1. Modeling of tensile test results for low alloy steels by linear regression and genetic programming taking into account the non-metallic inclusionsMiha Kovačič, Uroš Župerl, 2022, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Štore Steel Ltd. is one of the biggest flat spring steel producers in Europe. The main
motive for this study was to study the influences of non-metallic inclusions on mechanical properties
obtained by tensile testing. From January 2016 to December 2021, all available tensile strength data
(472 cases–472 test pieces) of 17 low alloy steel grades, which were ordered and used by the final
user in rolled condition, were gathered. Based on the geometry of rolled bars, selected chemical
composition, and average size of worst fields non-metallic inclusions (sulfur, silicate, aluminium
and globular oxides), determined based on ASTM E45, several models for tensile strength, yield
strength, percentage elongation, and percentage reduction area were obtained using linear regression
and genetic programming. Based on modeling results in the period from January 2022 to April 2022,
five successively cast batches of 30MnVS6 were produced with a statistically significant reduction
of content of silicon (t-test, p < 0.05). The content of silicate type of inclusions, yield, and tensile
strength also changed statistically significantly (t-test, p < 0.05). The average yield and tensile strength
increased from 458.5 MPa to 525.4 MPa and from 672.7 MPa to 754.0 MPa, respectively. It is necessary
to emphasize that there were no statistically significant changes in other monitored parameters. Ključne besede: mechanical properties, tensile test, tensile strength, yield strength, percentage elongation, percentage reduction area, low alloy steel, modeling, linear regression, genetic programming, industrial study, steel making, optimization Objavljeno v DKUM: 24.03.2025; Ogledov: 0; Prenosov: 2
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2. Cost optimization of reinforced concrete section according to flexural crackingPrimož Jelušič, 2022, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: A series of distributed flexural cracks develop in reinforced concrete flexural elements
under the working load. The control of cracking in reinforced concrete is an important issue that
must be considered in the design of reinforced concrete structures. Crack width and spacing are
influenced by several factors, including the steel percentage, its distribution in the concrete crosssection, the concrete cover, and the concrete properties. In practice, however, a compromise must
be made between cracking, durability, and ease of construction and cost. This study presents the
optimal design of a reinforced concrete cross-section, using the optimization method of mixed-integer
nonlinear programming (MINLP) and the Eurocode standard. The MINLP optimization model
OPTCON was developed for this purpose. The model contains the objective function of the material
cost considering the crack width requirements. The crack width requirements can be satisfied by
direct calculation or by limiting the bar spacing. Due to the different crack width requirements, two
different economic designs of reinforced concrete sections were proposed. The case study presented
in this study demonstrates the value of the presented optimization approach. A direct comparison
between different methods for modelling cracking in reinforced concrete cross-sections, which has
not been done before, is also presented. Ključne besede: crack width, cost optimization, optimal design, mixed-integer non-linear programming Objavljeno v DKUM: 13.03.2025; Ogledov: 0; Prenosov: 1
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3. Optimal design and competitive spans of timber floor joists based on multi-parametric MINLP optimizationPrimož Jelušič, Stojan Kravanja, 2022, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: This study investigates the optimization of the design of timber floor joists, taking into
account the self-manufacturing costs and the discrete sizes of the structure. This non-linear and
discrete class of optimization problem was solved with the multi-parametric mixed-integer non-linear
programming (MINLP). An MINLP optimization model was developed. In the model, an accurate
objective function of the material and labor costs of the structure was subjected to design, strength,
vibration and deflection (in)equality constraints, defined according to Eurocode regulations. The
optimal design of timber floor joists was investigated for different floor systems, different materials
(sawn wood and glulam), different load sharing systems, different vertical imposed loads, different
spans, and different alternatives of discrete cross-sections. For the above parameters, 380 individual
MINLP optimizations were performed. Based on the results obtained, a recommended optimal
design for timber floor joists was developed. Engineers can select from the recommendations the
optimal design system for a given imposed load and span of the structure. Economically suitable
spans for timber floor joists structures were found. The current knowledge of competitive spans for
timber floor joists is extended based on cost optimization and Eurocode standards. Ključne besede: structural optimization, cost optimization, discrete optimization, mixed-integer nonlinear programming, MINLP, timber floor joists Objavljeno v DKUM: 12.03.2025; Ogledov: 0; Prenosov: 1
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4. The MINLP approach to topology, shape and discrete sizing optimization of trussesSimon Šilih, Zdravko Kravanja, Stojan Kravanja, 2022, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: The paper presents the Mixed-Integer Non-linear Programming (MINLP) approach to the
synthesis of trusses. The solution of continuous/discrete non-convex and non-linear optimization
problems is discussed with respect to the simultaneous topology, shape and discrete sizing optimization of trusses. A truss MINLP superstructure of different topology and design alternatives
