bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autocatalytic Sets and the Origin of Life
Authors: Hordijk Wim , Hein Jotun , Steel Mike
Published: June 2010

The origin of life is one of the most fundamental, but also one of the most difficult problems in science. Despite differences between various proposed scenarios, one common element seems to be the emergence of an autocatalytic set or cycle at some stage. However, there is still disagreement as to how likely it is that such self-sustaining sets could arise “spontaneously”. This disagreement is largely caused by the lack of formal models. Here, we briefly review some of the criticism against and evidence in favor of autocatalytic sets, and then make a case for their plausibility based on a formal framework that was introduced and studied in our previous work.
A Mathematical Model for a Vibrating Human Head
Authors: Misra J. C. , Dandapat S. , Adhikary S.
Published: June 2010

In this paper, a mathematical model has been formulated to study the vibration of the human head. In the mathematical analysis of the model, the skull is considered as an anisotropic spherical shell and brain matter is represented as an inviscid compressible fluid. Also, in the model, the translational acceleration is considered as a general function of time. The authors use the method of Laplace transformation to achieve the analytical solution of the problem, while the analytical expressions have been used to compute the stress distribution in the system by resorting to numerical techniques.
An Optimal Balanced Partitioning of a Set of 1D Intervals
Authors: Yang Chuan-Kai
Published: June 2010

Given a set of 1D intervals and a desired partition number, in this paper, the author examines how to make an optimal partitioning of these intervals, such that the number of intervals between the largest partition and smallest partition is minimal among all possible partitioning schemes. This problem has its difficulty due to the fact that an interval “striding” multiple partitions should be counted multiple times. Previously the author proposed an approximated solution to this problem by employing a simulated annealing approach (Yang & Chiueh, 2006), which could give satisfactory results in most cases; however, there is no theoretical guarantee on its optimality. This paper proposes a method that could both optimally and deterministically partition a given set of 1D intervals into a given number of partitions. The author shows that some load balancing problems could also be formulated as a balanced interval partitioning problem.
Customer Orientation Based Multi-Agent Negotiation for B2C e-Commerce
Authors: Mazumdar Bireshwar Dass , Mishra R. B.
Published: June 2010

The Multi Agent System (MAS) model has been extensively used in different e-commerce tasks. Customer orientation is a crucial component of organizational culture and attention to information about customers’ needs should be considered a firm’s most basic value. In this paper, the authors evaluate a seller agent’s various cognitive parameters, such as capability, trust, and desire. The authors also examine customer orientation value for a pair of buyer and seller agents, such as selecting a seller and buyer agent pair using mental and cognitive parameters, customer orientation value for their mutual benefits, and the competitive negotiation factor. The authors provide a deterministic customer orientation computational model, a competitive negotiation computational model between buyer agent and seller agent, and a logical computational model for selection of the best buyer-seller agent pair. With the help of GUI intermediate, final results are shown.
Inductive Logic Programming (ILP) and Reasoning by Analogy in Context of Embodied Robot Learning
Authors: Poprcova Vesna , Stojanov Georgi , Kulakov Andrea
Published: June 2010

The ability to reason by analogy is essential for many cognitive processes from low-level and high-level perception to categorization. Intuitively, the idea is to use what is already known to explain new observations that appear similar to old knowledge. In a sense, it is opposite of induction, where to explain the observations one comes up with new hypotheses/theories. Therefore, a system capable of both types of reasoning would be superior. In this paper, the authors present an overview of Inductive Logic Programming (ILP) systems that use reasoning by analogy and discuss the results of combining Analogical Prediction with an ILP system, showing that, for some cases, it is possible to improve significantly the learning speed of the ILP system. This paper will examine the problems that arise in the context of a physically embodied robot that tries to learn regularities in its environment.
Cooperative Learning through Communities of Practice
Authors: Lastrucci Emilio , Pascale Angela
Published: June 2010

A community made up of a group of individuals becomes a “community of practice” when a mutual engagement is established between its members. The mutual engagement unites the participants in the carrying out of a common task (Wenger, 1998). The main aim of a community of practice is to find the solution to a problem by sharing experiences (Midoro, 2002). This paper examines the definition, characteristics, management and effectiveness of communities of practice. They are understood as being communities of self-managed learning where professional development is not based on a pre-set training course but on sharing experiences, identifying best practices and helping each other face the daily problems encountered in one’s profession (Trentin, 2000). Such communities are useful in particular working environments as an opportunity to improve digital competences. In communities of practice, it is possible to encourage ways of co-building knowledge through teaching methods such as cooperative learning. Until now cooperative learning has been limited to traditional training contexts, but it can be realised via Web technologies.
On the Usage of Labels and Icons in Business Process Modeling
Authors: Mendling Jan , Recker Jan , Reijers Hajo A.
Published: June 2010

