Invited Speakers
Prof. Shogo Nishikawa
College of Science and Technology, Nihon University, JapanSpeech Title: Removal Technology of Reflective Disturbance for Detecting Open Fault of Bypass Circuit of PV Module with IR Camera
Abstract: One of the existing most popular technologies for finding open bypass circuits to prevent hotspots is the measurement of surface temperature with an IR camera. However, this solution has defects. For example, the thermal image is affected by the reflection of surrounding structures such as antennas and buildings, and so on, and it is difficult to measure the true surface temperature of PV modules with an IR camera. To solve the problems mentioned previously, we developed new detection technology for open-fault bypass circuits. The stationary state reflection effect is deleted, and the position of the open fault part is identified exactly by the development technology. However, the reflection effect of moving clouds is not deleted. Therefore, we studied the advanced detection technology to delete the reflection effect of moving clouds. In this paper, the outline and effect of a new proposed technology is described.
Prof. Sang Uck Lee
School of Chemical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Republic of KoreaSpeech Title: Reliable large-scale simulation of energy materials based on machine learning potential
Abstract: With the advancement of computational resources and methodologies, computational materials science has significantly reinforced experimental efforts and accelerated materials research and development. However, a significant disparity exists between experimental observations and theoretical calculations, primarily because of the structural simplifications often employed in computational models to enhance feasibility. Bridging this gap is challenging, especially when dealing with large, complex systems such as nanoparticles and interfaces. This requires solutions that extend computational simulations to emulate actual systems. In this study, we propose a method that utilizes the moment tensor potential (MTP) combined with active learning techniques for highly reliable and large-scale simulations of alloy nanoparticle catalysts and reactive dynamics at electrode interfaces.
Dr. M. A. Mohammed Manaz
Department of Electrical Engineering, National Sun Yat-sen UniversitySpeech Title: Adaptive defense plan to optimize anticipated islanding of critical microgrids
Abstract: The escalating frequency and severity of natural disasters necessitates a fundamental reevaluation of operational strategies for critical microgrids serving essential facilities such as hospitals, emergency response centers, and security establishments. Traditional approaches to microgrid resilience – whether through preemptive islanding or responsive load shedding – are becoming increasingly cost-prohibitive and operationally risky. Preemptive islanding strategies, while protective, can trigger frequent false alarms that deplete valuable energy and fuel reserves. Conversely, responsive load-shedding approaches often result in significant operational disruptions due to inadequate preparedness for islanding events.
This talk introduces an innovative adaptive defense framework that bridges this operational gap through optimally balanced defensive strategies. Our approach leverages simulation-optimization techniques to capture the complex nonlinear dynamics during potential islanding transitions, enabling a defense plan that maintains operational economy while ensuring reliable islanding capability. The methodology's distinctive feature lies in its ability to dynamically adjust defensive measures based on real-time risk assessment, significantly reducing both operational costs and islanding transition-related disruptions.
The presentation will detail the mathematical formulation and solution methodology, with particular emphasis on the framework's application to inverter-dominated microgrids. We will explore the critical role of mode-transition-capable grid-forming (GFM) inverters and present a comprehensive analysis of current research developments in this domain. The discussion concludes by examining future research trajectories, including framework scalability for interconnected microgrid systems and its adaptation for emerging grid-edge technologies, with specific focus on enhancing resilience in critical infrastructure applications.
