Prof. Samir Ladaci | Control Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Samir Ladaci | Control Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Ecole Nationale Polytechnique Algiers | Algeria

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Early Academic Pursuits

S. Ladaci’s academic journey began with a deep engagement in the theoretical and mathematical foundations of control engineering, where he explored the emerging concept of fractional calculus and its application to adaptive control. His early scholarly focus combined rigorous mathematical analysis with practical engineering insights, aiming to extend traditional control theory into the fractional domain. This early period was characterized by an eagerness to investigate the unique properties of fractional-order systems—systems described by non-integer order differential equations—and their potential in achieving more robust and flexible control strategies. Through collaborations with fellow scholars such as A. Charef and J.J. Loiseau, he developed a foundational understanding of both the opportunities and the mathematical challenges in bridging fractional calculus with adaptive control techniques.

Professional Endeavors

Throughout his professional career, S. Ladaci has actively pursued research and publication in high-impact journals, contributing to the advancement of fractional-order control systems. He has collaborated extensively with a network of international researchers, including K. Rabah, Y. Bensafia, and M. Assabaa, which has allowed his work to maintain both theoretical depth and practical applicability. His research output spans various aspects of fractional adaptive control, from theoretical formulations to advanced simulation studies, making substantial contributions to engineering science and control theory. His professional endeavors also extend to exploring fuzzy systems, sliding mode control, and adaptive gain techniques, creating a multidimensional portfolio that bridges mathematical theory with engineering practice.

Contributions and Research Focus

S. Ladaci’s primary research focus lies in the integration of fractional calculus into adaptive control strategies, aiming to overcome limitations of conventional integer-order control systems. His notable contributions include developing fractional order adaptive high-gain controllers for linear systems, designing sliding mode control configurations for synchronizing disturbed fractional-order chaotic systems, and proposing robust adaptive control methods grounded in strictly positive realness conditions. These works not only expanded theoretical understanding but also provided practical frameworks for controlling complex and uncertain systems. Furthermore, his research into fuzzy adaptive control with Nussbaum gains addressed the challenges of unknown control gain signs in chaotic systems, reflecting his commitment to solving non-trivial, real-world engineering problems.

Accolades and Recognition

The impact of S. Ladaci’s research is evident in the consistent citation and recognition his work has received across multiple respected journals such as Nonlinear Dynamics, Communications in Nonlinear Science and Numerical Simulation, IEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica, and IET Control Theory & Applications. His papers are widely referenced within the control systems community, highlighting the relevance and applicability of his contributions. Recognition of his work has come not only from academia but also from engineering practitioners who seek robust and innovative control strategies. His collaborations with leading institutions and publication in internationally recognized platforms serve as a testament to the scholarly and applied value of his work.

Impact and Influence

S. Ladaci’s influence in the field of fractional adaptive control has been significant in shaping both the theoretical discourse and the applied engineering approaches to system control. His works have contributed to broadening the scope of adaptive control to include fractional-order dynamics, enabling engineers to design controllers that can handle a wider range of system uncertainties and disturbances. By addressing stability issues, robustness, and adaptive gain configurations, his research has provided solutions applicable to a variety of fields, from mechanical and electrical engineering to complex systems in science and technology. This influence is evident in the way his methodologies have been adopted, extended, and cited by other researchers working in nonlinear systems, chaos control, and adaptive algorithms.

Legacy and Future Contributions

The legacy of S. Ladaci’s work lies in his pioneering efforts to merge fractional calculus with adaptive control, thereby opening new avenues for research and application. His publications continue to serve as foundational references for scholars and engineers working on control strategies for complex and uncertain systems. Moving forward, his research trajectory suggests a growing emphasis on integrating intelligent control techniques—such as fuzzy logic and machine learning—with fractional-order systems to enhance adaptability and predictive capabilities. This blend of fractional calculus with modern computational intelligence tools positions his future work to have a lasting impact on the next generation of control technologies, offering solutions that are not only mathematically rigorous but also practically resilient.

