bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Impacts of Energy Utilization and Renewable Energy Sources in Turkey
Authors: Kaygusuz Kamil
Published: March 2010

Turkey is an energy importing country, more than half of the energy requirement has been supplied by imports. Domestic oil and lignite reserves are limited and lignites are characterised by high ash, sulfur and moisture content. Due to increasing energy consumption, air pollution is becoming a great environmental concern for future in the country. In this regard, renewable energy resources appear to be the one of the most efficient and effective solutions for sustainable energy development and environmental pollution prevention in Turkey. Turkey's geographical location has several advantages for extensive use of most of these renewable energy sources. Because of this and the fact that it has limited fossil fuel resources, a gradual shift from fossil fuels to renewables seems to be serious and the sole alternative for Turkey. This article presents a review of the present energy situation and sustainability, technical and economical potential of renewable energy sources and future policies for energy sector in Turkey. Throughout the paper several problems relating to energy sources, environment and sustainable development are discussed from both current and future perspectives.
Maceral and Geochemical Characteristics of Oil Shale 2 from the Huangxian Basin, China
Authors: Sun Yu-Zhuang , Lin Mingyue , Li Haimei , Zhang Hongjian , Li Shifeng , Jin Kankun
Published: March 2010

Five samples of Oil Shale 2 from the Huangxian Basin have been analyzed by coal petrographic and geochemical methods in order to study its formation environment. Higher alginite ratios and hopanes in Oil Shale 2 indicate a lower plants and anoxic environment. Two ternary diagrams of “facies diagnostic” macerals and biomarkers were used to interpret the depositional environments of organic matter in Oil Shale 2. In both diagrams, Oil Shale 2 plots in a lower plant zone, and was deposited in a deeper water environment.
Bounding of Carbon Dioxide in Flue Gases via Carbonation Process
Authors: Demirbas Ayhan
Published: March 2010

Carbonation is a stabilization of carbon dioxide (CO2) by solidification process. In order to prevent rapid climate change, it will be necessary to stabilize CO2 as carbonate by the carbonation process. Carbonation of the widely occurring mineral olivine (Mg2SiO4) converts CO2 into an environmentally benign mineral magnesite (MgCO3). The availability of a CO2 fixation technology would serve as insurance in case global warming causes severe restrictions on CO2 emissions. The yield of carbonation increased with increasing temperature. The rate of carbonation conversion sharply increased in initial 20 min and then reduced and reached a plateau value after about 40 min. The carbonation conversion with MgO is higher than that of CaO.
Application of Phased Array Technology for Identification of Low Frequency Noise Sources
Authors: Camargo Hugo E. , Ravetta Patricio A. , Burdisso Ricardo A. , Smith Adam K.
Published: March 2010

Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is the most common occupational disease in the U.S. with devastating consequences particularly in the mining industry. A study conducted by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) revealed that 90% of coal miners have hearing impairment by age 50, compared to only 10% of those not exposed to occupational noise. According to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), Continuous Mining Machine (CM) operators account for 30% of workers exposed to noise doses exceeding the Permissible Exposure Level (PEL). This number becomes more dramatic considering that 49% of the total national underground coal production is extracted using these machines. In this context, NIOSH is conducting research to identify and control dominant noise sources in CMs. Previous noise source identification was performed using a Brüel &Kjær (B&K) 1.92-m diameter, 42-microphone phased array. These measurements revealed that the impacts from the conveyor chain onto the tail roller, and the impacts from the conveyor chain onto the upper deck are the dominant noise sources at the tail-section of the CM. The objectives of the work presented in this paper were: 1) To rank the noise radiated by the different sections of the conveyor, and 2) to determine the effect of a urethane-coated tail roller on the noise radiated by the tail-section. This test was conducted using an Acoustical and Vibrations Engineering Consultants (AVEC) 3.5-m diameter, 121-microphone phased array. The results from this new test show that a urethane-coated tail roller yields reductions in the tail-section of 2 to 8 dB in Sound Pressure Level in the frequency range of 1 kHz to 5 kHz. However, integration of the acoustic maps shows that the front-section and mid-section of the conveyor also contain dominant noise sources. Therefore, a urethane-coated tail roller in combination with a chain with urethane-coated flights that reduces the noise sources in the front and mid sections of the conveyor is required to yield a significant noise reduction on the CM operator's overall exposure. These results show the applicability of phased array technology for low frequency noise source identification.
Adsorption of Remazol Blue RR from Textile Effluents Using Azadirachta Indica Leaf Powder as an Alternative Adsorbent
Authors: Immich Ana Paula Serafini , de Souza Antônio Augusto Ulson , de Arruda Guelli Ulson de Souza Selene Maria
Published: March 2010

