bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty as a Part of Customer-Based Corporate Sustainability in the Sector of Mobile Communications Services
Authors: Strenitzerová Mariana , Gaňa Ján
Published: May 2018

In the service sector, the issue of customer satisfaction is being paid great attention. It has become central concern for companies of services to improve service quality, and to maintain customer loyalty within a highly competitive marketplace. The success of customer satisfaction is not only closely related to a company’s quality management and marketing activities but it also has significant impacts on the company’s future and its customer-based corporate sustainability. Customer satisfaction influences variables that are indicators of customer loyalty and long-time customer relationships. The aim of this paper is to provide information about customer satisfaction with quality of electronic communications services and show the results of application of the European customer satisfaction index (ECSI) model carried out in Slovak electronic communications market. Our marketing research pointed out that the ECSI model can provide a better understanding of the complex relationships of the variables of customer loyalty and customer satisfaction and their impact to sustainability of Slovak telecom provider.
Optimisation of Multipurpose Reservoir Operation by Coupling Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and Genetic Algorithm for Optimal Operating Policy (Case Study: Ganga River Basin)
Authors: Anand Jatin , Gosain Ashvani Kumar , Khosa Rakesh
Published: May 2018

Reservoirs are recognized as one of the most efficient infrastructure components in integrated water resources management. At present, with the ongoing advancement of social economy and requirement of water, the water resources shortage problem has worsened, and the operation of reservoirs, in terms of consumption of flood water, has become significantly important. To achieve optimal reservoirs operating policies, a considerable amount of optimization and simulation models have been introduced in the course of recent years. Subsequently, the assessment and estimation that is associated with the operation of reservoir stays conventional. In the present study, the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) models and a Genetic Algorithm model has been employed to two reservoirs in Ganga River basin, India in order to obtain the optimal reservoir operational policies. The objective function has been added to reduce the yearly sum of squared deviation from preferred storage capacity and required release for the irrigation purpose. The rule curves that were estimated via random search have been discovered to be consistent with that of demand requests. Thus, in the present case study, on the basis of the generated result, it has been concluded that GA-derived optimal reservoir operation rules are competitive and promising, and can be efficiently used for the derivation of operation of the reservoir.
Lighting Design for Energy Sustainability, Information, and Perception. A Museum Environment as a Case Study
Authors: Balocco Carla , Volante Giulia
Published: May 2018

The aim of our research is to investigate the physical connection between light, perception, and information by means of an integrated methodological approach. The proposed method was used for sustainable lighting design aiming at light efficacy and quality, visual perception, communication, and energy saving. Three types of synergic measurement were carried out: photometric, colourimetric, and perception measurements. Starting from the results and the post-processing of photometric and colourimetric measurements on different light sources and fresco surfaces, by applying the eye-tracking technique for eye movement analysis of a people sample, entropy calculations were carried out. The results of observer perception and preferences, patterns of their visual scanning due to different LED (Light Emitting Diode) sources, were quantified by means of Shannon entropy calculation and, consequently, the information content of images that each light source can transmit. A new lighting proposal, based on the use of LED sources characterized by a spectral emission of light in strong compliance with surface colour and relevant transmission image content information was suggested and checked by transient simulations. Our proposal was based on sustainability because this concept is linked to developing perception and visual wellbeing, information, light communication, and lower energy consumption for maintenance, but especially for preventive conservation and the protection of works of art by means quality of light.
Dependence on Supplier, Supplier Trust and Green Supplier Integration: The Moderating Role of Contract Management Difficulty
Authors: Zhao Xuesong , Pan Jieyi , Song Yongtao
Published: May 2018

This study aims to investigate the impacts of dependence on supplier and supplier trust on green supplier integration, and the moderating role of contract management difficulty. In this study, we develop a dependence-trust-integration model based on resource dependence theory, social capital theory and transaction cost theory. We examine the hypothesized relationships using hierarchical regression analyses based on data collected from 187 Chinese firms. Our findings suggest that dependence on supplier has positive impacts on green supplier integration and supplier trust. Supplier trust partially mediates the relationship between dependence on supplier and green supplier integration. In addition, contract management difficulty negatively moderates the relationship between supplier trust and green supplier integration. This research contributes to the literature by offering empirical evidence concerning the indirect relationship between dependence on supplier and green supplier integration via supplier trust, and the trust-integration link depends on the level of contract management difficulty.
Flooding Hazards across Southern China and Prospective Sustainability Measures
Authors: Lyu Hai-Min , Xu Ye-Shuang , Cheng Wen-Chieh , Arulrajah Arul
Published: May 2018

