Haifeng Zhai | Mechanical Engineering | Editorial Board Member

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Dr. Haifeng Zhai | Mechanical Engineering
| Editorial Board Member

Dalian University of Technology | China

Dr. Haifeng Zhai the research focuses on advancing the fundamental and applied understanding of the mechanical behavior of metallic materials, with emphasis on fatigue life prediction, microstructural evolution, and deformation mechanisms under complex loading conditions. The work integrates experimental investigations with high-fidelity computational modeling approaches—including crystal plasticity finite element modeling (CPFEM) and phase-field (PF) simulations—to uncover the interactions between microstructure, defects, and loading history in determining fatigue performance. Significant contributions include developing predictive frameworks for fatigue life in additive-manufactured alloys by examining the role of defects, anisotropy, and overload effects on crack initiation and propagation. The research further establishes rapid fatigue prediction methodologies using phase-field models to capture microstructural evolution under varied laser scanning strategies, enabling improved process–structure–property relationships. Systematic experimental and simulation studies on 316L stainless steel under multiple overload conditions have provided new insights into cyclic deformation behavior and damage evolution pathways. Active involvement in national research projects has supported the formulation of new computational–experimental strategies for modeling fatigue mechanisms with enhanced accuracy and efficiency. Overall, the research advances the scientific understanding of fatigue behavior in engineered materials and contributes to the development of predictive tools essential for structural reliability, durability assessment, and materials design.

 Profile: Orcid 

Featured Publications

Zhai, H., Wang, Y., & Yang, Y. (2025). Rapid prediction of overload fatigue life based on phase-field modeling of microstructures under different scanning strategies. Additive Manufacturing, 104, 104771. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.addma.2025.104771

Jiang, W., Wu, H., Zhai, H., Wang, Y., Li, D., & Dong, C. (2025). The influence of microstructural features on the fracture performance of specimens fabricated by SLM. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part C: Journal of Mechanical Engineering Science. https://doi.org/10.1177/09544062251336549

Zhai, H., Jiang, W., Wang, Y., Yang, Y., & Lv, H. (2025). Experimental and simulation study on the microstructural evolution and fatigue life of 316L stainless steel under different periodic overload conditions. Engineering Failure Analysis, 109, 109475. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.engfailanal.2025.109475

Wei Xu | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Wei Xu | Mechanical Engineering
| Best Researcher Award

Dr. Wei Xu | China North Artificial Intelligence & Innovation Research Institute | China

Dr. Wei Xu is a Research Professor at the China North Artificial Intelligence & Innovation Research Institute, specializing in legged robotics and bio-inspired systems. With a Ph.D. in Mechanical Electronics Engineering, he has established himself as a leading expert in advanced robotic design and control. His research focuses on developing high-mobility robotic platforms that combine innovative mechanical systems with sophisticated control algorithms, enabling efficient navigation in complex and unstructured environments. Xu Wei has significantly contributed to advancing robotics through pioneering work on gait planning, system integration, and intelligent locomotion. His extensive publications, patents, and leadership in collaborative projects highlight his influence in shaping robotics innovation, making him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

Scopus

Suitability for the Best Researcher Award

Dr. Wei Xu demonstrates exceptional suitability for the Best Researcher Award through his innovative contributions to legged robotics, bio-inspired systems, and intelligent locomotion control. His work bridges theoretical advances with practical applications, enabling robotic systems to navigate challenging environments with precision and reliability. Xu Wei’s leadership in national-level research initiatives, prolific publication record, and extensive intellectual property portfolio reflect his scientific excellence and ability to drive innovation. His active collaboration with prestigious institutions further underscores his status as a respected thought leader in robotics. He embodies the qualities sought in a Best Researcher Award recipient: innovation, impact, leadership, and a vision for advancing technology to solve real-world challenges.

Education 

Dr. Wei Xu holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Electronics Engineering, with a strong academic foundation in robotics, automation, and control systems. His education emphasized a deep understanding of mechatronic system design, advanced control strategies, and bio-inspired engineering principles, laying the groundwork for his pioneering contributions to robotics. Throughout his studies, he developed expertise in dynamic locomotion, system modeling, and the integration of intelligent algorithms for robotic platforms. His academic training combined theoretical knowledge with extensive practical research, equipping him to tackle complex engineering challenges. This rigorous background has enabled him to excel as a research leader, focusing on innovative robotic systems that bridge cutting-edge mechanical design and artificial intelligence-driven control, shaping the future of intelligent machines and autonomous mobility solutions.

