Muhammad Punhal Sahto | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Punhal Sahto | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | NFC Institute of Engineering and Technology | Pakistan

Assist. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Punhal Sahto is a distinguished academic and researcher in Mechanical Engineering, currently serving as an Assistant Professor at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, NFC IET Multan, Pakistan (since June 2024). Previously, he worked at The University of Lahore as Assistant Professor (2015–2024) and Lecturer (2009–2015). Dr. Sahto earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (2017–2023), where he conducted advanced research on the Analysis and Performance of Static and Dynamic Characteristics of Aerostatic Bearings. He holds an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore (2007–2014), and a B.E. in Mechanical Engineering from Quaid-e-Awam University of Engineering, Science, and Technology, Nawabshah (2002–2006). His research interests encompass aerostatic and porous bearings, tribology, advanced materials, micro-electromechanical systems, and renewable energy integration. He has published extensively in high-impact journals such as IEEE Access, Micromachines, Results in Engineering, and MRS Energy & Sustainability, with multiple works under review in leading journals. His research skills include proficiency in AutoCAD, ANSYS Workbench, MATLAB, Origin, Microsoft Office, and LATEX, coupled with expertise in analytical modeling, experimental design, and numerical simulation. Dr. Sahto has served as a reviewer for international journals including IEEE Access and Micromachines, and actively contributes to the global research community. His awards and honors include the Academic and Research Achievement Award (2023) from UESTC, a University Scholarship (2017) for his Ph.D. studies, and recognition as a PEC-registered professional engineer (MECH/19629). Fluent in English, Sindhi, and Urdu, Dr. Sahto combines academic excellence, research innovation, and teaching expertise, contributing significantly to the advancement of precision engineering and sustainable technological solutions.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | LinkedIn | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

  1. Sahto, M. P., Wang, W., Imran, M., He, L., Li, H., & Weiwei, G. (2020). Modelling and simulation of aerostatic thrust bearings. IEEE Access, 8, 121299–121310. https://doi.org/10.1109/ACCESS.2020.2999748 Cited by: 25

  2. Sahto, M. P., Wang, W., Sanjrani, A. N., Hao, C., & Shah, S. A. (2021). Dynamic performance of partially orifice porous aerostatic thrust bearing. Micromachines, 12(8), 989. https://doi.org/10.3390/mi12080989 Cited by: 9

  3. Sahto, M. P., Wei, W., Jamil, M. F., Mehmood, A., Sattar, M., Raza, A., Rahman, M. U., & others. (2024). Integrating experimental and theoretical investigations of porous graphite materials with scanning electron microscope image processing. Results in Engineering, 24, 102893. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rineng.2024.102893 Cited by: 6

  4. Sanjrani, A. N., Huang, H. Z., Shah, S. A., Hussain, F., Punhal, M., Narejo, A., & Zhang, B. (2024). High-speed train wheel set bearing analysis: Practical approach to maintenance between end of life and useful life extension assessment. Results in Engineering, 25, 103696. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rineng.2024.103696 Cited by: 5

  5. Jamil, M. F., Sahto, M. P., & Mehmood, A. (2025). Comprehensive study on high-performance machining (HPM) of Inconel-718: A review. The International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, 1–33. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00170-025-16225-z Cited by: 3

Yonglin Tao | Mechanical design | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Yonglin Tao | Mechanical design | Best Researcher Award

Postgraduate at Zhejiang University, China

Taoyong Lin is an emerging researcher in the field of mechanical engineering, specializing in intelligent manufacturing, digital twin systems, and data-driven process optimization. With a strong foundation in both theoretical principles and hands-on applications, he has contributed to cutting-edge research in spatial metal tube bending, integrating deep learning models with multi-objective evolutionary algorithms. His work demonstrates a rare balance of computational intelligence and mechanical innovation, as evidenced by first-author publications in high-impact Q1 journals and successful implementation of industry-oriented systems. Beyond academic excellence, Taoyong has shown leadership through project management roles, software development, and mentoring. His ability to convert abstract models into practical tools—such as springback compensation systems and parametric design platforms—sets him apart as a future leader in digital manufacturing. He is also committed to community engagement, having participated in volunteer teaching and student leadership roles. Taoyong continues to pursue research that blends engineering insight with societal and industrial impact.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Taoyong Lin began his academic journey at Central South University, a prestigious Double First-Class institution under Project 985 and 211, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Design, Manufacturing and Automation (Mechatronics Engineering). He graduated in June 2023 with a weighted GPA. His coursework included over 30 subjects scoring above 90, such as Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Machine Vision, and Mechanical Control Engineering. He passed both CET-4 and CET-6 English proficiency tests and developed proficiency in reading technical literature and academic writing in English. Currently, he is pursuing a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at Zhejiang University. His graduate studies focus on intelligent optimization and digital manufacturing, allowing him to further integrate computational models with advanced mechanical systems, reinforcing his commitment to interdisciplinary research and academic excellence.

