40 CFR Appendix A to Subpart I of... - Determination of Allowable Costs

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... the actual reasonable and necessary costs for preparing the pre-bid package. (4) Post-construction... built in conformance with the design drawings and specifications. f. The costs (including legal... from defects in the plans, design drawings and specifications, or other subagreement documents only to...

Measurement of vortex flow fields

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcdevitt, T. Kevin; Ambur, Todd A.; Orngard, Gary M.; Owen, F. Kevin

1992-01-01

A 3-D laser fluorescence anemometer (LFA) was designed, built, and demonstrated for use in the Langley 16 x 24 inch Water Tunnel. Innovative optical design flexibility combined with compact and portable data acquisition and control systems were incorporated into the instrument. This will allow its use by NASA in other test facilities. A versatile fiber optic system facilities normal and off-axis laser beam alignment, removes mirror losses and improves laser safety. This added optical flexibility will also enable simple adaptation for use in the adjacent jet facility. New proprietary concepts in transmitting color separation, light collection, and novel prism separation of the scattered light was also designed and built into the system. Off-axis beam traverse and alignment complexity led to the requirement for a specialized, programmable transverse controller, and the inclusion of an additional traverse for the off-axis arm. To meet this challenge, an 'in-house' prototype unit was designed and built and traverse control software developed specifically for the water tunnel traverse applications. A specialized data acquisition interface was also required. This was designed and built for the LFA system.

In search of causality: a systematic review of the relationship between the built environment and physical activity among adults

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Empirical evidence suggests that an association between the built environment and physical activity exists. This evidence is mostly derived from cross-sectional studies that do not account for other causal explanations such as neighborhood self-selection. Experimental and quasi-experimental designs can be used to isolate the effect of the built environment on physical activity, but in their absence, statistical techniques that adjust for neighborhood self-selection can be used with cross-sectional data. Previous reviews examining the built environment-physical activity relationship have not differentiated among findings based on study design. To deal with self-selection, we synthesized evidence regarding the relationship between objective measures of the built environment and physical activity by including in our review: 1) cross-sectional studies that adjust for neighborhood self-selection and 2) quasi-experiments. Method In September 2010, we searched for English-language studies on built environments and physical activity from all available years in health, leisure, transportation, social sciences, and geographical databases. Twenty cross-sectional and 13 quasi-experimental studies published between 1996 and 2010 were included in the review. Results Most associations between the built environment and physical activity were in the expected direction or null. Land use mix, connectivity and population density and overall neighborhood design were however, important determinants of physical activity. The built environment was more likely to be associated with transportation walking compared with other types of physical activity including recreational walking. Three studies found an attenuation in associations between built environment characteristics and physical activity after accounting for neighborhood self-selection. Conclusion More quasi-experiments that examine a broader range of environmental attributes in relation to context-specific physical activity and that measure changes in the built environment, neighborhood preferences and their effect on physical activity are needed. PMID:22077952

The Influence of Weather Variation, Urban Design and Built Environment on Objectively Measured Sedentary Behaviour in Children.

PubMed

Katapally, Tarun Reddy; Rainham, Daniel; Muhajarine, Nazeem

2016-01-01

With emerging evidence indicating that independent of physical activity, sedentary behaviour (SB) can be detrimental to health, researchers are increasingly aiming to understand the influence of multiple contexts such as urban design and built environment on SB. However, weather variation, a factor that continuously interacts with all other environmental variables, has been consistently underexplored. This study investigated the influence of diverse environmental exposures (including weather variation, urban design and built environment) on SB in children. This cross-sectional observational study is part of an active living research initiative set in the Canadian prairie city of Saskatoon. Saskatoon's neighbourhoods were classified based on urban street design into grid-pattern, fractured grid-pattern and curvilinear types of neighbourhoods. Diverse environmental exposures were measured including, neighbourhood built environment, and neighbourhood and household socioeconomic environment. Actical accelerometers were deployed between April and June 2010 (spring-summer) to derive SB of 331 10-14 year old children in 25 one week cycles. Each cycle of accelerometry was conducted on a different cohort of children within the total sample. Accelerometer data were matched with localized weather patterns derived from Environment Canada weather data. Multilevel modeling using Hierarchical Linear and Non-linear Modeling software was conducted by factoring in weather variation to depict the influence of diverse environmental exposures on SB. Both weather variation and urban design played a significant role in SB. After factoring in weather variation, it was observed that children living in grid-pattern neighbourhoods closer to the city centre (with higher diversity of destinations) were less likely to be sedentary. This study demonstrates a methodology that could be replicated to integrate geography-specific weather patterns with existing cross-sectional accelerometry data to understand the influence of urban design and built environment on SB in children.

Telemedicine. Final report/project accomplishments summary CRADA number 95-KCP-1014

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

VanDeusen, A.L.

1997-04-01

This project was initiated to fill existing voids in the telemedicine equipment market. Currently, when a medical facility adds telemedicine capability to their video conference system, they must purchase expensive and bulky encoders and decoders in order to send information over the available data channel. Even with this expensive equipment, only one data type (stethoscope or ECG) can be sent at a time. In addition, since existing encoders and decoders are not designed specifically for telemedicine, special cables must be built to connect with this equipment. This project resulted in the design and construction of an encoder/decoder system that resolvedmore » these issues. The unit (referred to as the Telecoder) is designed specifically for the telemedicine market. The Telecoder is compact, handles two types of data (stethoscope and ECG) simultaneously, integrates with existing medical equipment, and is less expensive. In addition to the Telecoder module, a prototype was built that adds all the necessary logic and interfaces necessary to integrate the basic encoder design into additional Cardionics products. Although a complete integration into other Cardionics products was not in the scope of this CRADA, all the basic design work has been done to allow Cardionics to complete the work.« less

Laboratory on legs: an architecture for adjustable morphology with legged robots

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haynes, G. Clark; Pusey, Jason; Knopf, Ryan; Johnson, Aaron M.; Koditschek, Daniel E.

2012-06-01

For mobile robots, the essential units of actuation, computation, and sensing must be designed to fit within the body of the robot. Additional capabilities will largely depend upon a given activity, and should be easily reconfigurable to maximize the diversity of applications and experiments. To address this issue, we introduce a modular architecture originally developed and tested in the design and implementation of the X-RHex hexapod that allows the robot to operate as a mobile laboratory on legs. In the present paper we will introduce the specification, design and very earliest operational data of Canid, an actively driven compliant-spined quadruped whose completely different morphology and intended dynamical operating point are nevertheless built around exactly the same "Lab on Legs" actuation, computation, and sensing infrastructure. We will review as well, more briefly a second RHex variation, the XRL platform, built using the same components.

24 CFR 3282.361 - Design Approval Primary Inspection Agency (DAPIA).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... manufactured home designs submitted to it by the manufacturer and for assuring that they conform to the....362 who deal with the design, quality assurance manual, or manufactured homes built to them, and by... submit floor plans and specific information for each manufactured home design or variation which the...

As-built design specification for the digital derivation of daily and monthly data bases from synoptic observations of temperature and precipitation for the People's Republic of China

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jeun, B. H.; Barger, G. L.

1977-01-01

A data base of synoptic meteorological information was compiled for the People's Republic of China, as an integral part of the Large Area Crop Inventory Experiment. A system description is provided, including hardware and software specifications, computation algorithms and an evaluation of output validity. Operations are also outlined, with emphasis placed on least squares interpolation.

Beamlet diagnostics

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Theys, M.

1994-05-06

Beamlet is a high power laser currently being built at Lawrence Livermore National Lab as a proof of concept for the National Ignition Facility (NIF). Beamlet is testing several areas of laser advancements, such as a 37cm Pockels cell, square amplifier, and propagation of a square beam. The diagnostics on beamlet tell the operators how much energy the beam has in different locations, the pulse shape, the energy distribution, and other important information regarding the beam. This information is being used to evaluate new amplifier designs, and extrapolate performance to the NIF laser. In my term at Lawrence Livermore Nationalmore » Laboratory I have designed and built a diagnostic, calibrated instruments used on diagnostics, setup instruments, hooked up communication lines to the instruments, and setup computers to control specific diagnostics.« less

Visual neurophysiology: a field-effect amplifier designed and built by R. L. De Valois.

PubMed

Albrecht, Duane G; Creeger, Carl P; Crane, Alison M

2005-10-01

In the middle of the last century, R. L. De Valois designed and built a unique and effective amplifier based on the newly developed field-effect transistor (FET). This amplifier has many beneficial qualities for amplifying the signals of neurons with minimal disturbance. We have used this amplifier successfully for more than three decades. We describe the circuitry of the De Valois amplifier and provide performance specifications. The FET amplifier is one of De Valois's contributions to visual neurophysiology; we share the design in his honor, with the hope that it might prove useful to others.

An Additive Manufacturing Test Artifact

PubMed Central

Moylan, Shawn; Slotwinski, John; Cooke, April; Jurrens, Kevin; Donmez, M Alkan

2014-01-01

A test artifact, intended for standardization, is proposed for the purpose of evaluating the performance of additive manufacturing (AM) systems. A thorough analysis of previously proposed AM test artifacts as well as experience with machining test artifacts have inspired the design of the proposed test artifact. This new artifact is designed to provide a characterization of the capabilities and limitations of an AM system, as well as to allow system improvement by linking specific errors measured in the test artifact to specific sources in the AM system. The proposed test artifact has been built in multiple materials using multiple AM technologies. The results of several of the builds are discussed, demonstrating how the measurement results can be used to characterize and improve a specific AM system. PMID:26601039

Intermediate load modules for test and evaluation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1984-01-01

Photovoltaic modules were tested for qualification. Tests involved the following: (1) delivery of 20 solar cells for use as reference cells; (2) module documentation and inspection plans specifying the 10 Group I modules; (3) design review of module documentation from Group I modules; (4) revise module documentation to overcome any problems of deficiencies associated with the Group I modules; (5) delivery of 10 Group II modules built to revised specifications; (6) testing of Group II modules to the criteria as outlined in qualification specification. It is found that the solarvolt MSP43E40B satisfies the design criteria of qualification specification for intermediate load modules. Design changes were made in the Group I modules to overcome the deficiencies which allowed Group II modules to pass the qualification tests.

Software on Demand: An Early Childhood Numeracy Partnership

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Egan, Mike; Hengst, Randy

2012-01-01

In collaboration with preservice elementary teachers and in-service kindergarten teachers, the authors engaged in small-scale, demand-side production of educational software focused on numeracy skills. That is, the authors built applications designed to address children's specific learning needs as they surfaced in the classroom and were…

An Experimental Study of Elastomeric Bridge Bearings with Design Recommendations

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1995-10-01

Recent AASHTO specifications have placed a number of restrictions on the use of elastomeric bridge bearings. Elastomeric bearings with tapers built in to accommodate span end elevation differences were disallowed by the most current specifications ev...

As-Built design specification for PARPLT. [program to produce scatter plots of crop greenness profile parameters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tompkins, M. A.; Cheng, D. E. (Principal Investigator)

1981-01-01

The design and implementation of the PARPLT program are described. The program produces scatter plots of the greenness profile derived parameters alpha, beta, and t sub o computed by the CLASFYG program (alpha being the approximate greenness rise time; beta, the greenness decay time; and t sub o, the spectral crop emergence date). Statistical information concerning the parameters is also computed.

The Mechanical Design Optimization of a High Field HTS Solenoid

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lalitha, SL; Gupta, RC

2015-06-01

This paper describes the conceptual design optimization of a large aperture, high field (24 T at 4 K) solenoid for a 1.7 MJ superconducting magnetic energy storage device. The magnet is designed to be built entirely of second generation (2G) high temperature superconductor tape with excellent electrical and mechanical properties at the cryogenic temperatures. The critical parameters that govern the magnet performance are examined in detail through a multiphysics approach using ANSYS software. The analysis results formed the basis for the performance specification as well as the construction of the magnet.