The value of business process models is dependent on the choice of graphical elements in the model and their annotation with additional textual and graphical information. This research discusses the use of text and icons for labeling the graphical constructs in a process model. The authors use two established verb classification schemes to examine the choice of activity labels in process modeling practice. Based on the author’s findings, this paper synthesizes a set of twenty-five activity label categories. Proposed is a systematic approach for graphically representing these label categories through the use of graphical icons, such that the resulting process models are easier and more readily understandable by end users. The author’s findings contribute to an ongoing stream of research investigating the practice of process modeling and thereby contribute to the body of knowledge about conceptual modeling quality overall.
Prioritising and Linking Business Goals and IT Goals in the Financial Sector
Authors: De Haes Steven , Van Grembergen Wim
Published: June 2010

In today’s complex and constantly changing business world, business/IT alignment is high on the agenda of executive management. To achieve such alignment, it is important that an organization should have a clearly established corporate mission and a well-defined support strategy and business goals. Furthermore, the translation into and linkage with the company’s IT strategy and goals must be carefully planned. However, these requirements appear to be rather difficult to meet in reality, so that companies must often look for additional practical guidance in identifying their principal business and IT goals, as well as in determining how these should be geared to one another. Therefore, a series of research steps has been designed for the purpose of providing pragmatic assistance in defining a cascade of business goals and supporting IT goals. This paper presents the results of a Delphi study conducted in the financial sector. It offers qualitative information on how to establish a firm set of business objectives, IT goals and their interrelationships. In addition, it provides some recommendations on how to adapt and fine-tune the proposed procedure with a view to either complementing the results or replicating them for other sectors of industry.
Fast Caption Alignment for Automatic Indexing of Audio
Authors: Knight Allan , Almeroth Kevin
Published: June 2010

For large archives of audio media, just as with text archives, indexing is important for allowing quick and accurate searches. Similar to text archives, audio archives can use text for indexing. Generating this text requires using transcripts of the spoken portions of the audio. From them, an alignment can be made that allows users to search for specific content and immediately view the content at the position where the search terms were spoken. Although previous research has addressed this issue, the solutions align the transcripts only in real-time or greater. In this paper, the authors propose AutoCap. It is capable of producing accurate audio indexes in faster than real-time for archived audio and in real-time for live audio. In most cases it takes less than one quarter the original duration for archived audio. This paper discusses the architecture and evaluation of the AutoCap project as well as two of its applications.
Technology Traps Who Is Responsible?
Authors: Crabb Peter B. , Stern Steven E.
Published: June 2010

Technologies can have harmful effects on users’ psychological health, on society, and on the environment. “Technology traps” arise when users and societies become stuck with technologies and the harmful consequences produced by these technologies. In this paper, the authors describe five technology traps: incompetence, self-miscontrol, misbehavior, techno-centrism, and environmental degradation. The authors then examine the share of ethical responsibility for these traps among end-users, businesses, and government.
Towards a Planar Cruciform Specimen for Biaxial Characterisation of Polymer Matrix Composites
Authors: Gower Michael R.L. , Shaw Richard M.
Published: June 2010

This paper details work undertaken towards the development of a standard test method for the biaxial response of planar cruciform specimens manufactured from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) laminates and subject to tension-tension loading. Achieving true biaxial failure in a cruciform specimen without the need for the inclusion of a stress raiser, such as a hole, in the gauge-section, is a subject attracting much research globally and is by no means a trivial exercise. Coupon designs were modelled using finite element analysis (FEA) in order to predict the stress and strain distributions in the central region of the specimen. An Instron biaxial strong-floor test machine was used to test the specimens. Strain gauges were used to measure the strain in the specimen arms and to assess the degree of bending. Digital image correlation (DIC) was used to measure the full-field strain distribution in the central gauge-section of the specimen and this was compared to values measured using strain gauges. The strain readings obtained from strain gauges, DIC and FEA predictions were in good agreement and showed that the strain distribution was uniform in the central gauge-section, but that strain concentrations existed around the tapered thickness zone. These regions of strain concentration resulted in interlaminar failure and delamination of the laminate propagating into the specimen arms.
Strain Evolution Measurement at the Microscale of a Dual Phase Steel Using Digital Image Correlation
Authors: Ghadbeigi H. , Pinna C. , Celotto Steven , Yates J.R.
Published: June 2010

Digital Image Correlation (DIC) together with in-situ tensile testing has been used to measure in DP1000 steel the evolution of plastic strains at the microstructure scale. Interrupted tensile tests were performed on specially designed samples and scanning-electron micrographs were taken at regular applied strain intervals. Patterns defined by the microstructural features of the material have been used for the correlation carried out using LAVision software. The full field strain maps produced by DIC show a progressive localisation of deformation into bands at about 45o with respect to the loading direction. Plastic strains as high as 130% have been measured within the ferrite phase.
Characterization of Fiber Bridging in Mode II Fracture Growth of Laminated Composite Materials
Authors: Anyfantis K.N. , Tsouvalis N.G.
Published: June 2010

