bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
International Students Classroom Exclusion in U.S. Higher Education
Authors: Valdez Gabriela
Published: January 2016

The purpose of this synthesis of research was to explore how classroom inclusiveness affected international students in U.S. higher education based on published studies. Data were collected from 15 peer-reviewed published studies that included international students' experiences in U.S higher education. Some of the themes that reoccurred in the review of research included the following areas: classroom differences between students' home countries and the United States; classroom participation expectations, including professors' and students' perspectives of those expectations; and denial of equity in education by production of whiteness and the relationship between language and power. The author concluded from the results that classroom practices existed that, instead of promoting integration of international students into classroom activities, facilitated exclusion and segregation of these students. The classroom practices that promoted exclusion of international students included the following: (a) unstructured class discussions, (b) lack of guidance from the professor during class, (c) little value placed on international perspectives, (d) overrepresentation of oral classroom participation as the only mode of participation, (e) lack of respect for other educational cultural norms, and (f) reinforcement of production of whiteness by professors and American students.
The Influence of Social Media on International Students' Global Life Satisfaction and Academic Performance
Authors: Saha Neete , Karpinski Aryn C.
Published: January 2016

Numerous studies have investigated the impact of socialization agents (social media) on domestic university students' academic performance and psychological well-being, while the influence of these agents on the increasing population of international students at universities in the United States (US) remains understudied. The current study examined international students' (N = 331) global satisfaction with life as a mediator in the relationship between general social media use (and Skype™ use) and academic performance. The results indicated that both mediation models were supported. Social media and Skype™ use were positively predictive of satisfaction with life, and there was a positive relationship between satisfaction with life and academic performance. These findings have implications for university staff and administrators who need to be aware of the positive influence social media use has on international students' perceptions of their experiences, which in turn can positively impact their academic performance.
Learning and Academic Self-Concept
Authors: Zhou Ji , Cole Darnell
Published: January 2016

In this chapter, the authors provide (a) succinct synopsis of the scholarship on international students' college learning in the United States, and (b) detailed report of a study comparing international and American students' learning and academic self-concept. The study reveals greater involvement in college learning among international than American students. Regarding what contributes to academic self-concept, there are more similarities than differences between international and American students. Controlling for academic self-concept at college entry, students who are more involved in learning (e.g., more interactions with faculty, more time spent studying alone or with peers) report higher academic self-concept at graduation. Females, international and American students alike, report lower academic self-concept despite greater involvement in college learning. Institutional selectivity has a negative influence on international students. Implications for research and practice are provided.
Internationalizing Higher Education
Authors: Andrade Maureen Snow , Evans Norman W. , Hartshorn K. James
Published: January 2016

Although global educational mobility often requires fluency in a foreign language, this fluency may be insufficient for academic tasks, and institutions may provide insufficient opportunities for further linguistic progress. This chapter examines higher education practices for the assessment of English language skills and continued development of English language proficiency for international students. Implications indicate that although institutions view international students as critical to strategic planning and feel these students need increased English language proficiency, institutions generally have not considered innovative approaches. The results support the viability of the proposed framework to guide institutions through a thorough examination of current practices and identification of future direction for research.
Problems of Modeling and Optimization of Heat Supply Systems
Authors: Stennikov Valery , Barakhtenko Evgeny , Sokolov Dmitry , Oshchepkova Tamara
Published: January 2016

This chapter presents new methods and software system SOSNA intended for the parameter optimization of heat supply systems. They make it possible to calculate large-scale systems which have a complex structure with any set of nodes, sections, and circuits. A new methodological approach to solving the problem of the parameter optimization of the heat supply systems is developed. The approach is based on the multi-level decomposition of the network model, which allows us to proceed from the initial problem to less complex sub-problems of a smaller dimension. New algorithms are developed to numerically solve the parameter optimization problems of heat supply systems: an effective algorithm based on the multi-loop optimization method, which allows us to consider hierarchical creation of the network model in the course of problem solving; a parallel high-speed algorithm based on the dynamic programming method. The new methods and algorithms were used in the software system SOSNA.
Improved Pseudo-Gradient Search Particle Swarm Optimization for Optimal Power Flow Problem
Authors: Polprasert Jirawadee , Ongsakul Weerakorn , Dieu Vo Ngoc
Published: January 2016

