Peer Review History
| Original SubmissionFebruary 26, 2025 |
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Dear Dr. Wang, Thank you for submitting your manuscript to PLOS ONE. After careful consideration, we feel that it has merit but does not fully meet PLOS ONE’s publication criteria as it currently stands. Therefore, we invite you to submit a revised version of the manuscript that addresses the points raised during the review process. Please submit your revised manuscript by Apr 27 2025 11:59PM. If you will need more time than this to complete your revisions, please reply to this message or contact the journal office at plosone@plos.org . When you're ready to submit your revision, log on to https://www.editorialmanager.com/pone/ and select the 'Submissions Needing Revision' folder to locate your manuscript file.
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We will only publish funding information present in the Funding Statement section of the online submission form. Please remove any funding-related text from the manuscript and let us know how you would like to update your Funding Statement. Currently, your Funding Statement reads as follows: “The work was financially supported by the Baoding Science and Technology Plan Project (2394Z001).” Please include your amended statements within your cover letter; we will change the online submission form on your behalf. 5. When completing the data availability statement of the submission form, you indicated that you will make your data available on acceptance. We strongly recommend all authors decide on a data sharing plan before acceptance, as the process can be lengthy and hold up publication timelines. Please note that, though access restrictions are acceptable now, your entire data will need to be made freely accessible if your manuscript is accepted for publication. This policy applies to all data except where public deposition would breach compliance with the protocol approved by your research ethics board. If you are unable to adhere to our open data policy, please kindly revise your statement to explain your reasoning and we will seek the editor's input on an exemption. Please be assured that, once you have provided your new statement, the assessment of your exemption will not hold up the peer review process. Additional Editor Comments: The paper describes a comprehensive approach to Optimization of Monocrystalline Silicon Photovoltaic Module Assembly Lines via Digital Twin Technology. However, due to major deficiencies, it is required that the authors revise their work according to the comments of the reviewers. [Note: HTML markup is below. Please do not edit.] Reviewers' comments: Reviewer's Responses to Questions Comments to the Author 1. Is the manuscript technically sound, and do the data support the conclusions? Reviewer #1: Yes Reviewer #2: Partly Reviewer #3: No ********** 2. Has the statistical analysis been performed appropriately and rigorously? -->?> Reviewer #1: Yes Reviewer #2: Yes Reviewer #3: Yes ********** 3. Have the authors made all data underlying the findings in their manuscript fully available??> The PLOS Data policy Reviewer #1: Yes Reviewer #2: Yes Reviewer #3: No ********** 4. Is the manuscript presented in an intelligible fashion and written in standard English??> Reviewer #1: Yes Reviewer #2: Yes Reviewer #3: No ********** Reviewer #1: This paper focuses on optimizing the assembly production line of monocrystalline silicon photovoltaic modules using Plant Simulation software. The paper is well-structured and presents promising results. To further enhance the manuscript, the following suggestions are offered: 1. The Abstract could benefit from a clearer emphasis on the practical significance of this research. Highlighting the engineering context and potential real-world applications would help readers better understand the value of the proposed method. 2. While the authors have provided a thorough review of current research, it would be beneficial to more explicitly summarize the existing research gaps before introducing the contributions and novelty of this work. Additionally, expanding the discussion to include emerging trends in machine learning and signal processing—particularly in industrial applications—could strengthen the manuscript. For example, exploring connections to recent advancements in areas such as digital twin methodology for vibration-based monitoring and prediction of gear wear, digital twin-driven intelligent assessment of gear surface degradation, digital twin enabled domain adversarial graph networks for bearing fault diagnosis, and neuro-fuzzy system-guided cross-modal zero-sample diagnostic framework using multi-source heterogeneous non-contact sensing data could provide valuable context and demonstrate the broader relevance of this research. 3. The resolution of the figures in the manuscript could be improved to ensure clarity and enhance the overall presentation of the results. 4. There are occasional grammatical errors throughout the manuscript. A thorough proofreading to address these issues would improve the readability and professionalism of the paper. 