Work Experience 

Dr. Wei Xu has extensive experience in robotics research, leading high-level projects and contributing to groundbreaking advancements in bio-inspired robotic systems. As a Research Professor, he has successfully guided research teams, coordinated interdisciplinary collaborations, and overseen the development of innovative robotic technologies. His work emphasizes dynamic locomotion, adaptive control, and advanced system integration, contributing to practical applications in exploration, logistics, and rescue operations. Xu Wei has played a central role in major research programs, driving innovation through project leadership and strategic technical expertise. His experience extends to organizing international conferences, fostering knowledge exchange, and promoting collaboration among leading institutions. His contributions to robotics research and development demonstrate a rare combination of academic excellence, technical leadership, and visionary problem-solving.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Wei Xu academic excellence and innovative contributions have been recognized through leadership roles, patents, and impactful publications. He has been entrusted with key responsibilities in high-level research programs, reflecting his expertise and reputation in robotics research. His role as Workshop Session Chair at an esteemed international robotics conference highlights his influence in the field and ability to advance scholarly discourse. Xu Wei’s patented innovations and published works demonstrate sustained excellence and creativity, earning him recognition among peers. His involvement in leading interdisciplinary collaborations with top institutions underscores his status as a trusted expert in robotics innovation. These achievements collectively illustrate his leadership, dedication, and outstanding research contributions, making him a distinguished figure deserving of professional accolades.

Research Focus 

Dr. Wei Xu research centers on legged robotics, bio-inspired locomotion, and intelligent control systems. He explores innovative mechanical designs combined with advanced nonlinear control strategies to achieve robust robotic mobility in unstructured and challenging terrains. His work emphasizes adaptive gait planning, energy-efficient movement, and integrated systems that enhance autonomy and versatility in robotic platforms. Xu Wei is dedicated to bridging theoretical research with real-world application, focusing on developing high-performance robots capable of exploration, disaster response, and autonomous navigation. His research integrates engineering principles, artificial intelligence, and biomimicry, pushing the boundaries of mobility and system intelligence. This interdisciplinary approach has made him a leader in advancing robotics innovation, influencing both academic research and practical technology deployment.

Publication Top Notes

  • Wheeled-legged robots for multi-terrain locomotion in plateau environments
    Year: 2025

  • Optimization of the Four-Link Transmission Mechanism of the Knee Joint of a Quadruped Robot Based on the Strut Structure
    Year: 2025

Conclusion

Xu Wei is a visionary researcher whose pioneering work in legged robotics and bio-inspired locomotion demonstrates scientific depth and practical impact. His leadership in national projects, numerous patents, and strong academic track record make him highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. With focused efforts on increasing international visibility and strengthening industry collaborations, he has the potential to become a globally renowned authority in robotics and intelligent systems. His exceptional research contributions, innovative solutions, and dedication to advancing the field firmly position him as an outstanding candidate for this recognition.

Harun YANAR | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Harun YANAR | Mechanical Engineering
|Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr at  Karadeniz Technical University, Turkey.

 

Dr. Harun Yanar is an Assistant Professor at Karadeniz Technical University, Department of Mechanical Engineering. Specializing in materials science and tribology, he holds a Ph.D. (2020) in Mechanical Engineering. Dr. Yanar is the founder of UTS Scientific Instruments Co., connecting academia with industrial innovation. His research explores severe plastic deformation (SPD) techniques, ultrafine-grained and nanostructured materials, tribology, and superplasticity. He has authored over 20 SCI-indexed journal articles and led several national research projects funded by TUBITAK. With an h-index of 13 in both WoS and Scopus, he significantly contributes to advanced materials engineering. Dr. Yanar also actively mentors graduate students and serves as a reviewer for leading international journals, advancing research and practical solutions in material performance and durability.

🌍 Professional Profile:

Google scholar

Scopus

Orcid

🏆 Suitability for the Best Researcher Award

 

Dr. Harun Yanar is exceptionally suited for the Best Researcher Award due to his pioneering contributions in materials science and mechanical engineering. His expertise in severe plastic deformation techniques, tribological system design, and microstructural property optimization demonstrates scientific excellence and innovation. His prolific research output, with over 20 publications in top SCI-indexed journals and an h-index of 13, reflects high academic impact. Additionally, his leadership in TUBITAK-funded research projects, mentorship of graduate students, and commitment to bridging research and industry through UTS Scientific Instruments Co. highlight his outstanding versatility. Dr. Yanar’s work on superplasticity, wear behavior, and performance enhancement of engineering materials addresses critical industrial challenges, making him a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition.

🎓 Education 

Dr. Harun Yanar’s educational journey is rooted in mechanical engineering and materials science. He completed his undergraduate and master’s studies with distinction before earning his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering in 2020 from Karadeniz Technical University. His doctoral research focused on severe plastic deformation (SPD) techniques and their impact on mechanical properties, setting the stage for his future contributions to advanced material design. Dr. Yanar’s education is marked by a strong foundation in mechanical behavior analysis, metallurgy, and tribology. His rigorous academic training provided the skills necessary for cutting-edge research in microstructural evolution, superplasticity, and high-performance engineering materials. His educational achievements have consistently aligned with international standards, preparing him for academic leadership and technological innovation.

