Growing ecological standards force the implementation of solutions that will contribute to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to the atmosphere. This is particularly important in Poland, whose energy system is almost 80% based on coal. In the interest of low carbon development it is worth considering the optimization of existing old coal-based power plants. The main goal of the research was to present the benefits of modernization of existing boiler equipment and to analyze the combustion process of various types of coal sorts that have a significant impact on the optimization of the production processes of energy media. An analysis of the processes occurring in boiler devices during the combustion of fuel was carried out, which had a significant impact on the quality of generated heat and electricity. The conducted research defined technological solutions for boiler structures that have a significant impact on improving the efficiency of the technological process in heating plants and the characteristics of coal as energy fuel. Practical technical and modernization solutions have been proposed that contribute to the optimization of coal combustion processes, resulting in increased energy efficiency of the heating plant.

The paper deals with analyzing, modeling and simulation of motion of humanoid robot hand. At first, the human hand is introduced from the view of biology with focus on bones and joints. Particulars places of motion are replaced by corresponding mechanical joints. Subsequently the kinematic configuration of humanoid hand consisting of 24 degrees of freedom is designed. New method for inverse kinematic model is introduced using Matlab functions. Next, dynamic model of humanoid hand is introduced using model-based design by means of Matlab/SimMechanics. The result of the work is model in Matlab, which can control of particular fingers motion

This paper presents an analysis and the research results of system couplers in CAx systems that ensure the correct transfer of product data from the “supplier” system to the “recipient” system. This study presents the results of the compatibility tests between the systems based on the verification of geometric models and their attributes after importing/exporting 2D and 3D objects using neutral data exchange formats. The purpose of the research was to identify neutral formats that do not introduce errors after data transversion in certain types of geometry. Tests and analyses were carried out on selected formats depending on the type of object, such as 2D objects (DXF), solid objects (IGES, STEP, SAT, and PARASOLID), and surface objects (IGES, STEP, SAT, and X_T). One of the results of our research and analysis is the need for continuous development of CAD/CAE systems because current neutral formats are not 100% effective.

The study presents a practical application of multi-criteria standardization of machines and devices in the design of the automated production processes in industry 4.0 and its direct impact on the economic aspects of an enterprise, along with a comparison of the state before and after the implementation of the proposed changes. The solutions recommended in the article also fit into the assumptions of low-carbon development by implementing solutions that reduce energy consumption. The research carried out and presented in the text confirmed the effectiveness of the described solution. The study also presents examples confirming the correctness of implementing standardization, synergy and coherence in the design of production processes. Additionally, a new advanced eLean application was presented to support production processes in the field of Lean Management. The Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) module currently implemented in the industry is concerned with ensuring the maximum efficiency of machines and devices.

This paper discusses the problem of possibilities for applying a machine vision in the measurement of the trajectory of the upper limb movement in rehabilitation exercises. The fundamental presumption of designed system was to get the image from the camera’s CCD processor, possibilities of measuring and its processing. As a result of the application system, it is possible to dynamically determine the radius between the shoulder and forearm, and also the angle between the shoulder and the chest of the man, as function of the limb motion. The created system gives the possibility to use a non-invasive method of measurement, allows visualization and full analysis of the rehabilitation progress and also allows keeping electronic records of patients.