bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling the Control of Cell Proliferation by An Anti-cancer Agent
Authors: Ali Reza , Evans Neil , Campbell Lee , Errington Rachel , Godfrey Keith , Smith Paul , Chappell Mike
Published: April 2013

A mathematical model has been developed which describes human cell growth in the presence of topotecan (TPT), an anti-cancer agent. Previously, a model was developed for the pharmacokinetics (PK) of TPT; this provided a description of the activity of TPT and the subsequent delivery of the active form to the nuclear DNA target. This model is described briefly in this paper. The development of a new pharmacodynamic (PD) model for cell growth, based on a well-known cell cycle model is then discussed. The linking of the PK model to the PD model is considered with respect to the modulation of cell growth. Our PK — PD model has good agreement with in vitro experimental data. In a clinical context, it is intended that the model will be used for discovering routes for drug resistance and eventually as a tool for improving drug treatments for patients.
Predictive Tracking for Respiratory Induced Motion Compensation in Adaptive Radiotherapy
Authors: Skworcow Piotr , Putra Devi , Sahih Abdelhamid , Goodband John , Haas Olivier C.L. , Burnham Keith J. , Mills John A.
Published: April 2013

This paper considers a compensation strategy for respiratory-induced tumour motion for adaptive radiotherapy using a controlled patient support system (PSS). A model predictive control (MPC) scheme for the PSS to track the tumour motion is proposed together with two methods for predicting tumour motion, including a Kalman filter and neural networks. Simulation results using a clinical data set consisting of 27 traces of respiratory motion show the potential of the proposed control strategy.
An Experimental Facility for the Application of Iterative Learning Control as an Intervention Aid to Stroke Rehabilitation
Authors: Freeman C. T. , Hughes A.-M. , Burridge J. H. , Chappell P. H. , Lewin P. L. , Rogers E.
Published: April 2013

The concept of ‘learned disuse’ is thought to be a signifcant barrier to recovery of sensory-motor function following a stroke. Unimpaired individuals learn new skills though practice, with feedback in various forms, but the problem facing the stroke patient is that they are unable to practice because of impaired motor control. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) can provide the experience for the patient of moving and consequently may limit the problem of learnt disuse and has been used with some success to improve recovery of upper limb motor control. Recent studies have shown that when stimulation is associated with a voluntary attempt to move the limb, improvement is enhanced but these techniques do not allow feedback that could be used to adjust stimulation parameters and thus provide more precise stimulation. This paper describes the design and construction of an experimental test facility that has been designed as part of a current project whose aim is to investigate the use of iterative learning control (ILC) and related strategies to mediate the electrical stimulation applied to a number of muscles of the shoulder and upper limb of stroke patients.
An Examination of the Practical Challenges Presented by the Use of Digital Communications in Safety-Related Applications
Authors: White Andrew J
Published: April 2013

Digital communications are widely used in many types of control systems, enabling information interchange between items of equipment and with the outside world. This has enabled control system designers to achieve better control over processes, improve interactions between equipment, and to speed fault diagnosis. Such features can have positive effects on safety, such as reducing the demand rate on a protection system. However, digital communications are also increasingly being sold by system manufacturers as a fundamental component of safety-related systems. Some significant safety benefits can be realised, but practical difficulties can result in direct challenges to safety function integrity levels, and more subtle effects through operational and maintenance issues that could lead to safety system failures. This paper explores the complications of designing safety-related systems incorporating digital communications, of assessing the adequacy of such systems, and of maintaining their integrity in a wide range of environments. Topics discussed include the effects of complex interactions within systems, the consequences of reduced isolation between control and safety systems, threats to system integrity, competence, and the use of proven-in-use components. The requirements of the functional safety standards BS EN 61508 and BS EN (IEC) 61511 are described in relation to the use of digital communications, and some basic design principles are suggested.
Characteristics of ABB Pulverised Fuel Meters
Authors: Zhang J , Coulthard J , Keech R P
Published: April 2013

ABB PFMaster solids flow meters have proven to be very useful worldwide in coal-fired power stations for monitoring and controlling Pulverised Fuel (PF) velocity and mass-flow rates at various locations in the boiler fuel supply system. However, little has been published of the meter's response on a pneumatic conveyor where both the air and the solids input were each measured independently. This is a brief report of tests carried out on a two such metersin a university pneumatic conveyor.
The Optimization of Transfer Trajectory for Small Amplitude Halo Orbits
Authors: Ming-Tao LI , Jian-Hua Zheng
Published: April 2013

