bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing and Managing Digital/Technology Literacy and Effective Learning Skills in Adult Learners
Authors: Hsu Jeffrey , Wang Zhongxian , Hamilton Karin
Published: October 2013

The needs of adult learners are different from those of traditional undergraduate students, and programs must be designed to meet this need. In particular, digital and technology literacy needs, including general computing skills, computerized communications, online and distance learning, and Web 2.0 tools make navigating coursework an additional challenge. In this paper, the authors examine the technology and digital literacy needs and backgrounds of adult learner students and discuss research on the interaction between technology and adult learner education. Using the features of intensive weekend classroom sessions, on-line distance learning, and specialized teaching methods, an improved learning environment tailored to unique needs and career goals can be offered to business undergraduate adults. An important component is the development of technology and digital literacy skills to “fill the gaps” of students who may have extensive business or working experience, but are less than proficient in the use of technology. More depth and analysis is given to the following areas: digital and technology skills and knowledge improvement, pedagogical features, the use of intensive weekend and evening sessions, and the role of distance learning to supplement the classroom sessions.
Digital Cities
Authors: Anthopoulos Leonidas , Fitsilis Panos
Published: October 2013

The digital cities, from their online forms such as America-On-Line and Kyoto cases, to their ubiquitous forms such as Beijing, Hull (UK) and Trikala (Greece) cases, have achieved in simplifying citizen access to Local and Central Government services. Early digital cities succeed in delivering improved public services to citizens even with no digital skills, closing digital divide and establishing digital areas of trust in local communities. This chapter presents the evolution of the digital cities, from the web to the ubiquitous architecture, which can deliver multiple services to different target groups and can behave as a common “interface” between citizens and all kinds of public agencies. The chapter will focus on the latest digital city architecture, and on the experiences from the digital city of Trikala (Greece), in order to present how digital city impacts local attitudes regarding e-Government. Moreover, the chapter will attempt to evaluate digital city’s progress and its performance concerning citizen contacts to e-Government.
Integration of Educational Games in Synchronous Virtual Classroom
Authors: Rossiou Eleni
Published: October 2013

Higher Education could be seen as an ideal field for the development and wide use of modern technologies and pedagogical methods of cooperative and Web-based education. Many students today are digital natives and thus game-based learning is becoming increasingly popular and highly motivating because of their ability to use computers effectively. The aim of this chapter is to describe the integration of an educational multiplayer game in the context of a synchronous virtual classroom. In particular, what follows is the proposed design and implementation of an instructive intervention whereby many different technological tools are combined simultaneously (LMS, synchronous virtual classroom, and a Web-based Educational Game) in order to support the educational process of the course “Algorithm with C” in the Department of Applied Informatics of University of Macedonia, Thessaloniki, Greece. Furthermore, there is a presentation of the pedagogical and technological framework of the educational proposal that combines methods and techniques of network supported learning and places great emphasis on learning by playing.
The Potentials and Pitfalls of the Information Society Project in Turkey
Authors: Kaynak M. Selcan
Published: October 2013

This chapter aims to assess policies regarding information and communication technologies (ICTs) in Turkey within the last five years. The focus of the chapter will be on digital divide: Although, ICTs in general, and the Internet in particular, have become an essential part of everyday life in Turkey, access to the opportunities provided by these technologies has not been distributed equally. The divides with respect to social class, geographic location, gender and age cripple the potential benefits of these policies. In addition, the programs implemented so far have been highly influenced by the global policy agenda; in a sense, adapting the “information society” vision advanced globally to the local context. In order to actualize an equitable and sustainable transformation process, there is further need to understand the nuanced picture Turkey’s social conditions present. This chapter will examine the ways in which information society project has been modeled in Turkey, the policy paradigms that shaped its direction and finally, where they fell short and where they offer potentials.
An Ecological Approach to Instructional Design
Authors: Resta Paul , Kalk Debby
Published: October 2013

The confluence of collaborative and social technologies, with the phenomenon of digital natives, creates new opportunities for learning environments, which, in turn, demand innovative instructional design strategies. An ecological approach to instructional design can yield rich learning environments that provide learners with authentic experiences. These learning experiences can be challenging, engaging, and effective, and provide students with deep appreciation of underlying processes, principles, and relationships. It’s a learner-centered design that features collaboration, authentic experiences, and complex environments. Designing for these complex systems requires thinking outside the boxes of traditional approaches. The ecological approach requires identifying the key contextual factors and interactions that are central to understanding and performing complex intellectual tasks. This non-linear process involves selecting appropriate technologies and social interactions, appropriate levels of scaffolding and support, and giving learners increasing levels of responsibility for their own successful outcomes.
School in the Knowledge Society
Authors: Sørensen Birgitte Holm , Levinsen Karin Tweddell
Published: October 2013