Adsorption is one of the techniques used for the effective removal of dyes from industrial effluents, but the adsorption efficiency depends on the choice of a suitable adsorbent. The aim of the present study was to investigate the use of Neem leaves as an alternative adsorbent for the removal of dyes present in textile effluents. The dyestuff studied was the reactive dye Remazol Blue RR. In order to obtain the best removal conditions, the influence of the following parameters was investigated: pH value of the aqueous solution, agitation, addition of sodium sulphate, temperature and adsorbent particle size. A good correlation was obtained when the Langmuir model was applied to fit the experimental data obtained for the concentration of solute adsorbed by the solid phase in terms of the equilibrium concentration of the fluid phase. The experimental data showed that 90% removal of Remazol Blue RR was achievable using Neem leaves as the adsorbent.
Adsorption Kinetic Models Applied to Nickel Ions on Hazelnut Shell Activated Carbons
Authors: Kobya M. , Demirbał E. , Öncel M.S. , Łencan S.
Published: March 2010

Kinetic models describing the adsorption of Ni(II) ions on to hazelnut shell active carbon (HSAC) have been compared. Kinetic studies have also been carried out in a batch adsorber over a range of initial metal ion concentration (11.87–92.34 mg/dm3), agitation speed (50–200 rpm) and adsorbent particle size (0.90–1.60 mm). The rate models evaluated included the pseudo-first order equation, the pseudo-second order equation and the Elovich equation. The results obtained showed that the pseudo-second order kinetic model correlated the experimental data well and better than the other models examined in this study.
The Myers–Prausnitz–Dubinin Theory and Non-Ideal Adsorption in Microporous Solids
Authors: Stoeckli F. , Couderc G. , Sobota R. , Lavanchy A.
Published: March 2010

The adsorption of vapour and liquid mixtures of benzene + 1,2-dichloroethane, chlorobenzene + carbon tetrachloride, chlorobenzene + cyclohexane and 1-bromo, 2-chloroethane + 1,2-dichloroethane on two activated carbons and on two zeolites (UC13X and ZSM-5) was examined near room temperature. It was shown that the combination of the recent Myers–Prausnitz–Dubinin (MPD) theory with the activity coefficients of the corresponding solid–liquid equilibrium leads to a good correlation between the calculated and the experimental mole fractions for binary vapour adsorption by microporous solids. This confirms that the approach based on an ideal adsorbed state (IAS) can be improved by using these activity coefficients as a first and good approximation.
Research and Teaching of Space Structures
Authors: Chilton John C.
Published: March 2010

This paper discusses the influence that the research interests of those who teach about space structures has on the content of the courses they develop, the methods of teaching that they employ and the learning experience of the students that they teach. An outline space structures curriculum is proposed and ways of amplifying, refining and disseminating this are suggested. The potential for using studio design projects as a vehicle for teaching about space structures and, in some cases, as a research tool, are also discussed. It is not intended that the initial ideas presented here be taken as an absolute solution but as a rudimentary foundation to provoke a wide-ranging discussion about the teaching of space structures. That is to try and answer the question – what should be taught, how and to whom?
Teaching Aspects of Space Structure Behaviour at Wollongong
Authors: Schmidt Lewis C.
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this paper is to present an overview of the areas of the four-year undergraduate course in Civil Engineering at the University of Wollongong that are relevant to the teaching of material related to space structures. The Civil Engineering course at Wollongong is a general course in civil engineering leading to a Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) Degree. The areas covered in this paper refer only to those parts of the undergraduate course with a structural bias, and particularly those areas relevant to pin-jointed space truss behaviour, mechanics and design. Brief mention is made to the early year teaching that is of relevance, and then the attention is given to the basic structural mechanics that forms the basis for project work in the final year. This latter work forms the principal part of the paper.
Studying form – Innovation in Structural Engineering Education
Authors: Lewis Wanda , Chilton John C.
Published: March 2010

This paper summarises the authors' experience in the design and implementation of an innovative course in structural engineering education. A course on structural form and behaviour of “non-conventional” or space structures, which primarily focuses on form-finding through physical modelling, is described, although, where appropriate, computer modelling is also encouraged. Several case studies of student work are presented and the insights acquired by the students are discussed. It is concluded that the design of space structures, based on qualitative assessment of their functionality and performance, should be given more prominence within the civil and structural engineering curriculum.
Natta Conference Report
Authors: Elliott David , Boehmer-Christiansen Sonja
Published: March 2010

NATTA is an information service based with the OU Energy and Environment Research Unit. Parts of its journal RENEW can be accessed at: http://www-tec.open.ac.uk/eeru/natta/rol.html
Turning the Big Knob: An Evaluation of the Use of Energy Policy to Modulate Future Climate Impacts
Authors: Pielke Roger A. , Klein Roberta , Sarewitz Daniel
Published: March 2010

