Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Development of the navigation system for the visually impaired

The objective of this study is the development of an auto-navigation system which support activities of the visually impaired without help of others. This system navigates the visually impaired by using information about three sensors (a gyroscope, a terrestrial magnetism sensor and an acceleration sensor), DGPS, and digital maps. In this paper, we report the outline of the system and assess the developed method. From the experiments, the following characteristics become clear. (1) Using our method, under any condition the position of a user can be estimated accurately. (2) The system can calculate the suitable route and navigate a subject correctly.
New approaches to the AGC nonconforming load problem

Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO) has many nonconforming loads that are a challenge for their automatic generation control (AGC) software. Their area control error (ACE) values often have peak-to-peak swings of 150+ MW in a few minutes, and the ACE signal is noisy due to numerous asynchronous nonconforming industrial loads. These loads include over 20% of the base US steel production. A number of investigations targeted at assessing the actual impact of highly varying industrial loads on system reliability have been undertaken. This paper reports results for one of these investigations. The current AGC program attempts to account for short duration excursions which leads to increased generation over and under shoots and possible increased wear and tear on generating equipment. It has been shown that conventional control strategies of this nature can degrade rather than improve overall control of ACE. As a consequence, an effort has been undertaken to develop algorithms that will discriminate between noncontrollable short-term excursions and controllable long-term excursions. This paper presents two techniques that address the nonconforming load problem for AGC. One technique used a neural network algorithm for pattern recognition of controllable signals, and the other technique is based on the detection of a controllable signal in the presence of a noisy random load using a random signal probability model. Both algorithms were tested with actual field load data via a dispatcher training simulator that utilized a generic system model. <<ETX>>
Dual mutation strategies for mixed-integer optimisation in power station design

This paper presents the integration of evolutionary search (AS) with the design and operation of nuclear power stations. The objective is to improve the overall performance of the thermal cycle of a nuclear power plant by optimising both station design and operation using integrated evolutionary search and conventional optimisation techniques. The problem pursued is in the class of mixed-integer, non-linear constrained optimisation problems. After an initial parametric study of various adaptive search and classical optimisation techniques to determine their relative potential within a search space characterised by heavy non-linear constraints, a hybrid approach has been developed. This firstly utilises a genetic algorithm (GA) as a pre-processor to identify a feasible region within the search space before employing a dual-mutation GA strategy to search the space of mixed-integer variables. A linear programming optimisation routine then periodically searches from the best GA points with the design configuration fixed to return an optimal solution in terms of plant performance.
Adaptive antennas for third generation DS-CDMA cellular systems

This paper considers the performance of a DS-CDMA system employing adaptive antenna technology at the base station site for both an umbrella and a micro-cell in a hierarchical cell structure. The possible advantages and problems from such deployment are discussed. By exploiting the capabilities of ray tracing to provide the complex channel impulse response, a new adaptive antenna simulation model is presented along with some initial results for the performance of well known adaptive algorithms in a multiple interference scenario. These provide insight into how the adaptive antenna operates when used in conjunction with DS-CDMA and illustrate the potential benefits. Finally, propagation measurements are provided in order to validate some of the claimed capabilities.
D-robust control by uncertain objects

Today the methods of the analysis of robust stability and robust stabilization of linear objects are the basis of the theory of robust control. Whereat not only one given linear system is investigated but also the stability of the entire family of systems fitting in initial (nominal) system with the ambiguity is examined. The tasks of control, as a rule, add up to the tasks of stabilization or optimal control without the given expiration time of the transient process. This allows to use frequency methods developed in the doctrines of automatic regulation [1]. The using of these methods for the synthesis of control actions for uncertain systems in the given interval of control is impossible. Using of minimax approach lets to receive of necessary and sufficient condition of the existence of d-robust control for one class of not linear not stationary systems.
An ontology based agile C2 organization model

Agility is arguably one of the most important characteristics of successful Information Age organizations. The study of agility organizations is currently one of the hottest topics in the organization study field. In this paper, we put forward an agile command and control (C2) organization model and force organization choosing method based on the model and theory of ontology. Base on the model and choosing method, we can automatically and quickly find out the proper force organizations for a coming mission to support the agility of the C2 organization.
Building Applications with VTK Library Using Tcl, C++ and Fortran Components