has been generated, and a special MINLP model formulation for trusses has been developed. In the
optimization model, a mass objective function of the structure has been defined and subjected to
design, load and dimensioning constraints. The MINLP problems are solved using the Modified
Outer-Approximation/Equality-Relaxation (OA/ER) algorithm. Multi-level MINLP strategies are introduced to accelerate the convergence of the algorithm. The Modified Two-Phase and the Sequential
Two-Phase MINLP strategies are proposed in order to solve highly combinatorial topology, shape
and discrete sizing optimization problems. The importance of local buckling constraints on topology
optimization is also discussed. Some simple numerical examples are shown at the end of the paper to
demonstrate the suitability and efficiency of the proposed method. Ključne besede: structural synthesis, topology optimization, discrete sizing optimization, mixed-integer non-linear programming, MINLP, modified OA/ER algorithm, multi-level MINLP strategies, steel structures, trusses Objavljeno v DKUM: 11.03.2025; Ogledov: 0; Prenosov: 3
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5. Multi-objective scenario optimization of the food supply chain – Slovenian case studyJan Drofenik, Bojan Pahor, Zdravko Kravanja, Zorka Novak-Pintarič, 2023, izvirni znanstveni članek Ključne besede: self-sufficiency, food supply chain, multi-objective optimization, mixed integer linear programming, sustainable development Objavljeno v DKUM: 14.02.2025; Ogledov: 0; Prenosov: 4
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6. Valorization of biomass through anaerobic digestion and hydrothermal carbonization : integrated process flowsheet and supply chain network optimizationSanja Potrč, Aleksandra Petrovič, Jafaru Musa Egieya, Lidija Čuček, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Utilization of biomass through anaerobic digestion and hydrothermal carbonization is crucial to maximize resource efficiency. At the same time, supply chain integration ensures sustainable feedstock management and minimizes environmental and logistical impacts, enabling a holistic approach to a circular bioeconomy. This study presents an integrated approach to simultaneously optimize the biomass supply chain network and process flowsheet, which includes anaerobic digestion, cogeneration, and hydrothermal carbonization. A three-layer supply chain network superstructure was hence developed to integrate the optimization of process variables with supply chain features such as transportation modes, feedstock supply, plant location, and demand location. A mixed-integer nonlinear programming model aimed at maximizing the economic performance of the system was formulated and applied to a case study of selected regions in Slovenia. The results show a great potential for the utilization of organic biomass with an annual after tax profit of 23.13 million USD per year, with the production of 245.70 GWh/yr of electricity, 298.83 GWh/yr of heat, and 185.08 kt/yr of hydrochar. The optimal configuration of the supply chain network, including the selection of supply zones, plant locations and demand locations, transportation links, and mode of transportation is presented, along with the optimal process variables within the plant. Ključne besede: anaerobic digestion, hydrothermal carbonization, supply chain optimization, process flowsheet optimization, mathematical programming Objavljeno v DKUM: 07.02.2025; Ogledov: 0; Prenosov: 7
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7. Development of Methodology for Estimation of Energy-Efficient Building Renovation Using Application of MINLP-Optimized Timber–Glass Upgrade ModulesMaja Lešnik Nedelko, Stojan Kravanja, Miroslav Premrov, Vesna Žegarac Leskovar, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: Vertical addition to already-existing structures is an approach to energy-efficient building renovation. It presents an opportunity for the densification of built-up areas and the construction of new usable spaces. While many studies have dealt with the subject of renovating buildings with a focus on energy efficiency, far fewer studies have specifically examined the potential of vertically extending existing buildings, an approach which could be introduced in new sustainable building policies. The objective of this study is to redevelop optimal timber–glass upgrade modules, considering the ideal proportions of glazing for all cardinal directions, by using discrete Mixed-Integer Non-Linear Programming optimization. The novelty of the suggested method resides in the synchronous optimization of the upgrade modules’ daylighting and energy-efficiency performance, resulting in the creation of optimization methods that can determine the optimal glazing proportions for all cardinal directions and incorporate rational design and window measurement. The impact of the developed Mixed-Integer Non-Linear Programming-optimized upgrade modules is compared to previously designed optimized upgrade modules. Finally, a methodology for estimating the energy efficiency of building renovations incorporating vertical additions using the timber–glass upgrade modules was developed, supporting the quick assessment of the reduction in hybrid buildings’ energy consumption for heating and cooling according to boundary conditions, presuming that they undergo the suggested renovations. The findings are applicable (not exclusively) to Slovenia’s residential building stock, which makes up around 20% of the country’s current housing stock and was mainly constructed between 1946 and 1970. This offers a substantial opportunity to improve the overall sustainability and energy efficiency of the country’s housing stock. The proposed approach offers a holistic solution to drive sustainable development in the built environment by incorporating all three pillars of sustainability (environmental, social, and economic). Ključne besede: energy efficient building renovation, energy efficiency, building vertical addition, timber–glass upgrade modules, mixed-integer non-linear programming, MINLP, optimization, visual comfort, energy sustainability Objavljeno v DKUM: 16.01.2025; Ogledov: 0; Prenosov: 5