The Yangtze River Basin and Huaihe River Basin in Southern China experienced severe floods 1998 and 2016. The reasons for the flooding hazards include the following two factors: hazardous weather conditions and degradation of the hydrological environment due to anthropogenic activities. This review work investigated the weather conditions based on recorded data, which showed that both 1998 and 2016 were in El Nino periods. Human activities include the degradations of rivers and lakes and the effects caused by the building of the Three Gorges Dam. In addition, the flooding in 2016 had a lower hazard scale than that in 1998 but resulted in larger economic losses than that of 1998. To mitigate urban waterlogging caused by flooding hazards, China proposed a new strategy named Spongy City (SPC) in 2014. SPC promotes sustainable city development so that a city has the resilience to adapt to climate change, to mitigate the impacts of waterlogging caused by extreme rainfall events. The countermeasures used to tackle the SPC construction-related problems, such as local inundation, water resource shortage, storm water usage, and water pollution control, are proposed for city management to improve the environment.
Climate Change Perceptions and Observations of Agricultural Stakeholders in the Northern Great Plains
Authors: Grimberg Bruna , Ahmed Selena , Ellis Colter , Miller Zachariah , Menalled Fabian
Published: May 2018

This study explored whether Montana agricultural stakeholders’ perceptions and observations of climate change vary according to four socio-ecological variables: income, political view, agricultural occupation, and production region. A survey including 27 questions was developed into five sections: (1) agricultural background information; (2) perceptions about climate change; (3) observed changes in climate-related variables; (4) adaptation practices and strategies; and (5) demographic information. The survey included Likert-scored responses and multiple-choice questions, and was completed by 452 participants, including conventional and organic farmers and ranchers, extension agents, crop consultants, and researchers. The results indicate that while a notable fraction of agricultural stakeholders are alarmed about climate change and optimistic about the human capacity to reduce climate change, the degree of concern and optimism significantly varies depending on the stakeholder’s political views, production region, and agricultural occupation group. We found that observations of changes in climate, perceptions about climate change, and potential risks to agricultural production are driven mainly by political views. Both perceptions and observations drive the choice of adaptation and mitigation practices. It is thus essential to understand farmers’ socio-ecological characteristics when designing agricultural outreach programs in order to reduce barriers for the adoption of climate-resilient agriculture.
Multi-Step Inflation Prediction with Functional Coefficient Autoregressive Model
Authors: Wang Man , Chen Kun , Luo Qin , Cheng Chao
Published: May 2018

Forecasting inflation rate is one of the most important topics in finance and economics. In recent years, China has stepped into a “New Normal” stage of economic development, with a different state from the fast growth period during the past few decades. Hence, forecasting the inflation rate of China with a time-varying model may give high accuracy. In this paper, we investigate the problem of forecasting the inflation rate with a functional coefficient autoregressive (FAR) model, which allows the coefficient to change over time. We compare the FAR model based on the B-splines estimation method with the autoregressive moving average (ARMA) model by extensive simulation studies. In addition, with the monthly CPI data of China, we conduct both in-sample analysis and out-of-sample forecasting. The forecasting result shows that the FAR model based on the B-splines estimation method has a better performance than the ARMA model.
Bridging the Gaps for a ‘Circular’ Bioeconomy: Selection Criteria, Bio-Based Value Chain and Stakeholder Mapping
Authors: Lokesh Kadambari , Ladu Luana , Summerton Louise
Published: May 2018

Bio-products and bio-based value chains have been identified as one of the most promising pathways to attaining a resource-efficient circular economy. Such a “valorization and value-addition” approach incorporates an intricate network of processes and actors, contributing to socio-economic growth, environmental benefits and technological advances. In the present age of limited time and funding models to achieve ambitious sustainable development targets, whilst mitigating climate change, a systematic approach employing two-tier multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) can be useful in supporting the identification of promising bio-based value chains, that are significant to the EU plans for the bio-economy. Their identification is followed by an elaborate mapping of their value chains to visualize/foresee the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and challenges attributable to those bio-based value chains. To demonstrate this methodology, a systematic review of 12 bio-based value chains, prevalent in the EU, sourcing their starting material from biomass and bio-waste, has been undertaken. The selected value chains are mapped to visualize the linkages and interactions between the different stages, chain actors, employed conversion routes, product application and existing/potential end-of-life options. This approach will help chain-actors, particularly investors and policy-makers, understand the complexities of such multi-actor systems and make informed decisions.
Hybrid Sensor Network-Based Indoor Surveillance System for Intrusion Detection
Authors: Park Hasil , Park Jinho , Kim Heegwang , Lee Sung Q , Park Kang-Ho , Paik Joonki
Published: May 2018