Multiloop Integral System Test (MIST): MIST Facility Functional Specification

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Habib, T F; Koksal, C G; Moskal, T E

1991-04-01

The Multiloop Integral System Test (MIST) is part of a multiphase program started in 1983 to address small-break loss-of-coolant accidents (SBLOCAs) specific to Babcock and Wilcox designed plants. MIST is sponsored by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the Babcock Wilcox Owners Group, the Electric Power Research Institute, and Babcock and Wilcox. The unique features of the Babcock and Wilcox design, specifically the hot leg U-bends and steam generators, prevented the use of existing integral system data or existing integral facilities to address the thermal-hydraulic SBLOCA questions. MIST was specifically designed and constructed for this program, and an existing facility --more » the Once Through Integral System (OTIS) -- was also used. Data from MIST and OTIS are used to benchmark the adequacy of system codes, such as RELAP5 and TRAC, for predicting abnormal plant transients. The MIST Functional Specification documents as-built design features, dimensions, instrumentation, and test approach. It also presents the scaling basis for the facility and serves to define the scope of work for the facility design and construction. 13 refs., 112 figs., 38 tabs.« less

Universal Design: A Step toward Successful Aging

PubMed Central

Carr, Kelly; Weir, Patricia L.; Azar, Dory; Azar, Nadia R.

2013-01-01

The concept of aging successfully has become increasingly important as demographics shift towards an aging population. Successful aging has been defined to include (1) a low probability of disease and disease-related disability; (2) a high level of physical and cognitive functioning; and (3) an active engagement in life. The built environment can create opportunities or constraints for seniors to participate in social and productive activities. Universally designed spaces are more easily accessed and used by a spectrum of people without specialized adaptations. Thus, a universally designed environment creates opportunities for older adults to participate in these activities without the stigmatization associated with adapted or accessible designs. Providing older adults with specific universal design options (e.g., lever handle faucets) has the potential to increase the ease of completing activities of daily living, which promotes a continual engagement in life. Literature regarding universal design is promising; however, its theory requires further attention from professionals designing the built environment, evidence of the significance of its application from academics, and the embracement of its core principles from society. Overall, universal design has the potential to provide a stepping stone toward successful aging. PMID:23431446

Design component method for sensitivity analysis of built-up structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Choi, Kyung K.; Seong, Hwai G.

1986-01-01

A 'design component method' that provides a unified and systematic organization of design sensitivity analysis for built-up structures is developed and implemented. Both conventional design variables, such as thickness and cross-sectional area, and shape design variables of components of built-up structures are considered. It is shown that design of components of built-up structures can be characterized and system design sensitivity expressions obtained by simply adding contributions from each component. The method leads to a systematic organization of computations for design sensitivity analysis that is similar to the way in which computations are organized within a finite element code.

Refuge alternatives relief valve testing and design

PubMed Central

Lutz, T.J.; Bissert, P.T.; Homce, G.T.; Yonkey, J.A.

2016-01-01

The U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has been researching refuge alternatives (RAs) since 2007. RAs typically have built-in pressure relief valves (PRVs) to prevent the unit from reaching unsafe pressures. The U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration requires that these valves vent the chamber at a maximum pressure of 1.25 kPa (0.18 psi, 5.0 in. H2O), or as specified by the manufacturer, above mine atmospheric pressure in the RA. To facilitate PRV testing, an instrumented benchtop test fixture was developed using an off-the-shelf centrifugal blower and ductwork. Relief pressures and flow characteristics were measured for three units: (1) a modified polyvinyl chloride check valve, (2) an off-the-shelf brass/cast-iron butterfly check valve and (3) a commercially available valve that was designed specifically for one manufacturer’s steel prefabricated RAs and had been adapted for use in one mine operator’s built-in-place RA. PRVs used in tent-style RAs were not investigated. The units were tested with different modifications and configurations in order to check compliance with Title 30 Code of Federal Regulations, or 30 CFR, regulations. The commercially available relief valve did not meet the 30 CFR relief pressure specification but may meet the manufacturer’s specification. Alternative valve designs were modified to meet the 30 CFR relief pressure specification, but all valve designs will need further design research to examine survivability in the event of a 103 kPa (15.0 psi) impulse overpressure during a disaster. PMID:28018003

A GIS based model for active transportation in the built environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Addison, Veronica Marie Medina

Obesity and physical inactivity have been major risk factors associated with morbidity and mortality in the United States. Recently, obesity and physical inactivity have been on the rise. Determining connections between this trend and the environment could lead to a built environment that is conducive to healthy, active people. In my previous research, I have studied the built environment and its connection to health. For my dissertation, I build on this fundamental work by incorporating energy, specifically by studying the built environment and its connection to energy expenditures. This research models the built environment and combines this with human energy expenditure information in order to provide a planning tool that allows an individual to actively address health issues, particularly obesity. This research focuses on the design and development of an internet based model that enables individuals to understand their own energy expenditures in relation to their environment. The model will work to find the energy consumed by an individual in their navigation through campus. This is accomplished by using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to model the campus and using it as the basis for calculating energy expended through active transportation. Using GIS to create the model allows for the incorporation of built environment factors such as elevation and energy expenditures in relation to physical exertion rate. This research will contribute to the long-term solution to the obesity epidemic by creating healthy communities through smart growth and sustainable design. This research provides users with a tool to use in their current environment for their personal and community well being.

Built spaces and features associated with user satisfaction in maternity waiting homes in Malawi.

PubMed

McIntosh, Nathalie; Gruits, Patricia; Oppel, Eva; Shao, Amie

2018-07-01

To assess satisfaction with maternity waiting home built spaces and features in women who are at risk for underutilizing maternity waiting homes (i.e. residential facilities that temporarily house near-term pregnant mothers close to healthcare facilities that provide obstetrical care). Specifically we wanted to answer the questions: (1) Are built spaces and features associated with maternity waiting home user satisfaction? (2) Can built spaces and features designed to improve hygiene, comfort, privacy and function improve maternity waiting home user satisfaction? And (3) Which built spaces and features are most important for maternity waiting home user satisfaction? A cross-sectional study comparing satisfaction with standard and non-standard maternity waiting home designs. Between December 2016 and February 2017 we surveyed expectant mothers at two maternity waiting homes that differed in their design of built spaces and features. We used bivariate analyses to assess if built spaces and features were associated with satisfaction. We compared ratings of built spaces and features between the two maternity waiting homes using chi-squares and t-tests to assess if design features to improve hygiene, comfort, privacy and function were associated with higher satisfaction. We used exploratory robust regression analysis to examine the relationship between built spaces and features and maternity waiting home satisfaction. Two maternity waiting homes in Malawi, one that incorporated non-standardized design features to improve hygiene, comfort, privacy, and function (Kasungu maternity waiting home) and the other that had a standard maternity waiting home design (Dowa maternity waiting home). 322 expectant mothers at risk for underutilizing maternity waiting homes (i.e. first-time mothers and those with no pregnancy risk factors) who had stayed at the Kasungu or Dowa maternity waiting homes. There were significant differences in ratings of built spaces and features between the two differently designed maternity waiting homes, with the non-standard design having higher ratings for: adequacy of toilets, and ratings of heating/cooling, air and water quality, sanitation, toilets/showers and kitchen facilities, building maintenance, sleep area, private storage space, comfort level, outdoor spaces and overall satisfaction (p = <.0001 for all). The final regression model showed that built spaces and features that are most important for maternity waiting home user satisfaction are toilets/showers, guardian spaces, safety, building maintenance, sleep area and private storage space (R 2  = 0.28). The design of maternity waiting home built spaces and features is associated with user satisfaction in women at risk for underutilizing maternity waiting homes, especially related to toilets/showers, guardian spaces, safety, building maintenance, sleep area and private storage space. Improving maternity waiting home built spaces and features may offer a promising area for improving maternity waiting home satisfaction and reducing barriers to maternity waiting home use. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Performance of the Gemini Planet Imager’s adaptive optics system

DOE PAGES

Poyneer, Lisa A.; Palmer, David W.; Macintosh, Bruce; ...

2016-01-07

The Gemini Planet Imager’s adaptive optics (AO) subsystem was designed specifically to facilitate high-contrast imaging. We give a definitive description of the system’s algorithms and technologies as built. Ultimately, the error budget indicates that for all targets and atmospheric conditions AO bandwidth error is the largest term.

Osborne. A Teacher's Handbook.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cooper, Rosemary; Fordham, Jennie

Osborne, located on the Isle of Wight, is almost entirely Victorian. It was designed, built, and furnished to the royal family's specifications (as a holiday home), and remains largely unaltered since Queen Victoria died in 1901. It offers unique resources for those studying not only the Victorian royal family but other aspects of 19th-century…

The Design, Prototyping, and Formative Evaluation of an Assistive Robotic Table (ART) for Stroke Patients.

PubMed

Threatt, Anthony L; Merino, Jessica; Brooks, Johnell O; Healy, Stan; Truesdail, Constance; Manganelli, Joseph; Walker, Ian; Green, Keith Evan

2017-04-01

This article presents the results of an exploratory study in which 14 healthcare subject matter experts (H-SMEs) in addition to four research and design subject matter experts (RD-SMEs) at a regional rehabilitation hospital engaged in a series of complementary, participatory activities in order to design an assistive robotic table (ART). As designers, human factor experts, and healthcare professionals continue to work to integrate assistive human-robot technologies in healthcare, it is imperative to understand how the technology affects patient care from clinicians' perspectives. Fourteen clinical H-SMEs rated a subset of conceptual ART design ideas; participated in the iterative design process of ART; and evaluated a final cardboard prototype, the rehabilitation hospital's current over-the-bed table (OBT), an ART built with true materials, and two therapy surface prototypes. Four RD-SMEs conducted a heuristic evaluation on the ART built with true materials. Data were analyzed by frequency and content analysis. The results include a design and prototype for the next generation ART and a pneumatically controlled therapy surface, a broadened list of specifications for the future design and implementation of assistive robotic furniture, and final observations. When compared to the rehabilitation hospital's current OBT, the developed ART in this study was successful. Designing novel features is dependent upon ensuring patient safety. The inclusion of clinicians in the participatory iterative design and evaluation process and the use of personas provided a broadened list of specifications for the successful implementation of assistive robotic furniture.

The Influence of Weather Variation, Urban Design and Built Environment on Objectively Measured Sedentary Behaviour in Children

PubMed Central

Katapally, Tarun Reddy; Rainham, Daniel; Muhajarine, Nazeem

2016-01-01

With emerging evidence indicating that independent of physical activity, sedentary behaviour (SB) can be detrimental to health, researchers are increasingly aiming to understand the influence of multiple contexts such as urban design and built environment on SB. However, weather variation, a factor that continuously interacts with all other environmental variables, has been consistently underexplored. This study investigated the influence of diverse environmental exposures (including weather variation, urban design and built environment) on SB in children. This cross-sectional observational study is part of an active living research initiative set in the Canadian prairie city of Saskatoon. Saskatoon's neighbourhoods were classified based on urban street design into grid-pattern, fractured grid-pattern and curvilinear types of neighbourhoods. Diverse environmental exposures were measured including, neighbourhood built environment, and neighbourhood and household socioeconomic environment. Actical accelerometers were deployed between April and June 2010 (spring-summer) to derive SB of 331 10–14 year old children in 25 one week cycles. Each cycle of accelerometry was conducted on a different cohort of children within the total sample. Accelerometer data were matched with localized weather patterns derived from Environment Canada weather data. Multilevel modeling using Hierarchical Linear and Non-linear Modeling software was conducted by factoring in weather variation to depict the influence of diverse environmental exposures on SB. Both weather variation and urban design played a significant role in SB. After factoring in weather variation, it was observed that children living in grid-pattern neighbourhoods closer to the city centre (with higher diversity of destinations) were less likely to be sedentary. This study demonstrates a methodology that could be replicated to integrate geography-specific weather patterns with existing cross-sectional accelerometry data to understand the influence of urban design and built environment on SB in children. PMID:29546188

Nuclear Security for Floating Nuclear Power Plants

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Skiba, James M.; Scherer, Carolynn P.

2015-10-13

Recently there has been a lot of interest in small modular reactors. A specific type of these small modular reactors (SMR,) are marine based power plants called floating nuclear power plants (FNPP). These FNPPs are typically built by countries with extensive knowledge of nuclear energy, such as Russia, France, China and the US. These FNPPs are built in one country and then sent to countries in need of power and/or seawater desalination. Fifteen countries have expressed interest in acquiring such power stations. Some designs for such power stations are briefly summarized. Several different avenues for cooperation in FNPP technology aremore » proposed, including IAEA nuclear security (i.e. safeguards), multilateral or bilateral agreements, and working with Russian design that incorporates nuclear safeguards for IAEA inspections in non-nuclear weapons states« less

Heat pipe cooled power magnetics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chester, M. S.

