https://ms.copernicus.org/articles/ Recent articles of the journal Mechanical Sciences https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-657-2026 <b>A primary–secondary admittance control strategy for dual-Stewart platforms in confined-space aircraft component alignment</b><br> Huijun Yu, Jiahao Lin, Ruimin Tan, Kang Liu, and Pengyuan Zhao<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 657–670, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-657-2026, 2026<br> This study proposes a novel dual-robot system controlled by a primary–secondary strategy for accurately aligning large, flexible aircraft parts in tight spaces. The primary robot ensures precise positioning, while the secondary robot actively senses and cancels out harmful internal forces, preventing part deformation. Our simulated results show that this method achieves high alignment accuracy and reduces internal forces by over 90.03 %, offering a safe and efficient automated solution for aircraft assembly. 2026-06-02T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-645-2026 <b>Design and kinematic analysis of a Miura-oriented origami continuum space manipulator with deployable bending capability</b><br> Ruiwei Liu, Manjia Su, Jinhui Zhou, Mengyu Zhong, Kengyi Wang, Hongwei Guo, Chunlong Wang, and Haoyu Yang<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 645–656, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-645-2026, 2026<br> We developed an origami-inspired robotic gripper to solve the challenge of capturing irregular space debris. The design combines compact foldability for launch with controlled, flexible bending to adapt to different shapes. We built and tested a prototype, showing it can accurately position itself, securely wrap around various objects, and hold payloads reliably. These results confirm the gripper’s effectiveness, offering a promising new solution for safe space debris capture. 2026-05-29T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-615-2026 <b>Adaptive compliant milling control for switch rail edge deburring within an FDAFC-based robotic framework</b><br> Kang Xu, Quang Li, Jianyong Li, Wengang Fan, Zhiwei Wu, and Jiameng Liu<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 615–628, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-615-2026, 2026<br> Switch rails are essential to railway turnouts, but machining burrs can cause cracks, shorten service life, and affect safety. This study developed a robot-assisted milling method that adjusts tool motion and cutting force in real time along long, complex rail edges. Simulations and experiments showed reduced force fluctuations, improved force tracking, and good surface quality. The results support safer, more consistent, and automated switch rail deburring. 2026-05-27T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-629-2026 <b>Multi-objective structural optimization of submarine cable pallet based on Kriging-MOPSO</b><br> Yuze Wang, Lijie Zuo, Changfang Zou, Cong Li, Hongliang Zhang, Yi Luo, Yunfei Ding, Zechen Qian, and Yuhe Zou<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 629–644, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-629-2026, 2026<br> Although the optimal design of various marine equipment pieces has been widely studied, the optimization of an important device – the submarine cable tray – has long been neglected. To address this issue, this study specifically focused on the structural optimization design of large-scale (400 t class) submarine cable trays. 2026-05-27T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-593-2026 <b>Effect of surface roughness on erosion wear of turboshaft engine compressor blades</b><br> Dunyuan Luo, Guangfu Bin, Andrew Ball, Fengshou Gu, Haiyan Miao, Chao Li, Ahmed Hamood, and Wei Yuan<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 593–613, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-593-2026, 2026<br> Surface roughness has the greatest impact on the erosion wear of the rotor blade, followed by the stator blade, with the least on the guide blade. As surface roughness increases, the maximum wear rate rises and the concentrated erosion wear area expands, while its location does not shift significantly. The results can provide a basis for the erosion wear assessment of compressor blades at different service stages.   2026-05-26T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-575-2026 <b>Comparison of error modeling between inverse kinematics and product of exponentials methods for a 5-DOF hybrid perfusion manipulator</b><br> Hui Yang, Long Bai, Zhouxiang Jiang, Xiangyun Li, and Zhongjie Long<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 575–591, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-575-2026, 2026<br> The error model of the 5-degree-of-freedom hybrid perfusion manipulator established by the product of exponentials formula is more comprehensive and effective. Compared with the traditional inverse kinematic method, the mean pose errors of the moving platform after kinematic calibration based on the product of the exponentials method are reduced by 89.04 % and 63.79 %, respectively. The proposed modeling method is applicable to error modeling and analysis of most parallel mechanisms.  2026-05-26T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-557-2026 <b>Reliability-aware physics-guided enhancement for sparse-path Lamb-wave defect imaging</b><br> Peijiang Li and Ting You<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 557–573, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-557-2026, 2026<br> We studied how to locate damage in metal plates when only a few sensor measurements are available. Our method first combines the limited signals in a more reliable way and then sharpens the damage image with a guided learning step. Tests using laboratory measurements and supporting simulated data showed clearer images and more accurate locations. This could make structural inspection more reliable when data are scarce. 