This paper presents a novel hybrid sensor-based intrusion detection system for low-power surveillance in an empty, sealed indoor space with or without illumination. The proposed system includes three functional steps: (i) initial detection of an intrusion event using a sound field sensor; (ii) automatic lighting control based on the detected event, and (iii) detection and tracking the intruder using an image sensor. The proposed hybrid sensor-based surveillance system uses a sound field sensor to detect an abnormal event in a very low-light or completely dark environment for 24 h a day to reduce the power consumption. After detecting the intrusion by the sound sensor, a collaborative image sensor takes over an accurate detection and tracking tasks. The proposed hybrid system can be applied to various surveillance environments such as an office room after work, empty automobile, safety room in a bank, and armory room. This paper deals with fusion of computer-aided pattern recognition and physics-based sound field analysis that reflects the symmetric aspect of computer vision and physical analysis
Very Low-Cost 80-Bit Chipless-RFID Tags Inkjet Printed on Ordinary Paper
Authors: Herrojo Cristian , Moras Miquel , Paredes Ferran , Núñez Alba , Ramon Eloi , Mata-Contreras Javier , Martín Ferran
Published: May 2018

This paper presents a time-domain, chipless-RFID system with 80-bit tags inkjet-printed on ordinary DIN A4 paper. The tags, consisting of a linear chain of resonant elements (with as many resonators as the number of identification bits plus header bits), are read sequentially and by proximity (through near-field coupling). To this end, a transmission line, fed by a harmonic (interrogation) signal tuned to the resonance frequency of the tag resonators (or close to it), is used as a reader. Thus, during reader operation, the tag chain is mechanically shifted over the transmission line so that the coupling between the line and the functional resonant elements of the tag chain is favored. Logic states that ‘1’ and ‘0’ are determined by the functionality and non-functionality (resonator detuning), respectively, of the resonant elements of the chain. Through near-field coupling, the transmission coefficient of the line is modulated and, as a result, the output signal is modulated in amplitude (AM), which is the identification code contained in the envelope function. As long as the tags are inkjet-printed on ordinary DIN A4 paper, the cost is minimal. Moreover, such tags can be easily programmed and erased, so that identical tags can be fabricated on a large scale (and programmed at a later stage), further reducing the cost of manufacture. The reported prototype tags, with 80 bits of information plus four header bits, demonstrate the potential of this approach, which is of particular interest to secure paper applications.
Mechanisms of Action and Cell Death Associated with Clostridium perfringens Toxins
Authors: Navarro Mauricio A. , McClane Bruce A. , Uzal Francisco A.
Published: May 2018

Clostridium perfringens uses its large arsenal of protein toxins to produce histotoxic, neurologic and intestinal infections in humans and animals. The major toxins involved in diseases are alpha (CPA), beta (CPB), epsilon (ETX), iota (ITX), enterotoxin (CPE), and necrotic B-like (NetB) toxins. CPA is the main virulence factor involved in gas gangrene in humans, whereas its role in animal diseases is limited and controversial. CPB is responsible for necrotizing enteritis and enterotoxemia, mostly in neonatal individuals of many animal species, including humans. ETX is the main toxin involved in enterotoxemia of sheep and goats. ITX has been implicated in cases of enteritis in rabbits and other animal species; however, its specific role in causing disease has not been proved. CPE is responsible for human food-poisoning and non-foodborne C. perfringens-mediated diarrhea. NetB is the cause of necrotic enteritis in chickens. In most cases, host–toxin interaction starts on the plasma membrane of target cells via specific receptors, resulting in the activation of intracellular pathways with a variety of effects, commonly including cell death. In general, the molecular mechanisms of cell death associated with C. perfringens toxins involve features of apoptosis, necrosis and/or necroptosis.
Assessing the Influence of the Three Gorges Dam on Hydrological Drought Using GRACE Data
Authors: Li Fupeng , Wang Zhengtao , Chao Nengfang , Song Qingyi
Published: May 2018

With worldwide economic and social development, more dams are being constructed to meet the increasing demand for hydropower, which may considerably influence hydrological drought. Here, an index named the “Dam Influence Index” (DII) is proposed to assess the influence of the Three Gorges Dam (TGD) on hydrological drought in the Yangtze River Basin (YRB) in China. First, the total terrestrial water storage (TTWS) is derived from Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment data. Then, the natural-driven terrestrial water storage (NTWS) is predicted from the soil moisture, precipitation, and temperature data based on an artificial neural network model. Finally, the DII is derived using the empirical (Kaplan-Meier) cumulative distribution function of the differences between the TTWS and the NTWS. The DIIs of the three sub-basins in the YRB were 1.38, −4.66, and −7.32 between 2003 and 2008, which indicated an increase in TTWS in the upper sub-basin and a reduction in the middle and lower sub-basins. According to the results, we concluded that impoundments of the TGD between 2003 and 2008 slightly alleviated the hydrological drought in the upper sub-basin and significantly aggravated the hydrological drought in the middle and lower sub-basins, which is consistent with the Palmer Drought Severity Index. This study provides a new perspective for estimating the effects of large-scale human activities on hydrological drought and a scientific decision-making basis for the managing water resources over the operation of the TGD.
Evaluation of the influence of JC08-based cycle stress on batteries in plug-in hybrid electric vehicle
Authors: NIIKUNI Tetsuya , KOSHIKA Kenichiroh , KAWAI Terunao
Published: May 2018