1979-01-01

A high frequency, high power, low specific weight (0.57 kg/kW) transformer developed for space use was redesigned with heat pipe cooling allowing both a reduction in weight and a lower internal temperature rise. The specific weight of the heat pipe cooled transformer was reduced to 0.4 kg/kW and the highest winding temperature rise was reduced from 40 C to 20 C in spite of 10 watts additional loss. The design loss/weight tradeoff was 18 W/kg. Additionally, allowing the same 40 C winding temperature rise as in the original design, the KVA rating is increased to 4.2 KVA, demonstrating a specific weight of 0.28 kg/kW with the internal loss increased by 50W. This space environment tested heat pipe cooled design performed as well electrically as the original conventional design, thus demonstrating the advantages of heat pipes integrated into a high power, high voltage magnetic. Another heat pipe cooled magnetic, a 3.7 kW, 20A input filter inductor was designed, developed, built, tested, and described. The heat pipe cooled magnetics are designed to be Earth operated in any orientation.

WaterSense Labeled New Homes

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Homes built to meet EPA's specification can earn the WaterSense label. EPA criteria include WaterSense labeled plumbing fixtures, efficient hot water delivery systems, water-smart landscape design, and other features.

A Modular Laser Graphics Projection System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Newswanger, Craig D.

1984-05-01

WED Enterprises has designed and built a modular projection system for the presentation of animated laser shows. This system was designed specifically for use in Disney theme shows. Its modular design allows it to be adapted to many show situations with simple hardware and software adjustments. The primary goals were superior animation, long life, low maintenance and stand alone operation.

Development and fabrication of patient-specific knee implant using additive manufacturing techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zammit, Robert; Rochman, Arif

2017-10-01

Total knee replacement is the most effective treatment to relief pain and restore normal function in a diseased knee joint. The aim of this research was to develop a patient-specific knee implant which can be fabricated using additive manufacturing techniques and has reduced wear rates using a highly wear resistant materials. The proposed design was chosen based on implant requirements, such as reduction in wear rates as well as strong fixation. The patient-specific knee implant improves on conventional knee implants by modifying the articulating surfaces and bone-implant interfaces. Moreover, tribological tests of different polymeric wear couples were carried out to determine the optimal materials to use for the articulating surfaces. Finite element analysis was utilized to evaluate the stresses sustained by the proposed design. Finally, the patient-specific knee implant was successfully built using additive manufacturing techniques.

World-systems analysis.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Evans, Amanda M.

2007-12-01

Jamaica sloops were vernacular watercraft designed, built, and utilized by Caribbean colonists beginning in the late-17th century. Despite their popularity, no design or construction records or even a specific definition of their form survive, and many sources simply describe them as an early version of the Bermuda sloop. Vernacular Jamaica sloops were a unique adaptation by English colonists to combat the effects of piracy, and their design was specific to the economic, geographic, and political circumstances of colonial Jamaica. This article proposes a set of characteristics that can be used to define vernacular Jamaica sloops, firstly to distinguish them from the eighteenth-century naval Jamaica-class sloops but also to better understand them as a social response to external stimuli within the complex relationship between maritime economy, piracy and colonial control executed through the navy.

49 CFR 229.141 - Body structure, MU locomotives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Body structure, MU locomotives. 229.141 Section... Design Requirements § 229.141 Body structure, MU locomotives. (a) MU locomotives built new after April 1... body structure designed to meet or exceed the following minimum specifications: (1) The body structure...

When "Less is More": The Optimal Design of Language Laboratory Hardware.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kershaw, Gary; Boyd, Gary

1980-01-01

The results of a process of designing, building, and "de-bugging" two replacement language laboratory hardware systems at Concordia University (Montreal) are described. Because commercially available systems did not meet specifications within budgetary constraints, the systems were built by the university technical department. The systems replaced…

Moly99 Production Facility: Report on Beamline Components, Requirements, Costs

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bishofberger, Kip A.

2015-12-23

In FY14 we completed the design of the beam line for the linear accelerator production design concept. This design included a set of three bending magnets, quadrupole focusing magnets, and octopoles to flatten the beam on target. This design was generic and applicable to multiple different accelerators if necessary. In FY15 we built on that work to create specifications for the individual beam optic elements, including power supply requirements. This report captures the specification of beam line components with initial cost estimates for the NorthStar production facility.This report is organized as follows: The motivation of the beamline design is introducedmore » briefly, along with renderings of the design. After that, a specific list is provided, which accounts for each beamline component, including part numbers and costs, to construct the beamline. After that, this report details the important sections of the beamline and individual components. A final summary and list of follow-on activities completes this report.« less

Development and Evaluation of Positioning Systems for Autonomous Vehicle Navigation

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-12-01

generation of autonomous vehicles to utilize NTV technology is built on a commercially-available vehicle built by ASV. The All-Purpose Remote Transport...larger scale, AFRL and CIMAR are involved in the development of a standard approach in the design and specification of autonomous vehicles being...1996. Shi92 Shin, D.H., Sanjiv, S., and Lee, J.J., “Explicit Path Tracking by Autonomous Vehicles ,” Robotica, 10, (1992), 69-87. Ste95

Moving formal methods into practice. Verifying the FTPP Scoreboard: Results, phase 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Srivas, Mandayam; Bickford, Mark

1992-01-01

This report documents the Phase 1 results of an effort aimed at formally verifying a key hardware component, called Scoreboard, of a Fault-Tolerant Parallel Processor (FTPP) being built at Charles Stark Draper Laboratory (CSDL). The Scoreboard is part of the FTPP virtual bus that guarantees reliable communication between processors in the presence of Byzantine faults in the system. The Scoreboard implements a piece of control logic that approves and validates a message before it can be transmitted. The goal of Phase 1 was to lay the foundation of the Scoreboard verification. A formal specification of the functional requirements and a high-level hardware design for the Scoreboard were developed. The hardware design was based on a preliminary Scoreboard design developed at CSDL. A main correctness theorem, from which the functional requirements can be established as corollaries, was proved for the Scoreboard design. The goal of Phase 2 is to verify the final detailed design of Scoreboard. This task is being conducted as part of a NASA-sponsored effort to explore integration of formal methods in the development cycle of current fault-tolerant architectures being built in the aerospace industry.

A versatile retarding potential analyzer for nano-satellite platforms.

PubMed

Fanelli, L; Noel, S; Earle, G D; Fish, C; Davidson, R L; Robertson, R V; Marquis, P; Garg, V; Somasundaram, N; Kordella, L; Kennedy, P

2015-12-01

The design of the first retarding potential analyzer (RPA) built specifically for use on resource-limited cubesat platforms is described. The size, mass, and power consumption are consistent with the limitations of a nano-satellite, but the performance specifications are commensurate with those of RPAs flown on much larger platforms. The instrument is capable of measuring the ion density, temperature, and the ram component of the ion velocity in the spacecraft reference frame, while also providing estimates of the ion composition. The mechanical and electrical designs are described, as are the operating modes, command and data structure, and timing scheme. Test data obtained using an ion source inside a laboratory vacuum chamber are presented to validate the performance of the new design.

Test results of the Chrysler upgraded automotive gas turbine engine: Initial design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Horvath, D.; Ribble, G. H., Jr.; Warren, E. L.; Wood, J. C.

1981-01-01

The upgraded engine as built to the original design was deficient in power and had excessive specific fuel consumption. A high instrumented version of the engine was tested to identify the sources of the engine problems. Analysis of the data shows the major problems to be low compressor and power turbine efficiency and excessive interstage duct losses. In addition, high HC and CO emission were measured at idle, and high NOx emissions at high energy speeds.

Mars Rover/Sample Return - Phase A cost estimation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stancati, Michael L.; Spadoni, Daniel J.

1990-01-01

This paper presents a preliminary cost estimate for the design and development of the Mars Rover/Sample Return (MRSR) mission. The estimate was generated using a modeling tool specifically built to provide useful cost estimates from design parameters of the type and fidelity usually available during early phases of mission design. The model approach and its application to MRSR are described.

An overview of Ball Aerospace cryogen storage and delivery systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marquardt, J.; Keller, J.; Mills, G.; Schmidt, J.

2015-12-01

Starting on the Gemini program in the 1960s, Beech Aircraft (now Ball Aerospace) has been designing and manufacturing dewars for a variety of cryogens including liquid hydrogen and oxygen. These dewars flew on the Apollo, Skylab and Space Shuttle spacecraft providing fuel cell reactants resulting in over 150 manned spaceflights. Since Space Shuttle, Ball has also built the liquid hydrogen fuel tanks for the Boeing Phantom Eye unmanned aerial vehicle. Returning back to its fuel cell days, Ball has designed, built and tested a volume-constrained liquid hydrogen and oxygen tank system for reactant delivery to fuel cells on unmanned undersea vehicles (UUVs). Herein past history of Ball technology is described. Testing has been completed on the UUV specific design, which will be described.

49 CFR 178.347-1 - General requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... Specifications for Containers for Motor Vehicle Transportation § 178.347-1 General requirements. (a) Each specification DOT 407 cargo tank motor vehicle must conform to the general design and construction requirements... be of a circular cross-section and have an MAWP of at least 25 psig. (c) Any cargo tank built to this...

Design and implementation of the mobility assessment tool: software description.

PubMed

Barnard, Ryan T; Marsh, Anthony P; Rejeski, Walter Jack; Pecorella, Anthony; Ip, Edward H

2013-07-23

In previous work, we described the development of an 81-item video-animated tool for assessing mobility. In response to criticism levied during a pilot study of this tool, we sought to develop a new version built upon a flexible framework for designing and administering the instrument. Rather than constructing a self-contained software application with a hard-coded instrument, we designed an XML schema capable of describing a variety of psychometric instruments. The new version of our video-animated assessment tool was then defined fully within the context of a compliant XML document. Two software applications--one built in Java, the other in Objective-C for the Apple iPad--were then built that could present the instrument described in the XML document and collect participants' responses. Separating the instrument's definition from the software application implementing it allowed for rapid iteration and easy, reliable definition of variations. Defining instruments in a software-independent XML document simplifies the process of defining instruments and variations and allows a single instrument to be deployed on as many platforms as there are software applications capable of interpreting the instrument, thereby broadening the potential target audience for the instrument. Continued work will be done to further specify and refine this type of instrument specification with a focus on spurring adoption by researchers in gerontology and geriatric medicine.

Design and implementation of the mobility assessment tool: software description

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background In previous work, we described the development of an 81-item video-animated tool for assessing mobility. In response to criticism levied during a pilot study of this tool, we sought to develop a new version built upon a flexible framework for designing and administering the instrument. Results Rather than constructing a self-contained software application with a hard-coded instrument, we designed an XML schema capable of describing a variety of psychometric instruments. The new version of our video-animated assessment tool was then defined fully within the context of a compliant XML document. Two software applications—one built in Java, the other in Objective-C for the Apple iPad—were then built that could present the instrument described in the XML document and collect participants’ responses. Separating the instrument’s definition from the software application implementing it allowed for rapid iteration and easy, reliable definition of variations. Conclusions Defining instruments in a software-independent XML document simplifies the process of defining instruments and variations and allows a single instrument to be deployed on as many platforms as there are software applications capable of interpreting the instrument, thereby broadening the potential target audience for the instrument. Continued work will be done to further specify and refine this type of instrument specification with a focus on spurring adoption by researchers in gerontology and geriatric medicine. PMID:23879716

Multi-objective engineering design using preferences

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanchis, J.; Martinez, M.; Blasco, X.

2008-03-01

System design is a complex task when design parameters have to satisy a number of specifications and objectives which often conflict with those of others. This challenging problem is called multi-objective optimization (MOO). The most common approximation consists in optimizing a single cost index with a weighted sum of objectives. However, once weights are chosen the solution does not guarantee the best compromise among specifications, because there is an infinite number of solutions. A new approach can be stated, based on the designer's experience regarding the required specifications and the associated problems. This valuable information can be translated into preferences for design objectives, and will lead the search process to the best solution in terms of these preferences. This article presents a new method, which enumerates these a priori objective preferences. As a result, a single objective is built automatically and no weight selection need be performed. Problems occuring because of the multimodal nature of the generated single cost index are managed with genetic algorithms (GAs).

