Abstract: Accumulation of dust from the outdoor environment
on the panels of solar photovoltaic (PV) system is natural. There
were studies that showed that the accumulated dust can reduce the
performance of solar panels, but the results were not clearly
quantified. The objective of this research was to study the effects of
dust accumulation on the performance of solar PV panels.
Experiments were conducted using dust particles on solar panels with
a constant-power light source, to determine the resulting electrical
power generated and efficiency. It was found from the study that the
accumulated dust on the surface of photovoltaic solar panel can
reduce the system-s efficiency by up to 50%.
Abstract: The after–sales activities are nowadays acknowledged
as a relevant source of revenue, profit and competitive advantage in
most manufacturing industries. Top and middle management,
therefore, should focus on the definition of a structured business
performance measurement system for the after-sales business. The
paper aims at filling this gap, and presents an integrated methodology
for the after-sales network performance measurement, and provides
an empirical application to automotive case companies and their
official service network. This is the first study that presents an
integrated multivariate approach for total assessment and
improvement of after-sale services.
Abstract: Hair is a non homogenous complex material which
can be associated with a polymer. It is made up 95% of Keratin.
Hair has a great social significance for human beings. In the High
Middle Ages, for example, long hairs have been reserved for kings
and nobles.
Most common interest in hair is focused on hair growth, hair types
and hair care, but hair is also an important biomaterial which can
vary depending on ethnic origin or on age, hair colour for example
can be a sign of ethnic ancestry or age (dark hair for Asiatic, blond
hair for Caucasian and white hair for old people in general).
In this context, different approaches have been conducted to
determine the differences in mechanical properties and characterize
the fracture topography at the surface of hair depending on its type
and its age.
A tensile testing machine was especially designed to achieve
tensile tests on hair. This device is composed of a microdisplacement
system and a force sensor whose peak load is limited to
3N. The curves and the values extracted from each experiment, allow
us to compare the evolution of the mechanical properties from one
hair to another.
Observations with a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and
with an interferometer were made on different hairs. Thus, it is
possible to access the cuticle state and the fracture topography for
each category.
Abstract: In two studies we challenged the well consolidated
position in regret literature according to which the necessary
condition for the emergence of regret is a bad outcome ensuing from
free decisions. Without free choice, and, consequently, personal
responsibility, other emotions, such as disappointment, but not regret,
are supposed to be elicited. In our opinion, a main source of regret is
being obliged by circumstance out of our control to chose an
undesired option. We tested the hypothesis that regret resulting from
a forced choice is more intense than regret derived from a free choice
and that the outcome affects the latter, not the former. Besides, we
investigated whether two other variables – the perception of the level
of freedom of the choice and the choice justifiability – mediated the
relationships between choice and regret, as well as the other four
emotions we examined: satisfaction, anger toward oneself,
disappointment, anger towards circumstances. The two studies were
based on the scenario methodology and implied a 2 x 2 (choice x
outcome) between design. In the first study the foreseen short-term
effects of the choice were assessed; in the second study the
experienced long-term effects of the choice were assessed. In each
study 160 students of the Second University of Naples participated.
Results largely corroborated our hypotheses. They were discussed in
the light of the main theories on regret and decision making.
Abstract: Corporate social responsibility (CSR) viewpoint have challenged the traditional perception to understand corporations position. Production- and managerial-centred views are expanding towards reference group-centred policies. Consequently, the significance of new kind of knowledge has emerged. In addition to management of the organisation, the idea of CSR emphasises the importance to recognise the value-expectations of operational environment. It is know that management is often well-aware of corporate social responsibilities, but it is less clear how well these high level goals are understood in practical product design and development work. In this study, the apprehension above proved to be real to some degree. While management was very aware of CSR it was less familiar to designers. The outcome shows that it is essential to raise ethical values and issues higher in corporate communication, if it is wished that they materialize also in products.
Abstract: In this contribution an innovative platform is being
presented that integrates intelligent agents and evolutionary
computation techniques in legacy e-learning environments. It
introduces the design and development of a scalable and
interoperable integration platform supporting:
I) various assessment agents for e-learning environments,
II) a specific resource retrieval agent for the provision of
additional information from Internet sources matching the
needs and profile of the specific user and
III) a genetic algorithm designed to extract efficient information
(classifying rules) based on the students- answering input
data.
The agents are implemented in order to provide intelligent
assessment services based on computational intelligence techniques
such as Bayesian Networks and Genetic Algorithms.
The proposed Genetic Algorithm (GA) is used in order to extract
efficient information (classifying rules) based on the students-
answering input data. The idea of using a GA in order to fulfil this
difficult task came from the fact that GAs have been widely used in
applications including classification of unknown data.