Prof. Adriana Greco
Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, ItalySpeech Title: Development of an Experimental Elastocaloric Heat Pump for Solid-State Cooling Applications
Abstract: This study presents the development of an experimental heat pump prototype based on the elastocaloric effect—a promising solid-state cooling mechanism that leverages the reversible thermal response of Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) under mechanical loading and unloading. Unlike conventional vapor-compression systems, elastocaloric cooling offers a potentially more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly alternative, as it eliminates the need for refrigerants with high Global Warming Potential. The research is part of the project SUSSTAINEBLE (a Solution Using Solid-STate cooling: An INvestment Eco-compatiBLE) funded by the Ministry of University and Research (MUR) of Italy. The aim of this research, carried out by the group of the University of Naples Federico II, is the developing of a demonstrative prototype of the first Italian elastocaloric device for air conditioning. Air is the auxiliary fluid that will be used to avoid an intermediate heat exchanger. The operation of the device based on the AeR cycle uses a rotary mechanism that ensures a continuous flow of hot and cold air. A 2D rotative numerical model has been developed through COMSOL to attain the device's potential cooling and heating capacities and to optimize the geometrical parameters and the operative conditions of the device. The experimental setup utilizes nickel-titanium (NiTi) alloy elements, selected for their significant latent heat and mechanical resilience. The results of numerical simulations carried out following the optimization of the geometric parameters of the device are presented to analyze its potential in terms of energy performance. This work contributes to the growing body of research on solid-state cooling technologies and provides insights into the engineering and operational considerations necessary for scaling elastocaloric systems toward commercial viability.
Dr. Hamid Maleki
Maleki Technologies, Inc., USASpeech Title: Intelligent Mine Designs for Controlled Subsidence and Seismicity in the United States Operations
Abstract: Intelligent mine designs that integrate ESG principals are becoming essential in shaping the future of mining. The global demand for energy and the pace of change mean that coal extraction is likely to persist in the next few decades. Longwall mining, with its relative safety and potential to control seismicity impacts on critical structures, will remain an essential component of energy production while the transition to clean energies is in progress. While this method can lead to controlled and predictable ground subsidence, it also induces seismic events as the overlying rigid strata fail and collapse into the void left (gob) behind. Interestingly, however, decades of U.S. experience shows that a well-designed longwall extraction is generally associated with a lower likelihood of producing moderately large seismic events—typically those exceeding a magnitude of 2.6—compared to other forms of underground mining, such as room-and-pillar techniques or other human related activities such as solution mining and oil and gas operations.
The key to harnessing these benefits lies in the design and engineering of the mine layout including panel orientation, panel width, and pillar designs. A carefully planned layout can influence the pattern and intensity of stress redistribution, guiding the energy release in ways that minimize risk to both personnel and critical surface structures, complying with environmental and social standards. Four mature United States case studies incorporating geotechnical modeling, and monitoring systems are described to show the importance of intelligent mine layout designs in controlling seismicity when mining under stiff stratigraphic units in the western United States coal and evaporate deposits. This makes it possible to anticipate and manage seismic activity effectively.
Prof. Assunta Borzacchiello
Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council, ItalySpeech Title: Nitinol as versatile materials for applications from biomedical to solid state refrigeration
Abstract: Nickel-titanium alloys commonly called as nitinol, a Shape Memory Alloy (SMA), is recognized as next generation alloy [1]. Nitinol is a family of titanium based intermetallic materials that contain nearly equal amount of nickel and titanium, has been widely employed in many applications such as biomedical, actuators, aerospace and automotive devices. In near-equiatomic NiTi alloys, shape memory effect and superelasticity are due to thermoelastic martensitic transformation from parent austenite phase with B2 structure to the monoclinic (M) or rhombohedral (R) martensitic phase transformation. The biocompatibility, and exquisite properties of nitinol SMA have gained a lot of popularity among these several combinations, and allow to obtain smart material with shape memory effect and superelastic properties. Due to the functional properties of nitinol SMAs, their biomedical application has proven to be more successful by increasing the possibility as well as the performance of minimally invasive surgeries. The combination of nickel-titanium SMA is highly biocompatible which makes them useful as orthopedic implants, surgical instruments, cardiovascular devices, and orthodontic devices. The reversible austenite-to-martensite solid state transition under stress that occurs in Nitinol is associated to a release of heat, and this phenomenon is widely investigated in literature for the application in solid-state cooling devices [2]. Elastocaloric cooling based on NiTi SMA exhibits excellent cooling capabilities. Due to the high specific latent heats activated by mechanical loading/unloading, large temperature changes can be generated in the material. The small required work input enables a high coefficient of performance. Solid-state cooling is an environmentally friendly, no global warming potential alternative to vapor compression-based systems.