Design of the NASA Lewis 4-Port Wave Rotor Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilson, Jack

1997-01-01

Pressure exchange wave rotors, used in a topping stage, are currently being considered as a possible means of increasing the specific power, and reducing the specific fuel consumption of gas turbine engines. Despite this interest, there is very little information on the performance of a wave rotor operating on the cycle (i.e., set of waves) appropriate for use in a topping stage. One such cycle, which has the advantage of being relatively easy to incorporate into an engine, is the four-port cycle. Consequently, an experiment to measure the performance of a four-port wave rotor for temperature ratios relevant to application as a topping cycle for a gas turbine engine has been designed and built at NASA Lewis. The design of the wave rotor is described, together with the constraints on the experiment.

Characterization of a phantom setup for breast conserving cancer surgery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chadwell, Jacob T.; Conley, Rebekah H.; Collins, Jarrod A.; Meszoely, Ingrid M.; Miga, Michael I.

2016-03-01

The purpose of this work is to develop an anatomically and mechanically representative breast phantom for the validation of breast conserving surgical therapies, specifically, in this case, image guided surgeries. Using three patients scheduled for lumpectomy and four healthy volunteers in mock surgical presentations, the magnitude, direction, and location of breast deformations was analyzed. A phantom setup was then designed to approximate such deformations in a mock surgical environment. Specifically, commercially available and custom-built polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) phantoms were used to mimic breast tissue during surgery. A custom designed deformation apparatus was then created to reproduce deformations seen in typical clinical setups of the pre- and intra-operative breast geometry. Quantitative analysis of the human subjects yielded a positive correlation between breast volume and amount of breast deformation. Phantom results reflected similar behavior with the custom-built PVA phantom outperforming the commercial phantom.

Harvard ER-2 OH laser-induced fluorescence instrument

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wennberg, Paul O.; Anderson, James G.

1994-01-01

The Harvard ER-2 OH instrument is scheduled to be integrated into the NASA ER-2 high altitude aircraft ozone payload in August 1992. Design and fabrication is presently underway. This experiment is a descendant of a balloon borne instrument designed and built in the mid-1980s. The ER-2 instrument is being designed to measure OH and HO2 as part of the NASA ozone payload for the investigation of processes controlling the concentration of stratospheric ozone. Although not specifically designed to do so, it is hoped that valid measurements of OH and HO2 can be made in the remote free troposphere with this instrument.

The KASE approach to domain-specific software systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bhansali, Sanjay; Nii, H. Penny

1992-01-01

Designing software systems, like all design activities, is a knowledge-intensive task. Several studies have found that the predominant cause of failures among system designers is lack of knowledge: knowledge about the application domain, knowledge about design schemes, knowledge about design processes, etc. The goal of domain-specific software design systems is to explicitly represent knowledge relevant to a class of applications and use it to partially or completely automate various aspects of the designing systems within that domain. The hope is that this would reduce the intellectual burden on the human designers and lead to more efficient software development. In this paper, we present a domain-specific system built on top of KASE, a knowledge-assisted software engineering environment being developed at the Stanford Knowledge Systems Laboratory. We introduce the main ideas underlying the construction of domain specific systems within KASE, illustrate the application of the idea in the synthesis of a system for tracking aircraft from radar signals, and discuss some of the issues in constructing domain-specific systems.

UXO Burial Prediction Fidelity

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-07-01

been developed to predict the initial penetration depth of underwater mines . SERDP would like to know if and how these existing mine models could be...designed for near-cylindrical mines —for munitions, however, projectile-specific drag, lift, and moment coefficients are needed for estimating...as inputs.  Other models have been built to estimate these initial conditions for mines dropped into water.  Can these mine models be useful for

Superconductor lunar telescopes --Abstract only

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, P. C.; Pitts, R.; Shore, S.; Oliversen, R.; Stolarik, J.; Segal, K.; Hojaji, H.

1994-01-01

We propose a new type of telescope designed specifically for the lunar environment of high vacuum and low temperature. Large area UV-Visible-IR telescope arrays can be built with ultra-light-weight replica optics. High T(sub c) superconductors provide support, steering, and positioning. Advantages of this approach are light-weight payload compatible with existing launch vehicles, configurable large area optical arrays, no excavation or heavy construction, and frictionless electronically controlled mechanisms. We have built a prototype and will be demonstarting some of its working characteristics.

Superconductor lunar telescopes --Abstract only

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, P. C.; Pitts, R.; Shore, S.; Oliversen, R.; Stolarik, J.; Segal, K.; Hojaji, H.

1994-06-01

We propose a new type of telescope designed specifically for the lunar environment of high vacuum and low temperature. Large area UV-Visible-IR telescope arrays can be built with ultra-light-weight replica optics. High Tc superconductors provide support, steering, and positioning. Advantages of this approach are light-weight payload compatible with existing launch vehicles, configurable large area optical arrays, no excavation or heavy construction, and frictionless electronically controlled mechanisms. We have built a prototype and will be demonstarting some of its working characteristics.

RED or READ: the built environment is colored

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, Dianne

2002-06-01

How important is color in the design of our built environment? Prototypes and massing models for designs are often presented in white or monochromatic combinations, irrespective of the materials incorporated and the colors that may be applied in the final constructed building, interior or object. Therefore, it is of interest to identify the way color is positioned by designers in how they go about the business of making environments. The built environment is understood by the designers and design researchers generally in one of four fields - as object, as product, as communicator, or as social domain. In addition, Franz identified four conceptions of designing held by designers - the experiential conception, the structural conception, the production conception and the retail conception. Fashion and style are often associated with color in a local context and may simply be applied to the physical environment because it is in fashion, rather than because of what it communicates more broadly. It is assumed that the integration of color in the built environment is influenced by these understandings. In order to address color's position in the design process and the importance of color in relation to space, form, and the experience of place, a selection of Queensland architects and interior designers were surveyed. The study is not conclusive, however, it does identify differences and commonalities between the participants that are of interest in light of the above issues. Explorations into environmental meaning, in addition to color theory and decorative applications, are hypothesized to be important sources of information for designers involved in the coloration of the built environment.

Integrated Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit-A (AMSU-A). As-Designed Parts List: Electrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical (EEE) As-Built Parts List for the AMSU-A Instruments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2000-01-01

This is the As-Designed Parts List, Electrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical (EEE) As-Built Parts Lists For The AMSU-A Instruments, for the Integrated Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit-A (AMSU-A).

Phaeton Mast Dynamics: On-Orbit Characterization of Deployable Masts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Michaels, Darren J.

2011-01-01

The PMD instrument is a set of three custom-designed triaxial accelerometer systems designed specifically to detect and characterize the modal dynamics of deployable masts in orbit. The instrument was designed and built as a payload for the NuSTAR spacecraft, but it is now sponsored by the Air Force Research Laboratory's DSX project. It can detect acceleration levels from 1 micro gram to 0.12g over a frequency range of 0.1Hz to 30Hz, the results of which can support future modeling and designing of deployable mast structures for space. This paper details the hardware architecture and design, calibration test and results, and current status of the PMD instrument.

Advanced photovoltaic solar array - Design and performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kurland, Richard; Stella, Paul

1992-01-01

This paper reports on the development of an ultralightweight flexible blanket, flatpack, foldout solar array design that can provide 3- to 4-fold improvement on specific power performance of current rigid panel arrays and a factor of two improvement over a first-generation flexible blanket array developed as a forerunner to the Space Station Freedom array. To date a prototype wing has been built with a projected specific power performance of about 138 W/kg at beginning-of-life (BOL) and 93 W/kg end-of-life (EOL) at 12 kW (BOL) for a 10-year geosynchronous (GEO) mission. The prototype wing hardware has been subjected to a series of system-level tests to demonstrate design feasibility. The design of the array is summarized. The major trade studies that led to the selection of the baseline design are discussed. Key system-level and component-level testing are described. Array-level performance projections are presented as a function of existing and advanced solar array component technology for various mission applications.

ARRA FEMP Technical Assistance -- Federal Aviation Administration Project 209 -- Control Tower and Support Building, Palm Springs, CA

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Arends, J.; Sandusky, William F.

2010-03-31

This report represents findings of a design review team that evaluated construction documents (at the 100% level) and operating specifications for a new control tower and support building that will be built in Palm Springs, California by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The focus of the review was to identify measures that could be incorporated into the final design and operating specifications that would result in additional energy savings for the FAA that would not have otherwise occurred.

Co-generation and innovative heat storage systems in small-medium CSP plants for distributed energy production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giaconia, Alberto; Montagnino, Fabio; Paredes, Filippo; Donato, Filippo; Caputo, Giampaolo; Mazzei, Domenico

2017-06-01

CSP technologies can be applied for distributed energy production, on small-medium plants (on the 1 MW scale), to satisfy the needs of local communities, buildings and districts. In this perspective, reliable, low-cost, and flexible small/medium multi-generative CSP plants should be developed. Four pilot plants have been built in four Mediterranean countries (Cyprus, Egypt, Jordan, and Italy) to demonstrate the approach. In this paper, the plant built in Italy is presented, with specific innovations applied in the linear Fresnel collector design and the Thermal Energy Storage (TES) system, based on a single the use of molten salts but specifically tailored for small scale plants.

U-Access: a web-based system for routing pedestrians of differing abilities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sobek, Adam D.; Miller, Harvey J.

2006-09-01

For most people, traveling through urban and built environments is straightforward. However, for people with physical disabilities, even a short trip can be difficult and perhaps impossible. This paper provides the design and implementation of a web-based system for the routing and prescriptive analysis of pedestrians with different physical abilities within built environments. U-Access, as a routing tool, provides pedestrians with the shortest feasible route with respect to one of three differing ability levels, namely, peripatetic (unaided mobility), aided mobility (mobility with the help of a cane, walker or crutches) and wheelchair users. U-Access is also an analytical tool that can help identify obstacles in built environments that create routing discrepancies among pedestrians with different physical abilities. This paper discusses the system design, including database, algorithm and interface specifications, and technologies for efficiently delivering results through the World Wide Web (WWW). This paper also provides an illustrative example of a routing problem and an analytical evaluation of the existing infrastructure which identifies the obstacles that pose the greatest discrepancies between physical ability levels. U-Access was evaluated by wheelchair users and route experts from the Center for Disability Services at The University of Utah, USA.

Compact Optical Correlators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gregory, Don A.; Kirsch, James C.

1989-02-01

In the past 15 years, a dozen or so designs have been proposed for compact optical correlators. Of these, maybe one-third of them have actually been built and only a few of those tested. This paper will give an overview of some of the systems that have been built as well as mention some promising early and current designs that have not been built. The term compact, as used in the title of this paper, will be applied very loosely; to mean smaller than a laboratory size optical table. To date, only one correlator has been built and tested that actually can be called miniature. This softball size correlator was built by the Perkin-Elmer Corporation for the U. S. Army Missile Command at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. More will be said about this correlator in following sections.

Does the built environment moderate the relationship between having a disability and lower levels of physical activity? A systematic review.

PubMed

Eisenberg, Yochai; Vanderbom, Kerri A; Vasudevan, Vijay

2017-02-01

The relationship between the built environment and physical activity has been well documented. However, little is known about how the built environment affects physical activity among people with disabilities, who have disproportionately higher rates of physical inactivity and obesity. This study is the first systematic review to examine the role of the built environment as a moderator of the relationship between having a disability (physical, sensory or cognitive) and lower levels of physical activity. After conducting an extensive search of the literature published between 1990 and 2015, 2039 articles were screened, 126 were evaluated by abstract and 66 by full text for eligibility in the review. Data were abstracted using a predefined coding guide and synthesized from both qualitative and quantitative studies to examine evidence of moderation. Nine quantitative and six qualitative articles met the inclusion criteria. Results showed that most research to date has been on older adults with physical disabilities. People with disabilities described how aspects of the built environment affect neighborhood walking, suggesting a positive moderating role of features related to safety and aesthetic qualities, such as benches, lighting and stop light timing. There were mixed results among studies that examined the relationship quantitatively. Most of the studies were not designed to appropriately examine moderation. Future research should utilize valid and reliable built environment measures that are more specific to disability and should include people with and without disabilities to allow for testing of moderation of the built environment. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Supplantation versus Generative Models: Implications for Designers of Instructional Text.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Patricia L.