Since the halo orbits in the vicinity of the collinear libration points have a strong hyperbolic character, it is possible to use their stable manifold for the transfer from the Earth. However, for halo orbits of small amplitude, the stable manifold could not approach the Earth, direct transfer from the parking orbit around the earth to the stable manifold is impossible. Nevertheless, with a halo orbit insertion maneuver, the perturbed manifold could approach the earth. This paper proposes a method that combines the differential correction method and the genetic algorithm to minimize the halo orbit insertion maneuver velocity. The method takes advantage of both the global convergence behavior of the genetic algorithm and the quick local convergence behavior of the differential correction method. Numerical simulation shows that the method has a good convergence behavior.
Key Technologies for the Application of the Electric Propulsion System on the GEO Satellite Platform
Authors: Bingxiu Bian , Yanming Wei , Yong Li
Published: April 2013

Applying the electric propulsion system on GEO satellite in the future is an inevitable trend in China. For this purpose, a lot of problems should be solved not only thruster itself but also the whole system. Based on the analysis of satellite requirements, in this paper the key technologies for the electric propulsion system application on the GEO satellite are summarized. Three important relations are emphasized. The first one is the electric propulsion system. The second one is the relation between the electric propulsion system and the chemical propulsion system. The last one is the relation between the electric propulsion system and the whole satellite or the whole system. Through liquidating those relations, the key technologies for the electric propulsion system applied on new GEO satellite are indicated.
Micro and Nanotechnologies for Thermoelectric Generators
Authors: Koukharenko E. , Tudor M.J. , Beeby S.P. , White N.M. , Li X. , Nandhakumar I
Published: April 2013

This paper reviews the principles of thermoelectric energy harvesters and discusses the development of a new type of nanostructured thermoelectric generator, fabricated by combining silicon microfabrication techniques, electroplating and submicron ion-track nanolithography. Ion-track etched polyimide nanotemplates (30–100nm pore diameters) are used to grow Bi2Te3 nanowires by electroplating. Microstructural and thermoelectric properties of Bi2Te3 thin electroplated film are reported.
Expanding Technology, Deepening Knowledge and a Shrinking World: Reflections on Learned Societies in Measurement and Instrumentation
Authors: Finkelstein L.
Published: April 2013

The paper marks the fiftieth anniversary of the activity of the International Measurement Confederation (IMEKO). It uses this landmark to examine the development of measurement and instrumentation science and technology in the last five decades. It notes a technology that has grown in capability, extended its range of applications and spread globally. It examines the change in economic and political conditions and a globalised world. It critically reviews the role of learned societies. It advocates effort to promote learned society activities. It views international co-operation in such activities as the only way forward. It advocates active engagement in the work of IMEKO.
Smart Instruments in Safety Instrumented Systems — Sellafield Experiences
Authors: Nobes Tom S.
Published: April 2013

This paper is based on the lecture at the British Nuclear Engineering Society 6th International Conference on Control & Instrumentation by Tom S. Nobes on 11th September 2007.
Coriolis Mass Flow Metering for Wet Gas
Authors: Lansangan Robbie , Skinner Jacob , Reese Michael , Del Toro Arnold , Tombs Michael , Duta Mihaela , Zhou Feibiao , Henry Manus
Published: April 2013

Most two-phase applications for Coriolis mass flow metering are for low Gas Void Fraction (GVF) conditions, i.e. where the process fluid is essentially liquid with relatively low levels of entrained air or gas. There are particular challenges associated with metering wet gas, where the GVF exceeds 95%. Established wet gas metering techniques are typically based on a differential pressure-type device (for example an orifice plate or V-cone). It is well-known that such devices over-read compared to a dry gas calibration; equations to correct the reading are available if the degree of gas “wetness” is known.

For Coriolis mass flow metering of wet gas, two approaches are described. The natural extension of the low GVF techniques is to map the observed mass flow and density readings onto estimates of the flow rates of the gas and liquid components. The alternative is to use the Coriolis meter to estimate the degree of gas “wetness” (e.g. the Lockhart-Martinelli number) and to apply a conventional correlation (e.g. Murdock or Chisholm) to a differential pressure flow reading.

A prototype Coriolis-based wet gas meter is described, together with results from laboratory trials at CEESI in Colorado, and from extended field trials at BP's Wamsutter gas field in Wyoming.
Future Forensics: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Mennell J , Shaw I C , Jickells S M
Published: April 2013

DNA is probably the most well-known example of forensic science in practice. The UK has the world's largest DNA database in terms of the percentage of the population covered, over four million people, representing 6% of the UK population and covering the majority of the active criminal population. This growth was enabled as a result of the DNA expansion programme and during 2006/2007 alone, I, 175 violent/sex crimes, 852 drugs cases and 7,892 domestic burglaries were linked to one or more individuals on the National DNA Database. However, public confidence in DNA and forensic science has been tested as a result of issues surrounding the growth of the national DNA database and cases such as the Omagh Bombing and Damilola Taylor, which has prompted important ethical issues and concerns to be raised.

Despite these concerns, forensic science users and providers are under increasing pressure to build on the success of the DNA expansion programme to ensure that forensic science is used effectively across all crime types.