The present study involves an experimental and analytical investigation of the Mode II delamination propagation and the fibre bridging effects incorporated in the Fracture Process Zone (FPZ). End Notch Flexure (ENF) specimens from a unidirectional glass/epoxy composite material have been fabricated and tested. In order to construct the fracture resistance curve (R-curve) of the ENF tests, three different data reduction schemes have been utilized. The fibre bridging effects in the FPZ have been addressed with the use of traction-separation laws, as extracted from the corresponding calculated R-curves. These laws can be used to describe the constitutive relationship in interface finite elements, for the numerical modelling of delamination growth in laminated composite structures.
Improving Fatigue Performance of Alumino-Thermic Rail Welds
Authors: Jezzini-Aouad M. , Flahaut Patrick , Hariri Saïd , Zakrzewski D. , Winiar L.
Published: June 2010

Rail transport development offers economic and ecological interests. Nevertheless, it requires heavy investments in rolling material and infrastructure. To be competitive, this transportation means must rely on safe and reliable infrastructure, which requires optimization of all implemented techniques and structure. Rail thermite (or alumino-thermic) welding is widely used within the railway industry for in-track welding during re-rail and defect replacement. The process provides numerous advantages against other welding technology commonly used. Obviously, future demands on train traffic are heavier axle loads, higher train speeds and increased traffic density. Thus, a new enhanced weld should be developed to prevent accidents due to fracture of welds and to lower maintenance costs.
In order to improve such assembly process, a detailed metallurgical study coupled to a thermomechanical modeling of the phenomena involved in the rail thermite welding process is carried out. Obtained data enables us to develop a new improved alumino-thermic weld (type A). This joint is made by modifying the routinely specified procedure (type B) used in a railway rail by a standard gap alumino-thermic weld. Joints of type A and B are tested and compared. Based on experimental temperature measurements, a finite element analysis is used to calculate the thermal residual stresses induced. Besides, experimental investigation was carried out in order to validate the numerical model. Hence, X-Ray diffraction has been used to map the residual stress field that is generated in welded rail of types A and B. In the vicinity of the weld, the residual stress patterns depend on the thermal conditions during welding. Their effect on fatigue crack growth in rail welds is studied. In the web region, both longitudinal and vertical components of residual stresses are tensile, which increases the susceptibility of that region to crack initiation and propagation from internal material defects. Indeed, weld fracture in track initiates at the web fillet. Thus, to be closer to real issue, fatigue tests specimens has been defined within the split-web area. Fatigue tests was performed on the defined specimens, welded by conventional and improved processes and obtained results adjudicates on the new advances.
Tensile Properties of Die-Cast Magnesium Alloy AZ91D at High Strain Rates in the Range between 300 s-1 and 1500 s-1
Authors: Ahmad Iram Raza , Shu Dong Wei
Published: June 2010

Magnesium alloys have been increasingly used in the automobile, aerospace and communication industries due to their low density, high strength to weight ratio, good impact resistance and castability. Magnesium alloys, previously not used in load bearing components and structural parts are strongly being considered for use in such applications. Impact events in vehicles and airplanes as well as developments in weaponry and high speed metal working are all characterized by high rates of loading. Understanding of the dynamic behaviour of materials is critical for proper design and use in different applications. In the current study, a cast magnesium alloy AZ91D has been investigated at quasi-static and higher strain rates in the range between 300 s-1 and 1500 s-1. The INSTRON machine was used to perform the quasi-static tests. High strain rate tests have been performed using the Split Hopkinson Tensile Bar (SHTB), a very useful and widely used tool to study the dynamic behaviour of variety of engineering materials. The results of a tensile testing indicate that the tensile properties including yield strength (YS), ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and the elongation at fracture (Ef) are affected by the strain rate variation. Higher stresses are associated with higher strain rates. The alloy AZ91D displays approximately 45% higher tensile stresses at an average strain rate of approximately 1215/s than at quasi-static strain rate. The dependence of the yield stress and tensile strength on the strain rate in the range of high strain rate above 1000 s-1 is larger than that at lower strain rates. The alloy AZ91D is observed to be more strain rate sensitive for strain rate higher than 1000 s-1. A decrease in the strain rate sensitivity is also observed with the increasing strain in the specimen. It is observed that the hardening behaviour of the alloy is affected with increasing the strain rate. At high strain rates, the fracture of magnesium alloy AZ91D tends to transit from ductile to brittle.
Experimental and Numerical Buckling Analysis of Delaminated Hybrid Composite Beam Structures
Authors: Esfahani M.M. Nasr , Ghasemnejad H. , Barrington P.E.
Published: June 2010