Two instructional design alternatives are described and discussed: (1) the supplantation model of Ausburn and Ausburn (1978), where learning strategies are built into the instructional materials; and (2) a generative design model, where strategies are "built" into the learner. These contrasting models are proposed as representing the…

Design in the Classroom: Exploring the Built Environment.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Maine Arts Commission, Augusta.

Design and the built environment are subjects of concern to Maine communities. State mandated town planning, new school construction, and the Department of Transportation plans to rebuild roads and bridges elicit public discussion. The study of design encourages elementary students to enter this public forum as informed citizens. The study of…

Brazilian remote sensing receiving, recording and processing ground systems in the 1980's

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parada, N. D. J. (Principal Investigator)

1984-01-01

A ground station was built in Brazil to receive, record, and process TM data from LANDSAT satellites. The receiving/recording subsystem and the processing subsystem are discussed. Functional design specifications for the facility are addressed.

Aerodynamic and mechanical design of an 8:1 pressure ratio centrifugal compressor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Osborne, C.; Runstadler, P. W., Jr.; Stacy, W. D.

1974-01-01

A high-pressure-ratio, low-mass-flow centrifugal compressor stage was designed, fabricated, and tested. The design followed specifications that the stage be representative of state-of-the-art performance and that the stage is to be used as a workhorse compressor for planned experiments using laser Doppler velocimeter equipment. The final design is a 75,000-RPM, 19-blade impeller with an axial inducer and 30 degrees of backward leaning at the impeller tip. The compressor design was tested for two- and/or quasi-three-dimensional aerodynamic and stress characteristics. Critical speed analyses were performed for the high speed rotating impeller assembly. An optimally matched, 17-channel vane island diffuser was also designed and built.

Development of the Internet-Based Customer-Oriented Ordering System Framework for Complicated Mechanical Product

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ong, Mingwei; Watanuki, Keiichi

Recently, as consumers gradually prefer buying products that reflect their own personality, there exist some consumers who wish to involve in the product design process. Parallel with the popularization of e-business, many manufacturers have utilized the Internet to promote their products, and some have even built websites that enable consumers to select their desirable product specifications. Nevertheless, this method has not been applied on complicated mechanical product due to the facts that complicated mechanical product has a large number of specifications that inter-relate among one another. In such a case, ordinary consumers who are lacking of design knowledge, are not capable of determining these specifications. In this paper, a prototype framework called Internet-based consumer-oriented product ordering system has been developed in which it enables ordinary consumers to have large freedom in determining complicated mechanical product specifications, and meanwhile ensures that the manufacturing of the determined product is feasible.

Site-Specific Research Conducted in Support of the Salton Sea Solar Pond Project - FY 1982 Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

French, R. L.; Marsh, H. E.; Roschke, E. J.; Wu, Y. C.

1984-01-01

The design and operation of a salt-gradient solar pond power plant at the Salton Sea presents problems not encountered at small research ponds that were built in the United States. The specific characteristics of the Salton Sea site and the desire to construct the pond using the local clay as a sealant represent major deviations from previous solar pond experience. The site-specific research in support of the plant design is described. The research activity included validation of the spectrophotometric light transmission measurement technique, a search for options for clarifying the turbid and colored water of the Salton Sea, development of water clarification specifications in terms common to industry practice, quantification of gas production from microbiological reactions in the ground, a determination of the combined effects of temperature and salinity on the permeation of the local clays, and a preliminary evaluation of material corrosion.

3. "TEST STAND NO. 13, EXCAVATION PLAN & SECTIONS." Specifications ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

3. "TEST STAND NO. 1-3, EXCAVATION PLAN & SECTIONS." Specifications No. ENG 04-353-50-10; Drawing No. 60-0906; no sheet number within title block; D.O. SERIES 1109/10. Stamped: AS BUILT. No revisions or revision dates. Last work date on this drawing "Checked by EAG, 1/31/49." Though this drawing is specific to Test Stand 1-3, it also illustrates the general methods used for excavation design and retaining wall construction at Test Stand 1-5. - Edwards Air Force Base, Air Force Rocket Propulsion Laboratory, Test Stand 1-3, Test Area 1-115, northwest end of Saturn Boulevard, Boron, Kern County, CA

Surface-specific additive manufacturing test artefacts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Townsend, Andrew; Racasan, Radu; Blunt, Liam

2018-06-01

Many test artefact designs have been proposed for use with additive manufacturing (AM) systems. These test artefacts have primarily been designed for the evaluation of AM form and dimensional performance. A series of surface-specific measurement test artefacts designed for use in the verification of AM manufacturing processes are proposed here. Surface-specific test artefacts can be made more compact because they do not require the large dimensions needed for accurate dimensional and form measurements. The series of three test artefacts are designed to provide comprehensive information pertaining to the manufactured surface. Measurement possibilities include deviation analysis, surface texture parameter data generation, sub-surface analysis, layer step analysis and build resolution comparison. The test artefacts are designed to provide easy access for measurement using conventional surface measurement techniques, for example, focus variation microscopy, stylus profilometry, confocal microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Additionally, the test artefacts may be simply visually inspected as a comparative tool, giving a fast indication of process variation between builds. The three test artefacts are small enough to be included in every build and include built-in manufacturing traceability information, making them a convenient physical record of the build.

What is Scanner and NonScanner?

Atmospheric Science Data Center

2014-12-08

... instruments specifically designed by a team of electronic, thermal, and mechanical experts, built and integrated with the ERBS and NOAA ... of three co-planar detectors (longwave, shortwave and total energy), all of which scan from one limb of the Earth to the other, across the ...

A multi-purpose electromagnetic actuator for magnetic resonance elastography.

PubMed

Feng, Yuan; Zhu, Mo; Qiu, Suhao; Shen, Ping; Ma, Shengyuan; Zhao, Xuefeng; Hu, Chun-Hong; Guo, Liang

2018-04-19

An electromagnetic actuator was designed for magnetic resonance elastography (MRE). The actuator is unique in that it is simple, portable, and capable of brain, abdomen, and phantom imagings. A custom-built control unit was used for controlling the vibration frequency and synchronizing the trigger signals. An actuation unit was built and mounted on the specifically designed clamp and holders for different imaging applications. MRE experiments with respect to gel phantoms, brain, and liver showed that the actuator could produce stable and consistent mechanical waves. Estimated shear modulus using local frequency estimate method demonstrated that the measurement results were in line with that from MRE studies using different actuation systems. The relatively easy setup procedure and simple design indicated that the actuator system had the potential to be applied in many different clinical studies. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

CRISPR Primer Designer: Design primers for knockout and chromosome imaging CRISPR-Cas system.

PubMed

Yan, Meng; Zhou, Shi-Rong; Xue, Hong-Wei

2015-07-01

The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated system enables biologists to edit genomes precisely and provides a powerful tool for perturbing endogenous gene regulation, modulation of epigenetic markers, and genome architecture. However, there are concerns about the specificity of the system, especially the usages of knocking out a gene. Previous designing tools either were mostly built-in websites or ran as command-line programs, and none of them ran locally and acquired a user-friendly interface. In addition, with the development of CRISPR-derived systems, such as chromosome imaging, there were still no tools helping users to generate specific end-user spacers. We herein present CRISPR Primer Designer for researchers to design primers for CRISPR applications. The program has a user-friendly interface, can analyze the BLAST results by using multiple parameters, score for each candidate spacer, and generate the primers when using a certain plasmid. In addition, CRISPR Primer Designer runs locally and can be used to search spacer clusters, and exports primers for the CRISPR-Cas system-based chromosome imaging system. © 2014 Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences.

Design, Development & Flight Testing Of The U.S. Army 4200 sq ft Parafoil Recovery System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bennett, Thomas W.; Fox, Roy

2007-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to describe the design, development and flight testing of the U.S. Army 4200 ft(sup 2) parafoil recovery system built under NASA Contract NAS9-00076. The 4200 ft(sup 2) parafoil described herein was a potential candidate to fulfill the U.S. Army requirement for a 10,000 lb useable payload precision guided recovery system. Design heritage as well as specific features, like lower surface inlets, confluence fitting, upper surface energy modulator design, deployment bag design and 60 ft diameter Ringslot drogue will be discussed. Initial flight test results, ground testing of various components to verify design margin and configuration changes will also be discussed. The 4200 ft(sup 2) parafoil recovery system completed three flight tests during 2003 at payload weights of over 15,000 lbs.

Design, Development and Flight Testing of the U.S. Army 4200 sq ft Parafoil Recovery System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bennett, Thomas W.; Fox, Roy, Jr.

2005-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to describe the design, development and flight-testing of the U.S. Army 4200 sq ft parafoil recovery system built under NASA Contract NAS 9-00076. The 4200 f? parafoil described herein was a potential candidate to fulfill the U.S. Army requirement for a 10,000 lb useable payload precision guided recovery system. Design heritage as well as specific features, like lower surface inlets, confluence fitting, upper surface energy modulator design, deployment bag design and 60 ft diameter Ringslot drogue will be discussed. Initial flight test results, ground testing of various components to verify design margin and configuration changes will also be discussed. The 4200 sq ft parafoil recovery system completed three flight tests during 2003 at payload weights of over 15,000 Ibs

Built Environment Influences of Children's Physical Activity: Examining Differences by Neighbourhood Size and Sex.

PubMed

Mitchell, Christine A; Clark, Andrew F; Gilliland, Jason A

2016-01-15

Neighbourhoods can facilitate or constrain moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) among children by providing or restricting opportunities for MVPA. However, there is no consensus on how to define a child's neighbourhood. This study examines the influence of the neighbourhood built environment on objectively measured MVPA among 435 children (aged 9-14 years) in London (ON, Canada). As there is no consensus on how to delineate a child's neighbourhood, a geographic information system was used to generate measures of the neighbourhood built environment at two buffer sizes (500 m and 800 m) around each child's home. Linear regression models with robust standard errors (cluster) were used to analyze the relationship between built environment characteristics and average daily MVPA during non-school hours on weekdays. Sex-stratified models assessed sex-specific relationships. When accounting for individual and neighbourhood socio-demographic variables, park space and multi-use path space were found to influence children's MVPA. Sex-stratified models found significant associations between MVPA and park space, with the 800 m buffer best explaining boys' MVPA and the 500 m buffer best explaining girls' MVPA. Findings emphasize that, when designing built environments, programs, and policies to facilitate physical activity, it is important to consider that the size of the neighbourhood influencing a child's physical activity may differ according to sex.

The NASA Lewis Research Center Water Tunnel Facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wasserbauer, Charles A.

1997-01-01

A water tunnel facility specifically designed to investigate internal fluid duct flows has been built at the NASA Research Center. It is built in a modular fashion so that a variety of internal flow test hardware can be installed in the facility with minimal facility reconfiguration. The facility and test hardware interfaces are discussed along with design constraints for future test hardware. The inlet chamber flow conditioning approach is also detailed. Instrumentation and data acquisition capabilities are discussed. The incoming flow quality has been documented for about one quarter of the current facility operating range. At that range, there is some scatter in the data in the turbulent boundary layer which approaches 10 percent of the duct radius leading to a uniform core.

American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) FEMP Technical Assistance Federal Aviation Administration Project 209 - Control Tower and Support Building, Las Vegas, NV

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Arends, J.; Sandusky, William F.

2010-03-31

This report represents findings of a design review team that evaluated construction documents (at the 70% level) and operating specifications for a new control tower and support building that will be built in Las Vegas, Nevada by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The focus of the review was to identify measures that could be incorporated into the final design and operating specification that would result in additional energy savings for the FAA that would not have otherwise occurred.

Heat-curved girders : deflections and camber loss during and subsequent to bridge construction.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1982-01-01

The present AASHTO bridge design specifications require that additional camber be built into steel girders that are to be heat curved. The additional camber is provided to allow for subsequent losses due to the dissipation of residual stresses impose...

Designing efficient logging systems for northern hardwoods using equipment production capabilities and costs.

Treesearch

R.B. Gardner

1966-01-01

Describes a typical logging system used in the Lake and Northeastern States, discusses each step in the operation, and presents a simple method for designing and efficient logging system for such an operation. Points out that a system should always be built around the key piece of equipment, which is usually the skidder. Specific equipment types and their production...