The utilization of new and emerging technologies like web
services allows integrating the provided services to any web based
legacy e-learning environment.
Abstract: In this paper, we study on color transformation
method on website images for the color blind. The most common
category of color blindness is red-green color blindness which is
viewed as beige color. By transforming the colors of the images, the
color blind can improve their color visibility. They can have a better
view when browsing through the websites. To transform colors on
the website images, we study on two algorithms which are the
conversion techniques from RGB color space to HSV color space and
self-organizing color transformation. The comparative study focuses
on criteria based on the ease of use, quality, accuracy and efficiency.
The outcome of the study leads to enhancement of website images to
meet the color blinds- vision requirements in perceiving image
detailed.
Abstract: This study presents an active vibration control
technique to reduce the earthquake responses of a retained structural
system. The proposed technique is a synthesis of the adaptive input
estimation method (AIEM) and linear quadratic Gaussian (LQG)
controller. The AIEM can estimate an unknown system input online.
The LQG controller offers optimal control forces to suppress
wall-structural system vibration. The numerical results show robust
performance in the active vibration control technique.
Abstract: Due to heightened concerns over environmental and economic issues the growing important of air pollution, and the importance of conserving fossil fuel resources in the world, the automotive industry is now forced to produce more fuel efficient, low emission vehicles and new drive system technologies. One of the most promising technologies to receive attention is the hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), which consists of two or more energy sources that supply energy to electric traction motors that in turn drive the wheels. This paper presents the various structures of HEV systems, the basic theoretical knowledge for describing their operation and the general behaviour of the HEV in acceleration, cruise and deceleration phases. The conventional design and sizing of a series HEV is studied. A conventional bus and its series configuration are defined and evaluated using the ADVISOR. In this section the simulation of a standard driving cycle and prediction of its fuel consumption and emissions of the HEV are discussed. Finally the bus performance is investigated to establish whether it can satisfy the performance, fuel consumption and emissions requested. The validity of the simulation has been established by the close conformity between the fuel consumption of the conventional bus reported by the manufacturer to what has achieved from the simulation.
Abstract: Wet chemistry methods are used to prepare the
SiO2/Au nanoshells. The purpose of this research was to synthesize
gold coated SiO2 nanoshells for biomedical applications. Tunable
nanoshells were prepared by using different colloidal concentrations.
The nanoshells are characterized by FTIR, XRD, UV-Vis
spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The FTIR results
confirmed the functionalization of the surfaces of silica nanoparticles
with NH2 terminal groups. A tunable absorption was observed
between 470-600 nm with a maximum range of 530-560 nm. Based
on the XRD results three main peaks of Au (111), (200) and (220)
were identified. Also AFM results showed that the silica core
diameter was about 100 nm and the thickness of gold shell about 10
nm.
Abstract: This paper presents and evaluates a new classification
method that aims to improve classifiers performances and speed up
their training process. The proposed approach, called labeled
classification, seeks to improve convergence of the BP (Back
propagation) algorithm through the addition of an extra feature
(labels) to all training examples. To classify every new example, tests
will be carried out each label. The simplicity of implementation is the
main advantage of this approach because no modifications are
required in the training algorithms. Therefore, it can be used with
others techniques of acceleration and stabilization. In this work, two
models of the labeled classification are proposed: the LMLP
(Labeled Multi Layered Perceptron) and the LNFC (Labeled Neuro
Fuzzy Classifier). These models are tested using Iris, wine, texture
and human thigh databases to evaluate their performances.
Abstract: In this study, the Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) C
needles (i.e. the current-year-needles) were used as bioindicators in
determining the aerial distribution pattern of sulphur emissions
around industrial point sources at Kemi, Northern Finland. The
average sulphur concentration in the C needles was 897 mg/kg
(d.w.), with a standard deviation of 118 mg/kg (d.w.) and range 740 –
1350 mg/kg (d.w.). According to results in this study, Scots pine
needles (Pinus sylvestris L.) appear to be an ideal bioindicators for
identifying atmospheric sulphur pollution derived from industrial
plants and can complement the information provided by plant
mapping studies around industrial plants.