Although plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) are expected to reduce both consumption of petroleum and emission of CO2 in comparison with ordinary hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), these advantages strongly depend on the reliability of batteries in PHEVs. For instance, their capacity reduction by degradation shortens the range of the travelling distance with electrical energy. However, there are no concrete test methods to evaluate the degradation of the batteries. In order to construct a test method for the evaluation of battery degradation, load conditions that reflect the situation of an actual vehicle in use has been investigated. In this study, the degrees of influence of two load terms, both a specific charge/discharge load (corresponding to the cycle life) and a thermal load (corresponding to the calendar life), in the capacity reduction were compared and a condition for an accelerated test was also discussed.
Matching Accessories: Standardization Developments in Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
Authors: Peter Van den Bossche , Bavo Verbrugge , Noshin Omar , Joeri Van Mierlo
Published: May 2018

The availability of charging infrastructure is one of the key issues to allow a wholesale deployment of electrically propelled vehicles (battery-electrics and plug-in hybrids). International standardization is essential in order to obtain safe and compatible solutions. This paper presents current developments in the field.
Reaching 10% renewable transportation fuels in 2020 by electric-vehicles in Styria/Austria
Authors: Jungmeier Gerfried , FELBERBAUER Karl-Peter , BEERMANN Martin
Published: May 2018

Electric-vehicles have the potential for a significant substitution of diesel and gasoline vehicles, and contribute to a reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) and particulate matter emissions. According to the European Renewable Energy Directive, the share of renewable transportation fuels should be 10% in 2020. In the project “Styrian e-mobility in 2020” the potential for reaching the target of 10% renewable fuels in 2020 has been determined by analysing different implementation scenarios. Based on a life cycle analysis, GHG and particulate matter emissions from transport services have been calculated and their potential reductions in emissions by the introduction of electric vehicles by 2020 have been determined. Reaching the European target of 10% renewable fuels in the passenger car sector by 2020 is possible with 30,700 electric-vehicles (5% of passenger cars) if the share of the additional electricity is above 50% from renewable energy and the same amount of transportation biofuel of 7% used as today.
A choice-based conjoint analysis on the market potential of PHEVs and BEVs in Flanders
Authors: Lebeau Kenneth , Van Mierlo Joeri , Lebeau Philippe , Mairesse Olivier , Macharis Cathy
Published: May 2018

In this paper, the market potential for electric vehicles (EVs) in Flanders (Belgium) is forecasted with the use of a choice-based conjoint (CBC) analysis. In May 2011, a large-scale survey was conducted (n = 1.197). The goal of the survey was twofold: estimate the market potential for (plug-in hybrid) electric vehicles in Flanders (Belgium) and formulate recommendations for the further deployment of electric vehicles within the region of Flanders. When looking at the forecasts based on the CBC experiment, in 2020, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) could reach a market share of around 5% of the newly sold vehicles in Flanders. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) could have a market share of around 7%. In 2030, these figures could increase to respectively 15% and 29%. A sensitivity analysis reveals that, in order to increase the potential for (PH)EVs, the main focus should be on decreasing the purchase costs.
The Future Prospects for Open Source Business Models In the World of Electric Vehicles
Authors: Shiiki Mamoru , Shimizu Hiroshi
Published: May 2018

In recent years, a series of incidents have drawn society’s attention to issues of environmental awareness and energy security. As a result, electric vehicles (hereafter, “EV”) are attracting attention around the world. To stimulate their economies, countries are preparing measures and policies to acquire EV-related core technologies and develop new markets quickly. In this paper, we argue that, given these circumstances, the development of open source businesses in the EV industry will contribute to solving a wide variety of problems, from industry-specific to social issues. Furthermore, we advance the hypothesis that this strategy may prove to be a model both sustainable and profitable. We qualitatively evaluate the utility of our hypothesis on the basis of the SIM-Drive Corporation’s actual performance, which has been promoting a similar business model in the EV industry.
Electric Vehicle, Why Spain?
Authors: Teso Martinez
Published: May 2018

n/a
Configuration Analysis of Plug-in Hybrid Systems using Global Optimization
Authors: Kim Insup , Kim Hyunsup
Published: May 2018