This report describes a technique to build visualization applications using VTK library and components written in Tcl, C++ and Fortran. VTK is a software system for computer graphics, visualization and image processing. VTK library is written in C++ however it provides interfaces to languages like Tcl, Python and Java. Though it is possible to write a whole VTK application in scripting language like Tcl, sometimes it is desirable to implement some functionality in compiled language like C/C++ or Fortran, for instance to have access to features not available in scripting language or for efficiency reason. This report presents in through details how to access VTK objects from different languages and how to mix Tcl, C++ and Fortran components in one application.
Block-Based Predictive Watershed Transform for Parallel Video Segmentation

Predictive watershed transform is a popular object segmentation algorithm which achieves a speed-up by identifying image regions that are different from the previous frame and performing object segmentation only for those regions. However, incorrect segmentation is often generated by the predictive watershed transform which uses only local information in merge-split decision on boundary regions. This paper improves the predictive watershed transform to increase the accuracy of segmentation results by using the additional information about the root of boundary regions. Furthermore, the proposed algorithm is processed in a block-based manner such that an image frame is decomposed into blocks and each block is processed independently of the other blocks. The block-based approach makes it easy to implement the algorithm in hardware and also permits an extension for parallel execution. Experimental results show that the proposed watershed transform produces more accurate segmentation results than the predictive watershed transform.
An Efficient Color Clustered Image Regions Based Retrieval Approach For Image Database Repository

In recent years, technological achievements pave a wide range for the development of images in various aspects and it is essential to have an effective technique for retrieving images from large domains. Content Based Image Retrieval (CBIR) method provides an efficient image retrieval of relevant images from large image databases that can fill the semantic gap between the adopted method and the user. The images are predominated with various low level features like color, texture, shape etc., are used to calculate the similarity and dissimilarity among the images. The features of the query image not only a sufficient factor for retrieving images but also applying eminent technique will be made in reality. In CBIR, various methods are involved in retrieving images, but there remains a lack in efficiency or in effectiveness. To promote, a new technique called Color Image Segmented Clustering has been proposed for improving the efficiency in retrieving images by fully exploiting the similarity information among the images.
A New Twist on an Old Tool: Joint Learning with an Innovative Cognitive Writing Tool.

Our paper introduces a new initiative on a common computer program used as a cognitive tool that facilitates learning with as opposed to learning through technology. The tool, which comprises a modification of a so-called boilerplate, is part of a joint learning system (Kim and Reeves, 2007) in which the tool, learner and activity are equal participators in the learning process. Our focus is on teachers with limited technical expertise. The boilerplate is used as a learning tool specifically aimed at supporting graduate and post-graduate essay writing classes. Teachers have limited time to learn new computer programs and may avoid these because of limited technology skills and inexperience in this area. The cognitive tool assists students with structuring, formatting and grammar. In our presentation, we clarify the special features of the tool, and reflect on the philosophy behind it as well as on its potential for teachers in higher education.
Generating Embedded C Code for Digital Signal Processing

C code generation from high-level languages is an area of increasing interest. This is because manual translation from specifications to C code is both time consuming and prone to errors. In this thesis, the functional language Feldspar has been compared to MATLAB (together with MATLAB Coder) in terms of productivity and performance of generated code. Several test programs were implemented in both languages to reveal possible differences. The set of test programs included both small programs, testing very specific properties, as well as more realistic digital signal processing algorithms for mobile communications. The generated code was run on two different platforms: an ordinary PC and a Texas Instruments C6670 simulator. Execution time and memory consumption were evaluated. For the productivity evaluation, four different areas important to software development were defined. This was followed by reasoning about the languages in each area, using test programs as examples. The results show that MATLAB generally performs better. The problems of Feldspar observed in this thesis, however, are limited to a few details which should be possible to improve. Also, in some cases Feldspar performed better because of an optimization technique called fusion. The productivity evaluation showed some interesting differences between the languages, for instance regarding readability and type safety.
Variational Bayes Factor Analysis for i-Vector Extraction

In this document we are going to derive the equations needed to implement a Variational Bayes i-vector extractor. This can be used to extract longer i-vectors reducing the risk of overfittig or to adapt an i-vector extractor from a database to another with scarce development data. This work is based on Patrick Kenny's joint factor analysis and Christopher Bishop's variational principal components.
PWM audio power amplifiers: sigma delta versus sliding mode control

Sigma delta and robust sliding mode controllers for high fidelity PWM audio power amplifiers are designed and evaluated. The used theoretical approach allows, for both controllers, an integrated design of the control, modulator and semiconductor drive electronics. The sliding mode controller shows much better tracking performance with faster dynamics, no steady-state errors, flatter passband response, due to the intrinsic "Just In Time" (JIT) switching operation, step response without overshoot due to the third-order Bessel control polynomial, and short circuit proof operation. Test results confirm that the sliding mode controller exceeds the performance of existing sigma delta controllers. Furthermore, the proposed sliding mode approach provides a new, nonlinear theoretical frame for solving the control problem of PWM audio power amplifiers with output filters.
A 65-nm 8T Sub-threshold SRAM Employing Sense-amplifier Redundancy