This paper proposes an improved pseudo-gradient search particle swarm optimization (IPG-PSO) for solving optimal power flow (OPF) with non-convex generator fuel cost functions. The objective of OPF problem is to minimize generator fuel cost considering valve point loading, voltage deviation and voltage stability index subject to power balance constraints and generator operating constraints, transformer tap setting constraints, shunt VAR compensator constraints, load bus voltage and line flow constraints. The proposed IPG-PSO method is an improved PSO by chaotic weight factor and guided by pseudo-gradient search for particle's movement in an appropriate direction. Test results on the IEEE 30-bus and 118-bus systems indicate that IPG-PSO method is superior to other methods in terms of lower generator fuel cost, smaller voltage deviation, and lower voltage stability index.
Mathematical Modelling of the Thermal Process in the Aquatic Environment with Considering the Hydrometeorological Condition at the Reservoir-Cooler by Using Parallel Technologies
Authors: Issakhov Alibek
Published: January 2016

This paper presents the mathematical model of the thermal power plant in reservoir under different hydrometeorological conditions, which is solved by three dimensional Navier - Stokes and temperature equations for an incompressible fluid in a stratified medium. A numerical method based on the projection method, which divides the problem into four stages. At the first stage it is assumed that the transfer of momentum occurs only by convection and diffusion. Intermediate velocity field is solved by fractional steps method. At the second stage, three-dimensional Poisson equation is solved by the Fourier method in combination with tridiagonal matrix method (Thomas algorithm). At the third stage it is expected that the transfer is only due to the pressure gradient. Finally stage equation for temperature solved like momentum equation with fractional step method. To increase the order of approximation compact scheme was used. Then qualitatively and quantitatively approximate the basic laws of the hydrothermal processes depending on different hydrometeorological conditions are determined.
A Novel Evolutionary Optimization Technique for Solving Optimal Reactive Power Dispatch Problems
Authors: Roy Provas Kumar
Published: January 2016

Biogeography based optimization (BBO) is an efficient and powerful stochastic search technique for solving optimization problems over continuous space. Due to excellent exploration and exploitation property, BBO has become a popular optimization technique to solve the complex multi-modal optimization problem. However, in some cases, the basic BBO algorithm shows slow convergence rate and may stick to local optimal solution. To overcome this, quasi-oppositional biogeography based-optimization (QOBBO) for optimal reactive power dispatch (ORPD) is presented in this study. In the proposed QOBBO algorithm, oppositional based learning (OBL) concept is integrated with BBO algorithm to improve the search space of the algorithm. For validation purpose, the results obtained by the proposed QOBBO approach are compared with those obtained by BBO and other algorithms available in the literature. The simulation results show that the proposed QOBBO approach outperforms the other listed algorithms.
Application of Adaptive Tabu Search Algorithm in Hybrid Power Filter and Shunt Active Power Filters
Authors: Khalid Saifullah
Published: January 2016

A novel hybrid series active power filter to eliminate harmonics and compensate reactive power is presented and analyzed. The proposed active compensation technique is based on a hybrid series active filter using ATS algorithm in the conventional Sinusoidal Fryze voltage (SFV) control technique. This chapter discusses the comparative performances of conventional Sinusoidal Fryze voltage control strategy and ATS-optimized controllers. ATS algorithm has been used to obtain the optimum value of Kp and Ki. Analysis of the hybrid series active power filter system under non-linear load condition and its impact on the performance of the controllers is evaluated. MATLAB/Simulink results and Total harmonic distortion (THD) shows the practical viability of the controller for hybrid series active power filter to provide harmonic isolation of non-linear loads and to comply with IEEE 519 recommended harmonic standards. The ATS-optimized controller has been attempted for shunt active power filter too, and its performance has also been discussed in brief.
Recent Techniques to Identify the Stator Fault Diagnosis in Three Phase Induction Motor
Authors: Kumar K. Vinoth , Kumar S. Suresh , Selvakumar A. Immanuel , Kumar R. Saravana
Published: January 2016

Induction motors have gained its popularity as most suitable industrial workhorse, due to its ruggedness and reliability. With the passage of time, these workhorses are susceptible to faults, some are incipient and some are major. Such fault can be catastrophic, if unattended and may develop serious problem that may lead to shut down the machine causing production and financial losses. To avoid such breakdown, an early stage prognosis can help in preparing the maintenance schedule, which will lead to improve its life span. Scientist and engineers worked with different scheme to diagnose the machine faults. In this paper, the authors diagnose the turn-to-turn faults condition of the stator through symmetrical component analysis. The results of the analysis also verified through Power Decomposition Technique (PDT) in Matlab /SIMULINK. The results are compatible with the published results for known faults.
Untangling Multimedia Effects on EFL Incidental Vocabulary Learning via Playing an Online Hidden-Object Game
Authors: Alghamdi Emad A.
Published: January 2016