The purpose of the study is to analyze the configurations of Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) with respect to fuel economy. Existing studies mostly focus on hybrid systems or few PHEV systems by only considering power split ratio and component efficiency. This paper adds original contribution to these literatures. First of all, this study compares and analyzes “series + α” PHEV – Input split, Series-output split and Series-parallel, which is consisted of a single Planetary gear or spur gear and clutches. Those are currently applied to mass-production vehicles such as Toyota Prius PHEV, Chevrolet Volt and Honda Accord PHEV. On top of that, it examines the impact of the transmission mechanical losses on Dynamic programming (DP) results and especially the planetary gear loss is modelled using power split ratio analysis. Lastly, the effect of Series mode for each PHEV system is examined by analysis of the theoretical system efficiency and DP in a certain driving profile. From this study the strength and weakness of PHEV systems are revealed depending on a driving condition and battery status, e.g. charging depleting (CD) or charging sustaining (CS). The PHEV system analysis in this study can help select proper system for a certain purpose.
Component Design of x-EVs using Virtual Integrated Development Environment
Authors: Ma Chao , Shin Heejin , Lee Seulgi , Song Minseok , Park Jinhyun , Jeong Choongmin , Hwang Sungho , Suh Myungwon , Jeong Kiyun , Kim Hyunsoo
Published: May 2018

In this study, component design of x-EVs was performed using virtual integrated development environment (VIDE). First, component library was developed for various components such as the engine, motor, battery and transmission. Vehicle performance simulator of x-EVs was developed using MATALB SimDriveline, which consists of the powertrain system and control system. Experiment and commercial software were used for the validation. A virtual environment was developed using the 3D rendering tool to simulate the road, buildings, traffic, signal system and weather. Using the VIDE, EV range and acceleration performance for various x-EVs were evaluated to design the battery and motor specifications. In addition, an electric heater was selected as an example and its performance at the vehicle level was investigated using the VIDE. It is expected that the VIDE can be used in component design for x-EVs.
The Value of a Clutch Mechanism in Electric Vehicles
Authors: Camilleri R. , Armstrong P. , Ewin N. , Richardson R. , Howey D.A. , McCulloch M.D.
Published: May 2018

This paper examines the benefits of a drivetrain that is able to disengage its propulsion motor from the driveline in an electric vehicle. The drivetrain was developed for an ultra-efficient eco vehicle competing in the Shell 2013 Eco Marathon. Various clutch mechanisms were examined. In spite of the complexity and losses associated with additional bearings and release surfaces, an actuated dog clutch was chosen as it offers superior performance due to the dual capability of freewheeling and regenerative braking that results. Track data from the event is presented along with experimental work that indicates that the clutch mechanism reduces power consumption by more than 35% for a ferrous permanent magnet propulsion motor. Savings were reduced to 5% for a coreless permanent magnet motor coupled to the driveline via an 11:1 straight cut spur gear arrangement. This reduced saving was due to the removal of hysteresis and eddy current losses from the stator. The paper also demonstrates during a competition in which the driver was aware of the energy consumption, the driving style changed when the technological option to free wheel was available. Finally the study was inferred onto a real world application with further experimental and simulation work on the Delta E4 Coupe, a high performance electric sports car. The vehicle uses a ferrous permanent magnet direct drive arrangement, indicated a reduction in power consumption of 10 to 14%. It is hoped that these insights are relevant when considering the development of electric vehicle drivetrains where machine topology and drive cycle will determine the value of a clutch mechanism.
Proposal and Validation of a SOC Estimation Algorithm of LiFePO4 Battery Packs for Traction Applications
Authors: Garmendia M. , Gandiaga I. , Perez G. , Viscarret U. , Etxeberria-Otadui I.
Published: May 2018

An accurate onboard State-of-Charge (SOC) estimation is one of the key functions a Battery Management System (BMS) has to perform in order to provide the optimal performance management of the battery system under control. In this framework, this paper presents a proposal of an Enhanced Coulomb Counting (CC) State-of-Charge estimation algorithm based on Constant Voltage Charge Detection (CVCD) and Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) model for LiFePO4 batteries. Designed for onboard BMS implementation, it is characterized by its simplicity and operability in wide operating conditions (under diverse load profiles, temperatures, SOC ranges, etc.). The description of the algorithm at both, cell and battery-module level is detailed in the paper. Furthermore, its on-line experimental validation and scope determination is tested under three different traction applications and cell specimens in an own-developed real time validation platform: 2.5 Ah cells (Type A) in a residential elevator application, 8 Ah cells (Type B) in a pure electric on-road vehicle application and 100 Ah cells (Type C) in an electric railway vehicle application. According to the achieved results, the accuracy and versatility of the algorithm for different operating scenarios is certainly proven. In the worst case scenario the algorithm is capable of keeping the SOC estimation of the system under test stabilized around 5% of error.
Dynamics of Workplace Charging for Plug-in Electric Vehicles: How Much is Needed and at What Speed?
Authors: Nicholas Michael , Tal Gil
Published: May 2018

