/library/oar/handle/123456789/929 2025-12-24T11:51:18Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/141785 Title: Design and implementation of an ontology-driven cyber–physical prosthesis service system for personalised and adaptive care Authors: Patiniott, Nicholas; Borg, Jonathan; Farrugia, Philip; Mercieca, Adrian; Gatt, Alfred; Casha, Owen Abstract: As prosthetic technologies become increasingly data-rich and embedded in care systems, traditional human-centred approaches often fall short of addressing evolving use realities. This paper contributes an applied computing framework that enables semantic reasoning and data-driven adaptation within prosthesis aftercare. We present an ontology-driven, cyber–physical prosthesis service system designed to enable personalised and adaptive care. Implemented through the Adaptive Prosthesis Life-Cycle Service System (adProLiSS) framework and demonstrated via a smart prosthesis prototype, the system treats the prosthesis as a semi-autonomous actor within an emotionally responsive and semantically mediated ecosystem. The proposed architecture integrates sensor data acquisition, ontology-based knowledge representation, and semantic reasoning to enable context-aware decision support and adaptive personalisation. A layered cyber–physical infrastructure, comprising embedded sensors, semantic reasoning, and user feedback through a digital twin interface, supports personalised aftercare, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and reflective design engagement. Evaluation with 26 participants across clinical, engineering, and user groups confirmed the system’s value in enhancing functionality, reducing downtime, and supporting emotional well-being. By positioning ontologies as both computational enablers and design support mechanisms, this research contributes a practical and scalable model for prosthetic service systems that adapt across bodily, emotional, and ecological dimensions, advancing more responsive and consequenceaware care practices. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/139744 Title: Multi-system and multi-fault evaluation towards generalisable fault monitoring for efficient pneumatic systems : a measurement-based approach Authors: Borg, Massimo; Refalo, Paul; Francalanza, Emmanuel Abstract: Pneumatic fault monitoring is crucial for improving the sustainable performance of compressed air systems. Research has focused on developing Fault Detection and Diagnosis (FDD) systems, leveraging measurements for fault monitoring. Pressure and cycle time are commonly logged in industrial setups and studies have investigated their potential for this application. However, research is often case-specific, limiting broader applicability. This study uses a measurement-based approach for development of generalisable pneumatic FDD systems, evaluating measurement aspects across three System Complexity Levels (SCLs) and seven Fault Profile Levels (FPLs). Findings highlight the robustness of delta pressure (ΔP1) measurements, especially under unregulated pressure, detecting and characterising continuous faults such as leaks or pressure drops. Statistical ranking using the Kruskal-Wallis method, resulted that the RMS, Mean, and Shape Factor indicators based on ΔP1, are reliable for fault monitoring across all SCLs. For instance, when monitoring a ∅ 0.5 mm leak, the RMS increased by 17.0 % and 19.4 % across two different setups, irrespective of a ≈sixfold difference in baseline flow rate. Cycle time measurements proved capable in detecting actuator faults and isolating them throughout all SCLs. Study findings also proved that this measurement could monitor continuous faults. A ∅ 1.0 mm pipe leak and 0.3 bar pressure drop were also identified through a 3.9 % and 4.6 % increase in actuator retraction time, respectively. Ultimately, this study found indicators: ΔP1 RMS, ΔP1 Mean, ΔP1 Shape Factor, and Mean Cycle Time, reliable in identifying and diagnosing faults across all SCLs and FPLs, having high potential for generalisable pneumatic FDD systems. 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/138928 Title: Usability of smart wearable for adult and paediatric neurological upper limb re/habilitation : perspectives of users and allied health professionals Authors: Borg Schembri, Sharon; Buhagiar, Nathalie; Bonello, Matthew; Farrugia, Philip Abstract: DigiClap device, is a 3D-printed smart wearable designed to enhance upper-limb function for individuals with motor disabilities, particularly those with cerebral palsy and similar conditions. DigiClap integrates motion sensors with gamified augmented reality exercises to improve user engagement and rehabilitation outcomes. A mixed-methods study, conducted at a Rehabilitation Centre in Cyprus, involved 20 participants and 2 allied health professionals. The findings highlighted high user motivation and engagement, with 55% of participants finding DigiClap easy to use and 90% appreciating its design. However, challenges were noted in its usability for individuals with severe impairments, indicating the need for personalized adjustments to the device. Allied health professionals found DigiClap efficient and beneficial but suggested improvements in haptics and game responsiveness. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/138922 Title: A comprehensive methodology to identify competence gaps in product and design engineering curricula Authors: Georgiev, Georgi V.; Soomro, Sohail Ahmed; Balzan, Emmanuel; Gauci, Maria Victoria; Buhagiar, Nathalie; Vella, Pierre; Tamburrino, Francesco; Neri, Paolo; Aruanno, Beatrice; Wodehouse, Andrew; Maclachlan, Ross; Hadjionisiforou, Onisiforos; Kuivila, Heli; Kitkala-Murto, Noora; Mikkonen, Kristina; Farrugia, Philip Abstract: This study investigates competence gaps in engineering education related to the development of wearable devices, specifically those used in rehabilitation. Using a qualitative research approach, we conducted focus groups with educators from three European countries as part of a three-stage methodology. Through thematic analysis, we identified five main themes: project methodology, prerequisites, course structure, opportunities/outcomes, and competence gaps. Our findings reveal significant deficiencies in specific technical skills, including practical application of industry-standard software, systems integration knowledge, and computational abilities. Additionally, we observed substantial gaps in interdisciplinary collaboration and interprofessional knowledge transfer capabilities among engineering students. These results highlight the disconnect between current engineering curricula and industry requirements, particularly in preparing students for the complex, multidisciplinary challenges of designing customisable wearable medical devices. This research provides valuable insights for curriculum development in product and design engineering education, emphasising the need for enhanced practical experience and cross-disciplinary collaboration opportunities. Ultimately, this research advocates for a paradigm shift in engineering education towards more inclusive and human centred approaches. By addressing competence gaps and fostering interprofessional collaboration, educational institutions can better prepare students to develop products that meet technical specifications and prioritise user experience and accessibility. 2025-09-01T00:00:00Z