Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
An Overview of Recent Projects to Study Thermal Protection in Liferafts, Lifeboats and Immersion Suits

In a marine evacuation, passengers may find themselves in lifeboats, life rafts or in the water. Survival is more challenging in cold regions and a person’s ability to survive until rescue depends on many factors, including the amount of protection the evacuees have against the cold, as well as the quality of breathing air in and lifeboats that are enclosed. Currently, international regulations do not provide specific thermal protection and ventilation performance criteria for lifeboats or. In addition, methods for approval testing of immersion suits have not been standardised and there is resistance in certain jurisdictions to the use of thermal manikins because regulating authorities are unsure of the correspondence between manikins and human. This paper provides an overview of several projects that have been completed and one ongoing by the Maritime and Arctic Survival Scientific and Engineering Research Team (MASSERT) to address the knowledge gaps in these areas. The results contribute relevant knowledge to close these gaps and are being used to advance international standards. They also show the value of using thermal manikins in combination with numerical models to predict the performance of lifesaving appliances when it is impractical or ethically unacceptable to conduct experiments with humans. The tools developed are being applied to create performance criteria and evaluate the performance of Arctic survival gear.
Applications of Magnetoelectric Sensors

The magnetoelectric (ME) effect is an electric output in response to an applied magnetic field. In a heterostructure configuration where the two-phases are engineered with close interface contact, a giant electric response to a magnetic field has been found, which is designated as the ME voltage (or charge) coefficient . This effect is mediated by a mechanical-coupling between magnetostrictive and piezoelectric phases. In this thesis, I concentrate on application study for ME sensors with respect to noise control and rejection, thermal stability, triple-axis sensor design, array imaging, DC and AC magnetic sources detection and active mode ME sensor development, which is important for future ME sensor device applications. In most applications, magnetic sensors must be operated in an open environment (i.e., magnetically unshielded). Such environments are contaminated by environmental noise, which can raise the equivalent magnetic noise floor of any magnetic sensor dramatically. In other words, for practical use ME magnetic sensors are fundamentally challenged by the inability to distinguish minute target signals from external noises which have several orders of higher amplitudes than former. As environmental shielding of magnetic sensors is impractical in numerous applications, using two (or more) magnetic sensors in a differential mode configuration is expected to reject/reduce environmental magnetic noise. In Chapter three, I focus on the analysis of the magnetic detection, potentiality to optimize ME gradiometers to be more sensitive for device applications. I evaluate the
Real-time optimal power flow in automatic generation control

The authors describe the concept, mathematical formulation, and solution of a real-time OPF (optimal power flow) in an energy management system. The real-time OPF replaces a classical real-time economic dispatch whenever a network flow violation occurs. To meet performance requirements (solution speed and frequency of execution) a two-stage approach is proposed. A full OPF is first executed in a nontime-critical mode and the critical branch flows are determined. Then, a constrained economic dispatch is executed based on the critical constraint set determined during the first stage. The execution frequency of the second stage is the same as the execution frequency of a standard real-time economic dispatch. >
Characterisation of TFMS lines fabricated using photoimageable thick-film technology

This paper describes the performance of thin-film microstrip (TFMS) transmission lines and passive components fabricated using photoimageable thick-film technology. The fabrication of narrow conductors (down to 15 /spl mu/m) and small feature size via holes is made possible by adding a photoimaging process into the conventional thick-film screen-printing process. With this, thin-film microstrip (TFMS) structures can be implemented, whereas traditional thick-film technology cannot produce such narrow linewidths. TFMS is extremely attractive for the high levels of circuit integration desired in multichip modules (MCMs). Wideband characterisation of these TFMS lines has been performed over the frequency range 1-110 GHz using the TRL calibration technique. The effects of coupling between line segments and discontinuities at bends in meandered lines have also been studied. Miniaturised hybrid couplers are then demonstrated using the photoimageable technology.
Knowledge- and geographical information-based system for noise impact assessment of surface mining and quarrying projects