Implementation of ICT in Danish and Nordic schools is gradually changing from an industrial to a knowledge society school paradigm. At the same time ICT, digital literacy and the school’s physical and social organization are constantly negotiated. In schools that proactively meet the challenges, new designs for teaching and learning emerge while teacher-student relations transform and the children and young people’s competencies are resources in the processes of learning. This chapter presents research based on the proactive schools and exemplifies possible outlines of the school, in the knowledge society. Finally, the findings are extrapolated into a vision of a future local global school in the knowledge society.
E-Learning Challenges for Polytechnic Institutions
Authors: Burkle Martha
Published: October 2013

Mobile technology use is a major issue in higher education institutions, and one that is increasing daily. While the new generation of students (the “digital natives”) move across programs and courses, their learning expectations have started to emerge. It is with these expectations and needs in mind that educators around the world are recognizing the advantages of using mobile technologies to engage with students and make learning a more collaborative, interactive activity that can be engaged in at anytime, anywhere. Using a case study approach, this chapter explores the challenges of transforming static curricula into a mobile experience, and the ways in which these challenges were overcome within a polytechnic institution where hands-on learning takes place inside the classroom or the lab. In addition to presenting a literature review on the use of mobile technologies for teaching and learning, and an analysis of the relevance of connectivism theory to analyze students learning in the digital age, this chapter also includes an analysis of student surveys and interviews, as well as further opportunities for research.
ICT Use in Universities
Authors: Jimenez-Zarco Ana , Martínez-Ruiz María Pilar , Barba-Sánchez Virginia , Izquierdo-Yusta Alicia
Published: October 2013

This chapter analyzes the adequacy of two university education models according to their Information Communications Technology (ICT) usage: One model is based on the use of ICT as a cornerstone and a cohesive element of the teaching-learning process, whereas the other considers ICT a mere teaching support tool. The preliminary results obtained from a review of case studies reveal that ICT use is not only a means for improving the teaching–learning process but also an emerging prerequisite, demanded by digital natives in their choice of a university. Furthermore, it represents an additional valued outcome of the teaching–learning process.
Internal Digital Divide in Organizations
Authors: Grundén Kerstin
Published: October 2013

In this chapter, internal digital divide problems in organizations are identified and discussed. A longitudinal case study focusing on the implementation of e-Government at a public organization in Sweden is used as a starting-point for the discussion. Although the general use of information and communication technology is very high in Sweden there are still problems with digital divide. Such problems could hamper the implementation process of e-Government. In the case study the older employees were especially stressed and had problems to renewing their competencies and adapting to new working situations due to the implementation of e-Government. Internal digital divide is, however, a complex phenomenon, and involves aspects of learning, motivation, professionalization, management strategies, and organizational culture. Some ways of bridging internal digital divide problems are discussed. Soft systems methodology could be used for analysis and change of internal digital divide aspects involving a discussion with the concerned communities.
Theory and Practice in Digital Competence Assessment
Authors: Cartelli Antonio
Published: October 2013

Today, life is more complex and difficult due to uncertainties in society. Liquid life (Bauman, 2006) is frenetic, rapidly changing and highly influenced from information and communication technologies, and forces subjects to adapt to group behavior avoiding exclusion. Human beings are experimenting with the digital age and the pervasiveness of computers and IT/ICT equipment, which are influencing learning and knowledge construction. This raises questions in regard to a privileged role for digital competences in the knowledge society, whether or not there is a framework for digital competence assessment, and possible hints, suggestions, experiments, protocols, or curricula helping teachers in hitting this target with students. This paper answers these questions, describing the evolution of psycho-pedagogical paradigms and their comparisons. A framework for digital competence assessment is proposed and teaching activities are suggested. A proposal of a teaching-learning process called OTS (Open Teaching Process) is also presented.
Exploring the Notion of ‘Technology as a Public Good’
Authors: Watson Sunnie Lee , Mulvihill Thalia
Published: October 2013