Professional Experience📝

Taoyong Lin has developed a well-rounded portfolio of research and professional experience focused on intelligent mechanical systems, digital twin platforms, and smart manufacturing. As the first author, he led the design and implementation of a sparse expert decomposition framework and X-MOEA algorithm for optimizing variable curvature tube bending, with a paper submitted to a top-tier journal (IF = 9.4). He also co-authored an LSTM-based axial prediction model for spatial bending, applying advanced tuning techniques like AWPSO. As a core developer, he contributed to a provincial-level project building a digital twin system for tube component bending, including UI design and subsystem development in MATLAB and SolidWorks. His innovation has led to one granted utility patent and one invention patent under review. Additionally, he has held leadership roles in national innovation programs, developed temperature-controlled dispersion devices, and led multiple university-level design and modeling projects. His experience bridges academic research with practical, real-world engineering solutions.

Research Interest🔎

Taoyong Lin’s research interests lie at the intersection of intelligent manufacturing, mechanical system optimization, and computational intelligence. He focuses on combining deep learning models (such as LSTM and CNN) with multi-objective evolutionary algorithms to enhance precision and efficiency in metal tube bending processes. His work seeks to solve real-world manufacturing challenges—such as springback compensation, curvature prediction, and process parameter tuning—through data-driven, interpretable models. In addition, he has a strong interest in digital twin systems, aiming to create real-time, virtual replicas of complex forming systems that enable simulation, optimization, and process control. His recent projects also explore frequency-domain analysis, neuroevolution, and process simulation, allowing him to develop intelligent frameworks for highly nonlinear mechanical operations. Taoyong is committed to advancing the digital transformation of mechanical engineering by integrating mechanical design with artificial intelligence, thereby contributing to smart factory initiatives, human-machine collaboration, and sustainable manufacturing technologies.

Award and Honor🏆

Taoyong Lin has received multiple prestigious awards and honors recognizing both his academic excellence and innovative capabilities. At Central South University, he was twice named an Excellent Student and received the Huang Qianheng Foundation Scholarship for outstanding academic performance. He earned Second-Class Scholarships for two consecutive years and was honored as an Excellent Graduate upon completing his bachelor’s degree. His innovation was also recognized through top placements in national and university-level competitions. He won the 2nd Prize in the Mechanical Design Competition during CSU’s “Xuanji Tech Festival” and received the S Award in the Mathematical Contest in Modeling (MCM). Additional accolades include the 3rd Prize in CSU’s Mathematical Modeling Contest and an Excellence Award in the “Huashu Cup” National College Mathematical Modeling Competition. These awards reflect his strong academic foundation, creative problem-solving ability, and leadership in research and innovation at both institutional and national levels.

Research Skill🔬

Taoyong Lin possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that span multiple domains of engineering, computation, and experimental design. His technical proficiency includes advanced deep learning techniques (LSTM, CNN using PyTorch), intelligent optimization algorithms (PSO, MOEA/D, NSGA-III), and finite element analysis using Abaqus. He is highly skilled in 3D modeling and CAD software such as SolidWorks and AutoCAD, and in simulation tools like Simulink. Taoyong is proficient in multiple programming languages, including Python, C++, MATLAB, and C#, enabling him to design custom neural networks, develop GUIs, and run computational simulations. His practical engineering abilities are complemented by experience with hardware development platforms like Arduino, STM32, and PLC systems. Additionally, he is fluent in academic writing using LaTeX, and skilled in data analysis tools such as Origin, Pandas, and SciPy. This diverse skillset empowers him to tackle interdisciplinary challenges and deliver innovative, high-impact research outcomes.

Conclusion💡

Taoyong Lin is a highly suitable and promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award, especially in the context of early-career researchers or master’s-level recognition.

He showcases:

  • Technical excellence,

  • Original contributions,

  • Innovation-driven mindset, and

  • A well-rounded portfolio of leadership, social responsibility, and academic rigor.

Publication Top Noted✍️

  • Title: Spatial Spiral Tube Multi-Roller Bending: Accurate Axial Prediction Utilizing AWPSO-FECAM-LSTM Framework

  • Authors:

    Zili Wang, Yonglin Tao, Shuyou Zhang, Xiaojian Liu, Yaochen Lin, Liangyou Li, Jianrong Tan, Zheyi Li

  • Journal: Expert Systems with Applications

  • Publisher: Elsevier

  • Publication Type: Journal Article

  • Publication Date: January 16, 2026

  • Volume/Issue: [Not specified]

  • DOI: 10.1016/j.eswa.2025.128960

  • ISSN: 0957-4174

  • Indexed In: SCI (Q1 Journal), Elsevier

  • Primary Focus: Axial prediction in multi-roller bending using a hybrid model combining Adaptive Weight PSO (AWPSO), Frequency-Enhanced Channel Attention Mechanism (FECAM), and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) neural networks.