The present empirical study examined the efficacy of coupling L1 or L2 definitions with pictorial glosses on incidental vocabulary learning when L2 learners exclusively play a purposely designed hidden-object game. Elementary EFL learners (n= 162) took a vocabulary pretest and a picture recognition test (PRT) and a word recognition test (WRT) immediately after playing the game, and again two weeks later. ANOVA analyses were conducted to measure vocabulary acquisition and retention. The findings revealed that the L1 text + picture gloss group did significantly better than the other two groups in the immediate acquisition of vocabulary. Concerning vocabulary retention, the two vocabulary measurements yielded different outcomes. In PRT, the L1 text + picture gloss group kept the highest retention rate, whereas in WRT, the L2 text + picture group did better than the other groups. This study suggests that assessment methods may yield different outcomes in multimedia vocabulary learning studies.
Digital Storytelling and Its Tools for Language Teaching
Authors: Aşık Asuman
Published: January 2016

This paper presents the analysis of the self-reported reflections of pre-service English teachers about the use of digital storytelling and its tools in terms of Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge. Through the reflection reports of 78 pre-service English teachers and a focus-group interview after implementing a digital storytelling project, the present study investigated the perceptions and reflections of pre-service English teachers regarding the use of digital storytelling to teach English to young learners. The data were analysed through mixed (qualitative and quantitative) methods. The results revealed that pre-service English teachers reflected positive perceptions towards to the use of digital storytelling. Their reflections are significant in terms of the tools to be used for digital storytelling, the viewpoints regarding young learners and the improvement in their Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge. The findings should be of interest to teacher education programs in supporting pre-service teachers to integrate technology into language classrooms.
Enabling Efficient Service Distribution using Process Model Transformations
Authors: Alcarria Ramón , Martín Diego , Robles Tomás , Sánchez-Picot Álvaro
Published: January 2016

The challenge of service distribution has been considered in the fields of cross-organizational interoperability, grid computing and task delegation but little addressed for cross-zone application deployment in Cloud Computing. This paper proposes a process model transformation technique based on activity aggregation to efficiently distribute services for the Web of Data between various Cloud availability zones. The authors propose a workflow decomposition method based on SPQR fragments and the definition of an efficient service distribution algorithm according to a defined cost model. This cost model considers not only the transmission of information between activities for data and control scopes but also the cost of activity execution in different regions. Finally the authors validate their method by providing a tool that introduces the distribution information into the workflow, applying their distribution algorithm in a use case and describing the transformation process to distributed BPEL code that can be easily deployed to back-end instances.
Evaluating Health Care Appropriateness Means Putting a Value on its Goodness
Authors: Kazandjian Vahé A.
Published: January 2016

The measurement and evaluation of healthcare services continues to be challenged when the appropriateness of the services is its focus. Good outcomes do not mean the services were needed or that the process of delivering care was efficient. Further, patient and family satisfaction with the care episode is influenced by the promises the healthcare system in general and physicians in particular made to the patients. As such, physicians have the dual role of educating patients while they are managing their health status changes. Eventually, it is a question of accountability about the processes and outcomes of the care, which are expected to both demonstrate the social responsibilities of health care professionals and gauge the expectations of patients, families, and communities. The purpose of this article is to explore the determinants of what and why patients expect from healthcare and caring. Within the concept of accountability, the role of physicians as educators rather than exclusively healers of disease is explored.
The Implication of Multinational Corporations in Poverty Eradication in Cameroon
Authors: Ollong Kingsly Awang
Published: January 2016

This paper explores business strategies and policies put in place by multinational corporations to alleviate poverty in Africa with specific examples from Cameroon. The world's population is rapidly increasing and the rich people are getting richer, whereas the poor people are becoming even more marginalized. During the era of economic liberalization the belief was that the opening up of economies to multinational corporations could lead to economic growth and, subsequently, economic development. The activities of multinational corporations have witnessed a tremendous boom since the advent of the twenty first century, that is characterized with advances in information communication technology, and the flow of capital have been the main proxy for MNC activity. MNCs are mainly motivated by opportunities that increase their profits, and the most important factors for MNCs are market size and access to resources. Nevertheless, as markets are getting saturated and MNCs are looking for new opportunities, innovative business strategies have been developed to provide dividends to their shareholders while making sure the stakeholders and communities in which they operate also benefit. This paper explores some business models that MNCs have used to make their products available, affordable and accepted in poor markets that are mostly found in Africa on the one hand and corporate social responsibility initiatives implemented by MNCs to alleviate poverty in the continent on the other. The paper concludes that though the principal goal of MNCs is profit maximization, corporations are making an effort to see that the poor benefit from the activities of these giant companies. To get to this conclusion the paper relied on both primary sources and the exploitation of the already existing literature in books and journals. Given that the sector of activities of MNCs is vast, the paper laid emphasis on fast moving consumer goods companies (FMCGs) in Cameroon.
Investigating the Connection between Awareness and Internet Non-Use
Authors: Ting Carol
Published: January 2016