Conventional wisdom on climate change policy is straightforward: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions will avoid the increased frequency and magnitude of climate impacts on environment and society that might occur if emissions are not controlled. The proponents of conventional wisdom widely consider energy policy to be the main policy tool available to decision makers to intentionally modulate future climate impacts. In this paper we challenge the notion that policy makers should intentionally use energy policy to modulate future climate impacts. The paper argues that policy makers may well make large changes in energy policy (and future emissions) without significantly affecting future climate impacts. In other words, even if a theoretical case could be made that energy policy could be used intentionally to modulate future climate, other factors will play a larger role in creating future impacts and are arguably more amenable to policy change. To illustrate this conclusion, the paper presents a sensitivity analysis under the assumptions of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change for the case of tropical cyclones. One implication of the paper's conclusions is that policy responses to extreme weather events should be decoupled from considerations of energy policy. This decoupling is not intended to diminish either the importance of responding to climate change or of energy policy. Rather, it is to emphasise that there are many responses under the rubric of “adaptation” that could play a much role in reducing societal vulnerability to losses. One of the implications of this change is that scientific uncertainty need not stand in the way of effective “action” because the measures proposed make sense under any future climate scenario.
Is Energy Efficiency Environmentally Friendly?
Authors: Herring Horace
Published: March 2010

This paper challenges the view that improving the efficiency of energy use will lead to a reduction in national energy consumption, and hence is an effective policy for reducing CO2 emissions. It argues that improving energy efficiency lowers the implicit price of energy and hence make its use more affordable, thus leading to greater use. The paper presents the views of economists, as well as green critics of ‘efficiency’ and the ‘dematerialization’ thesis. The paper argues that a more effective CO2 policy is to concentrate on shifting to non-fossil fuel fuels, like renewables, subsidized through a carbon tax. Ultimately what is needed, to limit energy consumption, is energy conservation not energy efficiency.
Customer Choice and Green Power Marketing in the United States: How far Can it Take US?
Authors: Wiser Ryan , Bolinger Mark , Holt Edward
Published: March 2010

This article explores whether and to what extent individuals are willing to voluntarily pay a premium for products that provide public environmental benefits. In particular, we critically review and analyze the status and impacts of U.S. green power marketing to date. Green power marketing – the business of selling electricity products distinguished by their environmental attributes – seeks to develop a private market for renewable energy driven by consumer demand for green products. Debate has centered on the ability of such a market to provide a significant level of support for renewable energy sources. This paper examines experience to date with green power markets in the United States, providing an historical overview, reviewing product offerings, assessing customer response, and calculating overall support for renewable energy. While market research shows that a majority of the populace states a willingness to pay a premium for renewable energy, early experience with green power marketing shows that those attitudes have not yet translated into large-scale behavior change, tracking experience in other environmental product markets. While a niche market for green power does exist, the data presented in this paper indicate that the collective impact of customer-driven demand on renewable generation has been modest thus far. Much will need to be done if this market is to play a strong role in supporting renewable energy in the early part of the millennium. Several lessons on how to potentially improve the prospects of green power marketing are therefore discussed.
CDM and JI in View of the Sustainability Debate
Authors: Uiterkamp Anton J.M. Schoot
Published: March 2010

Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), Joint Implementation (JI) and emissions trading are the three flexible instruments incorporated in the Kyoto Protocol. This paper presents a critical assessment of the sustainability of energy-related technology innovation and transfer in the context of CDM and JI. The rebound effect is discussed by comparing intended and unintended project and process outcomes. Attention is given to the role of nations and key actors like multinationals in achieving sustainability goals of the protocol.
Russian Methane Emissions: Options for Reduction
Authors: Hill Malcolm R.
Published: March 2010

This paper provides an account of the estimates of methane (CH4) emissions from the Russian Federation and a description of the technologies which can be used to reduce these emissions. It is similar in approach and methodology to previous publications on Russian carbon dioxide emissions (Hill, 1999; Hill, 2000a; Hill, 2000b), but extends the focus of that research from power generation to the fuels industries. Methane has been chosen for study as it is the next most important greenhouse gas in terms of volume of emissions after carbon dioxide. Although accounting for only 1 per cent of the total tonnage of greenhouse gases emitted from the Russian Federation in 1990 (the base year chosen for consequent comparisons in future years by the Kyoto Protocol), the higher global warming potential of methane compared to carbon dioxide increased its proportion to 18 per cent of the global warming effect of Russian greenhouse gas emissions in 1990. Furthermore, the emissions of methane were far in excess of the remaining major greenhouse gases (namely nitrous oxide [N2O], sulphur hexafluoride [SF6], hexafluorocarbons [HFCs] and polyfluorocarbons [PFCs]), which although higher in global warming potential than methane only accounted for some 4 per cent of total Russian greenhouse gas emissions in 1990. The reduction of the emissions of these minor greenhouse gases is restricted to a decrease in the use of mineral fertilisers in the case of N2O, or the substitution of hexafluorides and fluorocarbons by other gases. In the case of the reduction of methane emissions, however, a wider range of industries and technologies is involved, and there are also linkages between methane and carbon dioxide reductions.
Environmental Impact of Photovoltaic Electrification in Rural Areas
Authors: Varho Vilja
Published: March 2010