Abstract Noise is a major component of the environmental impact assessment of surface mining operations and the minimization of noise impact requires proper assessment and management of noise generation and propagation. Comprehensive noise impact assessments allow actual and potential noise problems to be identified and evaluated and provide a means of deciding on any necessary mitigation measures. The APPRAISAL-Environmental system is a prototype knowledge- and geographical information-based environmental impact assessment system for surface mining and quarrying projects. The methodology and techniques used and the various components of the system are described with particular reference to the modelling and analysis of noise generation, propagation and impact. Noise impact problems are assessed in two steps: scoping exercises (qualitative assessment) and technical assessment (quantitative). The scoping exercises use stored expertise to identify the source of noise problems and then to analyse noise propagation and its impact on surrounding areas; when a significant adverse impact is identified the system provides mitigation advice. Scoping exercises can be conducted repeatedly to assess the effects of different mitigation measures and/or to assess properties in different locations. At the same time the scoping exercise gathers information that is subsequently used for the technical assessment. The technical assessment employs numerical models of noise transmission together with a geographical model of the mine and surrounding area to quantify impacts in neighbouring, environmentally sensitive areas. The results of the overall noise impact assessment are presented as an environmental impact statement in text format and as geographical images. Scoping exercises and technical assessments can be conducted separately at the user's discretion. Ways in which knowledge-based systems, geographical information systems and numerical modelling techniques can be integrated and applied in the environmental impact assessment of surface mining and quarrying projects are also explored.
Binaural Sound Source Localization in Real and Virtual Rooms

On the basis of a statistical evaluation of the binaural sound source localization performance during listening tests by human subjects, it is shown that the convolution of a measured head-related transfer function (HRTF) with the room impulse response generated by a hybrid image source model with a stochastic scattering process using secondary sources provides an adequate model for the prediction of binaural room impulse responses (BRIR) for directional sound localization in the frontal horizontal plane. The source localization performance for sound stimuli presented to test subjects in a natural way was compared to that presented via headphones. Listening via headphones tends to decrease the localization performance only, and only slightly when localizing narrow-band high-frequency stimuli. Binaural sound presented to test subjects via headphones was generated on the basis of measurements and simulations. Two different headphone conditions were evaluated. The overall localization performance for simulated headphone sound obtained using a simulated BRIR was found to be equivalent to the one using a measured BRIR. The study also confirms expectations that the deterioration of sound source localization performance in reverberant rooms is closely linked to the direct-to-reverberant ratio for given loudspeaker and listener positions, rather than to the reverberation time of the room as such.
The Nexus between Export Incentive and Export Performance in Ethiopia

The purpose of this study is to examine the nexus between export incentive and Ethiopian export performance from the year 1983 to 2017. The study is conducted by quantitative research method by using time series econometrics analysis. The study employs an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bound test model to co-integration in order to investigate the long run relationship and Error Correction Model (ECM) for the short-run relationship between export and export incentive, real GDP, real exchange rate, gross capital formation, external debt stock and inflation rate. The long-run empirical result using the bound test reveals that there is a stable long-run relationship between real export and explanatory variables. The study finds out that during study period the Ethiopian export composition mainly focused on primary product and Europe was main export destination. In the econometric analysis, the study finds that export incentive has the significant positive impact on export performance both in short run and long run. Similarly, real GDP and inflation have the significant impact on export performance whereas gross capital formation, real exchange rate and external debt have the insignificant impact in short run and long run during the study period. Further, in short run one year lagged values of export and external debt have positive impact on export performance. The coefficient of equilibrating error term suggests that the speed of adjustment (feedback effects towards the long run equilibrium) takes few years for full adjustment when there is a shock in the system. Therefore, export incentive and export performance in Ethiopia have direct relationship both in the short run and in long run.
A simple approach to quasi‐TEM analysis of a planar multiconductor structure embedded in an elliptically stratified environment

The quasi‐TEM modes on a planar multiconductor transmission line embedded in an elliptically stratified cross section are considered. Electro‐ and magneto‐static problems are solved using separation of variables in elliptical coordinates. It is shown that asymptotic solutions for the radial dependences of the terms of the series can be used, under certain conditions, on the profiles of stratification. Results about the convergence and the usefulness of the asymptotic solution are presented. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 36: 20–24, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.10658
Localization of wireless communication emitters using Time Difference of Arrival (TDOA) methods in noisy channels