This chapter aims to explore the historical, sociological, and economic factors that engender inequities related to digital technologies in the East Asian educational context. By employing critical social theory perspectives, the chapter discusses and argues for the notion of “Technology as a Public Good” by examining the Chinese, Japanese and Korean societies’ digital divide. This chapter examines how East Asian societies are exhibiting similar yet different problems in providing equitable access to information communication technologies to the less advantaged due to previously existing social structures, and discusses the urgency of addressing these issues. Based on the analysis of the digital divide in the East Asian context, this chapter also proposes and argues for the notion of “technology as a public good” in public and educational policies for information communication technologies. Finally, the chapter invites policymakers, researchers and educators to explore a more active policy approach regarding the digital divide solution, and provides specific future research recommendations for ICT policies and policy implementation in digital divide solutions.
Does the Digital Divide Extend to Minority- and Women- Owned Small Businesses?
Authors: Lerman Robert , Ratcliffe Caroline , Salzman Harold , Wissoker Douglas , Meagher Jennifer
Published: October 2013

This chapter examines whether the digital divide in the United States extends to computer use in small businesses. The analysis is based on a 2003 telephone survey of 1,123 firms with fewer than 50 employees and at least one computer, and in-depth interviews with 45 business owners. The analysis provides no evidence of a business digital divide across racial, ethnic, and gender groups. In fact, firms owned by African-American males show more intensive computer use than white male-owned firms, even after controlling for firm and owner characteristics. We do, however, find links between the intensity of computer use and firm and owner characteristics, such as firm size, market reach, intensity of computer use in the relevant industry, and age of owner. Finally, the in-depth interviews suggest that businesses with effective computer use depend upon the technical expertise of the business owners or people in their social networks.
U3A Online and Successful Aging
Authors: Swindell Rick , Grimbeek Peter , Heffernan Jan
Published: October 2013

Population aging is refocusing aging policy away from mainly remedial actions towards low cost preventative interventions that keep older people independent and participating in their communities for longer. The purpose of this chapter is 3-fold: 1) to outline the elements of the successful aging model; 2) to explain the worldwide, self-help University of the Third Age (U3A) adult education program as a very low cost, successful aging organization; and 3) to discuss findings from two related studies of older adults who were members of a virtual U3A called U3A Online. Considerable anecdotal evidence shows that U3A Online is particularly valuable for people who are isolated from their mainstream communities by circumstances such as illness, disability or care giving. An email focus group with nine participants from three countries was conducted over a two year period, using the successful aging model as a guideline to examine the characteristics of these older people who are attracted to online learning. Results based on the combination of automated computer text analysis and manual text analysis techniques supported a conclusion that the Internet was an integral part of the lives of these participants, particularly those with serious health difficulties or profound hearing loss. Outcomes also supported a conclusion that electronic communication can reduce feelings of isolation and provide stimulating and enjoyable pastimes with the potential to assist older people in aging successfully.
Shifting Focus from Access to Impact
Authors: Dahms Mona
Published: October 2013

This chapter contains two main messages: First, the concept of the ’digital divide’ should be seen as part of the problem rather than as part of the solution. Therefore, the sooner this concept-and with it the binary categories and the ’one size fits all’ simplified model of ’development’-is discarded the better. Second, the main recommendation for strategies to be adopted in ICT4D projects is that focus should be on the information and communication needs of poor people rather than on technologies; beneficiaries should be actively involved in identification of their needs, in decision making about ways and means to satisfy the identified needs, about purchase of equipment and inputs and about implementation of solutions. Only by actively pursuing participatory design and participatory ’development’ can the goal of achieving a free, fair and equal ’information society,’ benefitting poor and rich people alike, be reached.
Media-Enhanced Writing Instruction and Assessment
Authors: Mott Michael S. , Williams-Black Thea H.
Published: October 2013

Media-Enhanced Writing is defined as a visual and technological literacy and contains the research-based rationale for the instructional methodology, descriptions, and scenarios, as well as focused teaching and learning examples of media-rich software environments. Educational methods inherently supporting multiculturalism and globalism for facilitating media-rich writing, production, and distribution across content-areas and grade levels K-12 and higher education are covered. From early childhood beginning writers to adult learners, this chapter describes teaching and learning using media-enhanced writing to promote and emphasize learner experience. Drawing upon learner experience is a key component in facilitating multicultural expression and presentation. Accompanying assessments utilized for technologies in teaching K-12 and higher education writing and presentation are addressed.
Using Digital Knowledge Maps to Integrate Technology into Pre-Service Teacher Education
Authors: Hanewald Ria
Published: October 2013

This chapter reports on the fostering of visual literacy skills through the integration of technology, specifically digital knowledge maps into a science communication course for 118 students at an Australian university. The aim of this action research is the enrichment of the existing course by fostering visual literacy and collaboration skills in students and integrating technology (i.e., C-maps tools for digital knowledge mapping) in order to prepare these future science teachers for the demands of the 21st century classroom. A mixed method research approach is employed for the data collection, which consists of three instruments: a survey, interviews, and student-generated artefacts. Findings indicate that students’ feedback on the integration of this technology and visual literacy enrichment experience is by and large positive as it helps them with their effective use of information and communication technologies (Web 2.0 tools) and develop their collaboration and visual literacy skills.
Using the Webinar Experience to Increase Teacher Presence within an Online Pre-Service Literacy Course
Authors: Semingson Peggy
Published: October 2013