This paper presents workplace charging needs from two perspectives: the potential needs based on modelling and the needs based on survey results. These approaches both examine workplace needs from what people need to increase usage of the cars, and what workplace charging they will they actually use. The analysis reveals that for California driving patterns, chargers at the workplace can increase electric vehicle miles travelled (eVMT) by approximately 2%-10% for PHEVs and about 6%-9% for a 60-100 mile battery electric vehicle (BEV). The actual number of chargers used depends on the price charged. Both methods show that workplace charging will increase if charging is free versus a priced scenario with no extra benefit in terms of eVMT. The survey shows that 2 out of 10 vehicles will use workplace charging if it is priced between home electricity and gasoline on a cents per mile basis, while 8 out of 10 vehicles will use it if free on any given day. This corresponds to a 2-4 times increase in “needed” chargers depending on assumptions of how many cars one charger can serve per day. Also investigated was the speed of charging needed at work. Most charging of PHEVs can be accomplished with low power charging and 80% of BEV charging can be accomplished with low power. In general low power charging should comprise 80% or chargers, and charging price should be segmented by charging speed to encourage efficient use of high power chargers – reserving high power level 2 charging for those who need it such as some BEVs and utilizing low power chargers for PHEVs and low need BEVs.
Inductive Battery Charging System for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Luis Villa Juan , Sanz Jose , Sallan Jesús
Published: May 2018

For pure electric vehicles can reach the expected development and have become an alternative to conventional or hybrid vehicles, it is still necessary to solve various problems. The most important are to increase the autonomy of the vehicle and make charging process as quick and clean as possible. Inductive power transfer systems (IPT) can be the solution to these problems, on the one hand, the weight and size limitations of the batteries required for adequate autonomy can be solved with sufficient load points on public roads that allow "recharge" more frequently batteries or even the possibility that these are loaded by dedicated lanes moving. This is only feasible if the loading process requires no human intervention the maneuver faster and safe for the driver. Furthermore, the ability to recharge the batteries of a contactless EV is now a reality, as evidenced by the high number of patents and published papers, however, for these systems to be part of our daily lives, we need to meet strict international standards for human exposure to electromagnetic fields and, for this, the vehicle must be properly shielded. This paper shows the experimental development of a 30 kW inductive charger with shielding system and the results obtained.
Electric versus conventional vehicles for logistics: A total cost of ownership
Authors: Macharis Cathy , Lebeau Philippe , Van Mierlo Joeri , Lebeau Kenneth
Published: May 2018

Today, different measures are investigated to solve the challenge of a sustainable urban freight transport. Among them, electric vehicles are often viewed as an interesting solution but the purchase cost of these vehicles is commonly seen as a barrier to their adoption. However the different cost structure between electric and conventional vehicles makes an analysis of every cost particularly needed if fleet managers want to assess the real competitiveness of the vehicles. As a result, we developed a total cost of ownership model to assess the competitiveness of light commercial vehicles in the Brussels-Capital Region. This paper presents the results of the total cost of ownership analysis on 8 battery electric vehicles, 5 diesel vehicles and 2 petrol vehicles. The results of a sensitivity analysis of the model are also presented. The electric vehicles were found to be competitive with conventional vehicles in the category of the quadricycles and the light commercial vehicles with a payload lower than 1,000kg: five out of six battery electric vehicles had a cost lower than the conventional vehicles of their category. The situation is inverted for the battery electric vehicles with a payload above 1,000kg where the costs are always higher than the conventional vehicles because of the expensive purchase and battery costs. Since battery electric vehicles are found to be a viable solution for some parts of the logistics, the next challenge should be to convince the fleet managers of the benefits of battery electric vehicles.
Market potential for electric vehicles in the German commercial passenger transport sector
Authors: Gnann Till , Haag Michael , Plötz Patrick , Wietschel Martin
Published: May 2018

Commercial transport is often referred to as an early market for plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs). In comparison to private transport, commercial transport with passenger cars is characterized by higher vehicle kilometers traveled (VKT) forming an important factor for a quick pay-off of PEVs. In this paper, we analyze multi-day driving profiles of German passenger cars and light-duty commercial vehicles from the commercial transport sector. These commercial vehicles amount to almost two thirds of the annual vehicle registrations in Germany and thus form an important market segment. Our analysis shows that about 30 % of German commercial vehicles could be economically operated as PEVs in 2020. However, it becomes apparent that energy and battery prices have a high impact on the future market share of plug-in electric vehicles in this segment.
How expensive are electric vehicles? A total cost of ownership analysis.
Authors: Lebeau Kenneth , Lebeau Philippe , Macharis Cathy , Van Mierlo Joeri
Published: May 2018