Deeply scaled technologies promise greater efficiency for digital circuits. Unfortunately, random device variations compromise the functionality of large SRAM arrays, which traditionally rely on ratioed bit-cell topologies to achieve the highest density. By virtue of greatly reduced leakage and access energy, sub-threshold SRAMs tremendously lower the total system power but require new bit-cell topologies and peripheral assists to manage variation and read-current degradation [1]. This work demonstrates a 256kb SRAM in 65-nm CMOS that uses the bit-cell shown in Figure 1 [2]. The buffered read eliminates the read static noise margin limitation [3]; peripheral footer circuitry eliminates read data signal degradation due to bit-line leakage; peripheral supply drivers weaken the accessed storage cells to enforce the relative device strengths required for write-ability; and sense-amplifier redundancy provides a favorable trade-off between the offset and the area of the sensing network. These techniques are applied in the prototype test-chip shown in Figure 2. The test-chip integrates 256kb-in-8, 256-row-by-128-column blocks. Test results show that the design achieves full read and write functionality to 350mV, where the leakage power savings are over 20x compared to a 6T SRAM at 1V and over 3x compared to a 6T SRAM operating at its projected lowest voltage. Additionally, sense-amplifier redundancy reduces the probability of error from offsets by a factor of 5 for a given area constraint.
An Approach to ensure Security through Bit-level Encryption with Possible Lossless Compression

This paper presents a block cipher based on private key to be implemented in bit-level. The scheme used in the proposed cipher is substitutionbased. Encryption through this proposed cipher also results in possible lossless compression. Efficiencies of the proposed cipher are observed and compared with the existing cipher IDEA on execution time, rate of compression achieved and chi-square value. Graphically frequency-distribution of characters in source and corresponding encrypted file are observed for a sample file. On the basis of all observations made, proposed cipher is found to be efficient. Requirements of key space of least 166-bit makes it invulnerable to attacks. It is highly compatible with existing cipher like IDEA.
Feedforward/feedback laws for the control of flexible robots

We present a survey of the nominal motion generation schemes and of the associated simple control solutions for robots displaying flexibility effects. Two model classes are considered: robots with elastic joints but rigid links, and robots with flexible links. Model-based feedforward laws are derived for the two basic motion tasks of state-to-state transfer in given time and exact trajectory execution. In particular, we present a new solution to the finite-time reconfiguration problem for a one-link flexible arm. Finally, we use the developed commands into a simple feedback scheme that requires only standard sensors on the motors.
A quadrature direct digital downconverter

A quadrature direct digital down converter (DDD) is presented. The converter has a continuous time /spl Delta//spl Sigma/ noise shaping loopfilter with a quadrature bandpass characteristic. Through the integration of mixers in the AD converter, RF input signals in the range 0.3-1.6 GHz can be downconverted to a digital I and Q output stream at a bit rate of 128 MHz. The circuit is designed as a front-end for low power receivers with a 2 MHz wide IF bandwidth centered around 4 MHz. The converter, integrated in a 0.25 /spl mu/m CMOS technology, consumes 14 mW from a 2 V supply.
Directional Biases in Children's Perception of Spatial Order

In Study 1, elementary school children were classified according to the directionality with which they related temporal order to spatial position. The majori ty of kindergarten children appeared to have already established a consistent left-to right (L-R) or right-to-left (R-L) bias. The frequency of L-R organizers increased with increases in grade level. For grades kingergarten and 1, boys were significantly more likely to be L-R oriented than were girls. The results are consistent with the no tion that L-R organizational tendencies are strengthened by training in reading, but they suggest that neither reading-related habits nor left-hemisphere specialization for language function determines children's initial directional biases. Study 2 showed that a child's ability to learn the spatial order of a series of items can be relatively facilitated or retarded, respectively, by imposing a directional orientation that is in accord with or counter to his or her directional bias. These results are consistent with the traditional hypothesis that an inappropriate directional approach may retard the development of word-recognition ability among young readers.
Removal of impulse bursts in satellite images

Characteristics of impulse bursts in satellite images are analyzed and methods for burst removal are considered. Artificial compact burst model is proposed and test images are created. An advanced multipass algorithm for the detection and removal of compact bursts in the presence of both additive and multiplicative noise is proposed. The efficiency of the algorithm is evaluated quantitatively using the artificial test images and visually using the artificial test images and real radar and optical satellite images. It is shown through experiments that the proposed method removes impulse bursts efficiently while preserving information
Cellular associative memory