Empirical studies on technology adoption usually are based on data from self-reported measures, and a large subset of this literature draws on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) or Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). However, for non-Internet users, self-reported measures and these theoretical frameworks face important limitations: non-users often are under-informed about the technology and are unable to accurately explain their non-use. In addition, the measurement instruments in the TAM/TPB literature often are not applicable to non-users. Addressing these issues, this paper examines non-Internet users' awareness of the Internet's benefits and its impact on adoption intention. Focusing on the under-informed, this approach substitutes awareness for perceived usefulness (or affective attitude). Test results demonstrate good predictive power on non-Internet users' adoption intention, calling for caution when applying these commonly used analytical tools to study late-adopters of technology.
Current Trends in Machinability Research
Authors: Polishetty Ashwin , Littlefair Guy , Goldberg Moshe , Nomani Junior
Published: January 2016

The manufacturing index of a country relies on the quality of manufacturing research outputs. The emergence of new materials such as composites and multi component alloy has replaced traditional materials in certain design application. Materials with properties like high strength to weight ratio, fatigue strength, wear resistance, thermal stability and damping capacity are a popular choice for a design engineer. Contrary, the manufacturing engineer is novice to the science of machining these materials. This paper is an attempt to focus on the current trends in machinability research and an addition to the existing information on machining. The paper consist of information on machining Austempered Ductile Iron (ADI), Duplex Stainless Steel and Nano-Structured Bainitic Steel. The various techniques used to judge the machinability of these materials is described in this paper. Studying the chip formation process in duplex steel using a quick stop device, metallographic analysis using heat tinting of ADI and cutting force analysis of Nano-structured bainitic steel is discussed.
Simulation of Oblique Cutting in High Speed Turning Processes
Authors: Umer Usama
Published: January 2016

A Finite Element Model is developed for Oblique cutting process in high speed turning of H-13 tool steel. The material model used for workpiece is elastic-thermoplastic including the strain rate sensitivity effect. In order to predict the tool performance, tool is considered as non-rigid and direct stresses are determined around the tool tip. Lagrangian approach is utilized along with adaptive meshing to minimize element distortion around the tool tip. The model predicts cutting forces in 3-directions at different inclination angles. The results are compared with experimental data and found to be in good agreement. The model is also able to predict stress and temperature contours in the workpiece and the cutting tool which help in predicting workpiece surface integrity and performance of the cutting tool.
A Comparative Study of Machining Parameters on Die-Sinking Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) using Copper and Aluminium Electrodes on Hard Steels
Authors: Kharola Ashwani
Published: January 2016

This paper considers effect of variation in value of Discharge current on different process parameters of Die Sinking EDM. The parameters considered were Material removal rate (MRR), Tool removal rate (TRR), Surface roughness (Ra) and Time (for machining required depth of cut). A total of 32 experiments were conducted on four different hard steels i.e. Die steel D3, En-8, En-19 and Stainless steel (SS-AISI-440C). The Copper and Aluminium electrodes brazed with mild steel were used for machining. The four different values of current i.e. 6A, 9A, 12A and 15A were considered for the study. The experimental results shows the relationship between MRR, TRR, Ra and Time with variation in magnitude of discharge current. This study also illustrates the relationship among different process parameter considered in the study. The results are shown with the help of graphs and tables.
New Supervised Approach for Plant Leaves Classification using Artificial Social Bees
Authors: Rahmani Mohamed Elhadi , Bouarara Hadj Ahmed , Amine Abdelmalek , Hamou Reda Mohamed , Menad Hanane
Published: January 2016

Life is based on plants, They are the major source of oxygen, food, and medicines. And biology is one of the major research in last years, but scientists don't stop on studying the biological life and understanding different mechanisms in life, they go further by inspiring from it, as organization on bee colony. This last is very impressive, especially in workplace. This work presents a new approach of supervised plant leaves classification using a meta-heuristic algorithm based on social bees. First, the authors used to represent leaves using three different features extracted from images: a fine-scale margin feature histogram, a Centroid Contour Distance Curve shape signature, or an interior texture feature histogram. Then the authors classified vectors by artificial social bees, and they evaluated the classification by its accuracy and error.
Rural Education as a Service: Leveraging Cloud Computing for Empowering Rural Youth
Authors: Firdhous Mohamed Fazil Mohamed
Published: January 2016