Identifying and articulating a vision for forensic science should enable the impact of forensic science to be maximised, but will also require many areas to be addressed and evaluated. This needs to be done in terms of system drivers, technological drivers and societal drivers and in the context of these there is a need to paint the possible future forensic landscape and boundaries; clearly identifying what we are trying to achieve, what the priorities are and the extent to which we would like to shape the future rather than to merely respond to it.
Fingerprinting: Into the Future
Authors: Jickells Sue M.
Published: April 2013

Although fingerprints have been used in forensic science for over 100 years, development of new visualisation techniques to obtain images of latent fingermarks for identification purposes is continuing. The use of nanoparticles, including functionalised nanoparticles is being explored as is the use of spectroscopic techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy. These techniques, and mass spectrometric techniques such as DESI-MS and DART-TOF-MS, can be used to detect traces of drugs and explosives on latent fingermarks; offering the possibility of providing ‘intelligence’ information about the leaver of a print. Nanoparticles functionalised with antibodies have been used to differentiate prints from smokers and non-smokers. Investigation of the chemistry of latent fingermarks has shown important differences between adults and children which have already been used in forensic casework. As advances are made in instrumentation, we can expect to see further advances not only in visualisation of latent prints but also in additional ‘lifestyle’ information which can be gleaned about individuals from their prints.
Future Crimes and Detection Methods in Cyberspace
Authors: Marshall Angus M. , Clarkson Allen C.
Published: April 2013

The authors consider contemporary definitions of cyberspace and explore the nature of crimes in an online environment. Through consideration of “meatspace” criminal activity and its history, they explore the similarities and differences between real world activity and cyberspace. Crime in cyberspace is discussed along with exploration of motivating factors and possible evidential properties of cyberspace entities. Issues affecting investigation, the ability to investigate, and which entities to investigate are considered.
Fuzzy Control: 2D Pneumatic Muscle Actuator's Arm
Authors: Wang Ying T , Wong R-H , Yu C-W , Huang W-C
Published: April 2013

Pneumatic muscle actuators are newly developed actuators in rotational, non-aligned and specified applications. In this paper, pneumatic muscle actuators are used to set up a two-dimensional pneumatic arm to simulate the excavator's motion. Fuzzy control algorithms are typically applied in pneumatic control systems owing to their non-linearity and ill-defined mathematical models. Two fuzzy controllers, which include the sliding mode fuzzy controller and self-organizing fuzzy controller, are comparatively implemented in this 2D pneumatic arm control system. The present paper provides the comparisons of trajectory tracking performances and adaptations of these two fuzzy controllers via a variety of trajectory tracking experiments.
A Computer System: Measurement of Welding Surge Currents
Authors: Muravyov Sergey V. , Borikov Valery N. , Natalinova Natalija M.
Published: April 2013

This paper presents both the hardware and software for a system for the measurement of welding process electric parameters.

The distinctive feature of the system is its application for control of the process of high-quality contact micro-welding of critical destination products, which is characterized by the pulse current in the range from 100A to 20kA and by the pulse duration from a few to hundreds of milliseconds. The system is portable and consists of the measuring coaxial shunt, oscilloscope and computer with software. Structure, modeling and main principles of constructing the system components are described. Its technical and metrological parameters are given.
Applied Research on Moisture Content Measurement: One Sided Capacitance Sensors
Authors: Xinguang Li , Mingying Xu
Published: April 2013

This paper elaborated the working principle on moisture-content analysis of one sided capacitance sensors. The influence of size and space of plates on the measure depth is compared and researched through some theoretical analysis and experiments. The relation between the measure signal moisture content and measure depth by the capacitance gauging circuit is obtained.
Measuring Pulverised Fuel: Using Electrostatic Meters
Authors: Zhang Jianyong , Coulthard John , Cheng Ruixue , Keech Ray
Published: April 2013

This paper describes the performance of electrostatic meters for measuring and controlling pulverised fuel on coal-fired power plant. Typical data obtained from on-line measurements of pulverised fuel (PF) flow in a large-scale power plant demonstrate how the system can be used to measure the fuel velocity and distribution (spilt) to indicate the conveying conditions in each individual conveyor.

Results from laboratory tests carried out on a bifurcating system show that the split between two conveyors can be balanced by controlling the back pressure with PF meters providing on-line feedback of mass flow measurements. Based on the results, some of the immediate benefits of continuous PF metering are discussed showing the potential to increase plant efficiency by optimising the fuel distribution to the burners.
Reliable Subsea Equipment
Authors: Deans Gregor
Published: April 2013

Subsea systems designed for continuous operation on the seabed are required to demonstrate very high reliability and it is not uncommon to encounter requirements that state a 10 year Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF) and 20 year design life.

While the environment on the seabed is in general quite benign and predictable, the importance of system availability to maintain production and the duration over which reliability needs to be demonstrated becomes a critical issue.

