2026
Authors
Mahani, SF; Oliveira, BB; Patrício, L; Miguéis, V; Carravilla, MA; Oliveira, JF;
Publication
TRANSPORTATION
Abstract
Achieving sustainable urban mobility requires shifting travelers toward public transport. However, policies often assume uniform preferences, leaving a critical gap in understanding how different travelers prioritize mobility factors. To address this, the study examines behavioral heterogeneity among urban travelers using a data-driven clustering approach based on the relative importance assigned to cost, comfort, environmental sustainability, and flexibility. Using data from 698 respondents in the Asprela area of Porto, Portugal, a mixed-use district combining universities, hospitals, and commercial facilities, the study applies principal component analysis (PCA) and K-means clustering to derive distinct traveler profiles. Unlike segmentation based solely on socio-demographics or observed mode choice, this approach groups individuals according to their underlying value structures. Six clusters were identified, ranging from car-dependent, comfort-oriented users to environmentally conscious and low-engagement groups. The findings show that one-size-fits-all policies are unlikely to address behavioral diversity effectively. Building on these insights, the study proposes tailored and cross-cutting policies to enhance the attractiveness of public transport and promote sustainability. By uncovering latent preference structures, the study contributes to more inclusive and value-informed mobility planning.
2026
Authors
Antonios Parasyris; Vassiliki Metheniti; Noemi Fazzini; Fernando Cassola Marques; Marco Amaro Oliveira; Maria Luisa Quarta; Marco Folegani; Giorgos Kozyrakis; George Alexandrakis; Nikolaos Kampanis;
Publication
Abstract
2026
Authors
Carvalho, A; Miguéis, V; Sá, MME;
Publication
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PRODUCTION RESEARCH
Abstract
Quality performance in manufacturing has a direct influence on efficiency, generated waste, and costs. In collaboration with a textile manufacturer as a case study, this paper develops an automated defect detection system for a weaving process and evaluates its impact on operational performance. The system identifies defects immediately at their onset and prevents their propagation to subsequent fabric and production stages. A deep learning image classification model is developed, with six well-established network architectures being compared, leveraging a non-invasive image acquisition method that averts machinery disturbances for data collection. Based on the best-performing model, key indicators of operational performance are estimated using Markov Chain modelling, addressing a gap in linking model performance to operational impacts. Notable operational gains are demonstrated, namely a cost reduction of 1.3% and over 90% of waste reduction. A sensitivity analysis guides the definition of the image acquisition frame rate to minimise false alarms and shows that different operational indicators are impacted differently by different predictive performance metrics, affecting model selection. This research not only underscores the potential of integrating deep learning into textile production but also guarantees the effective communication of its impact to industry stakeholders, thus offering valuable practical insights to enhance operational performance.
2026
Authors
Prakash, P; Lopes, JP; Silva, BMA;
Publication
APPLIED ENERGY
Abstract
Reliable black start capability is a critical design requirement for offshore wind-hydrogen energy islands, directly influencing system availability, asset utilization, and the levelized cost of hydrogen production. This paper investi gates black start restoration strategies for autonomous offshore wind-to-hydrogen systems, focusing on the role of grid-forming converter technologies in enabling system recovery following total shutdown. A comparative analy sis of grid-forming battery storage and grid-forming wind turbine generation is conducted using electromagnetic transient simulations of a 300MW offshore wind farm coupled with a 240MW electrolyzer plant. Both technologies are evaluated within a combined soft and hard energization framework incorporating controlled voltage ramping, switchable reactive compensation, and sequential feeder energization. Battery-based grid-forming achieves faster voltage restoration and higher short-term overload capability, while wind turbine-based grid-forming provides superior frequency damping through higher virtual inertia. The combined energization strategy significantly re duces converter sizing requirements compared to pure soft energization, while switchable reactive compensation reduces reactive power burden by 94 percent during multi-feeder restoration. Strategic activation of electrolyzer auxiliary systems provides controllable load management that further attenuates frequency excursions during staged restoration. The findings provide practical design guidelines for black start technology selection in off shore wind-hydrogen systems, with direct implications for converter sizing, capital investment, and hydrogen production continuity.
2026
Authors
Dennis Beck; Doug Elmendorf; Leonel Morgado;
Publication
Journal of Online Learning Research
Abstract
2026
Authors
Girardi, R; Galdino, JF; Pellanda, PC; Ferreira, JJP;
Publication
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INNOVATION MANAGEMENT
Abstract
Innovation management encompasses a broad and complex organisational process that involves identifying and selecting new opportunities, implementing ideas, and capturing value from resulting innovations. The initial phase of this process, the Front End of Innovation (FEI), requires structured procedures to mitigate potential negative impacts across the innovation management chain. Research indicates that effective FEI activities correlate with improved innovation outcomes and a higher likelihood of successful innovation development. Despite its critical importance and the substantial technological demands of the military sector, the application of the FEI approach in defence contexts remains underexplored in academic literature, particularly within the unique circumstances of developing countries. This study employs the iterative design science research methodology to develop the InovaDefesa Ontology, a formal knowledge representation of the FEI phase, specifically tailored to address the challenges of the defence sector in developing economies. The artefact was evaluated through expert interviews, focus groups, and attribute agreement analysis. The proposed domain ontology offers a significant theoretical contribution by adapting and contextualising innovation management models within the military domain, thereby enhancing communication and coordination among stakeholders. On a practical level, it provides actionable insights and recommendations for public policies aimed at strengthening national innovation systems, building technological capacity, and fostering technological independence. These efforts are critical to achieving national sovereignty and advancing sustainable development in developing countries.
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