Development of a user customizable imaging informatics-based intelligent workflow engine system to enhance rehabilitation clinical trials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Ximing; Martinez, Clarisa; Wang, Jing; Liu, Ye; Liu, Brent

2014-03-01

Clinical trials usually have a demand to collect, track and analyze multimedia data according to the workflow. Currently, the clinical trial data management requirements are normally addressed with custom-built systems. Challenges occur in the workflow design within different trials. The traditional pre-defined custom-built system is usually limited to a specific clinical trial and normally requires time-consuming and resource-intensive software development. To provide a solution, we present a user customizable imaging informatics-based intelligent workflow engine system for managing stroke rehabilitation clinical trials with intelligent workflow. The intelligent workflow engine provides flexibility in building and tailoring the workflow in various stages of clinical trials. By providing a solution to tailor and automate the workflow, the system will save time and reduce errors for clinical trials. Although our system is designed for clinical trials for rehabilitation, it may be extended to other imaging based clinical trials as well.

A study on seismic behavior of pile foundations of bridge abutment on liquefiable ground through shaking table tests

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakata, Mitsuhiko; Tanimoto, Shunsuke; Ishida, Shuichi; Ohsumi, Michio; Hoshikuma, Jun-ichi

2017-10-01

There is risk of bridge foundations to be damaged by liquefaction-induced lateral spreading of ground. Once bridge foundations have been damaged, it takes a lot of time for restoration. Therefore, it is important to assess the seismic behavior of the foundations on liquefiable ground appropriately. In this study, shaking table tests of models on a scale of 1/10 were conducted at the large scale shaking table in Public Works Research Institute, Japan, to investigate the seismic behavior of pile-supported bridge abutment on liquefiable ground. The shaking table tests were conducted for three types of model. Two are models of existing bridge which was built without design for liquefaction and the other is a model of bridge which was designed based on the current Japanese design specifications for highway bridges. As a result, the bending strains of piles of the abutment which were designed based on the current design specifications were less than those of the existing bridge.

Design specification for the European Spallation Source neutron generating target element

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aguilar, A.; Sordo, F.; Mora, T.; Mena, L.; Mancisidor, M.; Aguilar, J.; Bakedano, G.; Herranz, I.; Luna, P.; Magan, M.; Vivanco, R.; Jimenez-Villacorta, F.; Sjogreen, K.; Oden, U.; Perlado, J. M.; Martinez, J. L.; Bermejo, F. J.

2017-06-01

The paper addresses some of the most relevant issues concerning the thermal hydraulics and radiation damage of the neutron generation target to be built at the European Spallation Source as recently approved after a critical design review. The target unit consists of a set of Tungsten blocks placed inside a wheel of 2.5 m diameter which rotates at some 0.5 Hz in order to distribute the heat generated from incoming protons which reach the target in the radial direction. The spallation material elements are composed of an array of Tungsten pieces which rest on a rotating steel support (the cassette) and are distributed in a cross-flow configuration. The thermal, mechanical and radiation effects resulting from the impact of a 2 GeV proton pulse are analysed in detail as well as an evaluation of the inventory of spallation products. The current design is found to conform to specifications and found to be robust enough to deal with several accident scenarios.

DOE LeRC photovoltaic systems test facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cull, R. C.; Forestieri, A. F.

1978-01-01

The facility was designed and built and is being operated as a national facility to serve the needs of the entire DOE National Photovoltaic Program. The object of the facility is to provide a place where photovoltaic systems may be assembled and electrically configured, without specific physical configuration, for operation and testing to evaluate their performance and characteristics. The facility as a breadboard system allows investigation of operational characteristics and checkout of components, subsystems and systems before they are mounted in field experiments or demonstrations. The facility as currently configured consist of 10 kW of solar arrays built from modules, two inverter test stations, a battery storage system, interface with local load and the utility grid, and instrumentation and control necessary to make a flexible operating facility. Expansion to 30 kW is planned for 1978. Test results and operating experience are summaried to show the variety of work that can be done with this facility.

What Really Needs to Be Built?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gilbert, P. G.

1991-01-01

Discusses the development of a camp design brief that clarifies the specific priorities and criteria for building or expanding camp facilities. Presents three situations in which camp directors accurately diagnosed their facility problems but changed their building plans over time because of financial, operational, or locational considerations.…

Tank Monitoring and Document control System (TMACS) As Built Software Design Document

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

GLASSCOCK, J.A.

This document describes the software design for the Tank Monitor and Control System (TMACS). This document captures the existing as-built design of TMACS as of November 1999. It will be used as a reference document to the system maintainers who will be maintaining and modifying the TMACS functions as necessary. The heart of the TMACS system is the ''point-processing'' functionality where a sample value is received from the field sensors and the value is analyzed, logged, or alarmed as required. This Software Design Document focuses on the point-processing functions.

Nucleic Acid Nanostructures: Bottom-Up Control of Geometry on the Nanoscale

PubMed Central

Seeman, Nadrian C.; Lukeman, Philip S.

2012-01-01

DNA may seem an unlikely molecule from which to build nanostructures, but this is not correct. The specificity of interaction that enables DNA to function so successfully as genetic material also enables its use as a smart molecule for construction on the nanoscale. The key to using DNA for this purpose is the design of stable branched molecules, which expand its ability to interact specifically with other nucleic acid molecules. The same interactions used by genetic engineers can be used to make cohesive interactions with other DNA molecules that lead to a variety of new species. Branched DNA molecules are easy to design, and the can assume a variety of structural motifs. These can be used for purposes both of specific construction, such as polyhedra, and for the assembly of topological targets. A variety of two-dimensional periodic arrays with specific patterns have been made. DNA nanomechanical devices have been built with a series of different triggers, small molecules, nucleic acid molecules and proteins. Recently, progress has been made in self-replication of DNA nano-constructs, and in the scaffolding of other species into DNA arrangements. PMID:25152542

A Transplant-Specific Quality Initiative-Introducing TransQIP: A Joint Effort of the ASTS and ACS.

PubMed

Parekh, J; Ko, C; Lappin, J; Greenstein, S; Hirose, R

2017-07-01

In an attempt to improve surgical quality in the field of transplantation, the American College of Surgeons (ACS) and American Society of Transplant Surgeons have initiated a national quality improvement program in transplantation. This transplant-specific quality improvement program, called TransQIP, has been built from the ground up by transplant surgeons and captures detailed information on donor and recipient factors as well as transplant-specific outcomes. It is built upon the existing ACS/National Surgical Quality Improvement Program infrastructure and is designed to capture 100% of liver and kidney transplants performed at participating sites. TransQIP has completed its alpha pilot and will embark upon its beta phase at approximately 30 centers in the spring of 2017. Going forward, we anticipate TransQIP will help satisfy Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services requirements for a quality improvement program, surgeon requirements for maintenance of certification, and qualify as a clinical practice improvement activity under the Merit-Based Incentive Payment System. Most importantly, we believe TransQIP will provide insight into surgical outcomes in transplantation that will allow the field to provide better care to our patients. © 2017 The American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons.

The state of the Java universe

ScienceCinema

Gosling, James

2018-05-22

Speaker Bio: James Gosling received a B.Sc. in computer science from the University of Calgary, Canada in 1977. He received a Ph.D. in computer science from Carnegie-Mellon University in 1983. The title of his thesis was The Algebraic Manipulation of Constraints. He has built satellite data acquisition systems, a multiprocessor version of UNIX®, several compilers, mail systems, and window managers. He has also built a WYSIWYG text editor, a constraint-based drawing editor, and a text editor called Emacs, for UNIX systems. At Sun his early activity was as lead engineer of the NeWS window system. He did the original design of the Java programming language and implemented its original compiler and virtual machine. He has recently been a contributor to the Real-Time Specification for Java.

Assuring NASA's Safety and Mission Critical Software

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Deadrick, Wesley

2015-01-01

What is IV&V? Independent Verification and Validation (IV&V) is an objective examination of safety and mission critical software processes and products. Independence: 3 Key parameters: Technical Independence; Managerial Independence; Financial Independence. NASA IV&V perspectives: Will the system's software: Do what it is supposed to do?; Not do what it is not supposed to do?; Respond as expected under adverse conditions?. Systems Engineering: Determines if the right system has been built and that it has been built correctly. IV&V Technical Approaches: Aligned with IEEE 1012; Captured in a Catalog of Methods; Spans the full project lifecycle. IV&V Assurance Strategy: The IV&V Project's strategy for providing mission assurance; Assurance Strategy is driven by the specific needs of an individual project; Implemented via an Assurance Design; Communicated via Assurance Statements.

An economic analysis of a commercial approach to the design and fabrication of a space power system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Putney, Z.; Been, J. F.

1979-01-01

A commercial approach to the design and fabrication of an economical space power system is presented. Cost reductions are projected through the conceptual design of a 2 kW space power system built with the capability for having serviceability. The approach to system costing that is used takes into account both the constraints of operation in space and commercial production engineering approaches. The cost of this power system reflects a variety of cost/benefit tradeoffs that would reduce system cost as a function of system reliability requirements, complexity, and the impact of rigid specifications. A breakdown of the system design, documentation, fabrication, and reliability and quality assurance cost estimates are detailed.

Atomdroid: a computational chemistry tool for mobile platforms.

PubMed

Feldt, Jonas; Mata, Ricardo A; Dieterich, Johannes M

2012-04-23

We present the implementation of a new molecular mechanics program designed for use in mobile platforms, the first specifically built for these devices. The software is designed to run on Android operating systems and is compatible with several modern tablet-PCs and smartphones available in the market. It includes molecular viewer/builder capabilities with integrated routines for geometry optimizations and Monte Carlo simulations. These functionalities allow it to work as a stand-alone tool. We discuss some particular development aspects, as well as the overall feasibility of using computational chemistry software packages in mobile platforms. Benchmark calculations show that through efficient implementation techniques even hand-held devices can be used to simulate midsized systems using force fields.

Design of the cryogenic systems for the Near and Far LAr-TPC detectors of the Short-Baseline Neutrino program (SBN) at Fermilab

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Geynisman, M.; Bremer, J.; Chalifour, M.

The Short-Baseline Neutrino (SBN) physics program at Fermilab and Neutrino Platform (NP) at CERN are part of the international Neutrino Program leading to the development of Long-Baseline Neutrino Facility/Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (LBNF/DUNE) science project. The SBN program consisting of three Liquid Argon Time Projection Chamber (LAr-TPC) detectors positioned along the Booster Neutrino Beam (BNB) at Fermilab includes an existing detector known as MicroBooNE (170-ton LAr-TPC) plus two new experiments known as SBN’s Near Detector (SBND, ~260 tons) and SBN’s Far Detector (SBN-FD, ~760 tons). All three detectors have distinctly different design of their cryostats thus defining specific requirements formore » the cryogenic systems. Fermilab has already built two new facilities to house SBND and SBN-FD detectors. The cryogenic systems for these detectors are in various stages of design and construction with CERN and Fermilab being responsible for delivery of specific sub-systems. This contribution presents specific design requirements and typical implementation solutions for each sub-system of the SBND and SBN-FD cryogenic systems.« less

Design of the cryogenic systems for the Near and Far LAr-TPC detectors of the Short-Baseline Neutrino program (SBN) at Fermilab

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geynisman, M.; Bremer, J.; Chalifour, M.; Delaney, M.; Dinnon, M.; Doubnik, R.; Hentschel, S.; Kim, M. J.; Montanari, C.; Montanari, D.; Nichols, T.; Norris, B.; Sarychev, M.; Schwartz, F.; Tillman, J.; Zuckerbrot, M.

2017-12-01

The Short-Baseline Neutrino (SBN) physics program at Fermilab and Neutrino Platform (NP) at CERN are part of the international Neutrino Program leading to the development of Long-Baseline Neutrino Facility/Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (LBNF/DUNE) science project. The SBN program consisting of three Liquid Argon Time Projection Chamber (LAr-TPC) detectors positioned along the Booster Neutrino Beam (BNB) at Fermilab includes an existing detector known as MicroBooNE (170-ton LAr-TPC) plus two new experiments known as SBN’s Near Detector (SBND, ∼260 tons) and SBN’s Far Detector (SBN-FD, ∼760 tons). All three detectors have distinctly different design of their cryostats thus defining specific requirements for the cryogenic systems. Fermilab has already built two new facilities to house SBND and SBN-FD detectors. The cryogenic systems for these detectors are in various stages of design and construction with CERN and Fermilab being responsible for delivery of specific sub-systems. This contribution presents specific design requirements and typical implementation solutions for each sub-system of the SBND and SBN-FD cryogenic systems.