In this paper the effect of delamination position on the critical buckling load and buckling mode of hybrid composite beams is investigated. Experimental and numerical studies are carried out to determine the buckling load of delaminated composite beams. The laminated composite beams with various laminate designs of [G90]6, [C90]8, [C0/G0]4 and [C90/G90]4 were manufactured and tested to find the critical buckling load. Three different defect positions were placed through the thickness to find three main buckling modes. It was found that delamination position and lay-up can affect the buckling mode and also the critical buckling load. By approaching the delamination position to the outer surface of the specimen the buckling load decreases. The buckling process of hybrid and non-hybrid composite beams was also simulated by finite element software ANSYS and the critical buckling loads were verified with the relevant experimental results.
Active Sensor Arrays for Damage Detection
Authors: Malinowski Pawel , Wandowski Tomasz , Ostachowicz Wiesław M.
Published: June 2010

In presented research a problem that belongs to the Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) topic was investigated. Special arrays of active sensors were used for damage detection. These sensors were piezoelectric transducers. They were attached to specimen under investigation and used to excite and sense guided elastic waves – Lamb waves. Each array comprised of uniquely placed transducers. The total number of transducers was the same for all considered arrays. This ensured that the same number of signals was used to obtain damage information. A numerical algorithm was proposed to process these signals. It was designed to be independent of sensor arrangement so it could be used for all considered arrays. The principal idea behind the algorithm is that obstacles on a wave path cause wave reflection. These reflections are represented in the time signals. The algorithm was used to associate energy of these reflections with a particular area of the investigated specimen. The value of the energy was extracted from all the signals and projected to coordinate system associated with the specimen edges. In order to test and compare proposed arrays artificial defects were introduced to the specimen to model damaged structure. Because the specimen with defect and signal processing algorithm were the same, the only variable that could influence damage detection was the type of the array. In the investigation damage detection results were obtained for considered arrays. Although the number of sensors were invariable, differences in damage indication exist. This suggest that the type of sensor array should be precisely chosen for a particular application. Even simplest linear array may be sufficient but it depends where we want to apply it.
Towards a Hybrid Infrared Approach for Damage Assessment
Authors: Fruehmann R.K. , Dulieu-Barton Janice M. , Quinn S.
Published: June 2010

The thermoelastic response obtained from an infra-red (IR) detector contains two components: the magnitude of the small stress induced temperature change caused by the thermoelastic effect and the phase angle of the temperature change relative to a reference signal generated by an application of a stress change. The phase angle is related to nonlinearity in the thermoelastic response and departures from the simple linear relationship that underpins thermoelastic stress analysis (TSA). The phase data could be used to make an assessment of temperature evolutions caused by viscoelastic behaviour resulting from damage and provide a basis for its evaluation. In the current paper the physics of other infra-red techniques used for non-destructive evaluation is used to better understand the nature of the thermoelastic response. The objective is to provide better exploitation of TSA by alternative processing of the IR measurements. Three case studies are presented that demonstrate the potential of the alternative processing for evaluating damage.
Experimental Modal Analysis of an Automotive Powertrain
Authors: Delprete Cristiana , Galeazzi A. , Pregno F.
Published: June 2010

The work is devoted to study the dynamic properties of a powertrain, performing an experimental modal analysis (EMA). The aim is to determinate structural modes and frequency response function (FRF) using an experimental approach. Two types of excitation mechanism are applied and compared for the EMA: a modal exciter (electromagnetic shaker system) and an impact hammer. Both the analyses with modal shaker and with impact hammer are carried on measuring the acceleration of the structure in the same set of eighty-one points. In both cases, the excitation is performed along three directions (vertical, lateral and longitudinal with respect to the structure). The two different modal analysis methodologies are described, and results (modal parameters such as natural frequencies, damping ratios and modal shapes are identified with commercial software) are compared. The comparison is made in term of result accuracy, reliability and testing time required.
An Explicit Analysis Method for Lifting Mechanisms
Authors: Gang Xian Yue , Zhang Fan , Han Yue
Published: June 2010

The forward push lifting mechanism of a dump truck is simplified to a combination of a four-bar linkage and a triangular arm. Based on quasi-static assumption, using linear transform and vector operations, an explicit analysis method is proposed to calculate joints’ dynamic position of the link lifting mechanism, which overcomes the difficulties of traditional method: roots discriminating of quadratic equations method and angle quadrant discriminating trigonometric functions method. And the pushing force of the stroke is solved from a linear system of only two equations. The validity of this proposed method is illustrated with a real engineering problem.
An Explicit Analysis Method for Walking-Beam Oil Pumping Unit
Authors: Gang Xian Yue , He Cui Hua , Wang Shu Feng , Han Yue
Published: June 2010

Based on the theory of linear transformation and vector operations, an explicit analysis method is proposed for walking-beam oil pumping unit, which overcomes the difficulties of traditional method: roots discriminating of quadratic equations method and angle quadrant discriminating trigonometric functions method. The kinematics and torque factor of suspension point, and the crank torque of the three kinds of walking-beam pumping units are calculated in a new way according to the rule of power conservation, which avoids the complex calculation of the force bore by each rod. The validity of this proposed method is illustrated with a numerical example.
Preparation of Plywood Using Starch Adhesives Modified with Isocyanate
Authors: Gu Ji You , Zuo Ying Feng , Zhang Yan Hua , Tan Hai Yan , Zhu Li Bin , Shen Jun
Published: June 2010

