Josenalde Barbosa Oliveira

Abstract
The gravitational search algorithm (GSA) is reviewed, by presenting a tutorial analysis of its key issues. As any other metaheuristic, GSA requires the selection of some heuristic parameters. One parameter which is crucial in regulating the exploratory capabilities of this algorithm is the gravitational constant. An analysis regarding this parameter selection is presented and a heuristic rule proposed for this purpose. The GSA performance is compared both with a hybridization with particle swarm optimization (PSO) and standard PSO. Preliminary simulation results are presented considering simple continuous functions optimization examples. © Springer International Publishing AG 2018.

Abstract

Abstract
This paper evaluates a robust Model Predictive Controller (MPC) based on Sliding Modes (SMPC) for the downstream level control in irrigation canal pools. Its features are compared with the conventional Generalized Predictive Controller (GPC), regarding set point tracking (water level) and output disturbances (offtake discharges). Simulation results suggest feasibility of applying SMPC for gate manipulation, with suitable command signals and robustness.

Abstract
Motivating undergraduate engineering students for the area of control engineering can be a challenging task. Posicast control can be used as a simple technique to introduce both open-loop and closed-loop control systems. This paper addresses several approaches to teach Posicast control involving simulation and practical implementations. A demonstration experiment using the robotic arm (UR5) is reported here as an alternative practical system which can be used to demonstrate Posicast Control. Results obtained from student's perceptions of the reported experiment are presented. © 2018 IEEE.

Abstract
This work presents the state-of-the-art of visual sensing systems for monitoring and control purposes in both agriculture and forest areas. Regarding agricultural activities, four main topics are explored: robotics and autonomous vehicles, plant protection, feature extraction and yield prediction. Although vast literature can be found on image processing and computer vision applied to agriculture, its applications in forest-based systems are less frequent. Throughout this article, several research areas such as diseases control, post-processing, parameters estimation, UAVs and satellites will be addressed. © 2018 IEEE.