The environmental impact of photovoltaics (PV) is discussed to ascertain how well it can aid solving the dual problem of meeting the demand for electricity in rural areas and of mitigating the energy-related environmental problems. It is noted that all emissions from PV are indirect and result mainly from the energy used in producing PV equipment. They are compared with the emissions that can be offset by the use of P V. It is concluded that PV is environmentally benign, and in some cases the cheapest way of providing electricity in rural areas. Nevertheless, its currently high costs and small electric capacity mean that there are cheaper and more effective methods for solving environmental problems in the short run. It is observed, however, that the costs of emission abatement are much higher if only the emissions from existing energy uses that are replaced by PV are considered than if the emissions and costs of alternative power production methods that are offset are also included. In the longer run, PV is seen to have very high potential for growth, lower costs, and environmental benefits. Issues affecting the success of PV dissemination in rural areas of developing countries are discussed, and policy suggestions are given.
Gender Angle to the Climate Change Negotiations
Authors: Wamukonya Njeri , Skutsch Margaret
Published: March 2010

The South is likely to suffer more from climate change than the North due to its already vulnerable situation and lack of the necessary resources to adapt to change. But do the interests of men and of women differ as regards climate change and does this have a South-North dimension? This paper attempts to establish whether gender issues need to be addressed in the climate change debate. Towards this goal, a number of different issues within the climate change debate, in particular the instruments proposed, are analysed. These include responsibility for emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs), studies on vulnerability to the effects of climate change, mitigation of emissions, capacity building for participation in flexible mechanisms and adaptation to climate change.

We conclude that while there are many gender angles related to the climate change convention and the instruments therein, some are more strategic than others. There is little to be gained by looking at the responsibility for emissions on a gendered basis. But in mitigation activities, Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), capacity building, technology transfer, vulnerability studies and projects for adaptation, the poor, the majority of who are women, should be targeted and active participants in decision-making.
Australian Experience with ‘New’ Environmental Policy Instruments: The Greenhouse Challenge and Greenhouse Friendly Programs
Authors: Taplin Roslyn E.
Published: March 2010

In association with international moves to address the impacts of global climate change some governments including those in the EU, US, Canada and Australia have taken steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions via ‘new’ environmental policy instruments (NEPIs) (e.g. voluntary agreements, emissions trading and eco-labelling). This has been in response to the Framework Convention on Climate Change and in anticipation of the Kyoto Protocol coming into force. This paper focuses on Australian experience with two particular NEPIs: The Greenhouse Challenge and Greenhouse Friendly programs. Empirical evidence on the evolution and effectiveness of these programs is related to theoretical discussion on the role of NEPIs in industrial transformation, social learning and sustainability The success or effectiveness of these greenhouse NEPIs appears to be dependent on industry motivations and incentives for participation, the implementing agency's procedures and the design of the process for collaboration and information sharing between government and industry.
No Limits to Global Industrialisation with Nuclear Breeder Reactors
Authors: Jovanovich Jovan V.
Published: March 2010

Does the Earth have enough natural resources, that is enough arable land, minerals and energy, to feed and support in a sustainable manner an industrial and affluent world of 10–15 billion people owning 5–10 billion cars? In a previous article2 past and potential future developments, together with some environmental impacts (greenhouse effect in particular), were analysed. In this article this previous discussion of the physical availability of resources needed to build an industrialised and affluent world is futher expounded. It is argued here that there is no reason for pessimism provided humanity can resolve the socio-economic and poltical issues associated with the careful exploitation of natural resources. Even without any major breakthroughs in science and technology, the earth is resourceful enough to physically support an industrialized, sustainable and affluent world of 10–15 billion people, but only if nuclear breeder reactors are used to power it. Thus, there are no physical reasons why one part of humanity has to compete with another one for natural resources that may soon disappear, for the “last barrel of oil and the last kernel of grain”. The earth is resourceful enough for everybody to live well. We only need wisdom to achieve this goal.
Computer-Based Form Generation in Architectural Design — A Critical Review
Authors: Grobman Yasha Jacob , Yezioro Abraham , Capeluto Isaac Guedi
Published: March 2010

The idea of using computers for form generation and evaluation in the architectural design process has been put forward already in the early days of computers. However, as opposed to computer aided drafting, the generation of form, its optimization and manufacturing has not been widely accepted and implemented by practitioners.

