaving yarn into fabric is a crucial process in the textile industry that requires meticulous attention to output quality products, [...] Read more.
The production of textiles has undergone a considerable transformation, progressing from its primitive origins in hand-weaving to the implementation of contemporary automated systems. Weaving yarn into fabric is a crucial process in the textile industry that requires meticulous attention to output quality products, particularly in the tension control section. The efficiency of the tension controller in relation to the yarn tension significantly affects the quality of the resulting fabric, as proper tension control leads to strong, uniform, and aesthetically pleasing fabric, while poor tension control can cause defects and yarn breakage, leading to production downtime and increased costs. Maintaining the desired yarn tension during textile production is crucial, although it poses several problems, such as the continuous diameter change of the unwinder and rewinder sections leading to system change. Another problem faced by the industrial operation is maintaining proper tension on the yarn while changing the roll-to-roll operation velocity. In this paper, an optimized method for controlling yarn tension through the cascade control of tension and position, incorporating feedback controllers, feedforward, and disturbance observers, has been proposed to make the system more robust and suitable for industrial use. In addition, an optimum signal processor has been designed to obtain sensor data with reduced noise and minimal phase difference. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Industrial Control Systems)
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24 pages, 5475 KiB  
Article
Nonlinear Robust Control by a Modulating-Function-Based Backstepping Super-Twisting Controller for a Quadruple Tank System
by Italo Aranda-Cetraro, Gustavo Pérez-Zúñiga, Raul Rivas-Pérez and Javier Sotomayor-Moriano
Sensors 2023, 23(11), 5222; https://doi.org/10.3390/s23115222 - 31 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1447
Abstract
In this paper, a robust nonlinear approach for control of liquid levels in a quadruple tank system (QTS) is developed based on the design of an integrator backstepping super-twisting controller, which implements a multivariable sliding surface, where the error trajectories converge to the [...] Read more.
In this paper, a robust nonlinear approach for control of liquid levels in a quadruple tank system (QTS) is developed based on the design of an integrator backstepping super-twisting controller, which implements a multivariable sliding surface, where the error trajectories converge to the origin at any operating point of the system. Since the backstepping algorithm is dependent on the derivatives of the state variables, and it is sensitive to measurement noise, integral transformations of the backstepping virtual controls are performed via the modulating functions technique, rendering the algorithm derivative-free and immune to noise. The simulations based on the dynamics of the QTS located at the Advanced Control Systems Laboratory of the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú (PUCP) showed a good performance of the designed controller and therefore the robustness of the proposed approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Industrial Control Systems)
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17 pages, 672 KiB  
Article
Strategies to Control Industrial Emissions: An Analytical Network Process Approach in East Java, Indonesia
by Muryani Muryani, Khoirun Nisa’, Miguel Angel Esquivias and Siti Hafsah Zulkarnain
Sustainability 2023, 15(10), 7761; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15107761 - 9 May 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2138
Abstract
This study identified the main agents, problems, solutions, and strategies for lowering industrial carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in the cement industry in East Java, Indonesia, by applying an analytical network process. Respondents included government officials, industrial representatives, and environmental experts. This [...] Read more.
This study identified the main agents, problems, solutions, and strategies for lowering industrial carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in the cement industry in East Java, Indonesia, by applying an analytical network process. Respondents included government officials, industrial representatives, and environmental experts. This study revealed that (1) regulators are the critical agents controlling emissions; (2) the three major problems faced when aiming to reduce industrial emissions are limited environmental knowledge, inadequate infrastructure, and unsound regulations; (3) the main solutions are education, socialization, and infrastructure improvement; and (4) the institutional approach is preferable to command-and-control and economic incentives. This suggests that policymakers should collaborate closely with regulators, firms, and communities to more effectively control emissions and encourage environmentally friendly industrial practices. Economic incentives are not preferable strategies, most likely because of insufficient environmental knowledge, market distortion due to subsidies, and low viability. However, the institutional approach incurs higher costs due to political, administrative, and legal processes. Parties may agree on achieving socioeconomic demands but not environmental output. The institutional approach also requires extra investment in education and socialization as well as government support for infrastructure development and a better regulatory framework. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Industrial Control Systems)
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15 pages, 3511 KiB  
Article
Anomaly Detection Algorithm for Photovoltaic Cells Based on Lightweight Multi-Channel Spatial Attention Mechanism
by Aidong Chen, Xiang Li, Hongyuan Jing, Chen Hong and Minghai Li
Energies 2023, 16(4), 1619; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16041619 - 6 Feb 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1977
Abstract
With the proposed goal of “Carbon Neutrality”, photovoltaic energy is gradually gaining the leading role in energy transformation. At present, crystalline silicon cells are still the mainstream technology in the photovoltaic industry, but due to the similarity of defect characteristics and the small [...] Read more.