Notable Publications

On fractional adaptive control

Authors: Ladaci, S.; Charef, A.
Journal: Nonlinear Dynamics
Year: 2006

Fractional order adaptive high-gain controllers for a class of linear systems

Authors: Ladaci, S.; Loiseau, J.J.; Charef, A.
Journal: Communications in Nonlinear Science and Numerical Simulation
Year: 2008

A fractional adaptive sliding mode control configuration for synchronizing disturbed fractional-order chaotic systems

Authors: Rabah, K.; Ladaci, S.
Journal: Circuits, Systems, and Signal Processing
Year: 2020

Robust fractional adaptive control based on the strictly positive realness condition

Authors: Ladaci, S.; Charef, A.; Loiseau, J.J.
Journal: Uniwersytet Zielonogórski
Year: 2009

Fuzzy adaptive control of fractional order chaotic systems with unknown control gain sign using a fractional order Nussbaum gain

Authors: Khettab, K.; Ladaci, S.; Bensafia, Y.
Journal: IEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica
Year: 2016

Conclusion

S. Ladaci’s academic and professional journey reflects a sustained commitment to advancing the field of control engineering through the innovative application of fractional calculus. From his early theoretical investigations to his influential publications in adaptive, sliding mode, and fuzzy control, he has consistently contributed to expanding the horizons of control theory and practice. His work has left a lasting mark on both scholarly literature and applied engineering, inspiring further research and fostering technological innovation. As the field evolves, his integration of fractional calculus with adaptive and intelligent control methods stands as both a legacy and a forward-looking pathway, ensuring his continued influence in the discipline.

Prof. Ning Yongquan | Materials Science and Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Ning Yongquan | Materials Science and Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Northwestern Polytechnical University, China

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Yongquan Ning’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in materials science and engineering, a discipline he would eventually come to master and significantly contribute to. Born on May 14, 1982, in the People’s Republic of China, Ning’s early academic promise was evident from his undergraduate years. He completed his Bachelor of Science in Materials Science and Engineering at Nanchang Hangkong University in 2005, a period during which he was already involved in hands-on research in composite materials. His undergraduate work, which explored the fabrication and thermophysical properties of SiCp/Al composites, showcased a keen interest in materials innovation and experimentation.

Driven by a thirst for deeper knowledge and technological contribution, Ning proceeded to Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU) in Xi’an, where he earned his Master’s degree in 2008 and subsequently a Ph.D. in 2010. His doctoral research delved into the high-temperature deformation behavior and recrystallization mechanisms of powder metallurgy (P/M) superalloys, under the mentorship of the distinguished Prof. Zekun Yao. His academic career further culminated in a postdoctoral fellowship at NPU in 2011, complemented by a year as a research associate at the prestigious Hong Kong Polytechnic University. These formative years solidified his expertise and prepared him for a lifelong contribution to materials engineering. 📘🧪

🏢 Professional Endeavors

Upon the completion of his postdoctoral training, Dr. Ning took on a faculty position at the School of Materials Science and Engineering at Northwestern Polytechnical University. From his base at NPU, he launched a range of research initiatives with significant academic and industrial relevance. Among his most enduring projects has been the study and optimization of structural-gradient materials (SGMs) used in dual-property turbine disks—an innovation pivotal to aerospace engineering.

His professional work has seamlessly blended academic inquiry with applied science. Ning has actively investigated the intricate relationships between gradient-temperature-heat-treatment parameters and their impact on the microstructure and mechanical properties of advanced alloys. His understanding of microstructure transitions, particularly the control of duplex grain regions, has enabled optimization efforts that significantly enhance the dual mechanical properties needed in high-performance turbine components.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Ning’s primary research focus has revolved around the development and refinement of high-performance superalloys and structural-gradient materials. His contributions to understanding microstructural evolution during thermomechanical processing, including isothermal forging and hot compression, have offered novel insights into recrystallization behaviors and grain refinement mechanisms.