Abstract: Although automotive industry has brought different beneficiaries to human life, it is being pointed out as one of the major cause of global air pollution which resulted in climate change, smog, green house gases (GHGs), and human diseases by many reasons. Since auto industry is one of the largest consumers of fossil fuels, the realization of green innovations is becoming a crucial choice to meet the challenges towards sustainable development. Recently, many auto manufacturers have embarked on green technology initiatives to gain a competitive advantage in the global market; however, innovative manufacturing systems and technologies can enhance operational performance only if the human resource management is in place to elicit the motivation of the employees and develop their organizational expertise. No organization can perform at peak levels unless each employee is committed to the company goals and works as an effective team member. Strategic human resource practices are the primary means by which firms can shape the skills, attitudes, and behavior of individuals to align with the business strategic objectives. This study investigates on the comprehensive approach of multiple advanced technology innovations and human resource management at Toyota Motor Corporation as the market leader of full hybrid technology in the automotive industry. Then, HRM framework of the company is described and three sets of human resource practices that support the innovation-oriented HR system, presented. Finally, a conceptual framework for innovativeness in green technology in automotive industry by applying a deliberate strategic HR management system and knowledge management with the intervening factors of organizational culture, knowledge application and knowledge sharing is proposed.
Abstract: In this paper, the construction of a detailed spine
model is presented using the LifeMOD Biomechanics Modeler. The
detailed spine model is obtained by refining spine segments in
cervical, thoracic and lumbar regions into individual vertebra
segments, using bushing elements representing the intervertebral
discs, and building various ligamentous soft tissues between
vertebrae. In the sagittal plane of the spine, constant force will be
applied from the posterior to anterior during simulation to determine
dynamic characteristics of the spine. The force magnitude is
gradually increased in subsequent simulations. Based on these
recorded dynamic properties, graphs of displacement-force
relationships will be established in terms of polynomial functions by
using the least-squares method and imported into a haptic integrated
graphic environment. A thoracolumbar spine model with complex
geometry of vertebrae, which is digitized from a resin spine
prototype, will be utilized in this environment. By using the haptic
technique, surgeons can touch as well as apply forces to the spine
model through haptic devices to observe the locomotion of the spine
which is computed from the displacement-force relationship graphs.
This current study provides a preliminary picture of our ongoing
work towards building and simulating bio-fidelity scoliotic spine
models in a haptic integrated graphic environment whose dynamic
properties are obtained from LifeMOD. These models can be helpful
for surgeons to examine kinematic behaviors of scoliotic spines and
to propose possible surgical plans before spine correction operations.
Abstract: This paper presents the design, fabrication and
evaluation of magneto-rheological damper. Semi-active control
devices have received significant attention in recent years because
they offer the adaptability of active control devices without requiring
the associated large power sources. Magneto-Rheological (MR)
dampers are semi- active control devices that use MR fluids to
produce controllable dampers. They potentially offer highly reliable
operation and can be viewed as fail-safe in that they become passive
dampers if the control hardware malfunction. The advantage of MR
dampers over conventional dampers are that they are simple in
construction, compromise between high frequency isolation and
natural frequency isolation, they offer semi-active control, use very
little power, have very quick response, has few moving parts, have a
relax tolerances and direct interfacing with electronics. Magneto-
Rheological (MR) fluids are Controllable fluids belonging to the
class of active materials that have the unique ability to change
dynamic yield stress when acted upon by an electric or magnetic
field, while maintaining viscosity relatively constant. This property
can be utilized in MR damper where the damping force is changed by
changing the rheological properties of the fluid magnetically. MR
fluids have a dynamic yield stress over Electro-Rheological fluids
(ER) and a broader operational temperature range. The objective of
this papert was to study the application of an MR damper to vibration
control, design the vibration damper using MR fluids, test and
evaluate its performance. In this paper the Rheology and the theory
behind MR fluids and their use on vibration control were studied.
Then a MR vibration damper suitable for vehicle suspension was
designed and fabricated using the MR fluid. The MR damper was
tested using a dynamic test rig and the results were obtained in the
form of force vs velocity and the force vs displacement plots. The
results were encouraging and greatly inspire further research on the
topic.
Abstract: In metal cutting industries, mathematical/statistical
models are typically used to predict tool replacement time. These
off-line methods usually result in less than optimum replacement
time thereby either wasting resources or causing quality problems.
The few online real-time methods proposed use indirect measurement
techniques and are prone to similar errors. Our idea is based on
identifying the optimal replacement time using an electronic nose to
detect the airborne compounds released when the tool wear reaches
to a chemical substrate doped into tool material during the
fabrication. The study investigates the feasibility of the idea, possible
doping materials and methods along with data stream mining
techniques for detection and monitoring different phases of tool
wear.