Literacy methods classes for elementary teachers are known for providing content where instructors typically demonstrate and model effective teaching techniques for students. With the ongoing shift towards online learning contexts in place of face-to-face courses, the challenge for the instructor in literacy teacher education is to recreate a learning environment where the teacher presence is still strong in order to facilitate the learning of teaching pedagogies. This chapter describes one instructor’s pilot study using real-time synchronous learning experiences with 59 undergraduate pre-service teachers in a literacy methods course for elementary (PK-6th grade) teacher candidates. Drawing on the Community of Inquiry framework, the instructor discusses the structure of the Webinar experiences (facilitated using Blackboard Collaborate™) as well as preliminary themes that emerged from content analysis of the Webinars themselves. The author also shares preliminary findings of the analysis of the post-Webinar written reflections generated by the students. Findings suggest that the experience was overall positive and beneficial to students’ learning and that the Webinars allowed for a strong teacher presence in the course. Limitations include low participation in the actual Webinar with most students opting to view the recording.
“Y’all Laggin’!”
Authors: Garcia Antero D. , Seglem Robyn , Carlson Peter
Published: October 2013

This chapter details a collaborative project between a class of preservice teachers and a class of tenth grade high school students. Separated by thousands of miles, the two classes engaged through online communication including the use of chatrooms, Youtube videos, and video conferencing. Addressing issues of power within the urban high school, this study encouraged youth voice to dictate and advocate for the needs of students. At the same time, the online relationships fostered in this study allowed preservice teachers to help mentor and support students learning. Various challenges including structural inequities in the public high school and relational miscommunications between both groups illustrated ways researchers must work to address the context of digital technology for literacy-based learning. This study highlights how digital technology can help support youth voice and guide teacher education models.
Integrating IT Infrastructures in the Public Domain
Authors: Kamal Muhammad M.
Published: October 2013

Keywords: Local Government Authorities, Enterprise Application Integration, Critical Success Factors, Information Technology, Information Systems.
A Framework for Networked Experiments in Global E-Science
Authors: Liberati Diego
Published: October 2013

This chapter presents a framework that creates, uses, and communicates information whose organizational dynamics allow individuals to perform a distributed cooperative enterprise in public educational environments. The approach presented here assumes Web services (possibly offered over a grid) are the enacting paradigm used to formalize educational interactions as cooperative services on various computational nodes of a network. By examining a case study involving a well known micro-array experiment in the growing field of bioinformatics, this chapter will detail how specific classes of interactions can be mapped into a service-oriented model that can be implemented in a variety of e-learning contexts. This framework illustrated by this case study allows for a sophisticated degree of e-learning that can be applied to a range of local or international contexts.
The Students’ Participation in WebCT
Authors: Salam Urai
Published: October 2013

This chapter reports on the students’ interaction taking place within the virtual learning environment, WebCT. It is particularly critical of Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC) analysis regarding the knowledge construction, evidenced by the transcripts of their online discussions. The guiding theory, Activity Theory, provides perspectives that can help instructors and teachers understand emerging learning participation mediated by computers. From this perspective, computers do not simply facilitate learning that could have been done without their presence. Rather, computer mediated communication could alter the entire flow of knowledge construction processes.
Using Traditional Classroom Facilitation Methods in Online Discussion
Authors: Valentino Maura
Published: October 2013

This chapter studies the impact of the facilitator on the effectiveness of an online discussion forum. The study examined, categorized, and statistically analyzed 224 discussions from eight online courses. The results demonstrated that facilitators are presented with many opportunities to increase the probability of a successful learning experience and that facilitators should be encouraged to develop new approaches to improve the quality of online discussions by leveraging the unique qualities of an online discussion environment.
Complex Network Theory Based Web Services Composition Benchmark Toolkit
Authors: Oh Seog-Chan , Lee Dongwon
Published: October 2013