This short paper briefly outlines the process, results and lessons learned from over four years of qualification testing, reliability analysis and extended life testing as part of the development of an advanced subsea surveillance system to ensure a final commercial product which shall maintain a high availability through-out its operational lifetime.
Subsea Control Fluids: Avoidance of Hydrate Formation
Authors: Knepper Stefan , Wieneke Matthias , Morrissey Chris
Published: April 2013

With the increasing number of deep offshore production wells, it becomes essential to develop, test and qualify new hydraulic control fluids with enhanced temperature and pressure ranges. These requirements apply especially with focus on the avoidance of hydrate formation in subsea control systems. Due to these technical reasons, but also due to recent changes in environmental legislation, the qualification of new control fluids has become one of the central topics of Cameron's R&D activities.

Evaluation of the newly developed fluid “Castrol Transaqua HC10” and the required qualification activities is briefly discussed. The fluid was developed in order to extend the application range especially for deepwater production wells. Drivers for the development have been parameters such as temperatures and pressures, which can lead to hydrate formation in case of a potential gas leakage at the surface-controlled subsurface safety valves. A comprehensive qualification program has been started with the goal to approve the fluid for the use in its first subsea application.
Introduction & Revision of IEC 61508
Authors: Bell Ron
Published: April 2013

Over the past 25 years there have been a number of initiatives worldwide to develop guidelines and standards to enable the safe exploitation of programmable electronic systems (PESs) used for safety applications. In the context of industrial applications (to distinguish from aerospace and military applications) a major initiative has been focussed on IEC 61508, and other standards based on IEC 61508, have emerged as a key international standards.

This paper considers some of the key features of IEC 61508, which has now been available for over 10 years, and indicates some of the issues that are being considered in the current revision of the standard.
Plant-Wide Production Processes: Challenges on Optimal Control
Authors: Chai Tianyou
Published: April 2013

This paper describes the control and operational management process of plant-wide production processes and analyzes the relationship between the control system actions and the multiple global production indices that characterize quality, yield, costs, and consumptions etc. The existing research results in control and optimization are reviewed. From the angles of mathematical models-based, data-based and their combinations, the state-of-art of control and optimization is summarized. This is followed by the analysis on the challenging issues on the optimal control for plant-wide production processes in terms of process control, operational optimization and the realization of the control systems.
Development of the Embedded Vision System: A Survey
Authors: Zou Wei , Yu Junzhi , Xu De
Published: April 2013

Recently embedded technology has been widely applied to machine vision and embedded vision systems are more and more popular. This paper reviews the advances on embedded vision systems, and then compares and analyzes their frameworks in processing ability, cost and performance. A discussion is provided for some unsolved problems for embedded vision systems. Finally, the future of embedded vision system is outlined.
Forensic Science: Role of Imaging, Sensing, Identification and Authentication Technologies
Authors: Mennell Julie , Shaw Ian
Published: April 2013

The development and proliferation of technologies which support the image capture, identification and authentication of biometric markers and individuals, together with sensing/detection technologies provide considerable opportunities, in regard to their potential role in supporting the use and impact of forensic science.

Imaging technologies, can be used to support the real time capture of crime scenes and the evidence within, such that the evidence can be subsequently (or potentially real-time) analysed and interpreted. If coupled or integrated with Biometric and other technologies (such as GPS) these combinations could offer the potential to develop systems which provided an ‘alert to crime’ and that could recover, analyse and interpret ‘forensic evidence’; and that would not only automatically report a crime and its location, but also identify and locate the offender. This potential has already been recognised, in relation to the use of CCTV, but there are opportunities to enhance and expand further.

These new technologies and methods of data capture provide opportunities to expand the current boundaries of the use of forensic science and the technology used to support it. However, in exploring the potential for further expansion a number areas need to be addressed.
Primary Processes in Sensory Cells: Current Advances
Authors: Frings Stephan
Published: April 2013

In the course of evolution, the strong and unremitting selective pressure on sensory performance has driven the acuity of sensory organs to its physical limits. As a consequence, the study of primary sensory processes illustrates impressively how far a physiological function can be improved, if the survival of a species depends on it. Sensory cells that detect single-photons, single molecules, mechanical motions on a nanometer scale, or incredibly small fluctuations of electromagnetic fields have fascinated physiologists for a long time. It is a great challenge to understand the primary sensory processes on a molecular level. This review points out some important recent developments in the search for primary processes in sensory cells that mediate touch perception, hearing, vision, taste, olfaction, as well as the analysis of light polarization and the orientation in the Earth's magnetic field. The data are screened for common transduction strategies and common transduction molecules, an aspect that may be of interest to readers and helpful for researchers in the field.
Nature as a Model for Technical Sensors
Authors: Bleckmann H. , Schmitz H. , von der Emde G.
Published: April 2013