🏢 Work Experience 

Dr. Harun Yanar brings extensive academic and industrial experience to his field. As an Assistant Professor at Karadeniz Technical University, he has spearheaded multiple national research projects, mentored graduate students, and designed tribological testing systems. His industrial engagement is evident through his role as founder of UTS Scientific Instruments Co., where he facilitates technology transfer from research to practical applications. Dr. Yanar’s research experience spans severe plastic deformation processes, ultrafine-grained material development, and tribological behavior optimization. His dual role in academia and industry provides him with a comprehensive perspective on material performance challenges. Furthermore, his editorial contributions as a peer reviewer for high-impact journals reinforce his commitment to maintaining scientific rigor and promoting the advancement of materials engineering.

🏅 Awards and Honors 

Dr. Harun Yanar’s dedication to research excellence has been recognized through various accolades. While specific awards were not detailed, he has been acknowledged through his leadership roles in TUBITAK-funded projects and significant national research grants. His outstanding publication record, with over 20 SCI-indexed journal papers and a robust citation profile (h-index of 13 in both WoS and Scopus), reflects his recognized contributions to materials science and mechanical engineering. Dr. Yanar’s expertise in tribology, SPD techniques, and superplasticity has earned him respect within the academic and industrial communities. His successful bridging of theoretical research and practical innovation further exemplifies his impact. Future recognitions and nominations, such as the Best Researcher Award, continue to affirm his leadership in engineering research.

🔬 Research Focus 

Dr. Harun Yanar’s research focus centers on the development of advanced materials through severe plastic deformation (SPD) techniques, tribological system design, and microstructure-property optimization. He investigates friction, wear, and lubrication behaviors, particularly under extreme operating conditions, and the mechanical enhancement of ultrafine-grained and nanostructured materials. His studies extend to exploring superplasticity at lower temperatures and higher strain rates, which has significant implications for manufacturing and aerospace applications. Dr. Yanar also specializes in the development and testing of high-performance brake lining materials and surface modification processes. His work bridges the fundamental understanding of materials science with industrial applications, offering practical solutions to challenges in durability, performance, and reliability of mechanical systems.

📊 Publication Top Notes:

  • Harun Yanar, Abdulkadir Coskun (2025). Influence of multi directional forging-induced grain refinement and subsequent aging on tribological performance of Cu-Ni-Si-Cr Alloys in Electrical Contact Sliding Conditions. Wear, In Press.

  • Muhammet Demirtas, Harun Yanar, Muhammet Uzun, Melih Ustalar, Zhenjun Zhang, Renjie Dai, Jiewen Jin, Gencaga Purcek (2025). Effect of Severe Plastic Deformation and Aging States on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of 2024 Aluminum Alloy. Advanced Engineering Materials, 2402728.

  • Hao Wang, ZhenJun Zhang, BaiShan Gong, XiangHai Zhou, Rui Liu, Hamid Reza Abedi, Gencaga Purcek, Harun Yanar, Muhammet Demirtas, ZheFeng Zhang (2024). High-Cycle-Fatigue Anisotropy of an Aluminum Alloy Superthick Plate. Advanced Engineering Materials, 26, 2400007.

  • Hao Wang, Z.J. Zhang, J.P. Hou, B.S. Gong, H.Z. Liu, H.R. Abedi, G. Purcek, H. Yanar, M. Demirtas, Z.F. Zhang (2024). Fatigue crack propagation anisotropy of an Al–Zn–Mg–Cu super-thick plate. International Journal of Fatigue, 187, 108468.

  • M. Demirtas, K.V. Ivanov, G. Purcek, H. Yanar, Y. Kaynak (2024). Surface Modification of Additively Manufactured Inconel 718 Alloy by Low-Energy High-Current Electron Beam Irradiation. Advanced Engineering Materials, 26, 2400633.

  • B. Gong, Z. Zhang, J. Hou, R. Liu, Q. Duan, H. Wang, X. Wang, H. Liu, H. Wang, G. Purcek, M. Demirtas, H. Yanar, Z. Zhang (2024). Effects of aging state on the low-cycle fatigue properties of 2024 aluminum alloy. Journal of Materials Research and Technology, 29, 2448–2457.

  • M. Demirtas, K.V. Ivanov, G. Purcek, H. Yanar (2022). Enhancing mechanical and tribological properties of Ni₃Al–15 vol% TiC composite by high current pulsed electron beam irradiation. Journal of Alloys and Compounds, 898, 162860.

  • H. Yanar, G. Purcek, M. Demirtaş, H.H. Ayar (2022). Effect of Hexagonal Boron Nitride (h-BN) Addition on Friction Behavior of Low-Steel Composite Brake Pad Material for Railway Applications. Tribology International, 165, 107274.

  • G. Purcek, H. Yanar, M. Demirtaş, D.V. Shangina, N.R. Bochvar, S.V. Dobatkin (2020). Microstructural, mechanical and tribological properties of ultrafine-grained Cu–Cr–Zr alloy processed by high pressure torsion. Journal of Alloys and Compounds, 816, 152675.

  • H. Yanar, H.H. Ayar, M. Demirtaş, G. Purcek (2020). Effect of resin content on tribological behaviour of brake pad composite material. Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, 72(2), 195–2002.