Cloud computing has been the newest paradigm computing that provides many advantages to users. Due to the advantages of the cloud computing many users are moving their systems and applications to it while new cloud based applications are emerging on a daily basis. Though the urban population can access and benefit from all the modern technologies, the rural population is generally left out of it as they are trapped in a vicious cycle of poverty. The only way to get them out from their problems is to empower them with new knowledge and skills. The traditional methods including ICT based education delivery methods have faced several hurdles in achieving their objectives. In this paper, the author takes an in-depth look at how cloud computing can be leveraged to deliver rural education programmes more efficiently and effectively. The Rural Education as a Service presented in this paper has many advantages and can easily overcome the problems faced by other methods. The paper also presents the RuralEaaS delivery model and network architecture that can be used to implement it.
A Model of European Medicine Agency (EMA)'s Decisions on Human Medicines
Authors: Troisi Roberta , Garzillo Carmine
Published: January 2016

This paper is aimed at examining the European medicine agency decisions in the field of human medicines. Different classes of human medicines approved in the last five years have been classified. They have been analyzed considering: i) the relation between non generic drugs and generic drugs, ii) time of approval, iii) objectives of the clinical trials, iv) criteria of efficiency, efficacy, safety. By using the Summary of the European Public Assessment Report for every human medicine in the period 2010-2015, a dataset has been arranged. A Structural Equation Model analysis was carried out. The degree of efficiency, the degree of safety, the tradeoff between efficiency and safety that lead to the EMA approval decisions are conditioned by the nature of the medicines and the characteristics of their class. Different degrees of benefits and risks underpinning the decisions have been identified together with the consequent guiding principles that lead to the EMA decision process. A latent general “safety” factor at the basis of EMA decision process was assessed.
Designing Measures for Managing the Effectiveness for Integrated Service Delivery
Authors: Sillanpää Virpi
Published: January 2016

Health and social services are increasingly produced in cooperation among several specialized organizations. This has increased the importance of service integration in the sector. While the literature acknowledges the need for performance measurement addressing outcomes and effectiveness of service integration, not enough is known about applying such measurement practices. This paper examines the design of a performance measurement system to support the effectiveness management of an integrated service delivery. The research identifies three aspects of effectiveness – community, client and network level. Empirical examination reveals that success factors for design of measures for integrated service delivery include consensus on the targets, coordination and fluent cooperation among actors in the network. The paper contributes to performance measurement literature by illustrating how the design of system level measurement is carried out in practice and analyzing the lessons learned.
Public Hospitals in China
Authors: Wei Donghai , Rubino Louis
Published: January 2016

China has had some initial success in its current health care reform efforts. Five areas of reform have been targeted and include providing universal coverage, equitable access to basic health insurance, establishing an essential medicine system, and improving primary health care facilities. The last area, the reform of the public hospitals, remains the most difficult to reform. General guidelines have been established by the national government and movement is being taken to delegate authority to local units for implementation. The aim of this paper is to compare China's formal government sponsored health care reform plan for public hospitals to the acknowledgement and acceptance by a sample of health care leaders in Guangzhou. Challenges are strong and include cost accountability, doctor training, employee empowerment, improprieties, and the influence of private hospitals. Based on this qualitative research, conclusions and recommendations are made by the authors as to what is necessary to have effective pubic hospital reform in China.
Constructing Green IT Alignment Framework
Authors: Huang Leelien Ken
Published: January 2016

Using contingency theory (CT) of fit as a foundation for this research, we report the development of the notion of ‘green IT alignment framework' and its determinants. This is followed by an analysis of the relationship between capability areas (i.e., contextual factors) and green IT alignment while the company pursues GREEN. Data were collected from a case study where a car manufacturer is our research setting—considered as suitable for this type of research. The author found that a total of 18 capability areas over three domains of technical, organizational, and environmental are a premise for green IT alignment. Such capability areas are considered as new and interdependent of traditional strategic alignment capabilities. The results of this research demonstrate an appropriate green IT alignment framework that is trust worthy to construct for understanding the factors of IT-business fit while pursing GREEN. Implications are discussed.
Enterprise 2.0 Implementation at Vanguard
Authors: Kumar Abha , Saharia Aditya , Katsamakas Evangelos , Bixby III Glenn A.
Published: January 2016

Creating an Enterprise 2.0 extends from employee content creation and collaboration to building an architecture that enables mobility and where possible allows for emerging technologies and methodologies. Yet, in many cases implementing this new architecture may find resistance, not from knowledge workers, but from IT managers who are apprehensive because of the potential security compromise, proliferation of multiple standards, and delegation of procurement authority to individual users or business units. In this research article, the authors describe a structured and deliberate approach towards building Enterprise 2.0 environment. Many elements of the approach were defined and developed at Vanguard, Inc. as it developed an integrated communication and collaboration environment over several years. The authors emphasize the process followed and lessons learned.
Studies on the Behavior of the Towbars in Static Applications
Authors: Petrici Andrei Victor , Radu Nicolae Gheorghe
Published: January 2016