Nature has developed a stunning diversity of sensory systems. Humans and many animals mainly rely on visual information. In addition, they may use acoustic, olfactory, and tactile cues for object detection and spatial orientation. Beyond these sensory systems a large variety of highly specialized sensors have evolved. For instance, some buprestid beetles use infrared organs for the detection of forest fires. The infrared sensors of boid and crotalid snakes are used for prey detection at night. For object detection and spatial orientation many species of nocturnal fish employ active electrolocation. This review describes certain aspects of the detection and processing of infrared and electrosensory information (Bleckmann et al 2004). We show that the study of natural exotic sensory systems can lead to discoveries that are useful for the construction of technical sensors and artificial control systems. Comparative studies of animal sensory systems have the power to uncover at least a small fraction of the gigantic untapped reservoir of natural solutions for perceptive problems.
Can and Zigbee Based Distributed Control Architecture: Electroplating Applications
Authors: Choy Alex W.H. , Luk B.L. , Liu Louis K.P. , Chen S.
Published: April 2013

In this paper, the application of the distributed control architecture using low-cost hybrid wired/wireless control network in the electroplating line control system design is described. The feasibility of implementing condition monitoring under this proposed control platform for increasing the system reliability and reducing the scrape rate is also discussed.
An Overview of Renewable Wind Energy Conversion System Modeling and Control
Authors: Song Yong-Duan , Li Peng , Liu Wei , Qin Ming
Published: April 2013

Wind energy is pollution-free and renewable. Advanced control design for wind power generation systems represents a pivotal yet challenging research topic. Some sophisticated control schemes have been provided to ensure reliable and high efficient operation of wind turbines during various modes such as start-up, power production and protection shut-down. An overview on the latest developments in modeling and control of wind power generation systems is given in this paper. The main focus is on the effective operation of wind turbine in three well known modes covering safety: maximum power capturing, system protection and load impact reduction. Meanwhile, several key trends are discussed to demonstrate the possible solutions and feasibility of future implementation.
Controlling Odour in Waste Water Collection Systems with Dissolved Sulphide Monitoring
Authors: Strahand Michael
Published: April 2013

High concentrations of sulphides in waste water can cause corrosive damage to concrete structures as well as septic and malodorous conditions. As a result, treatment facilities need effective methods to help them prevent sulphide formation in order to protect their waste water systems and eliminate odour problems. Sulphides can be removed by adding oxidants to the waste water, however, this is an expensive process and over-compensation can be costly, making the monitoring of dissolved sulphides necessary. Traditional techniques for monitoring the concentration of dissolved sulphides are expensive and require frequent maintenance, to overcome these issues new technology has been developed. This article discusses the challenges facing the waste water industry in measuring dissolved sulphides, the conventional monitoring methods, application examples and a new technology which surpasses traditional methods.
Novel Frequency Chirp Measurement Techniques
Authors: Vaezi-Nejad S.M. , Cox M. , Cooper N.
Published: April 2013

Optical communication technologies have particular interest in noise metrology. Coherent transmission systems are substantially formed by distributed feedback laser diodes whose radiation spectral width is smaller than 0.1 nm. Their other desirable features are reduced susceptibility to temperature and driving current variations and they are robust, small in size and low cost. Significant noise of various types in coherent transmission systems is generated by the laser itself. The direct modulation of the laser injection broaden the line width which is commonly known as the frequency chirp. The purpose of this paper is to describe and compare different techniques for measuring this kind of noise. Double feedback lasers and origins of chirp noise are first explained. The novel chirp measurement techniques of Fabry Perot interferometer, heterodyne, homodyne and temporal chirp are then described and compared. It is explained that Fabry Perot's strongly reflect when not in resonance so a problem often encountered is the reflection back into the laser source. The use of optical isolation in Fabry Perot interferometers in thus essential. The Birefringence Insensitive Interferomter naturally compensates for any fibre birefringence and eliminates the need for a polarisation state controller. Homodyning techniques provide a resolution capability of 100kHz which has proved appropriate and also suitable for the majority of double feedback lasers when measuring line width. The self-homodyning in particular offers the best combination of performance verses cost and it has a useful feature of having a self tracking local oscillator which compensates proportionally any changes in the device under test. The temporal chirp measurement techniques are either direct or indirect and they are based on the pulse response of laser diodes. The direct techniques are easier but require a fast detector and rely on a reasonable estimate of the pulse shape.
Coriolis Flowmeters for Nuclear Applications
Authors: Wang Tao , Hussain Yousif
Published: April 2013

