A novel discrete zeroing neural network for online solving time-varying nonlinear optimization problems.

To reduce transportation time, a discrete zeroing neural network (DZNN) method is proposed to solve the shortest path planning problem with a single starting point and a single target point. The shortest path planning problem is reformulated as an optimization problem, and a discrete nonlinear function related to the energy function is established so that the lowest-energy state corresponds to the optimal path solution. Theoretical analyzes demonstrate that the discrete ZNN model (DZNNM) exhibits zero stability, effectiveness, and real-time performance in handling time-varying nonlinear optimization problems (TVNOPs). Simulations with various parameters confirm the efficiency and real-time performance of the developed DZNNM for TVNOPs, indicating its suitability and superiority for solving the shortest path planning problem in real time.

An advanced bionic knee joint mechanism with neural network controller.

In this article, a tensegrity-based knee mechanism is studied for developing a high-efficiency rehabilitation knee exoskeleton. Moreover, the kinematics and dynamics models of the knee mechanism are explored for bringing about further improvement in controller design. In addition, to estimate the performance of the bionic knee joint, based on the limit function of knee patella, the limit position functionality of the bionic knee joint is developed for enhancing the bionic property. Furthermore, to eliminate the noise item and other disturbances that are constantly generated in the rehabilitation process, a noise-tolerant zeroing neural network (NTZNN) algorithm is utilized to establish the controller. This indicates that the controller shows an anti-noise performance; hence, it is quite unique from other bionic knee mechanism controllers. Eventually, the anti-noise performance and the calculation of the precision of the NTZNN controller are verified through several simulation and contrast results.

Perventricular closure of a post-traumatic muscular ventricular septal defect guided by transesophageal echocardiogram.

Minimally invasive perventricular closure is emerging as an alternative to conventional open surgery in treating traumatic ventricular septal defects (VSDs). We report a case of successful perventricular closure of a post-traumatic muscular VSD in a patient who sustained blunt chest trauma in a motor vehicle accident. A larger Amplatzer muscular VSD occluder (16 mm in diameter) was used to close the VSD near the apex.