5. Including a section on potential future research directions at the end of the Conclusion would provide a forward-looking perspective and inspire further exploration in this field. Reviewer #2: First I would start with the revision of the title - in my opinion it is not a comprehensive approach but simulation-based approach. I could not see the verification of the simulation data in real production and comparing the results - it could form the input for another publication if not included here. Introduction sounds OK to me. I think that it would be very beneficial that after Introduction authors explain methods and tools - how did you conclude to use the Plant Simulation software (there are other tools), how did you select methodology (manual observation and measuring?) - maybe there was no alternative etc. You mention some Python libraries and language used to program in Plant Simulation (SimTalk) - would be good to include these in the methods and tools section in 2.1 Purpose and process Fig. 2 shows the process and after the figure the process is described in a list that although is very logical, here has no or little reference in the diagram above, would be good to link them better for example by numbering boxes or marking them and then refer to them in the description - could add clarity. Currently it comes out of nowhere just after the figure 2 2.3 Title should start from capital "S" 3.1 Check referencing - should is be Figure 3 instead of 2? 3.2 Think of better explanation of indices - maybe in a form of bullet points? Currently it is hard to follow. While we focus on station IV and simulating its shorter processing times - was it tested in production if this can be achieved - I was unable to find a straightforward answer on how the results were verified? You can state the at this time we only have simulation data and results will be verified separately? If I missed this verification (if it is somewhere in the article) - means it could be stated clearer as any reader can miss it. Check table formatting - maybe my pdf viewer distorted it but Tables 3-5 were a bit scattered 4 I would enhance conclusion and add next steps or further research recommendation Reviewer #3: Title: Optimization of Monocrystalline Silicon Photovoltaic Module Assembly Lines via Digital Twin Technology: A Comprehensive Approach General Comments The manuscript proposes using Plant Simulation software to model and optimize a monocrystalline silicon PV module assembly line. While the topic aligns with current trends in smart manufacturing, the study suffers from critical flaws in originality, methodological rigor, technical depth, and adherence to journal guidelines. The incremental improvements (5–6% efficiency gains) are neither statistically validated nor contextualized within broader industrial relevance. Below are detailed concerns justifying rejection. Major Issues 1. Lack of Novelty and Originality a- The application of digital twin technology in manufacturing is well-established. The manuscript fails to differentiate its approach from prior studies (e.g., [1, 6, 10]) or justify how this work advances the field. b- The optimization strategy (reducing IV test station processing time) is simplistic and lacks innovation. Similar bottleneck analyses are commonplace in production line studies. 2. Methodological Weaknesses a- Data Collection: Reliance on stopwatch timing for equipment processing times introduces significant observer bias. No mention of inter-rater reliability or calibration procedures. b- Entity Mapping: Table 2 oversimplifies equipment modeling (e.g., all machines mapped to “Processor” in Plant Simulation), ignoring functional differences between welding machines, laminators, and testers. This undermines model accuracy. c- Validation: The manuscript claims a “1:1 scale 3D model” but provides no evidence of validation against real-world post-optimization data. Without comparing simulated results to actual production metrics, the model’s reliability is unproven. 3. Superficial Technical Analysis a- Bottleneck Identification: The formula for identifying bottlenecks is referenced but not explicitly defined, rendering the analysis non-reproducible. b- Statistical Rigor: Results (e.g., 6% output increase) lack statistical significance testing, confidence intervals, or error margins. Tables 3–5 present raw data without contextualizing variability or uncertainty. 4. Insufficient Discussion a- The study ignores critical factors such as energy consumption, worker fatigue, or maintenance downtime, which are pivotal in real-world production environments. b- No cost-benefit analysis to substantiate claims of “economic benefits” or “sustainable process development.” c- References: Multiple citations are irrelevant or misaligned (e.g., [6] discusses precast concrete slabs; [7] focuses on sugarcane juice clarification). d- The manuscript heavily emphasizes the use of "digital twin technology" but fails to demonstrate its implementation in any meaningful way. This represents a significant misrepresentation of the methodology and invalidates the core premise of the study. Recommendation Reject the manuscript on grounds of terminological misrepresentation and methodological inadequacy. The authors must either: 1-Remove all references to "digital twin" and reframe the work as a simulation study, or 2-Redesign the methodology to incorporate true digital twin components (real-time data integration, IoT connectivity, bidirectional feedback) and validate it against live production systems. ********** what does this mean? ). If published, this will include your full peer review and any attached files. If you choose “no”, your identity will remain anonymous but your review may still be made public. Do you want your identity to be public for this peer review? For information about this choice, including consent withdrawal, please see our Privacy Policy Reviewer #1: No Reviewer #2: Yes: Dr Krzysztof Kupilas Reviewer #3: No ********** [NOTE: If reviewer comments were submitted as an attachment file, they will be attached to this email and accessible via the submission site. Please log into your account, locate the manuscript record, and check for the action link "View Attachments". If this link does not appear, there are no attachment files.] While revising your submission, please upload your figure files to the Preflight Analysis and Conversion Engine (PACE) digital diagnostic tool, https://pacev2.apexcovantage.com/ . PACE helps ensure that figures meet PLOS requirements. To use PACE, you must first register as a user. Registration is free. Then, login and navigate to the UPLOAD tab, where you will find detailed instructions on how to use the tool. If you encounter any issues or have any questions when using PACE, please email PLOS at figures@plos.org . Please note that Supporting Information files do not need this step. |