His work with powder metallurgy FGH4096 superalloys between 2006 and 2010 established foundational knowledge about the internal relationships between flow behavior and initial microstructures in HIPed (Hot Isostatically Pressed) materials. Additionally, his investigations into IN718 and GH4133A superalloys under various deformation conditions have had a lasting impact on forging technologies and alloy design strategies. 🔧🧬

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Ning’s academic excellence has been recognized consistently throughout his educational and professional career. As a student, he was the recipient of the First-Class Scholarship from NPU for four consecutive years (2006–2009), reflecting his outstanding academic performance and research achievements. In 2008, his growing expertise was acknowledged with the Second-Class Special Scholarship from the China Air-to-Air Missile Research Institute—an endorsement of both his intellectual capacity and the practical significance of his research in national defense technology.

In 2010, he was further honored with the Second-Class Chongde Scholarship awarded by the School of Materials Science and Engineering, signifying high regard from his academic community. 🏆📜

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through his research and teaching, Dr. Ning has influenced both his peers and a new generation of materials scientists. His investigations into gradient microstructures have provided critical pathways for improving dual-property materials, which are now crucial in aerospace and energy sectors. His close collaboration with both academic and industrial institutions has helped translate complex metallurgical theory into real-world engineering applications.

Furthermore, his work has added to the global body of knowledge on powder metallurgy and thermomechanical processing, enhancing the scientific community’s ability to develop materials that are lighter, stronger, and more resilient under extreme conditions. His scientific outputs not only push the boundaries of materials performance but also contribute directly to technological competitiveness in sectors vital to national and global progress. 🌐🚀

🧭 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a scholar grounded in both theory and application, Dr. Yongquan Ning’s legacy lies in his methodical approach to solving some of the most pressing challenges in materials science. With a professional ethos rooted in curiosity, precision, and innovation, he is poised to continue contributing significantly to the development of high-performance materials for aerospace, defense, and energy systems.

Looking forward, Ning is expected to deepen his research in structural-gradient materials, possibly exploring additive manufacturing integrations and AI-driven materials design—fields that align with global trends in smart manufacturing and digital engineering. Through continued mentorship, publication, and cross-disciplinary collaboration, he stands to leave an enduring mark on both academic research and industry practices. 🔭📈

📝Notable Publications

Competition between dynamic recovery and recrystallization during hot deformation for TC18 titanium alloy

Authors: Y.Q. Ning, X. Luo, H.Q. Liang, H.Z. Guo, J.L. Zhang, K. Tan
Journal: Materials Science and Engineering: A, Vol. 635, pp. 77–85
Year: 2015

Dynamic softening behavior of TC18 titanium alloy during hot deformation

Authors: Y.Q. Ning, B.C. Xie, H.Q. Liang, H. Li, X.M. Yang, H.Z. Guo
Journal: Materials & Design, Vol. 71, pp. 68–77
Year: 2015

DDRX and CDRX of an as-cast nickel-based superalloy during hot compression at γ′ sub-/super-solvus temperatures

Authors: B. Xie, H. Yu, T. Sheng, Y. Xiong, Y. Ning, M.W. Fu
Journal: Journal of Alloys and Compounds, Vol. 803, pp. 16–29
Year: 2019

Mechanisms of DRX nucleation with grain boundary bulging and subgrain rotation during the hot working of nickel-based superalloys with columnar grains

Authors: B. Xie, B. Zhang, Y. Ning, M.W. Fu
Journal: Journal of Alloys and Compounds, Vol. 786, pp. 636–647
Year: 2019

Microstructure evolution and underlying mechanisms during the hot deformation of 718Plus superalloy

Authors: B. Xie, B. Zhang, H. Yu, H. Yang, Q. Liu, Y. Ning
Journal: Materials Science and Engineering: A, Vol. 784, Article 139334
Year: 2020