In this paper, the practical application of automatic control techniques is performed to enhance the performance of the isochronous speed regulator of hydraulic turbines, thus making the electrical power system more efficient. To achieve this, the dynamic model of the 2kVA small-scale power system is employed for controller tuning. This system encompasses a synchronous generator and a coupled DC motor, with the hydraulic turbine dynamics incorporated into a microcontroller that replicates the behavior of larger power plants. For this purpose, a fractional-order PID controller (FOPID) is developed, given that this controller offers two additional degrees of freedom for design purposes. Therefore, in the design of the FOPID controller, a methodology based on analytical values of gain and phase margin is used. Additionally, a classical PID controller is tuned using the pole placement method to match the performance of both controllers. The aim of the study is to assess the effectiveness of the proposed methodology through comprehensive computational simulations and practical experimental tests, considering variations in the reference value and load, and qualitative analysis through temporal and quantitative analysis, using performance indices. The results demonstrate that the proposed methodology outperforms other approaches and confirms its effectiveness and flexibility. Thus, this article significantly contributes to the field of power generation system control, highlighting the importance of experimental validation to ensure performance in real-world scenarios.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are transforming the transportation sector, driven by the rapid expansion of charging infrastructure, including fast-charging stations (FCSs), significantly reducing charging time compared to standard charging stations. Despite the advantages of faster charging, the substantial power demand of EVs poses significant technical challenges for distribution networks. In particular, the existing literature has a research gap regarding how FCSs may impact or interact with step-voltage regulators’ (SVRs) tap operations. In this study, we characterize and evaluate the effects of fast recharging at varying penetration levels (PLs) on SVRs’ tap operations using probabilistic simulations and sensitivity analysis. To address these challenges, we propose a local and innovative application of the Volt/Var control on EV fast charging. The proposed application aims to inject reactive power into the network, depending on the FCS’s nominal active power, when the bus voltage connected to the FCS exceeds a minimum value. Our research on an actual feeder in northern Brazil reveals that reducing the active power supplied to the vehicle or oversizing the charging station power converters is unnecessary. Furthermore, our strategy reduces the probability of undervoltage violations and minimizes SVR tap changes, mitigating EVs’ impact on voltage quality.

The retrofitting of legacy systems enables upgrades that extend the lifespan of outdated equipment, improve efficiency, and reduce environmental impacts. This manuscript builds on existing approaches to retrofitting legacy systems using Industry 4.0 technologies. Therefore, it explores how the proposed modernization envisions the transition from Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0, which emphasizes human-centric approaches, sustainability, and resilience. Tools such as RAMI 4.0 (a reference architecture model for Industry 4.0), Lean Six Sigma (a methodology for process improvement), and Big Data analytics are highlighted throughout the text as essential for optimizing processes and ensuring alignment with global challenges, including resource efficiency and environmental sustainability. This work addresses both conceptual and technical aspects of system modernization. It provides a comprehensive framework for retrofitting systems and integrating advanced technologies such as digital twins. These efforts ensure that industries are prepared for the evolving demands of Industry 4.0 and beyond.

Currently, there Is a growing demand for automated teller machine (ATM) in the cities. Due to the large concentration of banknotes, these devices have been targets of theft with the use of explosives. When this action occurs, generally, the ATM dyes the banknotes using a degradation agent in order to avoid the use of banknotes in the market and helps the police to identify criminals. In this article, we propose a dyed banknotes detection system using digital image processing tools. In the experiments performed to test images 72 and five systems, we found that the results are excellent with respect to detection error and the runtime.