This paper presents a total cost of ownership (TCO) model for three different car segments. The goal is to investigate the cost efficiency of electric vehicles compared to conventional vehicles. All costs that occur during the expected vehicle’s lifespan are included: purchase cost, registration tax, vehicle road tax, maintenance, tires and technical control cost, insurance cost, battery leasing cost, battery replacement cost and fuel or electricity cost. Results are shown per vehicle segment and illustrate the share of all cost components. We find that current electric vehicles are only cost attractive within the premium car segment.
EV Market Development Pathways – An Application of System Dynamics for Policy Simulation
Authors: Gomez Vilchez Jonatan J. , Jochem Patrick , Fichtner Wolf
Published: May 2018

The transport sector, in particular road transport, is a major consumer of energy and a major source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, contributing to climate change. There is increasing pressure to reduce CO2 emissions from passenger cars (e.g. in the EU, the Regulation (EC) No 443/2009 sets the limit of CO2 emissions of new passenger cars to 95 g of CO2 from 2020 [1]). Today, the global vehicle stock has more than 1 billion units and relies almost entirely on oil-based energy. According to various projections, the global vehicle fleet could double or even triple by 2050. The energy and environmental implications of such increase would not be negligible. In this context, it is argued that the electrification of the global vehicle fleet emerges as a desirable goal. Electric vehicles (EVs) are expected to help meet key energy and environmental goals, leading to a decrease in oil imports, an increase in energy independency and to a decrease in CO2 emissions. This paper focuses on the EV market penetration in key OECD countries as well as in China and India, considering various vehicle technologies for passenger light-duty vehicles (PLDVs). In particular, the paper investigates the impacts of EVs on oil demand and CO2 emissions in the countries of interest under various scenarios until 2050. For this purpose, a System Dynamics (SD) model is developed and the results of various simulations assessed. The output of the model includes possible future market shares of EVs as well as their specific energy and environmental impacts. Our results show to what extent EVs can potentially contribute to reduce oil dependency and CO2 emissions in the countries analysed beyond 2030.
CROME: the French and German Field Demonstration of the Interoperable Mobility with EVs
Authors: GAGNOL Patrick , JOCHEM Patrick , PIERRE Magali , FICHTNER Wolf
Published: May 2018

The project CROME – cross-border mobility for electric vehicles – is the first European field demonstration introducing a standardised and interoperable cross-border charging infrastructure network in the French- German Upper Rhine region. The main aim of the project, funded by different Ministries on both sides of the border, is to create and test a safe, seamless, user-friendly and reliable mobility with electric vehicles between France and Germany. Fully public interoperable charging stations have been implemented ensuring easy access and charging of EVs all over the French and German CROME area. Solutions are developed and tested about charging services enabling simplified authentication, identification, billing as well as charging spot availability and reservation. The achieved CROME market place enables data exchanges and roaming between different operators ICT back-end systems based on the Bosch service brokering platform. Feedback on customer acceptance of e-mobility and user needs with regard to charging is carried out.
Environmental impact of Converted Electrical Motorcycle
Authors: Xuan Pek Yang , Henz Martin , Weigl Joerg
Published: May 2018

This study explores the environmental impact of the conversion of an internal combustion engine (ICE) sports motorcycle into a converted battery-powered electric vehicle (CBEV). Zero tailpipe emissions might lead to the assumption that such an ICE-to-BEV conversion will always yield net positive environmental benefits in life cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy reductions, but energy inputs and materials impacts associated with the conversion of a CBEV are weighed against savings during postconversion usage. It was found that conversion would reduce the life cycle energy consumed and emissions produced of a typical motorcycle by 72% and 45% respectively. These findings have important considerations for the current global transportation landscape.
Motor performance improvement via ArcelorMittal’s iCARe® electrical steel range for automotive applications
Authors: Vandenbossche Lode , Jacobs Sigrid , Attrazic Emmanuel
Published: May 2018

As previously reported [1-3], ArcelorMittal has a specific electrical steel product line for core laminations, which optimises the performance for automotive traction electrical machines. This iCARe® product family consists of Save grades allowing for higher efficiency, Torque grades allowing for higher torque density and Speed grades for high speed rotors. The iCARe® electrical steels now have been developed towards further loss reduction and polarisation increase. This paper shows the improved machine performance achievable by using these new iCARe® grades. Automotive traction machines require high power density, high efficiency and high torque, to maximise the powertrain’s performance and minimise the use of battery power. Permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSM) are the preferred choice for electric and hybrid vehicles. When searching for cost reduction via eliminating the need for permanent magnets, wound rotor synchronous machines (WRSM) are an alternative. In this paper, a material comparison study is presented for both a PMSM and a WRSM having the same nominal speed and rated mechanical power. The reference case uses M330-35A electrical steel. The impact of switching to either Save or Torque grades of the latest generation is compared numerically: to determine the efficiency of each combination of machine topology and lamination type, the ArcelorMittal loss model is used [4], an extension of Bertotti’s loss model [5]. The impact of each grade is checked by varying the stack height whilst keeping the output power level constant. Hence the bill of materials is affected, reflecting the amount of active materials (laminations, magnets, windings) needed within each machine type, depending on the chosen electrical steel grade. The results show the efficiency benefits when using low loss Save grades and the torque density benefits when using Torque grades. Moreover, the new Torque grades with lower losses present a new potential for further machine performance enhancement: for instance the Torque 27 grade combines outstanding increase of torque density with high efficiency.
Air Conditioning System Sizing for Pure Electric Vehicle
Authors: Song Bongha , Kwon Jiwon , Kim Yongsuk
Published: May 2018