2026-05-22T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-545-2026 <b>Effect of engine torque fluctuations under different flight conditions on the torsional vibration response of helicopter power input chain</b><br> Hongli Yue, Chao Li, Guangfu Bin, Xianghuan Liu, Jian Li, Anhua Chen, and Qiang Li<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 545–555, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-545-2026, 2026<br> Helicopter engines often generate rapidly changing torque under different flight conditions, which can increase vibration in the transmission system and affect reliability. This study examines how these variations influence system behavior in typical scenarios. The results show that the rate of torque change, rather than its magnitude, plays a key role. Faster changes significantly amplify vibration in critical components, providing guidance for improving system safety and durability. 2026-05-20T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-525-2026 <b>Review article: Hadal-zone gearbox multi-physics lubrication dynamics: synergistic effects of hydrostatic pressure and thermal suppression</b><br> Yongmei Wang, Xigui Wang, Jiafu Ruan, Xi Chen, and Weiqiang Zou<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 525–544, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-525-2026, 2026<br> This study examines deep-sea gear lubrication challenges under extreme conditions, including high pressure, with a focus on EHL (elasto-hydrodynamic lubrication) theory and interface texturing advances. Critical gaps remain in multi-physics coupling and synergistic texture-coating interactions. The paper proposes a research roadmap integrating multi-scale modelling, surface engineering optimization, experimental validation, and industrial implementation to enable robust deep-sea transmission systems. 2026-05-12T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-511-2026 <b>Optimization of structural process parameters of rod stirring mill based on discrete element method</b><br> Zhaoguo Wang and Wenlong Chen<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 511–523, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-511-2026, 2026<br> The rod-type stirred mill is the core equipment used in the grinding of potassium feldspar. However, the grinding process involves numerous parameters that influence performance, along with various evaluation metrics and prolonged single-cycle durations – collectively making it difficult to identify optimal operating conditions. This study investigates the effects of rotational speed, grinding media size, and bar spacing on milling performance.  2026-05-11T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-495-2026 <b>Kinematic and dynamic modeling of a novel 4-degree-of-freedom parallel mechanism</b><br> Yuming Zhao, Haibing Feng, Huiyuan Chen, and Yanbing Xing<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 495–509, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-495-2026, 2026<br> This paper proposes a novel 4-degree-of-freedom parallel mechanism. Its degrees of freedom are verified by screw theory. Inverse position, velocity, and acceleration models are established. The position workspace is obtained, and singular configurations are identified. The stiffness index distribution in the workspace is visualized. The inverse dynamic model is derived using the Lagrangian method. Kinematic and dynamic simulations in Adams verify the correctness of the theoretical model. 2026-05-08T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-481-2026 <b>A variable stiffness omnidirectional chain based on positive-pressure fiber jamming</b><br> Shuai Zhang and Jiantao Yao<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 481–493, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-481-2026, 2026<br> This work presents a robotic chain that can smoothly shift from flexible to rigid using air pressure. We developed a new method that applies pressure to compact internal fibers, allowing the chain to become significantly stiffer than previous designs. Through theoretical modeling and physical testing, we demonstrated reliable and wide-ranging stiffness control. This advancement enables the creation of machines that are both safe for interaction and capable of performing demanding tasks. 2026-05-05T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-469-2026 <b>Cloud-based mapping of fragmented tobacco fields using multi-source remote sensing to support autonomous agricultural operations</b><br> Dongjie Zhao, Zheng Wang, Yabo Jin, and Shaoli Huang<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 469–480, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-469-2026, 2026<br> Farm robots currently struggle in scattered fields due to a lack of precise map data. To solve this, we created a system using satellite imagery and AI to automatically generate accurate field boundaries. Our tests showed 93 % accuracy across different regions. This technology serves as "digital eyes" for machinery, replacing slow manual inputs with automated data. It enables robots to navigate and harvest continuously in complex smallholder farms, unlocking the full potential of smart agriculture. 