Abstract : The ability to provide position information of wireless emitters comprises a very important communication tool and has extremely valuable applications to military as well as civilian life. GSM is the most popular method of modulation adopted around the world, for mobile telephony. This thesis is focused on the Time Difference Of Arrival (TDOA) estimation, applied to GSM signals, in noisy channels. Improvements in denoising, in conjunction with wavelet processing, are proposed for estimating the TDOA of signals received at two spatially separated sensors. Wavelet denoising based on a modified maximum likelihood method and a higher order moment method is proposed, to improve the performance. A numerical evaluation of the methods, when unequal SNR conditions prevail, is presented. The performance of the proposed denoising methods in a jamming environment is also addressed. Simple excision schemes to improve the performance when jamming is present, are evaluated. Simulation results indicate good performance of the methods and improved estimates relative to the ones obtained using no denoising. Jamming presence degrades the performance but still the extracted estimates are improved.
From Worlds to Machines

This paper provides a personal account of some of the foundational contributions made by Michael Jackson in the area of Requirements Engineering. We specifically focus on the relationship between problem worlds and machine solutions, and try to connect each contribution to related efforts while suggesting possible continuations. The anchoring of machine solutions on problem worlds is first considered together with means for delimiting, structuring,and characterizing problem worlds. The elaboration of machine specifications from world requirements is then discussed, including the use of satisfaction arguments, the questioning of requirements and assumptions, and the reuse of problem schemas. A car handbrake control system is used as a running example to illustrate the main ideas.
High performance forward converter in non-isolated configurations

Small duty cycle, short on-time, and high switching loss are the ultimate limit for high performance non-isolated DC/DC converter designs and applications. This paper introduces a forward converter in non-isolated configuration that can effectively alleviate all of the above mentioned problems. Significantly reduced MOSFET switching and conduction losses enable high frequency operation without thermal penalty of the power semiconductor devices. Since duty cycle can be extended and programmed in this topology, true ripple cancellation in multi-phase configurations is achievable.
Virtual worlds in Australian and New Zealand higher education: remembering the past, understanding the present and imagining the future

3D virtual reality, including the current generation of multi-user virtual worlds, has had a long history of use in education and training, and it experienced a surge of renewed interest with the advent of Second Life in 2003. What followed shortly after were several years marked by considerable hype around the use of virtual worlds for teaching, learning and research in higher education. For the moment, uptake of the technology seems to have plateaued, with academics either maintaining the status quo and continuing to use virtual worlds as they have previously done or choosing to opt out altogether. This paper presents a brief review of the use of virtual worlds in the Australian and New Zealand higher education sector in the past and reports on its use in the sector at the present time, based on input from members of the Australian and New Zealand Virtual Worlds Working Group. It then adopts a forward-looking perspective amid the current climate of uncertainty, musing on future directions and offering suggestions for potential new applications in light of recent technological developments and innovations in the area.
A survey of fault diagnosis for swarm systems

Swarm systems have received increasing research attention in recent years and they can be found in many application areas as diverse as unmanned vehicle formation systems, multi-robot systems, sensor networks, etc. Reliability and safety are important issues in swarm systems, which can be improved by the fault diagnosis technology. In this paper, recent development of fault diagnosis algorithms for swarm systems is reviewed. The description of swarm systems is given, followed by characteristics of faults in swarm systems. Specially, faults in swarm systems are classified into topology faults and component faults. Then fault diagnosis algorithms for swarm systems are classified according to their architectures, fault types and approaches, respectively. Finally, several unsolved problems of fault diagnosis algorithms for swarm systems are highlighted.
Off-Road Tire-Soil Modeling Using Finite Element Analysis Technique

A new rigid ring model with additional parameters was developed to model an off-road tire running on soil. In order to create this new rigid ring model, an FEA off-road truck tire was created and used to determine the in-plane and out-of-plane parameters for a tire running on soil. The soil, dense sand in this case, was modeled as an elastic-plastic solid with material properties obtained from published data. The longitudinal forces and the normal stress and shear stress distributions in the soil are compared with published data as preliminary validation. The general trends of soil flow from a rigid wheel model running on soil were used to validate the soil model. In addition, a model of a standard circular plate was used to determine the vertical pressure-sinkage curves and then these simulations were compared with available published measured data.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Expert Political Judgement: How Good Is It? How Can We Know?