In recent years, while many research proposals have been made toward novel algorithmic solutions of a myriad of web services composition problems, their validation has been less than satisfactory. One of the reasons for this problem is the lack of real benchmark web services data with which researchers can test and verify their proposals. In this chapter, to remedy this challenge, we present a novel benchmark toolkit, WSBen, which is capable of generating synthetic web services data with diverse scenarios and configurations using complex network theory. Web services researchers therefore can evaluate their web services discovery and composition algorithms in a more systematic fashion. The development of WSBen is inspired by our preliminary study on real-world web services crawled from the Web. The proposed WSBen can: (1) generate a collection of synthetic web services files in the WSDL format conforming to diverse complex network characteristics; (2) generate queries and ground truth sets for testing discovery and composition algorithms; (3) prepare auxiliary files to help further statistical analysis; (4) convert WSDL test sets to the formats that conventional AI planners can read; and (5) provide a graphical interface to control all these functions. To illustrate the application of the WSBen, in addition, we present case studies selected from three domains: (1) web services composition; (2) AI planning; and (3) the laws of networks in Physics community. The WSBen toolkit is available at: http://pike.psu.edu/sw/wsben/. This chapter is an invited extension of authors’ previous publication (Oh & Lee, 2009).
Mobile Healthcare
Authors: Bamigboye Ade
Published: October 2013

At the beginning of 2010 an estimated 68% of the world’s population had access to a mobile device. Successfully placing mobile technology at the centre of any healthcare delivery service could enable innovations in healthcare to be distributed quickly, globally, and equally. For some patients this could mean being able to gain better access to healthcare where previously there was very little or none at all. For others it could mean closer, more convenient healthcare management. For medical professionals, it is about using mobile technology to deliver and manage healthcare services from where ever they happen to be. At a national level mobile healthcare promises to provide solutions to some of the most pressing healthcare service delivery challenges that lie ahead. These include shortage of qualified healthcare professionals, increasing demand for service, and escalating costs. Mobile healthcare is a complex combination of mobile operators, medical device manufacturers, care providers, software developers, funding partners, and regulatory bodies. Each of these stakeholder groups is motivated to participate in the m-health discussion in different ways, but need to work together in order to ensure that this technology can be deployed on a scale that enables benefits to be captured. This chapter presents the challenges that the industry must collectively overcome in order for all stakeholders to be successful.
Mobile Security
Authors: Ciaramitaro Barbara L. , Pavlov Velislav
Published: October 2013

Over the past few years, cyber criminals have expanded their focus from desktop PCs to mobile devices such as smart phones, PDAs, and tablet computers. Unfortunately, even though many mobile devices approach personal computers in functionality, most mobile users are not aware of the degree of security threats in the mobile environment. “As mobile Internet usage continues its rapid growth, cyber criminals are expected to pay more attention to this sector” (Siciliano, 2010, p. 1). There are several security threats related to mobile devices. The most common security threat associated with mobile devices is their propensity to become lost, stolen, or misplaced. Social Engineering is a method used by cybercriminals to trick users into providing personal or financial information, or downloading malicious software. One common social engineering attack against mobile devices involves attempts to collect personal, credit card, and banking information from users. Malware is short for malicious software and refers to a collection of malevolent software tools designed to attack the pillars of information security: confidentiality, integrity, availability, and authentication. Although malicious software and security attacks can occur in a number of ways such as SMS text messaging, the primary mode of infection is through the download of mobile applications such as games. Unfortunately, all mobile devices and all mobile operating systems are subject to mobile malware attacks. As a result, malware has become a prevalent threat to mobile devices.
The Test Stand for ORVEAL Series of Combined Rocket Engines
Authors: Rugescu Radu D. , Sapunaru Radu , Rugescu Dragos Ronald
Published: October 2013

As a part of the ORVEAL project, the brand new series of compound rocket engines MEC-80 is subjected to a line of restrictions imposed by the experiment plan, which add an extra weight to the definitely expensive phase of the experimental development of the new types of rocket engine. The direct way to reduce the development time and cost of the new powering systems was found in tediously defining the experimental plan, the variables involved, the nature of the pay-off polynomials and the technological solutions. For the specific case the technological and reliability related constraints are explored, that led to the definition of a reversed-vertical configuration of the thrust frame of the test stand and of the scale and support system of the thrust frame, with position-defined sensors for acquiring the thrust tensor value. Simplicity and reliability were the main requirements in designing and manufacturing the components of the test stand in the new environment of the recently enhanced CEZAR proving grounds of ADDA Ltd. in Fagaras, Transylvania. The ORVEAL research is granted by Romanian UEFISCDI financing authority.
Crack Path Investigation Using the Generalized Maximum Tangential Stress Criterion: Antisymmetrical Four-Point Bending Specimen
Authors: Malíková Lucie Šestáková
Published: October 2013