The purpose of the study was to manufacture plywood using starch adhesives modified by isocyanate, the influence factors on the bonding strength and water resistance of starch adhesive were studied by different solid content, adding additives and adding isocyanate. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis was used to characterize the chemical structure of bonding interface. The results show that the bonding strength of starch adhesive was increased significantly when solid content increased to 50%. Bonding strength and water resistance were improved significantly by adding additives and isocyanates to starch adhesive. The analysis of XPS indicated that the chemical bonding derived from the reactions of isocyanate was the key factor to increase bonding strength and water resistance.
Research on the Relationships between Blade Angles and External Characteristics of a Centimeter Scale Pneumatic Turbine
Authors: Xia Bi Zhong , Wang Xue Ling , Feng Ping Fa
Published: June 2010

A pneumatic motor based on the principle of reaction micro turbine has been developed with a rotor diameter of 24 mm. The turbine motor includes a planet-gear reducer with gear ratio of 6.5, generates a maximum mechanical power of 248W with total efficiency 60%. It has been tested to speeds up to 10,000rpm on shaft end. Based on the developed cm-scale micro reaction turbine motors prototype, the mathematical models about the blade angles and its external characteristic parameters were built and carried out, and then their relationships are researched and obtained when the blade angles change within possible ranges.
Production of Zinc Powder by Alkaline Hydrometallurgy
Authors: Jiang Jia Chao , Guo Cui Xiang , Zhao You Cai
Published: June 2010

. In this paper, a novel hydrometallurgical process for zinc powder production in alkaline solution at industrial scale was reported. The production procedure was developed and discussed, and the characteristics of the zinc powder products, including mineral phases, chemical composition, surface morphology, apparent density and specific surface area were investigated. It is found that the chemical composition of the products have completely reached the need of the National Standard GB/T 6890-2000. Although the outward apperance is always in powdery form, the zinc powder products are composed of dendritic deposits from a microscopic viewpoint, which is important in applications such as cementation, paints and extraction of gold and silver etc. where high specific surface areas are needed. Compared with the acidic-air pulverization process for zinc powder production, about 10-20% energy can be saved by the alkaline process.
A Novel Optimal Design Method for Hybrid Vibration Isolation System
Authors: Yan Zheng Tao , Zheng Hui , Weng Xue Tao , Zhao Cun Sheng
Published: June 2010

Against the hybrid vibration isolation system process design problems, we proposed a hybrid optimization design method for vibration isolation system. Firstly, through investigating the rated operating characteristics of mechanical devices, we summarized the isolation devices effectiveness in the working band as an optimizing objective excitation function and extracted the multi-island algorithm advantage in multi-objective optimization field. Then using iSIGHT and Matlab to implement joint optimization, we got the optimal solution set of the passive vibration isolation parameters. Finally, we realized the system multi-objective control by the optimal control method, and achieved a better vibration isolation performance. This method puts forward a new idea for the succeeding hybrid vibration isolation system design effort.
Characterization of Poly (Vinyl Alcohol) /Silver Nanocomposites Prepared by Heat Treatment Method
Authors: Pan Wei , Li Hui , Chen Yan
Published: June 2010

Poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/silver (Ag) nanoparticle composites were prepared via heat treatment of a mixture solution of silver nitrate (AgNO3) and PVA. The resultant composites were characterized by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). XRD results showed that pure phase Ag was obtained in the prepared nanocomposites. They also showed that crystallinity of PVA was largely decreased after the composition with nano-sized Ag. TEM results showed that the Ag particles were in sphere shape with 10-40nm diameter in the as-prepared nanocomposites. DSC results showed that the glass transition temperature of the nanocomposites was enhanced by the incorporation of Ag.
Pure Public Goods Model and the Optimal Size of China's Fiscal Expenditure: 1978-2006
Authors: Wu Qun Li
Published: June 2010

From the perspective of maximizing the economic growth rate, this paper examined the optimal size of China’s fiscal expenditure with theoretical and empirical methods. First, the paper established a Pure Public Goods Model, based on which it further estimated that during the period of 1978-2006, China’s optimal size of fiscal expenditure is about 21.82-27.28 percent of GDP. Judging by this optimal criterion, it finally divided China's policy development into three stages: (1) the higher-size stage (1978-1992); (2) the lower-size stage (1993-1999); (3) the optimal-size stage (2000-2006)
Numerical Analysis and Test Study of Bolted Structure
Authors: Wang Tao , Yu Shao Rong , Zheng Xiao Ya , Zhang Duo
Published: June 2010