 

Petru Berce | Additive Manufacturing | Excellence in Research

Prof. Dr. Petru Berce | Additive Manufacturing | Excellence in Research

Researcher at Tecnical University of Cluj Napoca, Romania

Professor Petru Berce is a highly distinguished Romanian researcher and academic with a prolific career spanning over five decades in the field of industrial engineering and manufacturing technologies. Currently a professor and PhD supervisor at the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, he has significantly advanced rapid prototyping and additive manufacturing. He has published over 150 scientific papers, including 47 ISI-indexed articles, authored 12 scientific books, and holds six patents. His leadership includes roles such as Dean, Vice-Rector, and Director of numerous nationally and internationally funded research projects. Recognized both nationally and internationally, he has received prestigious awards including the Romanian Academy Prize and gold medals at the Geneva Salon of Inventions. His work has directly contributed to innovation in medical implant manufacturing and advanced production systems. With his remarkable scholarly output, mentorship, and global collaborations, Professor Berce is a highly suitable candidate for the Excellence in Research Award.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Professor Petru Berce’s educational journey reflects a lifelong commitment to academic excellence and scientific advancement. He began his academic career at the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, where he progressed through various academic positions—from Teaching Assistant (1972–1978), to Lecturer (1978–1990), Associate Professor (1990–1992), and ultimately Full Professor from 1992 to the present. In 1997, he became an accredited PhD supervisor in Industrial Engineering, guiding over 25 doctoral theses to completion. His educational leadership extended to key administrative roles, including Head of Department, Dean of the Faculty of Machine Building (2004–2012), and Vice-Rector responsible for research and international relations (1996–2004). Professor Berce has been instrumental in shaping engineering education and research policy at both institutional and national levels. His extensive involvement in curriculum development, academic publishing, and international cooperation reflects his dedication to enhancing the quality and global relevance of higher education in Romania and beyond.

Professional Experience📝

Professor Petru Berce possesses an extensive professional background in industrial engineering, with over five decades of academic and research experience. He has served as a Professor at the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca since 1992, following roles as Associate Professor, Lecturer, and Teaching Assistant. His leadership includes serving as Dean of the Faculty of Machine Building (2004–2012), Vice-Rector for research and international relations (1996–2004), and Head of the TCM Department. He has been a PhD supervisor since 1997, overseeing more than 25 doctoral theses. Internationally recognized for his work in rapid prototyping and innovative manufacturing technologies, Professor Berce has led numerous national and international research projects, securing significant funding from programs such as TEMPUS, FP6, and Horizon 2020. His influence extends through editorial roles, scientific committee memberships, and recognition by prestigious institutions worldwide. His professional contributions have substantially advanced research, education, and innovation in the field of manufacturing engineering.

Research Interest🔎

Professor Petru Berce’s research interests are centered around advanced manufacturing technologies, with a particular focus on rapid prototyping, additive manufacturing, and their medical and industrial applications. His work explores innovative processes such as Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Selective Laser Melting (SLM), and ultrasonic grinding, contributing significantly to the development of customized medical implants and high-performance components. Professor Berce is also deeply engaged in the integration of CAD/CAM systems and the optimization of manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, precision, and sustainability. His interdisciplinary research spans industrial engineering, materials science, and biomedical engineering, reflected in over 150 scientific publications, 47 ISI-indexed articles, and several patents. He has led major national and international research initiatives, including EU-funded projects and technology transfer programs. His scholarly output and practical innovations have positioned him as a leading figure in the field, with a strong commitment to advancing next-generation manufacturing technologies and their real-world applications.

Award and Honor🏆

Professor Petru Berce has received numerous prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to research, education, and innovation in industrial engineering. Nationally, he was awarded the Romanian Academy Prize (1991), the Excellence Prize from the Ministry of Education and Research (2000), and the AGIR (General Association of Engineers from Romania) Prize. Internationally, he has earned three gold medals at the Geneva International Salon of Inventions. His academic distinction is highlighted by honorary doctorates (Dr. H.C.) from multiple universities, including the Technical University of Kosice, the University of Oradea, and Dunărea de Jos University of Galați. He has also been named Honorary Professor at institutions such as Miskolc University and Transilvania University of Brașov. Additionally, Professor Berce is a Corresponding Member of the Romanian Academy of Technical Sciences and has played key roles in scientific committees and editorial boards, further amplifying his global recognition and influence.