A mixed-mode geometry has been chosen in order to investigate crack propagation through the specimen. There exist several criteria for estimation of the crack path, and this work enriches the concept by application of multi-parameter fracture mechanics. Particularly, the classical MTS criterion is presented in its generalized form when several initial terms of the so-called Williams series expansion are used for the tangential stress approximation. The results obtained show that the generalized approach can be important in some special cases, when the criterion shall be applied in a larger distance from the crack tip.
Analogical Modeling and Numerical Simulation for Sintering Phenomena
Authors: Bokor Corina , Mureşan Vlad , Nemeş Toderiţa , Isarie Claudiu
Published: October 2013

In this paper the authors propose an approach for analogical modeling and numerical simulation of the phenomena of sintering, taking into account different cases depending on the type of energy used in the process of aggregation and the nature of the material powder, using a software which simulates the propagation and the control of the temperature. Many physical phenomena encountered in science and engineering can be described mathematically through partial differential equations (PDE) and ordinary differential equations (ODE) such as propagation phenomena, engineering applications, hydrotechnics, chemistry, pollution a.s.o. There may be situations when the exact establish of the analytical solutions becomes difficult or impossible for arbitrary shapes. In these cases the determination of some approximant solution through experimental methods, that have to verify with acceptable errors, the PDE expression specified to the studied phenomenon, is justified.
The Screening of Phthalic Acid Esters in Operating Fluids of Vehicles
Authors: Cornak Stefan , Jarosova Alzbeta
Published: October 2013

Many different types of liquids and materials are used during service of motor vehicle, for example fuels (petrol, diesel, LPG, CNG), lubricants (oils, plastic lubricants), brake fluids and cooling fluids, cosmetics, etc. Vehicles are made from different construction materials also. Especially it can be steels, glass, lights metals, textile, leather, plastics, thermoplastics, etc. These operational and constructional materials must satisfy many requirements from the view of function which are demanded for example additional stability of construction of cars, minimal weight, heat removal (cooling fluids), transfer of braking power (brake fluids), optimizing of friction but they have to be researched from the view of health and ecology hazard. Materials which interiors are made from often release volatile and partly volatile substances. With the regard on human health, equipments of cars should be made from materials which release chemicals at a minimum level, which hasn't negative impact on quality of air in a closed space. Health impacts could increase in case when substances react together, although the intensity of releasing of these substances is decreasing during first weeks. For the improvement of elasticity chemical materials plasticizer based on the esters of acid phthalate (PAE) are used. The PAE are a big hazard for human health. Exposition of population can be by inhalation, oral, and by skin-resorption. Ten samples of new operation materials for vehicles have been examined for the detection of the presence of acid esters (PAE). The results show that almost in all investigated samples the presence of phthalate acid esters was proved. Phthalates are animal carcinogens which are capable to cause necrosis or malformation of tissues. They are dangerous for liver action and they can cause the reproduction toxicity of laboratory animals. Neither the legislation of the Czech Republic nor EU deals with such problems.
Hydraulic System of Braking Energy Recovery for Heavy-Duty Machine-Tools. Mathematical Models. Simulation
Authors: Prodan Dan , Bucuresteanu Anca , Balan Emilia
Published: October 2013

In this paper we try to study the opportunity of recovery the kinetic energy accumulated by the main kinematic chains of heavy-duty machine-tools in arresting stage. We recommend a unit that can shorten the arresting time of the main spindle, with or without semi-finished product, and that would allow the recovery and storage of the accumulated kinetic energy in order to use it for a new start. We give a principle diagram and the results of the first simulations.
Comparative Study on Determining the Drilling Force Regression at Drilling Composites Materials
Authors: Ocnărescu Constantin , Bardac Doru , Ocnărescu Maria
Published: October 2013

Composite materials are used extensively because of their higher strength to weight ratios and, when compared to metals, offer new opportunities for design. However, being non-homogenous, anisotropic and reinforced with very abrasive fibers, these materials are difficult to machine. In this current article is present a comparative study of results obtained in determining the drilling force regression at drilling a tree types composites material with polymeric matrix and fiber glass.
Numerical Simulation Concept of a Magnetron Discharge
Authors: Ionut Spataru , Eugen Strajescu
Published: October 2013

The goal at the present paper research in the theses is acquiring a new concept of simulation for the magnetron discharge. This research will be used in my PHD thesis the final goal will be to simulate the entire magnetron deposition. The experiments are made on an industrial coating machine belonging to Saint Gobain companyThis paper explains the way we cold numerical simulate the plasmatic interactions, what technics cold be used and in the end we draw our own conclusion and future research targets
Elements of Gait Kinematic Analyze in CAMONAL Project
Authors: Berteanu Mihai , de Hillerin Pierre , Bidiugan Radu , Ciobanu Ileana , Badea Ruxandra , Dumitru Luminita , Iliescu Alina , Dinu Horatiu
Published: October 2013