Towbars are the main component of the assembly connection between the vehicle and the trailer. With proper use, recommended by the towbars producer, and the correct calculation and design by the manufacturer in accordance with international law, they ensure road safety.The main role of the towbars is to maintain in maximum safety conditions, the link between towing vehicle and various aggregates, namely trailers.
Studies about Reflected Temperature Variation for the Car Brake Disc
Authors: Dragomir George , Pancu Rares , Husi Geza , Georgescu Liviu , Beles Horia
Published: January 2016

An exact measurement of the disc brakes car temperature present difficulties, because the higher thermal stress is produced on the shiny metallic surface, which are in movement and in sliding contact with the brake pads. If an infrared camera is used for the thermal evaluating of the disc brakes, an important factor that must be considered is the reflected temperature. The aim of this research is to study the modification of the reflected temperature in correlation with the disk brake temperature and to establish a relationship for the estimation of this variation.
F.E.M. Parametric Model Optimization of SERB-194C Device Used in Buildings Drift Limitation System
Authors: Ionescu Adriana , Burada Cristian , Calbureanu Madalina , Negru Mihai
Published: January 2016

In this paper is presented a new parametric finite elements model of SERB-194C [1] device which is used in protecting the civil engineering structures during earthquakes by limitating the drifts of building stories and dissipating the energy received by the building structure during the earth surface shaking. The goal of this simulation is to determine the influence of the device components dimensions on the variation of forces-displacements device curve. Modifying the device components dimensions, the force-displacements device curve is changing the shape and the area which are related with the capacity of building drift limitation of SERB-194C device. By changing the hysteretic loop shape and dimensions this device can be optimized for different buildings and structures in order to properly diminish the story drift during ground shaking.
The Comparison between Viscous Fluid Dampers and Romanian Friction Dampers Performance in Base Isolation System of Buildings
Authors: Negru Mihai , Ionescu Adriana , Burada Cristian
Published: January 2016

This paper analyse the performance of two types of devices used for protecting the building against collaps during earthquakes. These devices are used in paralell with the base isolation system of the building and are intended to increase the damping phenomenon in order to dissipate the quakes energy received by the resistance structure of the buildings. The purpose of this computational study is to determine if these friction dampers, which are four times less expensive than the classical viscous fluid dampers, can replace the classical choice in order to obtain a less expensive protection. The results obtained at the final of this study are encouraging because the damping performances of romanian telescopic devices are similar with the performances of classical viscous fluid devices in base isolation system.
Design Approach for the Vehicle's Steering Linkage Fitted on Rigid Axle
Authors: Preda Ion , Covaciu Dinu , Ciolan Gheorghe
Published: January 2016

The steering system of a vehicle consists of two subsystems: the steering linkage, which correlates the steering angles of all the steerable road-wheels, and the actuation subsystem, which connects the driver's steering-wheel with one mobile element of the steering linkage. In the case of the vehicles with rigid steering axles, the most used steering linkage is a simple mechanism, composed of four bars (one being the base) connected with four joints. However, the design of the steering linkage isn't an easy task, mainly because the wanted correlation function is difficult to specify and because the packaging restrictions are very important. The present paper shows a possible approach to define the optimization function and the dimensions of the correlation steering mechanism.
The Influence of Butanol Use on the Diesel Engine’s Performance
Authors: Dobre Alexandru , Pană Constantin , Nuțu Nikolaos Cristian , Negurescu Niculae , Cernat Alexandru
Published: January 2016

Alcohols begin to show a real interest for their use as fuel at compression ignition engines due to require reducing the pollutants emissions, especially NOx emission. Among the primary alcohols, butyl alcohol (butanol) is considered to be of great perspective in its use as fuel in diesel engines due to its properties close to those of diesel fuel. It is miscible with the diesel fuel and the achieved blend is stable. In paper are presented some aspects regarding the diesel engine’s fuelling with butanol and diesel fuel blends using the experimental research and numerical modelling. The use of the butanol as a fuel for diesel engine has led to the reducing NOx emissions with about 25% and the Brake Specific Energetic Consumption (BSEC) with about 5% at the full load and the maximum torque engine speed.
Theoretical and Experimental Study of the Fuelling a Truck Diesel Engine with Liquefied Petroleum Gas
Authors: Nutu Nikolaos Cristian , Pana Constantin , Dobre Alexandru , Negurescu Niculae , Cernat Alexandru
Published: January 2016