Nuclear power is becoming a very important low-carbon option to achieve electricity production. As proved in many other process plants, Coriolis flowmeters have a number of advantages for measuring process parameters, typically flow and density. This paper looks specifically at the development and application of Coriolis flowmeters for nuclear power plants. In particular, the requirements of typical nuclear applications and the design considerations to meet these requirements are discussed. Using ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section III, as the governing code, design of straight-tube Coriolis flowmeters is described, which resulted a series of products with ASME N-Stamp certificates.
Adaptive Image Processing for Bubbles in Flotation Process
Authors: Chen Xiaofang , Gui Weihua , Yang Chunhua , Zhou Kaijun , Wang Hong
Published: April 2013

In this paper, an adaptive segmentation based image processing method is presented for mineral flotation processes so as to obtain an optimal quality profile measure. An optimal structural element (SE) is firstly provided for initial image segmentation where fuzzy c-means (FCM) algorithm is combined with a watershed algorithm. Then, the extracted fuzzy texture spectrum feature is discriminated as either under-segmentation or over-segmentation regions. Finally, the segmentation results are subsequently processed to estimate the output probability density function (PDF) of bubble size distribution, which is the basis of the fault detection and real-time control for flotation processes. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method avoids both over-segmentation and under segmentation, and reveal the reliability of bubble size distribution nonparametric density estimation.
Constant Airflow Measurement of Vehicle Intake System Based on Hot-Film Air Flow Meter Sensors
Authors: Ma Rong-Hua
Published: April 2013

The goal of this study is to develop an airflow meter sensor for vehicle intake system detection in internal combustion engines. The study uses micro-electromechanical process technology to develop a hot-film flow meter with an alumina substrate and platinum film heater. The hotline method is used to create a micro airflow anemometry meter sensor relying on variations in resistance of the platinum film corresponding to different wind velocity at the set temperatures. The alumina plate used in this study is produced by polishing an alumina substrate. A platinum film is then deposited on the plate to complete the micro-heater used in the sensor. Resistance on the sensor side varies as gas flows through the sensor and the instrument determines airflow velocity on the basis of the changes in resistance caused by gas flow differences. This is used to test airflow velocity form 10m/s to 60m/s. Resistance displays a regular slope, indicating the relationship between airflow velocities varies remain predictable throughout the sensing range. Therefore, the sensor can achieve its airflow measurement purpose completely.
Innovations towards Personalised Biomedical Photonic Devices
Authors: Summers R. , Hu S.
Published: April 2013

The paper demonstrates the progress made in biomedical photonics engineering at Loughborough University since 1998. Research, development of concepts and innovation of products for principal use in healthcare can be traced back to the initial clinical request for a device to measure oxygen saturation in the peripheral tissues. Since then a directed path of progress, which has involved a systematic investigation of component technologies, has been followed. Latterly, the research has been directed at placing the devices developed at the point of care, which is often in the home setting rather than in a controlled clinical environment. Knowledge transfer of ideas and concepts through to translational research that utilises results can also be represented via the developed innovation platform.
Evaluation of an Alarm Annunciator — A Case Study
Authors: Fishkin David , Russell Peter
Published: April 2013

Evaluation International (EI) is a technology club for large scale users of instruments for measurement and control. A description is given of the evaluation of an alarm annunciator system carried out for the EI membership with the full co-operation of the manufacturer.
Testing of Electrostatic Pulverised Fuel Meters
Authors: Coulthard J. , Cheng R. , Zhang J. , Keech R. P.
Published: April 2013

This paper discusses the current methods used to test electrostatic pulverised fuel meters in a laboratory environment and the precautions to be taken to ensure that ‘meaningful’ results are obtained. In particular, the effect of particle attrition is discussed and results presented from a laboratory test facility at the University of Teesside.
Shaping the Future of Road Haulage Trailer Design
Authors: Bukowski A. , Twigg P. , Walker G. , Sigurnjak S.
Published: April 2013

Aerodynamics is a subject that serves a wide range of industries and contains many different specialist areas in which to find expertise. Primarily concerned with the analysis of fluid flow, there are numerous applications: Aerospace and automobile manufacturers are the typical associations with aerodynamics, but there is increasing interest in the subject from industries and manufacturers that now have an incentive to pursue aerodynamic designs in the interest of fuel-efficiency. Freight and Commercial vehicles are one such industry. The Cartwright Group are a trailer bodybuilder manufacturing company based in Manchester; with ever increasing fuel-prices, they witnessed an increasing requirement for trailer designs that are more aerodynamically efficient in order to reduce the high fuel consumption faced by the end-user of heavy goods vehicle (HGV) trailers. An approach to aerodynamic design that produces quantifiable results is required, while also being accessible to laymen and presentable to potential end-users before any order to purchase decisions are made. This paper discusses an approach taken that combines traditional aerodynamic development, with visualisation and experimental simulation methods to meet these requirements.
Acoustic Sensor Networks for Decommissioning
Authors: York T.A. , Green P.N. , Green P.R. , Phasouliotis A. , Qu Z. , Watson S. , Hussain M. , Nawaz S. , Trigoni N. , Stanley S.
Published: April 2013