Emission standards have grown increasingly stricter, consequently triggering greater interest in issues surrounding environmental pollution. The customer needs for green car without toxic exhaust gas has also become natural and it is represented by pure EV (Electric Vehicle). However, the driving range of EV suffers from A/C (Air Conditioning) for occupant comfort especially in very hot or cold weather. Therefore, the sizing of A/C system is more important than the case of conventional internal combustion engine vehicle. Specifically, EV consumes electric power of battery pack in order to control the comfortability of passenger compartment due to not only the absence of engine heat rejection for interior heating, but no working power of compressor from engine for interior cooling. Therefore, energy consumption for cabin cooling/heating must be optimized for the energy efficiency of EV. In this paper, we concentrate on the refrigerating system sizing because indoor air temperature in hot weather is more sensitive to passenger’s thermal comfort.
How activism matters for creating the electromobility 2.0 industry?
Authors: Donada Carole , Lepoutre Jan
Published: May 2018

We are currently witnessing the re-introduction of EVs into the market, the increase in R&D expenditures by battery manufacturers, the emergence of new mobility players who do not belong to the traditional auto industry, as well as the activism of lobbyists defending the development of a clean, collaborative or smart mobility. All of this begs again the question: are EVs the signs of a new emerging industry? This research is founded on a review of existing literature on business strategy, so as to identify those elements which are necessary to enlarge firm boundaries in an emerging industry, namely those linked to reputation and activism to empower. Our paper then analyses two business cases: Tesla Motors and Better Place.
Drive Electric Vermont: EV Market Transformation in Small and Medium Sized Communities
Authors: Roberts David , Wagner Fred , Francfort Jim , White Sera
Published: May 2018

Investments in plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) and charging infrastructure are often concentrated in large metropolitan areas. True market transformation to electric drive technologies will require moving beyond urban centers to include small and medium sized areas as well as rural communities. The Drive Electric Vermont (DEV) program was established in 2012 to shift consumers and businesses in Vermont (population 625,000) to greater awareness and use of PEVs. The US Department of Energy’s EV Everywhere program recently completed a case study of DEV to document policy, marketing, and infrastructure development activities supporting increased use of PEVs outside of major metropolitan areas.
Methods to Identify User Needs and Decision Mechanisms for the Adoption of Electric Vehicles
Authors: Ensslen Axel , Kuehl Niklas , Stryja Carola , Jochem Patrick
Published: May 2018

The knowledge on user acceptance for electric vehicles is of high relevance for several stakeholders in this new vehicle market. This study provides an overview of applied methods in adoption research in the field of electric vehicles. These methods comprehend (1) experimental studies and lab-experiments, (2) interviews and focus groups, (3) surveys, (4) analyses of sales documentations and (5) social media analytics. We classify the data collection methods by two dimensions – (A) sample size and (B) degree of anonymity. We provide case study results for selected methods, identify the advantages, and show how new methods may complement the traditional approaches in future research.
Calciprotein Particle Formation in Peritoneal Dialysis Effluent is Dependent on Dialysate Calcium Concentration
Authors: Cai Michael M.X. , Smith Edward R. , Kent Annette , Huang Louis , Hewitson Timothy D. , McMahon Lawrence P. , Holt Stephen G.
Published: May 2018

Background

The accumulation of fetuin-A-containing calciprotein particles (CPP) in the serum of patients with renal disease and those with chronic inflammation may be involved in driving sterile inflammation and extraosseous mineral deposition. We previously showed that both fetuin-A and CPP were present in the peritoneal dialysis (PD) effluent of stable PD patients. It is unknown whether different PD fluids might affect the formation of CPP in vivo.

Method

Peritoneal effluent from 12 patients was collected after a 6-hour dwell with 7 different commercial PD fluids. Calciprotein particles and inflammatory cytokines were measured by flow cytometry.

Results

High inter-subject variability in CPP concentration was observed. Peritoneal dialysis fluids containing 1.75 mmol/L calcium were associated with enhanced formation of CPP in vivo, compared with fluids containing 1.25 mmol/L calcium. Osmotic agent, fluid pH, and glucose concentration did not affect CPP formation. Peritoneal dialysis effluent CPP levels were not associated with changes in inflammatory cytokines.

Conclusion

High calcium-containing PD fluids favor intraperitoneal CPP formation. This finding may have relevance for future PD fluid design.