The increasing price of the fuels and tightening of the pollution rules requires the use of some efficient fuelling methodes with altenative fuels for diesel engines. Fuelling with LPG of a diesel engine is a viable sollution, considering that it can be used the infrastructure for distribution and storage already used for spark ignition engines. In this work are presented results of theoretical and experimental investigations of a truck diesel engine fuelled with LPG by diesel-LPG methode. The main objective research is the decrease of the nitric oxides emissions with the premise that the engine power is maintained at the same level like in the case of the standard engine, fuelled only with diesel fuel.
Algorithm and Method for the Functional Parameters Determination of Vehicles Engines Mufflers
Authors: Rakosi Edward , Panaite Carmen Ema , Bujoreanu Carmen , Talif Sorinel Gicu
Published: January 2016

Internal combustion engines are typically equipped with an exhaust muffler to suppress the acoustic pulse generated by the combustion process. The paper presents the procedure and the experimental setup for some functional parameters determination as the noise level, the pressure drop and the temperatures through investigating three different manufacturing solutions for mufflers. An algorithm and a dedicated method have been proposed in order to emphasize more direct the mufflers influence on the engines performances. The procedure equally includes particular cycles of the engine and it is highlighted the relation between the engine operating conditions and the functional parameters of the automotive mufflers.
Experimental Investigation on Functional Parameters of the Engines Exhaust Mufflers
Authors: Bujoreanu Carmen , Golgoţiu Eugen , Talif Sorinel Gicu , Manolache Gheorghe
Published: January 2016

The paper presents the results obtained by investigating some functional parameters as the noise level, the pressure – drop and the temperatures of three different manufacturing solutions for mufflers. The results emphasize the corroboration between these parameters and contribute to the improvement of the muffler fabrication and design since it is a complex function that affects noise characteristics, emission and fuel efficiency of engine. It was designed a measurement chain for the noise level evaluation of the mufflers including a microphone Bruel&Kjaer type 4133, a Impulse Precision Sound Level Meter Bruel&Kjaer, type 2209, with standard filters and a multifunctional external data acquisition board type-NI DAQPad-6015 . We assessed the noise level, using two based LabVIEW virtual instruments, measuring total band power and the equivalent continuous sound pressure level. It was also created a measurement chain for the pressure – drop evaluation and temperature distribution on the external surface of the mufflers.
Validation of Heat Dissipation Processes in Direct Injection Diesel Engines Air Cooled
Authors: Mardarescu Vladimir , Ispas Nicolae , Nastasoiu Mircea
Published: January 2016

Small diesel engines with direct injection air cooled a big problem is heat dissipation. Based on bench made ​​with a 295 cc diesel engine with direct injection, air cooled, I set the heat flows through the cylinder head, piston and cylinder. These data are needed to study the possibility of operating at maximum power, knowing that mechanical stresses of thermal origin are the most dangerous. The data obtained in this work will be used in the analysis of temperature and stress fields.
Running Speeds Determination for Tractor U-650 Equipped with Additional Transmission
Authors: Popa Gheorghe , Constantinescu Augustin , Ciunel Stefanita
Published: January 2016

This paper shows how to calculate the speed of travel for a tractor equipped with an additional transmission (hydrostatic transmission). Determination is theoretically and experimentally, comparing the results. Theoretical calculation is done using MathCAD program. An experimental measurement is determined by the device called “fifth wheel", equipped with speed measuring transducer.
Modelling and Control of a Mobile Robot, Equipped with an Arm in Cylindrical Coordinates with Uncoupled Tentacular Terminal
Authors: Stoian Viorel , Dumitru Sorin
Published: January 2016

In this paper a robotic system which consists in a mobile platform with wheels and a robotic arm that operates in cylindrical coordinates which are located on, having a tentacular end-effector that executes specific grasping operations is presented. The robotic system executes: the displacement in the operation field, towards a target point that has been priori established, positioning the arm in order to perform the specified task, and the end-effector task according to a tentacular model. Kinematic models are made by Denavit – Hartenberg method and dynamic models by Lagrange method. Finally, is proposed a control system with uncoupled components.Keywords: mobile platform, tentacular structure, observer.
Study on the Possibility to Estimate the Vehicle Side Slip Using Two Independent GPS Receivers
Authors: Covaciu Dinu , Preda Ion , Dima Dragoş Sorin , Chiru Anghel
Published: January 2016

Slip angle is the difference between the direction a vehicle is travelling and the longitudinal plane of the vehicle body. Knowing vehicle sideslip angle accurately is critical for active safety systems such as Electronic Stability Program (ESP). Vehicle sideslip angle can be measured using optical speed sensors, inertial sensors and/or dual-antenna GPS receivers. These systems are expensive and their use is limited for many users. The goal of this paper is to analyze the possibility to estimate the vehicle sideslip angle, in real-time, by using two low-cost single-antenna GPS receivers.
Theoretical and Experimental Researches Regarding the Influence of the Suspension Car Stiffness on the Dynamic Behavior of Vehicles
Authors: Neagoe Dumitru , Bolcu Dumitru , Simniceanu Loreta , Trotea Mario
Published: January 2016