Progress is reported with an acoustic sensor network that offers the possibility to provide monitoring of nuclear storage ponds. The aim is to create a network that comprises a number of autonomous sensor nodes that communicate and localise using ultrasonic signals. The nodes are less than 20cm dimension and are able to manoeuvre themselves, horizontally and vertically, to selected positions where they can then record measurements of selected parameters. Ultrasonic signal propagation has been explored in a 6m benign test pond with representative clutter. The paper describes progress with communications, localisation and a small autonomous underwater vehicle. Results suggest that localisation might be achieved to an accuracy of about 10cm and data might be communicated up to 1 kbit/s assuming a bit error rate of 10–4.
Improving Temperature Sensing in Nuclear Environments
Authors: Pearce J.V. , de Podesta M. , Elliott C.J. , Machin G.
Published: April 2013

Substantial improvements in high temperature measurement have been made in the last few years at national measurement institutes, which can be of benefit to the nuclear industry. In this article some of these developments are summarised. In addition, the temperature aspects of a major European project, ‘MetroFission’, to build on these improvements and disseminate these developments are described. Novel aspects include new temperature calibration techniques and artifacts, new thermocouple types with much improved stability and low neutron absorption cross-section, self-calibrating thermocouples and practical acoustic thermometry - a driftless technique for measuring absolute temperature.
Visual Representation of Safety Cases
Authors: Brain Jennifer
Published: April 2013

Historically, safety cases in the nuclear industry have tended to follow a visually similar approach; descriptive text using a (gradually evolving) template driven in part by a desire to minimise the scope of changes to legacy safety cases. However, a number of recent factors are beginning to challenge this approach. Academic work and developments in other industries are proposing new structured and diagrammatic techniques and tools such as Claims-Arguments-Evidence and Goal Structured Notation. Additionally, new build projects are offering a ‘clean-sheet’ and an opportunity to break away from a traditional safety case presentation.

This paper introduces a number of techniques for representing a safety case and identifies some of the considerations for selecting a presentation. It then presents the Claims-Arguments-Evidence approach proposed to support the C&I safety case for new build in order to describe some real life experience.
Digital Temperature Tracking in Porous Media Burners
Authors: Salinas R. , Raff U. , Henríquez-Vargas L. A.
Published: April 2013

Combustion in porous media burners presents considerable advantages over free flame burners due to several outstanding features inter alia clean and highly efficient combustion properties allowing a considerable amount of feedback energy from the flame area to preheat the mixture of fuel and air resulting in a considerable reduction of unavoidable pollutant formations appearing e.g. as the emission of CO and NOX. In addition, porous media burners are manufactured in highly compact small sizes suitable to industrial and household heating characteristic applications. Heat transfer between solid and gas depends mainly on the porous thermophysical properties of the component known as the solid matrix. These systems are characterized by the formation of a combustion flame pulse or wave which can travel inside the burner, depending on the operating conditions at velocities of about 0.1 mm/s. In this paper, a new temperature tracking scheme is proposed based on digital image processing to determine the position and the velocity of the thermal profile. Results showed reduced errors in the estimation of the peak temperature position using digital image analysis compared to conventional thermocouple-based measurements techniques.
Development of MEMS Hot-Film Sensors
Authors: Johnson G. A. , Hucker M. J. , Morley C. , Warsop C.
Published: April 2013

BAE Systems have been developing hot-film sensors for the detection and monitoring of laminar/turbulent flow on a wing. The sensors are constructed using silicon manufacturing techniques, with the ultimate aim of making them capable of being certified for flight. Primarily, this has involved looking at aspects of the sensor design, such as the robustness of the sensors to raindrop impacts and their resistance to environmental degradation. Tests done to date have shown that provided the sensors have a thin protective coating of a few microns thickness and are not installed close to the leading-edge of a wing they should be capable of being certified for flight.
Innovations in High Temperature Measurement
Authors: Graham Machin
Published: April 2013

The precise measurement and control of high temperature processes, typically those above 1000°C, has always been problematic. Recent and unfolding innovations in this area promise step change improvements throughout the measurement chain.