The kinematics of the human body is very complex. Every movement involves many joints, muscles and a special nervous control. The modern miniaturized inertial sensor systems prove to be valuable tools for rehabilitation medicine. We present the way a system of inertial sensors can be used to compare healthy and affected lower limb movements during gait.
Aerodynamic Noise Control Study of Nozzles with Triangular Chevrons
Authors: Cican Grigore , Crunteanu Daniel Eugeniu
Published: October 2013

This paper has a small part of notion of chevron and the process that helps reducing the noise pollution.
Based on the gas dynamic and geometrical parameters of a single flow jet engine one does a model of CFD data processing. In this process one observes the influence of chevrons on acoustic wave intensity produced by the jet .
One studies a series of tests on triangular chevrons: immersions, the influence of the number of chevrons in order to settle the influence of the geometrical parameters on the flow and on the jet acoustics.
Finally one presents the contribution of chevrons in noise pollution reduction.
Transient Induced Delay in the Check Injector of the ADDA Combined Rocket Motor
Authors: Rugescu Radu Dan , Calcisca Gabriel , Rugescu Dragos Ronald
Published: October 2013

Conceived as simple, cheap and highly efficient alternative to solid rocket motors, the compound rocket engines include a liquid feed line system, within which at least the minimal components are involved, like the liquid tank, the dislocation augmenter, the main release valve, the in-line check valve (ICV) and the injector head. Simplicity and reliability are the main requirements in designing and manufacturing the components and, in order to accomplish these requirements, the dynamics and transient behavior of the devices become the key features of the entire design. The transient of the ICV required primary attention as it needs to cut the reversed flow of the liquid in a definitely short amount of time, determined from the condition of a given liquid return delay stop into the internal feed duct (IFD) of the engine. This delay was also set to cover the condition of partial vaporization of the liquid within the ICV and the IFD of the system. Numerical simulations were performed under rational assumptions regarding the mechanical behavior of ICV parts, limited to a number of minimal elements that secure a smooth work of the device and a fast response to upwind and downwind liquid pressure variations. The basic parameters considered are the size of the parts, their densities, closely connected to the manufacturing materials involved, sealing and surface finishing technology used that outputs the viscous and friction properties of the device parts considered for simulation. The ORVEAL research is granted by Romanian UEFISCDI.
Applications of Real Options Analysis in Aviation Security Investments
Authors: Cioaca Catalin , Boşcoianu Mircea
Published: October 2013

The interest upon real options method amplified in the last decade due to the higher level of uncertainty faced by some organizations (from the private and also the public sector) when the decision to make a strategic investment is required (in a competitive environment) or it is a external requirement of the organizational environment (ensuring security standards). The process of assessment of the option is developed by evaluating the potential benefits associated with the three possible scenarios under expansion, contract and wait options. The value of the real option is the result of the fuzzy mean. The possibility of obtaining values for each option permits the management to compare and choose the best decisions for efficient investment. The evaluation and investment planning aims to make better use of funds by reducing operating costs and uncertainty for potential gains and substantiate predictions about the performance of the strategy.
Research on Actuators Optimization via PID Closed Control Algorithm for Video and Photo Cameras Stabilization
Authors: Mănescu Mihai , Cristea Luciana , Braun Barbu Christian , Ola Daniel
Published: October 2013

The paper shows how closed-loop control procedure, using the algorithm Proportional Integrative derivative (PID) was applied to improve the photo and video cameras stability correction in real time. The stability system contains an Attitude Heading reference System (AHRS) sensor that is connected to a microcontroller that will make the operations for measuring angles of rotation (roll, pitch and yaw) acquired from a camera displaced on a suspended cable. Closed loop PID algorithm applied to stabilize the system was implemented as programming subroutines dedicated to Atmega162 microcontroller, at which they were recorded and processed in real time as input signals sensor information measured by the AHRS system. Programming based on a closed loop process control through actuators ordered 3 servo-motors for real-time correction of camera rotation angles. In this way it could be provided the positioning cameras error compensation, the errors being caused by different perturbing external factors. The adopted solution has achieved a cost reduction necessary to stabilize the cameras placed in mobile systems. The solution ensures also to increase the stabilization efficiency reported to the case of human operator intervention.
Design and Evaluation of the Unmanned Technology Research Centre Exoskeleton (UTRCEXO)
Authors: Cha Do Wan , Oh Sung Nam , Choi Keun Ha , Kim Kab Il , Kim Kyung Soo , Kim Soo Hyun
Published: October 2013