The theoretical value of bolt pre-tightening torque coefficient is typically 0.2 on load boundary condition simulations.A set of measuring setup has been designed in present study.Through direct measurement and electric measurement,a torque coefficient of 0.15 has been measured.The effects of pre-tightening torque coefficient on bolt stress field are studied numerically.Results show that the coefficient has significant effect on bolt stress fields and relatively conservative results will be achieved if a theoretical value of 0.2 is chosen.Studies on stresses around hole-edge and comparisons with test values show that simulated results of and agree well with test data and the relative errors are no more than 15%.
Solving #QBF Using Extension Rule
Authors: Zhou Jun Ping , Zhou Chun Guang , Zhai Yan Dong , Yang Yong Juan
Published: June 2010

Extension rule is a new method for computing the number of models for SAT formulae. In this paper, we investigate the use of the extension rule in solving #QBF, i.e., computing the number of Q1x1…Qn xn which makes the Quantified Boolean Formulas (QBF) Q1x1…Qn xnF evaluate to true. We present a #QBF algorithm based on the extension rule, namely QBFMC, which also integrates the unit propagation and the component analysis together. These excellent technologies improve the efficiency of solving #QBF problems efficiently.
Algorithm Based on 5-Axis NC Flank Milling of Arbitrary Surfaces
Authors: Wang Hong Bo , Sheng Guo Cheng
Published: June 2010

In order to improve quality and efficiency of the overall five-axis milling for arbitrary surface impellers. In rough milling, the arbitrary surface was replaced by fitted ruled surface, the flank milling was a good method to replace the point milling. In semi-finish milling, the primal surface was replaced by piecewise ruled surfaces, using step flank milling to gain the satisfaction in model’s nicety and machining efficiency. Then , algorithm of the paper is proved to be viable by Model building, NC programming and machining.
A Novel Assessment Algorithm Based on Grey AHP
Authors: Li Yan Cang , Suo Juan Juan , Zhou Shu Jing
Published: June 2010

In order to find a more effective method for real estate investment evaluation, the grey AHP is applied and hierarchical assessment system is presented. First, the grey-relevant method is employed to evaluate the profit of the investment. During quantifying the qualitative indexes, set-valued statistic analysis is introduced, which reduces the uncertainty of the real estate investment assessment. A case shows that the method is feasible and valid. This study has significance in theory and practice for the real estate investment management.
Improvement on Hardness of 6061 Al Alloy Using an Electroless Ni-P Coating
Authors: Qin Wen Feng , Long Jiang , Liu Feng
Published: June 2010

The surface morphology and hardness of electroless Ni–P alloy plating on 6061 aluminum alloys substrate in an alkaline plating bath with sodium hypophosphite as reducing agent were investigated. The effects of bath pH on the plating rate, compositions and surface morphology of theelectroless Ni-P deposits were studied. The results showed the deposition rate of the electroless Ni–P deposits increased with the rise of the bath pH, while the P content decreased. Scanning electron microcopy (SEM) of the deposits showed nodular structure for the deposits. Hardness data of the Ni-P coatings indicated that electroless Ni–P plating could obviously improve the hardness of 6061aluminum alloy.
A Effective Knowledge Integration Algorithm Based on Culture Algorithm Framework
Authors: Chen Si Hua
Published: June 2010

The key to obtain an effective knowledge base to improve decision quality and enhance organizational core competency is integrating the knowledge from different subjects and sources. We put forward a knowledge integration strategy based on culture algorithm framework. It encodes the knowledge uniformly and evolutes among the two phases of population space and belief space. Through the communication protocol established among the two spaces, an effective and concise knowledge base is obtained. The experiment shows that comparing with traditional genetic algorithm the model can classify the knowledge more precisely, reduce redundant knowledge and remove contradictory knowledge.
Research on Dynamics Modeling and Simulation for Transportation Truck Based on ADAMS
Authors: Yao Guo Nian , Huang Hai Ying , Wei Jun Hu , Sun Guo Ji
Published: June 2010

In order to verify the fitting degree of whole vehicle simulation modeling and practical vibration, the transportation truck subsystem simulation models are established and the whole vehicle virtual model is assembled with ADAMS software based on multi-body dynamics theory and virtual prototyping. The documents of rural road are created in the MATLAB with harmonic superposition principle according to the description of pavements in different grades in the national standard. Through loading road documents, the obtained vibration spectrums are compared with the measured spectrums. The RMS(Root of Mean Square) of the virtual test inosculates basically with the RMS of practical running-in test in each test point by analyzing. It shows that the simulation experimental results have enough reliability and the established virtual prototyping can be used as a basis for structural design of vibration simulation system.
Analysis on Stress-Strain Distribution in Rapid Prototyping
Authors: Wu Mao Liang
Published: June 2010