Abstract: Optimization of cutting parameters important in precision machining in regards to efficiency and surface integrity of the machined part. Usually productivity and precision in machining is limited by the forces emanating from the cutting process. Due to the inherent varying nature of the workpiece in terms of geometry and material composition, the peak cutting forces vary from point to point during machining process. In order to increase productivity without compromising on machining accuracy, it is important to control these cutting forces. In this paper a fuzzy logic control algorithm is developed that can be applied in the control of peak cutting forces in milling of spherical surfaces using ball end mills. The controller can adaptively vary the feedrate to maintain allowable cutting force on the tool. This control algorithm is implemented in a computer numerical control (CNC) machine. It has been demonstrated that the controller can provide stable machining and improve the performance of the CNC milling process by varying feedrate.
Abstract: The Yasuj city stream named the Beshar supply
water for different usages such as aquaculture farms , drinking,
agricultural and industrial usages. Fish processing plants
,Agricultural farms, waste water of industrial zones and hospitals
waste water which they are generate by human activity produce a
considerable volume of effluent and when they are released in to the
stream they can effect on the water quality and down stream aquatic
systems. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of outflow
effluent from different human activity and point and non point
pollution sources on the water quality and health of the Beshar
river next to Yasuj. Yasuj is the biggest and most important city in
the Kohkiloye and Boyerahmad province . The Beshar River is one
of the most important aquatic ecosystems in the upstream of the
Karun watershed in south of Iran which is affected by point and non
point pollutant sources . This study was done in order to evaluate the
effects of human activities on the water quality and health of the
Beshar river. This river is approximately 190 km in length and
situated at the geographical positions of 51° 20' to 51° 48' E and 30°
18' to 30° 52' N it is one of the most important aquatic ecosystems of
Kohkiloye and Boyerahmad province in south-west Iran. In this
research project, five study stations were selected to examine water
pollution in the Beshar River systems. Human activity is now one of
the most important factors affecting on hydrology and water quality
of the Beshar river. Humans use large amounts of resources to sustain
various standards of living, although measures of sustainability are
highly variable depending on how sustainability is defined. The
Beshar river ecosystems are particularly sensitive and vulnerable to
human activities. The water samples were analyzed, then some
important water quality parameters such as pH, dissolve oxygen
(DO), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5), Chemical Oxygen
Demand (COD), Total Suspended Solids (TDS),Turbidity,
Temperature, Nitrates (NO3) and Phosphates (PO4) were estimated
at the two stations. The results show a downward trend in the water
quality at the down stream of the city. The amounts of
BOD5,COD,TSS,T,Turbidity, NO3 and PO4 in the down stream
stations were considerably more than the station 1. By contrast the
amounts of DO in the down stream stations were less than to the
station 1. However when effluent discharge consequence of human
activities are released into the Beshar river near the city, the quality
of river are decreases and the environmental problems of the river
during the next years are predicted to rise.
Abstract: Adopting the measured constitutive relationship of
stress-strain of river ice, the finite element analysis model of
percussive force of river ice and pier is established, by the explicit
dynamical analysis software package LS-DYNA. Effects of element
types, contact method and arithmetic of ice and pier, coupled modes
between different elements, mesh density of pier, and ice sheet in
contact area on the collision force are studied. Some of measures for
the collision force analysis of river ice and pier are proposed as
follows: bridge girder can adopt beam161 element with 3-node; pier
below the line of 1.30m above ice surface and ice sheet use solid164
element with 8-node; in order to accomplish the connection of
different elements, the rigid body with 0.01-0.05m thickness is defined
between solid164 and beam161; the contact type of ice and pier adopts
AUTOMATIC_SURFACE_TO_SURFACE, using symmetrical
penalty function algorithms; meshing size of pier below the line of
1.30m above ice surface should not less than 0.25×0.25×0.5m3. The
simulation results have the advantage of high precision by making a
comparison between measured and computed data. The research
results can be referred for collision force study between river ice and
pier.
Abstract: Shadows add great amount of realism to a scene and
many algorithms exists to generate shadows. Recently, Shadow
volumes (SVs) have made great achievements to place a valuable
position in the gaming industries. Looking at this, we concentrate on
simple but valuable initial partial steps for further optimization in SV
generation, i.e.; model simplification and silhouette edge detection
and tracking. Shadow volumes (SVs) usually takes time in generating
boundary silhouettes of the object and if the object is complex then
the generation of edges become much harder and slower in process.
The challenge gets stiffer when real time shadow generation and
rendering is demanded. We investigated a way to use the real time
silhouette edge detection method, which takes the advantage of
spatial and temporal coherence, and exploit the level-of-details
(LOD) technique for reducing silhouette edges of the model to use
the simplified version of the model for shadow generation speeding
up the running time. These steps highly reduce the execution time of
shadow volume generations in real-time and are easily flexible to any
of the recently proposed SV techniques. Our main focus is to exploit
the LOD and silhouette edge detection technique, adopting them to
further enhance the shadow volume generations for real time
rendering.