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8. Optimization of billet cooling after continuous casting using genetic programming—industrial studyMiha Kovačič, Aljaž Zupanc, Robert Vertnik, Uroš Župerl, 2024, izvirni znanstveni članek Opis: ŠTORE STEEL Ltd. is one of the three steel plants in Slovenia. Continuous cast 180 mm × 180 mm billets can undergo cooling to room temperature using a turnover cooling bed. They can also be cooled down under hoods or heat treated to reduce residual stresses. Additional operations of heat treatment from 36 h up to 72 h and cooling of the billets for 24 h, with limited capacities (with only two heat treatment furnaces and only six hoods), drastically influence productivity. Accordingly, the casting must be carefully planned (i.e., the main thing is casting in sequences), while the internal quality of the billets (i.e., the occurrence of inner defects) may be compromised. Also, the stock of billets can increase dramatically. As a result, it was necessary to consider the abandoning of cooling under hoods and heat treatment of billets. Based on the collected scrap data after ultrasonic examination of rolled bars, linear regression and genetic programming were used for prediction of the occurrence of inner defects. Based on modeling results, cooling under hoods and heat treatment of billets were abandoned at the casting of several steel grades. Accordingly, the casting sequences increased, and the stock of billets decreased drastically while the internal quality of the rolled bars remained the same. Ključne besede: billet cooling, continuous casting, ultrasonic testing, logistic regression, genetic programming, industrial study, steel making, optimization Objavljeno v DKUM: 25.11.2024; Ogledov: 0; Prenosov: 9
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9. Application of Virtual Reality in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering : magistrsko deloMaj Virant, 2024, magistrsko delo Opis: The aim of the Master’s thesis was to evaluate the current and potential applications of virtual reality technology in chemistry and chemical engineering, as well as to evaluate the use of virtual reality for educational purposes. First, we made an overview of the numerous applications of the virtual reality technology with a specific focus on its current use in the chemistry and chemical engineering fields, including research and educational environments as well as industrial applications. It was found that the use of virtual reality technology is growing in all areas, with training, remote collaboration, and interactive learning being the most prominent fields.
To assess the effectiveness of virtual reality as an educational tool, we performed a study with second year students of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering programs at the Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Maribor. Students were divided into two groups, one undertaking a training on the proper use of fume hoods in virtual reality and the other group performing the same training in a real chemical laboratory. Students from both groups took a knowledge evaluation test and a personal experience survey after the training. The test results have shown that virtual reality can be just as effective or potentially even more effective than conventional training in the chemical laboratory. The average score of the virtual reality group was 2.5% higher than that of the group performing conventional training in a chemical laboratory, although we did not confirm a statistically significant difference between the scores.
We also prepared a personal experience survey to evaluate the students’ personal experience and interest in using virtual reality as an educational tool. It was observed that there is a lot of enthusiasm from the students for the use of virtual reality technology and that the group performing the training in virtual reality reported a significantly better subjective experience scores, and due to fewer reported distractions remained more focused on the training content compared to the group that underwent the training in a real chemical laboratory.
The results of the Master’s thesis suggest that virtual reality presents an effective alternative to traditional live training methods. Future research should be conducted with larger groups focusing especially on the long-term retention of the acquired knowledge and on the application in real-world scenarios, such as laboratory exercises, device training, and safety procedures training, to fully reveal the potential of virtual reality for educational purposes. Ključne besede: virtual reality technology, Meta Quest, correct use of fume hoods in virtual reality, correct use of fume hoods in a chemical laboratory, R programming language Objavljeno v DKUM: 20.11.2024; Ogledov: 0; Prenosov: 0 |
10. Low Code Programming with APEX : How to and Practical Cases2024 Opis: This textbook introduces Oracle Application Express (APEX), a low-code platform for building data-driven web applications. It aims to equip readers with the skills to fully utilize APEX for real-world business challenges. Part I covers the basics of APEX in twelve chapters, including environment setup, database preparation, navigation, data exchange, application creation, report and form management, and team collaboration. Part II presents twelve business cases that provide a comprehensive understanding of application development from a business, data, and user interface perspective. Each case includes business views, problem definitions, use cases, data models, and application interfaces. The textbook is designed for approximately 75 hours of study and is suitable for both experienced developers and beginners. It includes additional material such as exported applications, scripts, data and video tutorials to enhance learning. Ključne besede: low-code programming, application development, web applications, Oracle APEX, practical examples Objavljeno v DKUM: 01.10.2024; Ogledov: 0; Prenosov: 10
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