The paper introduces the shrinkage center conception and simplified model of the material solidification. Starting with a micro unit, the paper builds the force model, and derives the formula of the stress-strain principles on the basis of the force balance function, relationship between the strain and displacement and the unit boundary conditions. The theoretic analysis reveals the influence factors and the quantitative expression affecting parts deformation. At last, two special cases, separating layers and complete adhesive layers, are discussed to display the stress-strain distribution under such conditions.
The Parametric Design and Motion Analysis of Disc Cam Mechanism with Straight Motion and Deviation Roller Follower
Authors: Sun Jian Ping , Luo Yi Ping
Published: June 2010

In view of those situations which follower of cam mechanism have complicated motion law in rise travel and return travel, basing on secondary development and applying synthetically of Pro/E, following the reverse turn principle of the tradition graphic method, the wholly parameterized design system was developed. Furthermore, virtual assembly and motion simulation had been realized. According to the parameter imported by the consumer, the system can generate automatically cam pitch curve and cam contour of 16 kinds of combination follower motion law. It can raise cam mechanism product design quality and efficiency.
Two-Direction Green Wave Control of Traffic Signal Based on Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Cao Cheng Tao , Cui Feng , Guo Geng Qi
Published: June 2010

This paper proposes a two-direction green wave control algorithm of traffic signal based on particle swarm optimization. The traffic flow model of queuing length and two-direction green wave control object function were built. The signal split and the phase offset were optimized by particle swarm optimization. The simulation result with traffic data collected from Liansheng Road in Dongguan City proved this method was effective and practical. Compared with graphical method and actuate signal control, the proposed algorithm could effectively reduce delaying time and shorten queuing length.
3-D Coordinate Determination from 2-D Automotive Sketches: Part I
Authors: Li Qiang , Newman R.M. , Zhao Chang Fu
Published: June 2010

In this part, we present a 2-D four-point method to determine 3-D coordinate system in the application of automotive styling. This is a reverse transformation method according to the normal graphic projection transformation from 3-D to 2-D. Through choosing four certain or typical points from 2-D automotive sketches, the three planar angles can be calculated, and then the three spatial angles that control 3-D coordinate system will be determined. The angular relationships of the order-based pure rotation and the non-order-based rotation have been discussed.
Degradation of Trace Oil by Nano-TiO2 Loaded on Hollow Float Beads
Authors: Zhu Zhi Ping , Liu Ting , Xiong Shu Hua , Jing Ling Ling
Published: June 2010

The nano-TiO2 photocatalysts which loaded on hollow float beads were prepared by sol-gel process. The hollow float beads as carrier was modified by H2SO4 and the TiO2 sol was obtained by tetrabutyl titanate, the modified hollow float beads was added into TiO2 sol, the TiO2 gel was obtained, then calcined at 450°C, 500°C, 550°C respectively and obtained as-produced samples. Their property were characterized by TGA, XRD and SEM, Their photoactivity was evaluated by the photodegradation of the trace oil from fossil-fired power plant condensate under a series of temperature（15°C~45°C）, pH value（2~14）, initial oil concentration（5mg/L） and catalysts dosage（2.500g/L, 4.000g/L, 5.000g/L, 6.000 g/L, 7.500g/L, 10.000g/L）, the experimental results showed that as temperature at 35°C, pH value at 10, catalysts dosage at 5.000g/L and calcined temperature at 500°C, the trace oil degradation rate could exceed 90% in 12 h, the catalysts could provided a efficient method to degradate the trace oil.
A Novel Fiber-Optic Liquid Level Sensor with Adjustable Light Path Based on Principle of Light Refraction
Authors: Zhang Shi Wei , Liang Wen Sheng , Ji Guo Zhao
Published: June 2010

Considering the difficulty to precisely indicate the specified height for transparent or semitransparent thin liquid column, a novel fiber-optic liquid level sensor is reported which remarkably enhances the sensitivity by regulating the external light path based on the principle of light refraction. The structure and working principle of this sensor is introduced. A light path model is developed on the condition that the incident light ray obliquely penetrates the medium in the liquid level indicator. The formulae of deflection angle are deduced. Factors affecting the precision of the sensor are analyzed by means of an example. Finally the feasibility of this novel design is verified by experiments.
On a Risk Model with Dependence between Claim Sizes and Claim Intervals under a Linear Dividend Barrier and Stochastic Interest
Authors: Song Ting Shan
Published: June 2010

The risk model with interclaim-dependent claim sizes is studied in the presence of a linear dividend barrier and stochastic interest. An integro-differential equation for some Gerber-Shiu discounted penalty functions is derived. We show that its solution can be expressed as the solution to the Gerber-Shiu discounted penalty function in the same risk model with the absence of a barrier and a combination of two linearly independent solutions to the associated homogeneous integro-differential equation.
Autonomous Intelligent System for Supply Chain Management on Mass Customization Manufacture
Authors: Dai Wei Hui
Published: June 2010