This paper outlines, in a stepwise fashion, a series of innovations in high temperature measurement that will facilitate the envisaged step change. The key to realising this is the development of new high performance high temperature fixed points (HTFPs). As will be seen HTFPs are very versatile improving high temperature measurement in a wide variety of settings from the National Measurement Institute to application in a variety of industries (for example improving thermocouple performance through in-situ correction of sensor drift).
Competence in Hazardous Areas
Authors: Sinclair Ron
Published: April 2013

People are the weakest link in most safety chains. Hazardous areas are no exception and the IECEx International Certification System has introduced a Certification Scheme for Personnel Competence covering most aspects relevant to working with equipment in hazardous areas. This was developed at the request particularly of the oil and gas industry where contract workers need to be assessed for operating in many different parts of the world. From small beginnings, it is estimated that more than 50,000 individuals are likely to become certified within the scheme.
How Can We Measure What We Cannot See? Measurement Issues in Sport Psychology
Authors: Lane Andrew M.
Published: April 2013

The assessment of an athlete's mental strengths and weaknesses can be a key role for a sport psychologist. Sport psychologists work with athletes for a number of different reasons one of which is to try to improve performance by helping an athlete prepare mentally. The present article examines considerations when measuring athletes' mental states. Self-report is the commonly used method but is limited by its subjective nature. Individuals might be genuinely unclear on how they are feeling, and consequently can only provide an estimate. Test interpreters should be cognisant of the inherent subjectivity in completed self-report measures. Test developers however attempt to reduce error measurement through the use of rigorous validation studies that require large samples and analyse data using theory-led methods.
Design and Development of an Embedded Intelligent Optimal Control Platform
Authors: Fang Zheng , Yang Jie , Wu Xiaochuang , Li Wei , Wang Hong
Published: April 2013

An embedded intelligent optimal control platform is designed and developed in this paper. On the hardware side, the embedded industrial controller uses ARM9 as the core processor to meet the requirements of low-power consumption, low-cost and high computation performance. On the software side, Xenomai Linux OS and ProConOS are adopted to realise hard real-time control performance. Besides, MultiProg is used to support block programming of the control software. To validate the effectiveness of embedded control platform, the grinding circuit mineral processing plants is used as an example to design an intelligent optimal control system and validates its performance through Hardware-in-the-Loop experiment. The experiment results show that this platform can fully satisfy the requirements of industrial optimal control.
A Component-Based Technology for Production Planning System in the Magnetic Material Industry
Authors: Liu Yefeng , Zheng Binling
Published: April 2013

In this paper, we propose a decentralised production planning system which is designed to release all production planning through a distributed manufacturing network. This system emphasises the requirements of make-to-order and is able to produce satisfactory delivery dates, super quality and competitively priced products. The system architecture is designed and implemented using distributed object-oriented and powerful component technology, satisfying all the function requirements of information systems in an environment of distributed manufacturing. The application result shows its effectiveness in reducing customer order tardiness and improving the devices utilisation rate of the key processes.
Development of a Novel Light Source for the Investigation of Optical Sensors
Authors: Jenner RP , Vaezi-Nejad SM
Published: April 2013

This paper is concerned with the development of a novel light source which aids the study of the optoelectronic properties of amorphous semiconductors as optical sensors for process tomography. The light source is an integral part of a prototype industrial process tomographic system which is being developed for the detection and imaging of multiphase flows. In this paper, the design, assembly and performance of the light source are discussed in detail. Findings of the research into the suitability of amorphous semiconductors for industrial process tomography will be presented at a later stage in a subsequent paper.
Irrigation-based social work relieves poverty in India’s drylands
Authors: Agoramoorthy Govindasamy , Hsu Minna J.
Published: April 2013

India’s drylands, located in the states of Gujarat and Rajasthan, receive low rainfall (annual average of 95–1000 mm). Farmers have to rely on the monsoon rains to cultivate crops. Realizing the irrigation water need of the farmers who inhabit the drylands, a non-profit agency called NM Sadguru Water and Development Foundation (hereafter, the Sadguru Foundation), initiated social work based on irrigation water to assist farmers in growing more crops. In this article, we present data on the irrigation-based social work implemented by the Sadguru Foundation across the drylands of western India and how it benefits local farming communities.
Intrauterine Hormone Effects on Tooth Dimensions
Authors: Ribeiro D.C. , Brook A.H. , Hughes T.E. , Sampson W.J. , Townsend G.C.
Published: April 2013

The human dentition is a complex adaptive system that is influenced by genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Within this system, is sexual dimorphism related to the growth promotion of the Y chromosome, or to hormonal influences, or both? This study is the first to investigate both primary and permanent tooth sizes in females from opposite-sex dizygotic (DZOS) twin pairs compared with females from dizygotic same-sex (DZSS) and monozygotic (MZ) twin pairs to indicate the influence of intrauterine male hormone, including the initial testosterone surge, on dental development. Serial dental models of the primary, mixed, and permanent dentitions of 134 females from DZOS, DZSS, and MZ twins were examined. Mesiodistal, buccolingual, crown height, and intercuspal dimensions of all primary teeth and selected permanent teeth were determined by image analysis. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed statistically significantly larger crown size in DZOS females in both dentitions, with the crown height dimensions displaying the greatest increase in size. These findings strongly support the Twin Testosterone Transfer (TTT) hypothesis. We propose that the growth-promoting effects of the Y chromosome and intrauterine male hormone levels influence different tooth dimensions and contribute differentially to the sexual dimorphism of human teeth.