In this paper, we present an exoskeleton called the Unmanned Technology Research Centre Exoskeleton (UTRCEXO), which utilizes a shadow walking assistance mechanism. The shadow walking assistance mechanism shadows the operators walking after visible movements by the operator, such as a heel-off event or a toe-off event. The UTRCEXO determines the operators walking intention with the toe-off event, when the toe leaves the ground, and then shadows the operators walking. The UTRCEXO implementing the shadow walking assistance mechanism shadows the first step of the operator immediately.
Methodology of Developing Mathematical Models with Fuzzy Logic Elements for Quality Indices Control
Authors: Korchunov Alexey , Chukin Mikhail , Lysenin Aleksandr
Published: October 2013

Advantages of applying fuzzy logic theory to metal products quality indices control in development of new models and in improvement of acting process operations are shown. It is proved that it is appropriate to determine fuzzy relation as preference relation in process of handling products quality indices in process operations. Elaboration of algorithm of handling mathematical models with fuzzy logic elements to control quality indices is undertaken. Methodology of mathematical models development with fuzzy logic elements for metal products quality indices control is created. Process of metal products quality indices control on the basis of models with fuzzy logic elements is illustrated.
An Innovative CubeSat Power System
Authors: Totu Mihai
Published: October 2013

This article presents the possibility of implementing a solution for efficiently using supercapacitors to power a CubeSat. The system achieves a full powered CubeSat only by using supercapacitors and no other energy backup method. There are presented both advantages and disadvantages of such implementation. The article shows how much energy and power is available for the entire system for a specific amount of time. The data was collected using COTS parts, digital oscilloscopes and DAQ systems. There was also created a demonstrative structure (both CAD and real) to simulate and test the real life integration of a supercapacitor within a CubeSat. The data figures only a small part of implementing a supercapacitor power system within a CubeSat, further research needed to be made in each individual case of CubeSat that will be developed using such power system method. The article provides some suggestions about the electronic parts that can be used to develop such system, and some approximations for being able to compute fast power and energy values when comparing different supercapacitors, or other parts that would directly influence the usage of such system.
Household Water Tank Temperature Control
Authors: Sita Ioan Valentin , Dobra Petru , Dobra Mirela , Mureşan Vlad
Published: October 2013

This paper presents an identification solution of the thermal process corresponding to a heating installation of domestic water in a tank and the temperature control. For experimental identification the tangent and Coon Cohen methods were applied, and for control Cohen Coon criterion, Oppelt criterion, respectively modulus criterion. We performed a comparison of the overall performance of each controller.
Reliability Allocation for a System with Complex Redundancy
Authors: Vintr Zdenek , Vintr Tomas
Published: October 2013

The paper deals with the possibilities of allocating reliability requirements for a system using complex redundancy. It means system consists of a few identical subsystems and for its common function it is quite enough if only certain part of these subsystems operates. The subsystems not operating at a certain moment serve as redundancy in case that the subsystems which are operating fail. All the system, however, is not a trivial parallel structure, because if the system is to work properly, always more than one subsystem should operate and the subsystems can function only in configurations set in advance. Practical application of the suggested method of reliability allocation is demonstrated for a pantograph system of a high-speed train. In order to provide the proper function of the system, the minimum number of operating pantographs in pre-set configurations providing safe current collection has to be always available. Using some pantograph configurations (e.g. two pantographs being one after another very closely) is in fact not possible for safety reasons. The article presents the procedure of reliability allocation for this specific system. Suggested method is based on a truth table and Boolean algebra application.
Blur Kernel Optimization: A New Approach to Patch Selection with Adaptive Kernel Estimation
Authors: Yousaf Saqib , Qin Shi Yin
Published: October 2013

Recently, many effective approaches appeared in the field of blind image deconvolution to reduce the computational cost. Using multiple smaller regions instead of whole image not only make the restoration efficient but also improves the results by discarding the ineffectual regions. It is observed that a study is needed to compare different methods for the selection of useful image patches and different schemes to utilize their blur kernels, which is aimed in the present work. A new patch selection method using Contrast based blur invariant features (CBIF) is proposed to find the useful regions which gives better results compared with others e.g., speed-up robust features (SURF), local binary patterns (LBP), local phase quantization (LPQ), maximally stable extremal regions (MSER), Canny and Sobel. In addition, gradually increasing contrast stretched levels shown to give better results compared with commonly used multiscale framework to avoid false local minima. It is also proposed that blur metric by Crete applied on latent image can be used for the selection of better kernel. It is observed that an effective strategy can give good results even when the patches are not selected carefully. The best results are obtained when our proposed patch selection is used with our “selective kernels averaging” scheme.