Due to the intensely increasing competition and rapidly changing demand, Mass Customization(MC) manufacture has been the new trend for modern enterprises to respond quickly to the variational and individual demand in global market. To satisfy the operation of MC manufacture, its supply chain must be effective and flexible enough. Findings of researches and practices have shown that some intelligent activities, such as negotiation, decision and collaboration, have become the “bottleneck” to improve the performance of supply chain.
This paper applied the Autonomous Intelligent System(AIS) to deal with the intelligent activities intelligently and automatically, and thereof provided a new method for the Supply Chain Management(SCM) on MC manufacture. First, a new supply chain model based on E-HUB was presented according to the requirements of MC manufacture, and then the structure and operation of AIS were designed to support that SCM. Finally, the development technology of AIS was discussed.
Green Laser Drilling Assisted with Neutral Salt Solution
Authors: Zhang Hua , Xu Jia Wen , Zhao Jian She , Hua Guo Ran
Published: June 2010

Recast layer is an inherent defect commonly associated with holes produced with laser drilling. The defect is likely to limit the extent of aero industrial application. In order to solve the problem, a new processing of laser drilling assisted with neutral salt solution (SALD) has been developed to improve the overall quality of laser-drilled holes. The process bases on the application of a fluid neutral salt solution, which is being on the workpiece surface with the focused laser beam at the same time. The effects of the neutral salt solution during the process mostly consist of thermal chemical reaction and continuing cooling effect of materials. Because of green laser being weakly absorbed underwater, the experiments of SALD have been performed on 0.5mm thickness 321 stainless steel with pulsed Nd:YAG laser at second harmonic wavelength. The optical microscope is used to detect the experimental results. It is found that the recast layer has been effectively removed during the SALD compared with laser drilling in ambient atmosphere conditions. It is confirmed that the principle of SALD is right and the new process can obtain good hole quality without recast layer.
Resource Allocation Problem in Manufacturing Grid Based on JADE
Authors: Zhao Fu Qing , Yang Ya Hong
Published: June 2010

The grid resources scheduling problem is one of the key problem in manufacturing grid. After studying on manufacturing grid resource property and requirement on scheduling, the scheduling method based on multi-agent and genetic algorithm is put forward. Contract Net Protocol is adopted to the multi-agent cooperation and negotiation system. The communication and interaction mechanism are guarantee on the JADE and JGAP platform. Simulation result shows that the method is effective to the negotiation and scheduling problem in manufacturing grid.
3D Modeling and Simulation of a New Type of Globoidal Indexing Cam Mechanism
Authors: Li Lei , Feng Xian Ying , Zhang Zi Ping , Han Xing Chang , Song Ya Qing
Published: June 2010

This paper presents 3D modeling and simulation for a new type of globoidal indexing cam mechanism with steel ball. The characteristic of this mechanism is that cam raceway section is double circular arc section, and this characteristic is helpful to realize approximate rolling transmission. Profile surface equation of globoidal cam is established according to rotary transform tensor theory and meshing theory. Coordinate points of profile surface is obtained by MATLAB software. 3D model of parts of globoidal indexing cam mechanism with steel ball is built by Pro/E software. In Pro/E software these parts are assembled, and kinematics simulation is performed. Through kinematics simulation angular displacement, angular velocity and angular acceleration of indexing plate are obtained. Finally dynamic simulation of this mechanism is performed by ADMAS software, and contact force between cam and roller is obtained.
Linear Relationship between Dynamic Young’s Modulus and MOR of the Poplar LVL Reinforced with Monolayer Fiberglass Mesh
Authors: Zhang Li , Hu Ying Cheng
Published: June 2010

In this paper, the poplar LVL was reinforced with monolayer fiberglass mesh. The reinforcing effect of monolayer fiberglass mesh on improving the static bending strength (or modulus of rupture, MOR) was studied. And three different nondestructive testing (NDT) methods, such as the longitudinal transmission method, longitudinal vibration method and flexural vibration method (out-plane and in-plane), were used to test the dynamic Young’s modulus of the reinforced poplar LVL. The linear relationships were investigated between the four dynamic Young’s moduli and the MOR of the reinforced poplar LVL. It can be concluded that the three NDT methods are useful for predicting the MOR of reinforced LVL, but the flexural and longitudinal vibration methods had better accuracy to estimate the MOR.
Ratcheting Boundary Analysis of Straight and Elbow Piping
Authors: Liang Ting , Chen Gang , Zhang Qi , Chen Xu
Published: June 2010

The ratcheting strains of the straight and elbow piping under two kinds of loads—pressurized piping under symmetric cyclic bending and pulsating cyclic pressure were analyzed based on Chaboche constitutive model. The locations of the maximum ratcheting strain were determined. The ratcheting boundaries of the two piping structures under two kinds of loads were compared and calculated by the C-TDF method. For the pressurized piping under symmetric cyclic bending, the allowable bending load increases from E90S to E90L under the same pressure. In the higher cyclic pressure range, the allowable pressure have little difference under the same bending load which indicates that the bend moment have a bit effects on the ratcheting boundary in the higher cyclic pressure range.