The paper critically reviews the research and state of the practice experiments that has been done in this field and develops an argument regarding the possibilities and limitations of computer-based form generation in the architectural design process.
Computing Architectural Materiality: The Hyper-Natural Aspirations of the New Paradigm
Authors: Voyatzaki Maria
Published: March 2010

The article is based on the premise that in the history of architecture there has always been an intimate relationship between architectural ideas and the various perceptions of the alive. On this premise the article focuses on and investigates the relationship of the contemporary architectural paradigm labeled as digital, parametric or morphogenetic with the alive. Its objective is to reveal its new profound reasonings which lead and nourish its creative expression; to articulate its new ethos with the extended use of advanced information technologies for the creation of architectural forms, but also for the generation of a broad spectrum of new building materials with properties predefined by the architect. The immaterial, the hybrid, the composite, the mutable, the transformable, the interactive, the dynamic, do not only appear as properties of certain architectural creations or building materials, but also as values expressing this ethos and declaring a new relationship or a reconsidered admiration of the natural, the living, the alive. The article concludes that the new hyper-natural aspiration of the contemporary paradigm constitutes a new dynamic expression of architectural materiality and its guiding intellect.
Performative Building Skin Systems: A Morphogenomic Approach towards Developing Real-Time Adaptive Building Skin Systems
Authors: Biloria Nimish , Sumini Valentina
Published: March 2010

Morphogenomics, a relatively new research area, involves understanding the role played by information regulation in the emergence of diverse natural and artificially generated morphologies. Performative building skin systems as a bottom-up parametric formation of context aware interdependent, ubiquitously communicating components leading to the development of continually performative systems is one of the multi-scalar derivations of the aforementioned Morphogenomic understanding. The agenda of adaptations for these building skins specifically corresponds to three domains of adaptation: structural, behavioral and physiological adaptations resulting in kinetic adaptability, energy generation, conservation, transport and usage principles as well as material property based changes per component. The developed skins adapt in real time via operating upon ubiquitous communication and data-regulation protocols for sensing and processing contextual information. Computational processes and information technology based tools and techniques such as parametric design, real-time simulation using game design software, environmental information mapping, sensing and actuating systems coupled with inbuilt control systems as well as manufacturing physical models in collaboration with praxis form a vital part of these skin systems. These experiments and analysis based on developing intrinsic inter-dependencies between contextual data, structure and material logistics thus lay the foundation for a new era of continually performing, self powering, real-time adaptive intelligent building skin systems.
Algorithmic Form Generation of a Radiolarian Pavilion
Authors: Bueno Ernesto
Published: March 2010

This paper describes the design stage of an on-going research project for the construction of a pavilion that mimics the bone structures of Radiolarians. In the process, several constructive and generative algorithms are developed, together with geometric and trigonometric functions, all implemented in RhinoScript and a math plug-in for the NURBS modeler Rhinoceros. There has been considerable emphasis on the generation of the Radiolarian cell that is tessellated along a stereographic surface with a honeycomb-based algorithm. It combines design strategies from biomimetics, mathematical functions, generative scripting, process automation and versioning, all integrated into an algorithmic methodology for creating a non-standard structure, capable of being manufactured with CNC technology, and doing so, setting a precedent in the academic and professional environment in which it will be located.
A Variational Method and Approximations of a Cauchy Problem for Elliptic Equations
Authors: Hào Dinh Nho , Johansson B.T. , Lesnic D. , Hien Pham Minh
Published: March 2010

A Cauchy problem for general elliptic second-order linear partial differential equations in which the Dirichlet data in H1/2(Γ1 U Γ3) is assumed available on a larger part of the boundary Γ of the bounded domain Ω than the boundary portion Γ1 on which the Neumann data is is investigated using a conjugate gradient method. We obtain an approximation to the solution of the Cauchy problem by minimizing a certain discrete functional and interpolating using the finite diference or boundary element method. The minimization involves solving equations obtained by discretising mixed boundary value problems for the same operator and its adjoint. It is proved that the solution of the discretised optimization problem converges to the continuous one, as the mesh size tends to zero. Numerical results are presented and discussed.
Simulations of Evaporating Spray Jet in a Uniform Co-Flowing Turbulent Air Stream
Authors: De Santanu , Lakshmisha K.N.
Published: March 2010

Numerical simulations are performed on the flow of fine, polydisperse droplets of acetone ejected from a round jet of air into an ambient turbulent, uniform co-flowing air stream. The objective is to validate the numerical model by comparing the predictions with experimental measurements of a well defined evaporating spray configuration (Chen et al., Int. J. Multiphase Flow 32(2006), 389–412). The carrier-phase is considered in the Eulerian context, while the dispersed phase is tracked in the Lagrangian framework. Various interactions between the two phases are taken into account by means of a two-way coupling. The stochastic separated flow (SSF) model is adopted for the spray calculations. The gas-phase turbulence terms are closed using the standard k-ε model. The spray evaporation is described using a thermal model with an infinite-conductivity.