DREAMS and IMAGE: A Model and Computer Implementation for Concurrent, Life-Cycle Design of Complex Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hale, Mark A.; Craig, James I.; Mistree, Farrokh; Schrage, Daniel P.

1995-01-01

Computing architectures are being assembled that extend concurrent engineering practices by providing more efficient execution and collaboration on distributed, heterogeneous computing networks. Built on the successes of initial architectures, requirements for a next-generation design computing infrastructure can be developed. These requirements concentrate on those needed by a designer in decision-making processes from product conception to recycling and can be categorized in two areas: design process and design information management. A designer both designs and executes design processes throughout design time to achieve better product and process capabilities while expanding fewer resources. In order to accomplish this, information, or more appropriately design knowledge, needs to be adequately managed during product and process decomposition as well as recomposition. A foundation has been laid that captures these requirements in a design architecture called DREAMS (Developing Robust Engineering Analysis Models and Specifications). In addition, a computing infrastructure, called IMAGE (Intelligent Multidisciplinary Aircraft Generation Environment), is being developed that satisfies design requirements defined in DREAMS and incorporates enabling computational technologies.

Interplanetary Overlay Network Bundle Protocol Implementation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burleigh, Scott C.

2011-01-01

The Interplanetary Overlay Network (ION) system's BP package, an implementation of the Delay-Tolerant Networking (DTN) Bundle Protocol (BP) and supporting services, has been specifically designed to be suitable for use on deep-space robotic vehicles. Although the ION BP implementation is unique in its use of zero-copy objects for high performance, and in its use of resource-sensitive rate control, it is fully interoperable with other implementations of the BP specification (Internet RFC 5050). The ION BP implementation is built using the same software infrastructure that underlies the implementation of the CCSDS (Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems) File Delivery Protocol (CFDP) built into the flight software of Deep Impact. It is designed to minimize resource consumption, while maximizing operational robustness. For example, no dynamic allocation of system memory is required. Like all the other ION packages, ION's BP implementation is designed to port readily between Linux and Solaris (for easy development and for ground system operations) and VxWorks (for flight systems operations). The exact same source code is exercised in both environments. Initially included in the ION BP implementations are the following: libraries of functions used in constructing bundle forwarders and convergence-layer (CL) input and output adapters; a simple prototype bundle forwarder and associated CL adapters designed to run over an IPbased local area network; administrative tools for managing a simple DTN infrastructure built from these components; a background daemon process that silently destroys bundles whose time-to-live intervals have expired; a library of functions exposed to applications, enabling them to issue and receive data encapsulated in DTN bundles; and some simple applications that can be used for system checkout and benchmarking.

GROVER: An autonomous vehicle for ice sheet research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trisca, G. O.; Robertson, M. E.; Marshall, H.; Koenig, L.; Comberiate, M. A.

2013-12-01

The Goddard Remotely Operated Vehicle for Exploration and Research or Greenland Rover (GROVER) is a science enabling autonomous robot specifically designed to carry a low-power, large bandwidth radar for snow accumulation mapping over the Greenland Ice Sheet. This new and evolving technology enables reduced cost and increased safety for polar research. GROVER was field tested at Summit, Greenland in May 2013. The robot traveled over 30 km and was controlled both by line of sight wireless and completely autonomously with commands and telemetry via the Iridium Satellite Network, from Summit as well as remotely from Boise, Idaho. Here we describe GROVER's unique abilities and design. The software stack features a modular design that can be adapted for any application that requires autonomous behavior, reliable communications using different technologies and low level control of peripherals. The modules are built to communicate using the publisher-subscriber design pattern to maximize data-reuse and allow for graceful failures at the software level, along with the ability to be loaded or unloaded on-the-fly, enabling the software to adopt different behaviors based on power constraints or specific processing needs. These modules can also be loaded or unloaded remotely for servicing and telemetry can be configured to contain any kind of information being generated by the sensors or scientific instruments. The hardware design protects the electronic components and the control system can change functional parameters based on sensor input. Power failure modes built into the hardware prevent the vehicle from running out of energy permanently by monitoring voltage levels and triggering software reboots when the levels match pre-established conditions. This guarantees that the control software will be operational as soon as there is enough charge to sustain it, giving the vehicle increased longevity in case of a temporary power loss. GROVER demonstrates that autonomous rovers can be a revolutionary tool for data collection, and that both the technology and the software are available and ready to be implemented to create scientific data collection platforms.

Arcjet thruster research and technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Makel, Darby B.; Cann, Gordon L.

1988-01-01

The design, analysis, and performance testing of an advanced lower power arcjet is described. A high impedance, vortex stabilized 1-kw class arcjet has been studied. A baseline research thruster has been built and endurance and performance tested. This advanced arcjet has demonstrated long lifetime characteristics, but lower than expected performance. Analysis of the specific design has identified modifications which should improve performance and maintain the long life time shown by the arcjet.

Puppetry and Creative Dramatics in Storytelling.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Champlin, Connie

The 14 units in this book are designed to help teachers and librarians motivate children to express emotions, pantomime characters, and create a full story environment through puppetry and creative dramatics. Each unit is built around a specific piece of literature, and each provides instructions for the educator concerning the necessary…

75 FR 39262 - Agency Forms Undergoing Paperwork Reduction Act Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-07-08

... related risk factors. The efficacy of green building design features in reducing allergens and toxic... the extent to which green-built, low-income housing actually reduces exposures to these compounds when... specific green building practices (e.g., use of low chemical-emitting paints and carpets) may influence...

Reports of the National Juvenile Justice Assessment Centers. Juvenile Delinquency Prevention Experiments: A Review and Analysis.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Berleman, William C.

Ten delinquency prevention studies are reviewed that incorporated rigorous evaluative procedures (specifically the classic experimental design) for assessing programmatic outcomes. Following an introduction, the evaluation mechanisms built into each project are described, since they were used for determination of the effectiveness of the…

Optimization of scaffold design for bone tissue engineering: A computational and experimental study.

PubMed

Dias, Marta R; Guedes, José M; Flanagan, Colleen L; Hollister, Scott J; Fernandes, Paulo R

2014-04-01

In bone tissue engineering, the scaffold has not only to allow the diffusion of cells, nutrients and oxygen but also provide adequate mechanical support. One way to ensure the scaffold has the right properties is to use computational tools to design such a scaffold coupled with additive manufacturing to build the scaffolds to the resulting optimized design specifications. In this study a topology optimization algorithm is proposed as a technique to design scaffolds that meet specific requirements for mass transport and mechanical load bearing. Several micro-structures obtained computationally are presented. Designed scaffolds were then built using selective laser sintering and the actual features of the fabricated scaffolds were measured and compared to the designed values. It was possible to obtain scaffolds with an internal geometry that reasonably matched the computational design (within 14% of porosity target, 40% for strut size and 55% for throat size in the building direction and 15% for strut size and 17% for throat size perpendicular to the building direction). These results support the use of these kind of computational algorithms to design optimized scaffolds with specific target properties and confirm the value of these techniques for bone tissue engineering. Copyright © 2014 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated software development workstation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1986-01-01

Engineering software development was automated using an expert system (rule-based) approach. The use of this technology offers benefits not available from current software development and maintenance methodologies. A workstation was built with a library or program data base with methods for browsing the designs stored; a system for graphical specification of designs including a capability for hierarchical refinement and definition in a graphical design system; and an automated code generation capability in FORTRAN. The workstation was then used in a demonstration with examples from an attitude control subsystem design for the space station. Documentation and recommendations are presented.

Adaptable data management for systems biology investigations.

PubMed

Boyle, John; Rovira, Hector; Cavnor, Chris; Burdick, David; Killcoyne, Sarah; Shmulevich, Ilya

2009-03-06

Within research each experiment is different, the focus changes and the data is generated from a continually evolving barrage of technologies. There is a continual introduction of new techniques whose usage ranges from in-house protocols through to high-throughput instrumentation. To support these requirements data management systems are needed that can be rapidly built and readily adapted for new usage. The adaptable data management system discussed is designed to support the seamless mining and analysis of biological experiment data that is commonly used in systems biology (e.g. ChIP-chip, gene expression, proteomics, imaging, flow cytometry). We use different content graphs to represent different views upon the data. These views are designed for different roles: equipment specific views are used to gather instrumentation information; data processing oriented views are provided to enable the rapid development of analysis applications; and research project specific views are used to organize information for individual research experiments. This management system allows for both the rapid introduction of new types of information and the evolution of the knowledge it represents. Data management is an important aspect of any research enterprise. It is the foundation on which most applications are built, and must be easily extended to serve new functionality for new scientific areas. We have found that adopting a three-tier architecture for data management, built around distributed standardized content repositories, allows us to rapidly develop new applications to support a diverse user community.

A one-dimensional ice structure built from pentagons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carrasco, Javier; Michaelides, Angelos

2010-03-01

Heterogeneous nucleation of water plays a key role in fields as diverse as atmospheric chemistry, astrophysics, and biology. Ice nucleation on metal surfaces offers an opportunity to watch this process unfold, providing a molecular-scale description at a well-defined, planar interface. We discuss a density-functional theory study on a metal surface specifically designed to understand such phenomena. Together with our colleges at the University of Liverpool, we found that the nanometer wide water-ice chains experimentally observed to nucleate and grow on Cu(110) are built from a face sharing arrangement of water pentagons [1]. The novel one-dimensional pentagon structure maximizes the water-metal bonding whilst simultaneously maintaining a strong hydrogen bonding network. These results reveal an unanticipated structural adaptability of water-ice films, demonstrating that the presence of the substrate can be sufficient to favor non-conventional structural units. [4pt] [1] J. Carrasco et al., Nature Mater. 8, 427 (2009).

Energy performance of net-zero and near net-zero energy homes in New England

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thomas, Walter D.

Net-Zero Energy Homes (NZEHs) are homes that consume no more energy than they produce on site during the course of a year. They are well insulated and sealed, use energy efficient appliances, lighting, and mechanical equipment, are designed to maximize the benefits from day lighting, and most often use a combination of solar hot water, passive solar and photovoltaic (PV) panels to produce their on-site energy. To date, NZEHs make up a miniscule percentage of homes in the United States, and of those, few have had their actual performance measured and analyzed once built and occupied. This research focused on 19 NZEHs and near net-zero energy homes (NNZEHs) built in New England. This set of homes had varying designs, numbers of occupants, and installed technologies for energy production, space heating and cooling, and domestic hot water systems. The author worked with participating homeowners to collect construction and systems specifications, occupancy information, and twelve months of energy consumption, production and cost measurements, in order to determine whether the homes reached their respective energy performance design goals. The author found that six out of ten NZEHs achieved net-zero energy or better, while all nine of the NNZEHs achieved an energy density (kWh/ft 2/person) at least half as low as the control house, also built in New England. The median construction cost for the 19 homes was 155/ft 2 vs. 110/ft2 for the US average, their average monthly energy cost was 84% below the average for homes in New England, and their estimated CO2 emissions averaged 90% below estimated CO2 emissions from the control house. Measured energy consumption averaged 14% below predictions for the NZEHs and 38% above predictions for the NNZEHs, while generated energy was within +/- 10% of predicted for 17 out of 18 on-site PV systems. Based on these results, the author concludes that these types of homes can meet or exceed their designed energy performance (depending on occupant behavior), can be affordably built, and will have very low energy costs and CO2 emissions compared to conventional homes. In short, they are very suitable for New England.

NEuclid: a long-range tilt-immune homodyne interferometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bradshaw, M. J.; Speake, C. C.