In this paper the authors present the results of theoretical and experimental research in order to optimize suspension rigidity in case of Daewoo Nubira vehicle. The paper presents the mathematical model obtained by assimilating car with a dynamic system with 5 rigid solids with elastic and viscous linking between them. Theoretical results obtained based on this model and the experimental results are presented, and it is presented a solution to optimize suspension in order to remove the negative effects observed driving on gravel runways or damaged runaways. Theoretical results, compared with the experimental ones, allow us to say that it is possible to optimize suspension by analyzing specific parameters equivalent mathematical model.
About Mechatronics in the Engineering Education at the Faculty of Mechanics Craiova
Authors: Gherghina George , Tutunea Dragos , Lambrache Nicholas , Popa Dragos
Published: January 2016

In the conditions of the accentuated globalization and marked by a strong economical concurrence, the development of the present society imposes a new type of education. This must take into account all dimensions of the human being because our whole individual and social life is structured by education. The confirmation of the creative valences of Mechatronics in all fields makes possible the appearance of a new philosophy compatible with the actual technological and informatical development in society. At the base of the Mechatronics’ principles in Education is situated the development of the systemic thinking and the formation of the work abilities in team based on the informatics role in all fields. In mechatronic Education is followed by the formation of the information, mental action and social skills.
Current State of Research on Bio-Source Composite
Authors: Haloiu Alin Ilie , Tabacu Stefan
Published: January 2016

This paper is a review of the current research on bio-source composite and especially flax fibers reinforced polymers. Fabrication methods and fiber treatments are presented.The mechanical properties found in the scientific literature are discussed.Experimental results from traction tests are presented for a bio-source composite: epoxy resin reinforced with flax fibers.
Experimental Determination on Behavior of Composite Laminated Body Elements at Temperature Variations
Authors: Pană Gabriela Monica , Trotea Mario
Published: January 2016

The design of layered composite body elements requires knowledge of the behavior of these materials under operating conditions of the vehicle. The experimental researches were carried out on material produced in the laboratory and have been determined the change in bending and rolling characteristics at temperatures of 80°C, -30°C and in humidity conditions. Also it was attempted to determine aspects regarding the causes and mechanism when these conditions affect the changes of the mechanical properties.
Prediction of Dissipative Properties of Flax Fibers Reinforced Laminates by Vibration Analysis
Authors: Belaïd Marouane , Fontaine Stéphane , El Hafidi Ali , Piezel Papa Benoît , Gning Papa Birame
Published: January 2016

This study proposes an experimental-numeric method to identify the viscoelastic properties of flax fibres reinforced composite laminate (flax/epoxide). The used method consists in identifying the evolutions of both loss factor and stiffness when vibrational frequency changes. In this way, several free-free symmetrically guided beams are excited on a dynamic range of 10 to 4000 Hz with sweep sine excitation focused around the 4-first’s modes. Fractional derivative Zener model is used to identify the on-axis ply complex moduli and describe the laminate dissipative linear behavior with the classical laminate theory. Results obtained on a quasi-isotropic laminate show that this model adequately predicts the vibrational behavior of the tested laminates.
Virtual Model Used for Kinematics Study of Car’s Rear Axle
Authors: Bujoaică Răzvan , Vieru Ionel , Nicolae Viorel , Marinescu Dănuț
Published: January 2016

Abstract: The paper presents the possibility of generating a complex kinematic model that can be used to simulate various types of semi-independent rear axle used in the design of new cars. This model allows quick check for such axles of the interference that may occur in their functioning on the car. For application it was used the CATIA V5 software.
Economical Model Based on Graph Theory for Optimization Execution Order of Automotive Products on the Manufacturing Lines Served by Robots
Authors: Dumitru Violeta
Published: January 2016

This paper presents an economic model based on graph theory to optimize the execution order for automotive products on the manufacturing lines served by robots, so that the total manufacturing cost is minimized. The starting point is a representation of the range of automotive products with similar design attributes but with different construction requirements (material, tolerances, production volume). This representation is distinguished by a directed graph G = (X, Γ) consisting of the set X of nodes (products) and the set Γ of arcs (paths with minimal cost). In terms of mathematical optimization problem is solved by determining the minimum length Hamiltonian path in the graph, using the algorithm of Foulkes. The length of a path is obtained by adding the numbers associated with that path arcs. The model can be applied to other extreme transportation issues CIM type, such as: transportation network modeling; determining minimum distances; median problem (placing checkpoints); multi-product maximum flow problem.