Overall, very good agreement is observed in the comparisons of the computational predictions and experimental measurements. The predicted droplet number-mean axial velocity, r.m.s. of fluctuating velocity for the various droplet classes at different downstream locations exhibit a self-similarity downstream of the nozzle exit. Near the nozzle-exit (around z/djet = 5), the r.m.s. of droplet number mean axial fluctuating velocity attains a maximum within the shear layer near r/djet = 0.4–0.6 for different droplet classes. Further downstream, the peak shifts towards the axis. A similar variation is noticed in the Sauter mean diameter (SMD) distribution of the droplets. It is concluded that, a higher level of turbulence leads to a faster depletion of the smaller droplets, resulting in an increase in the local droplet-SMD in those regions.
Behavior of Low Strain Rate Flame Disks in Counterflow Diffusion Flame
Authors: Yun Jin Han , Park Dae Geun , Keel Sang In , Park Jeong
Published: March 2010

A study was conducted to clarify flame characteristics through the evaluation of critical mole fractions at flame extinction and edge-flame oscillation of low strain rate flames using the global strain rate, velocity ratio, and burner distance as experimental variables. The transition from a shrinking flame disk to a flame hole was verified through gradient measurements of the maximum flame temperature. Evidence of edge-flame oscillation in flame disks was also found using numerical simulations in zero and normal gravity. The main mechanisms of flame extinction and edge-flame oscillation were analyzed by comparing the energy fractions in the energy equation. For low strain rate flame disks, radial conduction heat loss rather than flame radiation was a significant contributor to flame extinction and even edge-flame oscillation. This was experimentally demonstrated by evaluating the critical mole fraction at flame extinction and edge-flame oscillation, as well as measurements of the flame temperature gradient along the flame disk surface. These results suggest that low strain rate flame responses are determined not only by one-dimensional flame responses, but also by multi-dimensional flame responses such as radial conduction heat loss. The results also show that extinction of low strain rate flames is more probably due to multi-dimensional heat losses than to radiative extinction.
Computation vs. Experiment for High-Frequency Low-Reynolds Number Airfoil Plunge
Authors: Ol Michael V. , Reeder Mark , Fredberg Daniel , McGowan Gregory Z. , Gopalarathnam Ashok , Edwards Jack R.
Published: March 2010

We seek to extend the literature on sinusoidal pure-plunge of 2D airfoils at high reduced frequency and low Reynolds number, by including effects of camber and nonzero mean incidence angle. We compare experimental results in a water tunnel using dye injection and 2D particle image velocimetry, with a set of computations in 2D – Immersed Boundary Method and unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier Stokes. The Re range is from 10,000 to 60,000, based on free stream velocity and airfoil chord, chosen to cover cases where transition in attached boundary layers would be of some importance, and where transition would only occur in the wake. Generally at high reduced frequency there is no Reynolds number effect. Mean angle of attack has significance, notionally, depending on whether it is below or above static stall. Computations were found to agree well with experimentally-derived velocity contours, vorticity contours and momentum in the wake. As found previously for the NACA0012, varying Strouhal number is found to control the topology of the wake, while varying reduced amplitude and reduced frequency together, but keeping Strouhal number constant, causes wake vortical structures to scale with the reduced amplitude of plunge. Flowfield periodicity – as evinced from comparison of instantaneous and time-averaged particle image velocimetry – is generally attained after two periods of oscillation from motion onset.
Design, Aerodynamics, and Vision-Based Control of the DelFly
Authors: de Croon G.C.H.E. , de Clercq K.M.E. , Ruijsink R. , Remes B. , de Wagter C.
Published: March 2010

Light-weight, autonomous ornithopters form a promise to observe places that are too small or too dangerous for humans to enter. In this article, we discuss the DelFly project, in which we follow a top-down approach to ever smaller and more autonomous ornithopters. Top-down signifies that the project always focuses on complete flying systems equipped with camera. We give arguments for the approach by explaining which findings on the DelFly I and DelFly II recently led to the development of the DelFly Micro: a 3.07-gram ornithopter carrying a camera and transmitter onboard. These findings concern the design, aerodynamics, and vision-based control of the DelFly. In addition, we identify main obstacles on the road to fly-sized ornithopters.
Design Overview of a Resonant Wing Actuation Mechanism for Application in Flapping Wing MAVs
Authors: Bolsman C.T. , Goosen J.F.L. , van Keulen F.
Published: March 2010

This paper shows the design and analysis of the actuation mechanism for a four winged flapping wing MAV. The design is set up to exploit resonant properties, as exhibited by flying insects, to reduce the energy expenditure and to provide amplitude amplification. In order to achieve resonance a significantly flexible structure has to be incorporated into the design. The elastic structure used for the body of the MAV is a ring type structure. The ring is coupled to the wings by a compliant amplification mechanism which transforms and amplifies the ring deflection into the large wing root rotation. After initial sizing, the structures are analyzed by finite elements (eigenvalue and transient analysis). Based on the initial analysis, the structures are realized to be tested later.

The wings are first analyzed independent of the structure in order to tune wing hinge stiffness to efficiently generate lift, exploiting passive wing pitching. The wings are tuned by using a quasi-steady aerodynamic model. The tuned wings are tested to judge if manufactured wings reflect the predicted performance.