With the proposed goal of “Carbon Neutrality”, photovoltaic energy is gradually gaining the leading role in energy transformation. At present, crystalline silicon cells are still the mainstream technology in the photovoltaic industry, but due to the similarity of defect characteristics and the small scale of the defects, automatic defect detection of photovoltaic cells (PV) by electroluminescence (EL) imaging is a challenging task. In order to better meet the growing demand for high-quality photovoltaic cell products in intelligent manufacturing and use, and ensure the safe and efficient operation of photovoltaic power stations, this paper proposes an improved abnormal detection method based on Faster R-CNN for the surface defect EL imaging of photovoltaic cells, which integrates a lightweight channel and spatial convolution attention module. It can analyze the crack defects in complex scenes more efficiently. The clustering algorithm was used to obtain a more targeted anchor frame for photovoltaic cells, which made the model converge faster and enhanced the detection ability. The normalized distance between the prediction box and the target box is minimized by considering the DIoU loss function for the overlapping area of the boundary box and the distance between the center points. The experiment shows that the average accuracy of surface defect detection for EL images of photovoltaic cells is improved by 14.87% compared with the original algorithm, which significantly improves the accuracy of defect detection. The model can better detect small target defects, meet the requirements of surface defect detection of photovoltaic cells, and proves that it has good application prospects in the field of photovoltaic cell defect detection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Industrial Control Systems)
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20 pages, 7191 KiB  
Article
Study on Creepage Control for PLS-160 Wheel–Rail Adhesion Test Rig Based on LADRC
by Chun Tian, Gengwei Zhai, Yingqi Gao, Chao Chen and Jiajun Zhou
Sensors 2023, 23(4), 1792; https://doi.org/10.3390/s23041792 - 5 Feb 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1420
Abstract
Aiming at the problem of low control accuracy caused by nonlinear disturbances in the operation of the PLS-160 wheel–rail adhesion test rig, a linear active disturbance rejection controller (LADRC) suitable for the wheel–rail adhesion test rig was designed. The influence of nonlinear disturbances [...] Read more.
Aiming at the problem of low control accuracy caused by nonlinear disturbances in the operation of the PLS-160 wheel–rail adhesion test rig, a linear active disturbance rejection controller (LADRC) suitable for the wheel–rail adhesion test rig was designed. The influence of nonlinear disturbances during the operation of the test rig on the control accuracy was analyzed based on SIMPACK. The SIMAT co-simulation platform was established to verify the control performance of the LADRC designed in this paper. The simulation results show that the speed and creepage errors of the test rig under the control of the LADRC met the adhesion test technical indicators under four different conditions. Compared with the traditional PID controller, the creepage overshoot and response time with the LADRC were reduced by 1.27% and 60%, respectively, under the constant creepage condition, and the stability recovery time was shorter under the condition of a sudden decrease in the adhesion coefficient. The LADRC designed in this paper shows better dynamic and anti-interference performance; therefore, it is more suitable for a follow-up study of the PLS-160 wheel–rail adhesion test rig. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Industrial Control Systems)
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14 pages, 692 KiB  
Article
Fractional-Order PID Controller (FOPID)-Based Iterative Learning Control for a Nonlinear Boiler System
by Ahmed Zubair Jan, Krzysztof Kedzia and Muhammad Jamshed Abbass
Energies 2023, 16(3), 1045; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16031045 - 17 Jan 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1663
Abstract
For the boiler-turbine unit in power systems, a coordinated control structure plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance in supply and demand of energy, reducing pollutant emissions and optimizing energy efficiency. The matching requirements of the turbine and boiler, the wide range [...] Read more.
For the boiler-turbine unit in power systems, a coordinated control structure plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance in supply and demand of energy, reducing pollutant emissions and optimizing energy efficiency. The matching requirements of the turbine and boiler, the wide range of load changes, and the cooperative operation of many devices in the power system pose many challenges to designing a coordinated control system for the boiler turbine system, thus making the control design a difficult task. In this paper, iterative learning control (ILC) is used to maintain the throttle pressure and megawatt output power of a boiler turbine at the desired set points by controlling the hybrid pattern design structure. Simulation results show that the proposed approach can maintain the desired set points, and the desired response can also be obtained faster by using the proposed approach compared to the ones available in the literature. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Industrial Control Systems)
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