Research Skill🔬

Professor Petru Berce possesses exceptional research skills that span across advanced manufacturing technologies, particularly in rapid prototyping, additive manufacturing, and innovative industrial engineering methods. His expertise is reflected in his leadership of numerous nationally and internationally funded research projects, where he has demonstrated a strong capability in project coordination, interdisciplinary collaboration, and technology transfer. Professor Berce has successfully directed significant grants, such as the creation of research platforms and innovation networks focused on the “Factory of the Future” and biocompatible materials for medical applications. His technical proficiency includes the development of ultrasonic grinding technologies and composite materials, with several patented inventions to his name. Furthermore, his research output includes over 150 scientific publications, including 47 ISI-indexed articles and 12 scientific books, showcasing his ability to conduct and disseminate high-impact research. His analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and mentorship as a PhD supervisor have made him a cornerstone in Romania’s industrial engineering research landscape.

Conclusion💡

Prof. Petru Berce is highly suitable for the Excellence in Research Award. His career exemplifies a blend of scholarly excellence, technological innovation, academic mentorship, and institutional leadership. The scope of his impact—ranging from foundational research to real-world manufacturing applications—reflects the award’s core values. Any minor improvements are peripheral and do not detract from his overall eligibility.

Publications Top Noted✍️

  • T Marcu, M Todea, I Gligor, P Berce, C Popa (2012)
    “Effect of surface conditioning on the flowability of Ti6Al7Nb powder for selective laser melting applications”
    Applied Surface Science 258 (7), 3276-3282
    Citations: 79

  • O Lucaciu, O Soriţău, D Gheban, DR Ciuca, O Virtic, A Vulpoi, N Dirzu, … (2015)
    “Dental follicle stem cells in bone regeneration on titanium implants”
    BMC Biotechnology 15, 1-18
    Citations: 72

  • IC Brie, O Soritau, N Dirzu, C Berce, A Vulpoi, C Popa, M Todea, S Simon, … (2014)
    “Comparative in vitro study regarding the biocompatibility of titanium-base composites infiltrated with hydroxyapatite or silicatitanate”
    Journal of Biological Engineering 8, 1-19
    Citations: 53

  • D Leordean, C Dudescu, T Marcu, P Berce, N Balc (2015)
    “Customized implants with specific properties, made by selective laser melting”
    Rapid Prototyping Journal 21 (1), 98-104
    Citations: 52

  • M Todea, E Vanea, S Bran, P Berce, S Simon (2013)
    “XPS analysis of aluminosilicate microspheres bioactivity tested in vitro”
    Applied Surface Science 270, 777-783
    Citations: 52

  • A Ilea, A Butnaru, SA Sfrângeu, M Hedeşiu, CM Dudescu, P Berce, … (2014)
    “Role of mastoid pneumatization in temporal bone fractures”
    American Journal of Neuroradiology 35 (7), 1398-1404
    Citations: 44

  • T Marcu, M Todea, L Maines, D Leordean, P Berce, C Popa (2012)
    “Metallurgical and mechanical characterisation of titanium based materials for endosseous applications obtained by selective laser melting”
    Powder Metallurgy 55 (4), 309-314
    Citations: 41

  • P Berce, N Bâlc, M Ancău, S Comşa, H Jidav, C Caizar, H Chezan (2000)
    “Fabricarea rapidă a prototipurilor”
    Editura Tehnică, Bucureşti
    Citations: 41

  • P Berce, NO Bâlc, RI Păcurar (2014)
    “Tehnologii de fabricaţie prin adăugarea de material şi aplicaţiile lor”
    Editura Academiei Romane
    Citations: 40

  • P Bere, P Berce, O Nemes (2012)
    “Phenomenological fracture model for biaxial fibre reinforced composites”
    Composites Part B: Engineering 43 (5), 2237-2243
    Citations: 37

  • P Berce, H Chezan, N Balc (2005)
    “The application of rapid prototyping technologies for manufacturing the custom implants”
    ESAFORM Conference, 679-682
    Citations: 35

  • M Todea, A Vulpoi, C Popa, P Berce, S Simon (2019)
    “Effect of different surface treatments on bioactivity of porous titanium implants”
    Journal of Materials Science & Technology 35 (3), 418-426
    Citations: 34

  • D Leordean, SA Radu, D Frățilă, P Berce (2015)
    “Studies on design of customized orthopedic endoprostheses of titanium alloy manufactured by SLM”
    The International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology 79, 905-920
    Citations: 31

  • A Rus, VD Leordean, P Berce (2017)
    “Silver Nanoparticles (AgNP) impregnated filters in drinking water disinfection”
    MATEC Web of Conferences 137, 07007
    Citations: 30