A new content addressable associative memory structure, cellular associative memory, is proposed. It is composed of simple associative memory cells that are locally interconnected as a regular cellular network. This paper describes broadly the ideas behind cellular associative memory and gives an example in the field of character recognition. The properties of cellular associative memory are compared to those of the Kanerva's sparse distributed memory (1988) and the Hopfield network.
Finding themes in Medline documents - probabilistic similarity search

Large on-line document databases, such as Medine, pose a major challenge of retrieving the few documents most relevant to the user's needs, while multimizing the return rate of nonrelevant documents. Retrieval of documents similar to a user provided example document is a promising query paradigm towards meeting this goal. We present a new theme-based probabilistic approach for finding documents relevant to a given query document, and summarizing their contents. Preliminary experiments conducted over a subset of Medline documents related to AIDS demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach.
Noise control in a 3-D structural acoustic system: numerical and experimental implementation of a PDE-based methodology

The implementation of a PDE-based feedback control methodology for structural and structural acoustic systems is discussed in this paper. Control in these systems is obtained via piezoceramic patches on the structure which generate bending moments in response to an applied out of-phase voltage. The incorporation of the patches in a typical structural acoustic system is described by a fully coupled PDE model. The method is then implemented by using data measurements to obtain state estimates (via a compensator) which are then multipled by a feedback gain to obtain controlling voltages. <<ETX>>
Applying the intelligent cell concept to PCS

We have concluded that the spectrum efficiency can be achieved in wireless PCS systems by applying the intelligent cell concept. The intelligent cell can either reduce interference by intelligently delivering the signal to the mobile unit, or can tolerate a great deal of interference while receiving with it. The former isolates the signal with multiple zones. In the latter, the signal resides with the interference but retains its processing gain. This paper presents the philosophy of achieving spectrum efficiency by applying the intelligent cell concept in wireless PCS systems. >
Perceptual and Conceptual Visual Rhetoric: The Case of Symmetric Object Alignment

This article identifies the structural and conceptual aspects of a visual construction often used in advertisements to establish a metaphoric or associative relation, that is, symmetric object alignment (SOA). It offers an account of the formal ingredients of SOA, which fall into two groups: object-constitutive factors (like size, shape, and color) and object-depictment factors (like perspective, orientation, and distance from viewing point). Both factors allow us to treat SOA as a visual rhetorical scheme. We also discuss how SOA relates to conceptual structure, metaphoric or otherwise. Four types of relations are distinguished, based on the way in which perceptual and conceptual characteristics interact. Finally, we discuss the way in which these characteristics relate to the processing of such visual messages. One depictment factor will be focused on in particular: one-to-one versus one-to-many alignments. An attempt is made to connect these 2 patterns to the much-discussed topic in verbal metaphor theory, object comparison versus categorization.
FAULT INJECTION FOR DEPENDABILITY VALIDATION OF FAULT-TOLERANT COMPUTING SYSTEMS

This paper addresses the problem of the dependability validation of fault-tolerant computing systems and more specifically the validation of the fault-tolerance mechanisms. The presented approach is based on the use of fault-injection at the physical level on a hardware/software prototype of the system considered. The place of this approach in a validation directed design process, as well as its place with respect to related works on fault-injection, is clearly identified. The major requirements and problems related to the development and application of a validation methodology based on fault-injection are presented and discussed. The proposed methodology has been implemented through the realization of a general physical-fault injection tool (MESSALINE) whose usefulness is demonstrated by its application to the experimental validation of a subsystem of a computerized interlocking system for railways control applications.
ALPHA/Sim simulation software tutorial

ALPHA/Sim is a general-purpose, discrete-event simulation tool. ALPHA/Sim allows a user to graphically build a simulation model, enter input data via integrated forms, execute the simulation model, and view the simulation results, within a single graphical environment. In this paper, we introduce ALPHA/Sim and describe how to use ALPHA/Sim to build, simulate, and analyze a simple manufacturing system. In addition, we briefly describe some advanced features and list some sample applications.
High-level test evaluation of asynchronous circuits

The present a method for evaluating production fault tests for asynchronous circuits. A novel fault model is defined, based on a high-level circuit description, allowing the evaluation of production tests on the design level. This evaluation method is used in the test generation for an asynchronous 22 k transistor DCC error corrector IC, resulting in a fault coverage of 99.8%.