Five years after the attacks of 11 September 2001, the flood of books pouring out of the publishing houses on the issue of terrorism shows no sign of slowing. Within this vast spectrum of publications, the quality has varied enormously. If one seeks a clear and comprehensive introduction to the field, Routledge’s ‘The Politics of . ’ series stands out as one of the most solid starting blocks. This volume, edited by Andrew T. H. Tan, senior lecturer at King’s College in London and expert on Southeast Asia, is structured in four parts. The first, and largest, part consists of a selection of high-quality essays that seek to cover ‘the key facets of terrorism’ – without doubt, an ambitious aim when having only 110 pages at its disposal. Yet, the result comes astonishingly close to fulfilling that aim, covering the core historical tendencies of terrorist activity, as well as the key features of the tactics; the weapons and targets of contemporary terrorism; the roots of terrorism in relation to ethno-nationalist, political and religious causes; the question of state terrorism; and counter-terrorism strategies. All in all, the result is a well-balanced selection of texts from experts in the field that incorporates a broad and interdisciplinary approach. The second part of the volume is an A–Z glossary of key terrorist groups and incidents, providing a useful analytic reference tool. This is followed by a series of maps, charts and tables on terrorist activity. Part four is a select bibliography, divided into sections. Overall, the result is impressive, providing useful and unbiased guidance into the very core of the vast and complex field of terrorism. Joakim Hammerlin
False arrhythmia alarm suppression using ECG, ABP, and photoplethysmogram

A signal quality assessment scheme for the photoplethysmogram waveform recorded by a pulse oximeter has been created. The signal quality algorithm uses statistical methods on time-series and spectral analysis to locate high-frequency segments of the photoplethysmogram waveform. A photoplethysmogram pulse onset detector has been implemented for heart rate estimation. Application of the signal quality metric and photoplethysmogram pulse onset detector are demonstrated in an algorithm which suppresses false electrocardiogram critical arrhythmia alarms issued by bedside monitors in hospital intensive care units. M.I. T. Thesis Supervisor: Dr. Roger G. Mark Title: Distinguished Professor in Health Science & Technology VI-A Company Thesis Supervisor: Lauren J. Kessler Affiliation: Charles Stark Draper Laboratory
Mining Previous Marks Data to Predict Students Performance in Their Final Year Examinations

Data mining is used to extract meaningful information and to develop significant relationships among variables stored in large data set/ data warehouse. Higher education faces a new era as a result of changes in the way people view colleges and universities. Expectations for better performance in terms of teaching and producing competent college graduates are increasing. Educational data mining is used to study the student data available in the university data base and bring out the useful information / knowledge from it. Classification methods like decision trees, rule mining, Bayesian network etc., can be applied on the student data for predicting the students behavior, performance in examination etc. This prediction will help the tutors to identify the weak / failed students and help them to pass / score better marks. The C4.5 decision tree algorithm is applied on student’s first and second year data to predict their performance in the final exam. The outcome of the decision tree predicted the number of students who are likely to fail or pass. The result is given to the professor and steps were taken to improve the performance of the students who were predicted to fail. After the declaration of the results in the final examination the marks obtained by the students are fed into the system and the results were analyzed. The comparative analysis of the results states that the prediction has helped the failed / weaker students to improve their performance and brought out betterment in the result. To analyze the accuracy of the algorithm, it is compared with ID3 algorithm and found to be more efficient in terms of the accurately predicting the outcome of the student and time taken to derive the tree.
Reduced switching loss pulse width modulation technique for three-level diode clamped inverter

Multilevel inverters are used to reduce the harmonics and to achieve high-voltage, high-power capability but switching losses are increased because of increased device count. Switching losses can be reduced by either soft switching techniques or by modifying modulation technique employing space vector-based PWM techniques or sinusoidal PWM-based techniques. In this study, a carrier-based closed-loop control technique has been developed to reduce the switching losses based on insertion of `no switching` zone within each half cycle of fundamental wave. It effectively reduces the switching losses of three-level inverter without need of any complex mathematical expressions as involved in space vector-based techniques. An improvement of about 5` in efficiency for a switching frequency of 5`kHz is observed with proposed technique over conventional SPWM technique based on efficiency improvement factor (EIF). Simulation and experimental results are presented to validate the proposed technique.
Integrated operation of an energy MicroGrid with islanded electricity network

An Energy MicroGrid was defined as a Multi-Carrier Energy System serving its local area with all its energy needs. Mathematical models for the networks in the Energy MicroGrids were described. An optimisation model, Integrated Optimal Power Flow (IOPF), for the Energy MicroGrid was formulated. An approach to operate the Energy MicroGrid as a single integrated system was discussed. This approach was simulated in an islanded Energy MicroGrid system. The simulation results highlighted some of the advantages of this approach.
Wind climate and urban geometry

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