The ring-shaped thorax structure is combined with the wings to test resonant performance of the assembled structure. A test setup is built to quantify lift production. Lift is tested by suspending the prototype on a flexible beam and measuring changes in deflection when the model is actuated. Significant lift is produced using the current prototype. Kinematic patterns present during resonant actuation show correct timing of wing rotation.
Defining Your Innovation Model: 10 Facets of Innovation
Authors: Phillips Jeffrey
Published: March 2010

In any business process a firm begins with a concept or model of how it hopes to accomplish its goals to provide value to customers and participate in market successfully. This model forms the basis of how the business is structured and organized, how it operates in the marketplace
and its scope and limitations. In this article, we present the proposition that innovation, typically an unstructured initiative or task, requires its own model, and has a number of defined attributes. A successful innovation capability is based on defining these attributes and aligning them
to the strategic goals of the organization and the intent or purpose of the innovation effort.
The Innovative Paradox in Science and Science Parks
Authors: Andersson E. Roland , Jansson Bjarne
Published: March 2010

Universities have a synthetic style for radical innovation but an inappropriate administrative culture. Science parks, which are supposed to have such entrepreneurial culture, instead lack an appropriate synthetic style. Our answer is to combine appropriate styles and cultures into
a new arena. A modified-systems approach, based on the suggested principles, should, however, be structurally tested and compared with the current science-park model.
Challenges and Issues on the CFD Modeling of Fluidized Beds: A Review
Authors: Lettieri Paola , Mazzei Luca
Published: March 2010

We first describe the main approaches used to model fluidized suspensions. Focusing on the multifluid approach, we overview the principal averaging techniques that consent to turn granular systems into continua; in particular, we discuss volume, ensemble and time averages. We then use volume averages to derive the Eulerian equations of motion for fluidized suspensions of a finite number of monodisperse particle classes. We introduce the closure problem, and overview some widely adopted closure equations used to express the granular stress and the interaction forces between the phases, giving emphasis to the fluid-particle interaction force, in particular to the buoyancy and drag contributions. We conclude the work by discussing some published CFD simulations of mono and bidisperse fluidized beds, spanning different fluidization regimes and commenting on the insight that these studies provide.
Healthcare Facility Evacuations: Lessons Learned, Research Activity, and the Need for Engineering Contributions
Authors: Childers Ashley , Taaffe Kevin M.
Published: March 2010

Over the past few years, there has been an increase in research related to a healthcare facility′s role during a disaster. Most of this literature relates to emergencies where the facility is a resource to the affected population, and the facility must make decisions associated with sudden, increased patient demands. Some emergencies, however, may affect the facility′s ability to function and may therefore force the need for a complete patient evacuation. This paper provides an overview of the available literature including lessons learned from actual healthcare facility evacuations and research focusing on making improvements. The purpose is to summarize a variety of healthcare evacuation issues and highlight the research in this area. We raise questions for further research and conclude with an example of using engineering techniques to improve healthcare facility evacuations by prioritizing patients for transport.
Investigation of the Effects of Continuous Low‐Dose Epidural Analgesia on the Autonomic Nervous System Using Hilbert Huang Transform
Authors: Chuang Wei-Ren , Yeh Jia-Rong , Chen Li-Kuei , Han Yin-Yi , Shieh Jiann-Shing
Published: March 2010

Effects of continuous low‐dose epidural bupivacaine (0.05‐0.1%) infusion on the Doppler velocimetry for labor analgesia have been well documented. The aim of this study was to monitor the activity of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) for women in labor based on Hilbert Huang transform (HHT), which performs signal processing for nonlinear systems, such as human cardiac systems. Thirteen pregnant women were included in the experimental group for labor analgesia. They received continuous epidural bupivacaine 0.075% infusion. The normal‐to‐normal intervals (NN‐interval) were downloaded from an ECG holter. Another 20 pregnant women in non‐anesthesia labor (average gestation age was 38.6 weeks) were included in the comparison group. In this study, HHT was used to decompose components of ECG signals, which reflect three different frequency bands of a person′s heart rate spectrum (viz. high frequency (HF), low frequency (LF) and very low frequency (VLF)). It was found that the change of energy in subjects without anesthesia was more active than that with continuous epidural bupivacaine 0.075% infusion. The energy values of the experimental group (i.e., labor analgesia) of HF and LF of ANS activities were significantly lower (P < 0.05) than the values of the comparison group (viz. labor without analgesia), but the trend of energy ratio of LF/HF was opposite. In conclusion, the sympathetic and parasympathetic components of ANS are all suppressed by continuous low‐dose epidural bupivacaine 0.075% infusion, but parasympathetic power is suppressed more than sympathetic power.
Real Time Medical Image Consultation System Through Internet
Authors: Prasad D. Durga , Ray Saikat , Majumdar Arun K. , Mukherjee Jayanta , Majumdar Bandana , Paul Soubhik , Verma Amit
Published: March 2010