| Revision 1 |
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Optimization of Monocrystalline Silicon Photovoltaic Module Assembly Lines Based on Simulation Model PONE-D-25-10566R1 Dear Dr. Wang, We’re pleased to inform you that your manuscript has been judged scientifically suitable for publication and will be formally accepted for publication once it meets all outstanding technical requirements. Within one week, you’ll receive an e-mail detailing the required amendments. When these have been addressed, you’ll receive a formal acceptance letter and your manuscript will be scheduled for publication. An invoice will be generated when your article is formally accepted. Please note, if your institution has a publishing partnership with PLOS and your article meets the relevant criteria, all or part of your publication costs will be covered. Please make sure your user information is up-to-date by logging into Editorial Manager at Editorial Manager® and clicking the ‘Update My Information' link at the top of the page. If you have any questions relating to publication charges, please contact our Author Billing department directly at authorbilling@plos.org. If your institution or institutions have a press office, please notify them about your upcoming paper to help maximize its impact. If they’ll be preparing press materials, please inform our press team as soon as possible -- no later than 48 hours after receiving the formal acceptance. Your manuscript will remain under strict press embargo until 2 pm Eastern Time on the date of publication. For more information, please contact onepress@plos.org. Kind regards, Zeashan Hameed Khan, Ph.D. Academic Editor PLOS ONE Additional Editor Comments (optional): The paper has been significantly improved. Therefore, it can be possibly considered for acceptance. Reviewers' comments: Reviewer's Responses to Questions Comments to the Author Reviewer #1: All comments have been addressed Reviewer #2: All comments have been addressed ********** 2. Is the manuscript technically sound, and do the data support the conclusions??> Reviewer #1: Yes Reviewer #2: Partly ********** 3. Has the statistical analysis been performed appropriately and rigorously? -->?> Reviewer #1: Yes Reviewer #2: Yes ********** 4. Have the authors made all data underlying the findings in their manuscript fully available??> The PLOS Data policy Reviewer #1: No Reviewer #2: Yes ********** 5. Is the manuscript presented in an intelligible fashion and written in standard English??> Reviewer #1: Yes Reviewer #2: Yes ********** Reviewer #1: The concerns from reviewers ahve been well addressed. The quality of this paper has been improved. It cam be accepted now. Reviewer #2: The second revision addressed key points raised by the reviewers I however suggest a small addition - before finalizing adding a paragraph with the future research recommendations. This can serve as inspiration for other scientists and industry practitioners. While authors do not go deep into the subject it is a successful initial attempt opening doors for further, deeper research which can contribute towards the industry efficiency as well as offer positive impact on the environment (electronic simulation versus physical assets trials). ********** what does this mean? ). If published, this will include your full peer review and any attached files. If you choose “no”, your identity will remain anonymous but your review may still be made public. Do you want your identity to be public for this peer review? For information about this choice, including consent withdrawal, please see our Privacy Policy Reviewer #1: No Reviewer #2: No ********** |
| Formally Accepted |
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PONE-D-25-10566R1 PLOS ONE Dear Dr. Wang, I'm pleased to inform you that your manuscript has been deemed suitable for publication in PLOS ONE. Congratulations! Your manuscript is now being handed over to our production team. At this stage, our production department will prepare your paper for publication. This includes ensuring the following: * All references, tables, and figures are properly cited * All relevant supporting information is included in the manuscript submission, * There are no issues that prevent the paper from being properly typeset You will receive further instructions from the production team, including instructions on how to review your proof when it is ready. Please keep in mind that we are working through a large volume of accepted articles, so please give us a few days to review your paper and let you know the next and final steps. Lastly, if your institution or institutions have a press office, please let them know about your upcoming paper now to help maximize its impact. If they'll be preparing press materials, please inform our press team within the next 48 hours. Your manuscript will remain under strict press embargo until 2 pm Eastern Time on the date of publication. For more information, please contact onepress@plos.org. If we can help with anything else, please email us at customercare@plos.org. Thank you for submitting your work to PLOS ONE and supporting open access. Kind regards, PLOS ONE Editorial Office Staff on behalf of Dr. Zeashan Hameed Khan Academic Editor PLOS ONE |
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