2026-04-17T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-453-2026 <b>A reconfigurable seven-link multi-mode external-fixation system for improving emergency limb fracture stabilization efficiency</b><br> Cuizhi Fei, Zongqi Jiao, Qiaoling Meng, Bangke Zhang, and Xuhua Lu<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 453–467, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-453-2026, 2026<br> The reconfigurable external fixation based on the seven-link mechanism has configurations in multiple dimensions, multiple postures, and multiple fracture scenarios, enabling rapid and stable fixation of fractures in the femur, tibia, elbow joint, knee joint, and ankle joint. It has been verified that this external fixation has stable structure and reliable fixation and significantly shortens the operation time and can be used for temporary fracture fixation in emergency medical scenarios. 2026-04-16T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-439-2026 <b>A multi-segment serial–parallel spatial closed-chain capture mechanism based on bionic principles</b><br> Xingqi Yin, Xuemin Sun, Zhihong Chen, Xianhong Zhang, Ruiming Li, and Yanan Yao<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 439–451, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-439-2026, 2026<br> This study addresses the challenges of capturing failed spacecraft and uncooperative space debris. Based on bionic principles, we propose a multi‑segment serial–parallel spatial closed‑chain capture mechanism, which can extend, envelop, and fix targets with high stability. Simulations and prototype tests demonstrate that the design increases capture range and flexibility, providing a feasible solution for space debris removal and failed satellite recovery. 2026-04-16T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-427-2026 <b>Multiphysics investigation of thermo-mechanical behavior and mechanisms in small-hole tapping of Ti6Al4V alloy</b><br> Wei Gao, Xinfu Liang, Lei Lin, Xiangkun Meng, Wenjing Zhang, Qi Gao, and Jiawei Zhang<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 427–437, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-427-2026, 2026<br> To create reliable tiny threads in tough titanium for aerospace parts, this research used advanced computer simulations. We found that friction generates most of the tool stress and intense localized heat, which explains rapid tool wear. These insights help design better tools and optimize machining settings, improving manufacturing efficiency and product durability for critical engineering applications. 2026-04-15T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-415-2026 <b>Research on milling performance of textured carbide milling cutter based on laser cladding principle</b><br> Shucai Yang, Zhe Ning, Xin Tong, and Shiwen Xing<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 415–425, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-415-2026, 2026<br> In this paper, an improved texture ball-end milling cutter test platform for titanium alloy milling is established by combining the prefabricated powder-feeding laser cladding process and laser micro-texture preparation technology. The milling performance of a cemented carbide texture ball-end milling cutter before and after coating treatment was studied. The results show that the coating can synergistically improve the surface wear resistance and cutting performance of the tool. 2026-04-14T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-397-2026 <b>Active disturbance rejection control of tractor cab suspension with a multi-state adjustable damper</b><br> Bin Chen, Wei Tao, ZhenYing Liang, Weiqi Chen, Bo Guo, and Yihan Huang<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 397–413, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-397-2026, 2026<br> This study improves tractor ride comfort by reducing vibrations that affect operators during field work. A new adjustable suspension system and control method were developed to respond to uneven terrain and engine motion in real time. Results show significant vibration reduction compared to existing methods. This approach can help reduce fatigue, improve safety, and enhance stability in agricultural machinery. 2026-04-14T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-381-2026 <b>Improved adaptive fuzzy sliding-mode control for seat suspension based on magnetorheological fluid (MRF) damper</b><br> Yabing Jing, Yongqin Liang, Teng Ma, and Xiuxiu Sun<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 381–396, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-381-2026, 2026<br> In a 5-degree-of-freedom human-seat suspension system, an improved adaptive fuzzy sliding-mode controller is developed for the simplified model, incorporating the dynamics model of the MRF (magnetorheological fluid) damper into the control framework. This controller successfully mitigates the "chatter" issue associated with sliding-mode control, and it achieves favorable control results for the semi-active seat suspension system by utilizing the output damping force of the MRF damper. 2026-04-13T19:05:42+02:00 https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-371-2026 <b>RIL-YOLO: a lightweight real-time object detection model on mobile devices for kart racing</b><br> Ang Sha, Fuen Xue, Yong Zhang, Xiaolin Zang, and Jinying Zhao<br> Mech. Sci., 17, 371–379, https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-17-371-2026, 2026<br> We present a faster and more efficient vision method for detecting objects in high-speed kart racing. We developed an approach to handle blurred images and limited computing power by simplifying the model, enhancing training with realistic motion effects, and carefully removing unnecessary components. Tests show that the method is more accurate, significantly smaller, and runs faster than existing solutions, making it suitable for real-time use on smartphones and other portable devices. 2026-04-09T19:05:42+02:00