Teleconsultation among doctors using a telemedicine system typically involves dealing with and sharing medical images of the patients. This paper describes a software tool written in Java which enables the participating doctors to view medical images such as blood slides, X‐Ray, USG, ECG etc. online and even allows them to mark and/or zoom specific areas. It is a multi‐party secure image communication system tool that can be used by doctors and medical consultants over the Internet.
Hospital Registration Process Reengineering Using Simulation Method
Authors: Su Qiang , Yao Xiaoyun , Su Ping , Shi Jinghua , Zhu Yan , Xue Lei
Published: March 2010

With increasing competition, many healthcare organizations have undergone tremendous reform in the last decade aiming to increase efficiency, decrease waste, and reshape the way that care is delivered. This study focuses on the operational efficiency improvement of hospital’s registration process. The operational efficiency related factors including the service process, queue strategy, and queue parameters were explored systematically and illustrated with a case study. Guided by the principle of business process reengineering (BPR), a simulation approach was employed for process redesign and performance optimization. As a result, the queue strategy is changed from multiple queues and multiple servers to single queue and multiple servers with a prepare queue. Furthermore, through a series of simulation experiments, the length of the prepare queue and the corresponding registration process efficiency was quantitatively evaluated and optimized.
The Use of Observation and Interview Methods for Assessing Issues in Patient Care in the Resuscitation Unit of a Level‐1 Trauma Center
Authors: Sharit Joseph , McCane Lorgia , Schulman Carl I. , Graygo Jill M. , Augenstein Jeffrey S.
Published: March 2010

Although traumatic injury is the leading cause of death in the U.S. for people between the ages of one and 44, we lack important knowledge about how the various activities and processes within the resuscitation units of trauma care systems can impact the management of patient care. This article reports on a research study that involved the complementation of observation and interview methods for identifying and assessing a broad array of issues and concerns within this highly complex critical care setting in a large level‐1 trauma center. Data from observations were collected on 27 days, and subsequently used to guide semi‐structured interviews with 22 health care workers representing different specialties responsible for patient care within the resuscitation unit. The complementation of observation and interview data afforded the opportunity to validate issues that were observed while providing a richer understanding of these issues as a basis for formulating intervention strategies.
Effect of Elevated Temperatures on Flexural Behaviour of Hybrid Fibre Reinforced High Strength Concrete
Authors: Watanabe Kazuo , Bangi Mugume , Horiguchi Takashi
Published: March 2010

The structural properties of concrete have been studied most widely as a function of compressive strength at elevated temperature. However, only a limited number of studies have been conducted on the flexural behaviour of High Strength Concrete (HSC) at elevated temperature.

In this paper, an investigation of the flexural behaviour (bending strength and fracture energy) of HSC and Hybrid-Fibre-Reinforced High Strength Concrete (HFRHSC) was carried out. Physical properties and fracture energy were evaluated during heat exposure (hot test) and after heat exposure (residual test).

The results show maximum load decreased suddenly at 200 °C under the hot test environment. For specimens containing steel fibres, the maximum load did not drop suddenly in the hot test condition. It was verified from the Load-Crack Mouth Opening Displacement (CMOD) curve.

In the hot tests, the HFRHSC mixture was very effective in preventing brittle fracture.
The Traveling Salesman Problem with Pickups, Deliveries, and Handling Costs
Authors: Battarra Maria , Erdoǧan Güneş , Laporte Gilbert , Vigo Daniele
Published: March 2010

This paper introduces a new variant of the one-to-many-to-one single vehicle pickup and delivery problems (SVPDP) that incorporates the handling cost incurred when rearranging the load at the customer locations. The simultaneous optimization of routing and handling costs is difficult, and the resulting loading patterns are hard to implement in practice. However, this option makes economical sense in contexts where the routing cost dominates the handling cost. We have proposed some simplified policies applicable to such contexts. The first is a two-phase heuristic in which the tour having minimum routing cost is initially determined by optimally solving an SVPDP, and the optimal handling policy is then determined for that tour. In addition, branch-and-cut algorithms based on integer linear programming formulations are proposed, in which routing and handling decisions are simultaneously optimized, but the handling decisions are restricted to three simplified policies. The formulations are strengthened by means of problem specific valid inequalities. The proposed methods have been extensively tested on instances involving up to 25 customers and hundreds of items. Our results show the impact of the handling aspect on the customer sequencing and indicate that the simplified handling policies favorably compare with the optimal one.
The Effect of Supply Disruptions on Supply Chain Design Decisions
Authors: Qi Lian , Shen Zuo-Jun Max , Snyder Lawrence V.
Published: March 2010

We study an integrated supply chain design problem that determines the locations of retailers and the assignments of customers to retailers to minimize the expected costs of location, transportation, and inventory. The system is subject to random supply disruptions that may occur at either the supplier or the retailers. Analytical and numerical studies reveal the effects of these disruptions on retailer locations and customer allocations. In addition, we demonstrate numerically that the cost savings from considering supply disruptions at the supply chain design phase (rather than at the tactical or operational phase) are usually significant.