2017-11-01

The new Easy to Use Compact Laser Interferometric Device (nEUCLID) is a polarisation-based homodyne interferometer with substantially unequal arms that is tolerant to target mirror tilt. The design has no active components, uses standard optical components of 25 mm diameter, has a working distance of 706 mm and a reference arm-length of 21 mm. nEUCLID optics have a footprint of 210 x 190 x 180 mm, and has a tolerance to target mirror tilt of +/- 0.5 degrees, made possible by a novel new retro-reflector design [1]. nEUCLID was built to a set of specifications laid down by Airbus Defence and Space, who required a lowmass, low-power device to measure displacement with nanometre accuracy for space applications. At the University of Birmingham we have previously built a smaller, more compact tilt-insensitive homodyne interferometer - the EUCLID [2, 3, 4] - which has a working distance of 6 mm, a working range of +/- 3 mm, and a tilt range of +/- 1° [2]. We created a new optical design to allow a much larger working distance to be achieved (as discussed in Section II) and used this in a new interferometer - the nEUCLID. Section II describes the interferometer in detail; how nEUCLID is tilt insensitive, and the optical configuration. Section III states the design specifications from Airbus Defence and Space and the components used in the final design. The output interference pattern from nEUCLID, and how it has been corrected with a meniscus lens, is also discussed. In Section IV we discuss the results demonstrating the tilt immunity range, and the sensitivity of the device. Section V describes several potential applications of nEUCLID, and Section VI draws together our conclusions.

Designing added functions in engineered cementitious composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, En-Hua

In this dissertation, a new and systematic material design approach is developed for ECC with added functions through material microstructures linkage to composite macroscopic behavior. The thesis research embodies theoretical development by building on previous ECC micromechanical models, and experimental investigations into three specific new versions of ECC with added functions aimed at addressing societal demands of our built infrastructure. Specifically, the theoretical study includes three important ECC modeling elements: Steady-state crack propagation analyses and simulation, predictive accuracy of the fiber bridging constitutive model, and development of the rate-dependent strain-hardening criteria. The first element establishes the steady-state cracking criterion as a fundamental requirement for multiple cracking behavior in brittle matrix composites. The second element improves the accuracy of crack-width prediction in ECC. The third element establishes the micromechanics basis for impact-resistant ECC design. Three new ECCs with added functions were developed and experimentally verified in this thesis research through the enhanced theoretical framework. A green ECC incorporating a large volume of industrial waste was demonstrated to possess reduced crack width and drying shrinkage. The self-healing ECC designed with tight crack width was demonstrated to recover transport and mechanical properties after microcrack damage when exposed to wet and dry cycles. The impact-resistant ECC was demonstrated to retain tensile ductility with increased strength under moderately high strain-rate loading. These new versions of ECC with added functions are expected to contribute greatly to enhancing the sustainability, durability, and safety of civil infrastructure built with ECC. This research establishes the effectiveness of micromechanics-based design and material ingredient tailoring for ECC with added new attributes but without losing its basic tensile ductile characteristics.

A conceptual framework for the domain of evidence-based design.

PubMed

Ulrich, Roger S; Berry, Leonard L; Quan, Xiaobo; Parish, Janet Turner

2010-01-01

The physical facilities in which healthcare services are performed play an important role in the healing process. Evidence-based design in healthcare is a developing field of study that holds great promise for benefiting key stakeholders: patients, families, physicians, and nurses, as well as other healthcare staff and organizations. In this paper, the authors present and discuss a conceptual framework intended to capture the current domain of evidence-based design in healthcare. In this framework, the built environment is represented by nine design variable categories: audio environment, visual environment, safety enhancement, wayfinding system, sustainability, patient room, family support spaces, staff support spaces, and physician support spaces. Furthermore, a series of matrices is presented that indicates knowledge gaps concerning the relationship between specific healthcare facility design variable categories and participant and organizational outcomes. From this analysis, the authors identify fertile research opportunities from the perspectives of key stakeholders.

A Laboratory Experiment to Measure the Built-In Potential of a P-N Junction by a Photosaturation Method

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ikram, I. Mohamed; Rabinal, M. K.; Mulimani, B. G.

2009-01-01

Here, we propose a simple method for measuring the built-in potential and its temperature dependence of a photodiode by a photosaturation technique. The experimental design facilitates both current-voltage and null voltage measurements as a function of white light intensity. This method gives the built-in potential directly; as a result its…

The Role of Guidance, Navigation, and Control in Hypersonic Vehicle Multidisciplinary Design and Optimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ouzts, Peter J.; Soloway, Donald I.; Moerder, Daniel D.; Wolpert, David H.; Benavides, Jose Victor

2009-01-01

Airbreathing hypersonic systems offer distinct performance advantages over rocket-based systems for space access vehicles. However, these performance advantages are dependent upon advances in current state-of-the-art technologies in many areas such as ram/scramjet propulsion integration, high temperature materials, aero-elastic structures, thermal protection systems, transition to hypersonics and hypersonic control elements within the framework of complex physics and new design methods. The complex interactions between elements of an airbreathing hypersonic vehicle represent a new paradigm in vehicle design to achieve the optimal performance necessary to meet space access mission objectives. In the past, guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) analysis often follows completion of the vehicle conceptual design process. Individual component groups design subsystems which are then integrated into a vehicle configuration. GNC is presented the task of developing control approaches to meet vehicle performance objectives given that configuration. This approach may be sufficient for vehicles where significant performance margins exist. However, for higher performance vehicles engaging the GNC discipline too late in the design cycle has been costly. For example, the X-29 experimental flight vehicle was built as a technology demonstrator. One of the many technologies to be demonstrated was the use of light-weight material composites for structural components. The use of light-weight materials increased the flexibility of the X- 29 beyond that of conventional metal alloy constructed aircraft. This effect was not considered when the vehicle control system was designed and built. The impact of this is that the control system did not have enough control authority to compensate for the effects of the first fundamental structural mode of the vehicle. As a result, the resulting pitch rate response of the vehicle was below specification and no post-design changes could recover the desired capability.

Laser optical appraisal and design of a PRIME/Rover interface

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Donaldson, J. A.

1980-01-01

An appraisal of whether to improve the existing multi-laser/multi detector system was undertaken. Two features of the elevation scanning mast which prevent the system from meeting desired specifications were studied. Then elevation scanning mast has 20 detectors, as opposed to the desired 40. This influences the system's overall resolution. The mirror shaft encoder's finite resolution prevents the laser from being aimed exactly as desired. This influences the system's overall accuracy. It was concluded that the existing system needs no modification at present. The design and construction of a data emulator which allowed testing data transactions with a PRIME computer is described, and theory of operation briefly discussed. A full blown PRIME/Rover Interface was designed and built. The capabilities of this Interface and its operating principles are discussed.

URPD: a specific product primer design tool

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) plays an important role in molecular biology. Primer design fundamentally determines its results. Here, we present a currently available software that is not located in analyzing large sequence but used for a rather straight-forward way of visualizing the primer design process for infrequent users. Findings URPD (yoUR Primer Design), a web-based specific product primer design tool, combines the NCBI Reference Sequences (RefSeq), UCSC In-Silico PCR, memetic algorithm (MA) and genetic algorithm (GA) primer design methods to obtain specific primer sets. A friendly user interface is accomplished by built-in parameter settings. The incorporated smooth pipeline operations effectively guide both occasional and advanced users. URPD contains an automated process, which produces feasible primer pairs that satisfy the specific needs of the experimental design with practical PCR amplifications. Visual virtual gel electrophoresis and in silico PCR provide a simulated PCR environment. The comparison of Practical gel electrophoresis comparison to virtual gel electrophoresis facilitates and verifies the PCR experiment. Wet-laboratory validation proved that the system provides feasible primers. Conclusions URPD is a user-friendly tool that provides specific primer design results. The pipeline design path makes it easy to operate for beginners. URPD also provides a high throughput primer design function. Moreover, the advanced parameter settings assist sophisticated researchers in performing experiential PCR. Several novel functions, such as a nucleotide accession number template sequence input, local and global specificity estimation, primer pair redesign, user-interactive sequence scale selection, and virtual and practical PCR gel electrophoresis discrepancies have been developed and integrated into URPD. The URPD program is implemented in JAVA and freely available at http://bio.kuas.edu.tw/urpd/. PMID:22713312

URPD: a specific product primer design tool.

PubMed

Chuang, Li-Yeh; Cheng, Yu-Huei; Yang, Cheng-Hong

2012-06-19

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) plays an important role in molecular biology. Primer design fundamentally determines its results. Here, we present a currently available software that is not located in analyzing large sequence but used for a rather straight-forward way of visualizing the primer design process for infrequent users. URPD (yoUR Primer Design), a web-based specific product primer design tool, combines the NCBI Reference Sequences (RefSeq), UCSC In-Silico PCR, memetic algorithm (MA) and genetic algorithm (GA) primer design methods to obtain specific primer sets. A friendly user interface is accomplished by built-in parameter settings. The incorporated smooth pipeline operations effectively guide both occasional and advanced users. URPD contains an automated process, which produces feasible primer pairs that satisfy the specific needs of the experimental design with practical PCR amplifications. Visual virtual gel electrophoresis and in silico PCR provide a simulated PCR environment. The comparison of Practical gel electrophoresis comparison to virtual gel electrophoresis facilitates and verifies the PCR experiment. Wet-laboratory validation proved that the system provides feasible primers. URPD is a user-friendly tool that provides specific primer design results. The pipeline design path makes it easy to operate for beginners. URPD also provides a high throughput primer design function. Moreover, the advanced parameter settings assist sophisticated researchers in performing experiential PCR. Several novel functions, such as a nucleotide accession number template sequence input, local and global specificity estimation, primer pair redesign, user-interactive sequence scale selection, and virtual and practical PCR gel electrophoresis discrepancies have been developed and integrated into URPD. The URPD program is implemented in JAVA and freely available at http://bio.kuas.edu.tw/urpd/.

High-rise housing in the city of Samara: the first steps on the path to sustainable development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vavilova, Tatiana Ya.; Makeeva, Elena Yu.

2018-03-01

This paper outlines theoretical background of high-rise housing and discusses its design experience. It particularly focuses on environmental, social and economic aspects which are among crucial sustainable development issues. The authors dwell upon the implementation of innovative solutions that meet principles and goals of sustainable development and take construction objects built in Samara (which is one of the largest metropolises in Russia) as an example. The research also investigates the quality of project designs and reveals techniques corresponding to the "green standards". It considers the issues of practicing high-rise building construction in specific urban conditions and identifies unresolved architectural problems.

Achieving built-environment and active living goals through Music City Moves.

PubMed

Omishakin, Adetokunbo A; Carlat, Jennifer L; Hornsby, Shannon; Buck, Tracy

2009-12-01

Nashville, Tennessee, formed Music City Moves (MCM), an interdisciplinary, countywide partnership to implement its vision for the community: a metropolitan region where routine physical activity is a fundamental part of daily life for all residents. Music City Moves' main focus was the pursuit of changes in community planning policies to help shape Nashville's built environment and facilitate walking and bicycling. To complement this focus, MCM developed a suite of health programs to support physical activity in high-risk populations and a countywide promotional campaign designed to increase awareness and get people active through event participation. Nashville made considerable strides in improving policies and regulations related to building and site design to improve the built environment for pedestrians and cyclists, including passage of (1) specific plan zoning; (2) revised subdivision regulations that introduced a "walkable subdivision" option for developers; and (3) a community-character manual that will guide future land-use planning. Programs and promotions have increased awareness and participation, and the Tour de Nash bike/walk event showcases yearly changes in the built environment. Political leadership has been critical to MCM's success. Leadership of the partnership by the planning department facilitated regulatory changes in planning policies. Music City Moves has accelerated Nashville's movement to improve the built environment and encourage active living. The beneficial impact of policy changes will continue to be manifested in coming years; however, ongoing political support and education of stakeholders in the planning process will be necessary to ensure that planning policies are fully implemented.

As-built design specification for PARHIS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tompkins, M. A. (Principal Investigator)

1981-01-01

The program is part of the CLASFYG package. It produces histograms of the greeness profile derived parameters alpha, beta, t sub o, and chi squared, which are computed by the CLASFYG program. Alpha is the approximate greeness rise time, beta is the approximate greeness decay time, t sub o is the spectral crop emergence date, and chi squared per degree of freedom is the goodness of fit of the actual data to the computed greeness profile. The program also produces statistical information concerning the parameters.

As-built design specification for the CLASFYG program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Horton, C. L. (Principal Investigator)

1981-01-01

This program produces a file with a Universal-formatted header and data records in a nonstandard format. Trajectory coefficients are calculated from 5 to 8 acquisitions of radiance values in the training field corresponding to an agricultural product. These coefficients are then used to calculate a time of emergence and corresponding trajectory coefficients for each pixel in the test field. The time of emergence, two of the coefficients, and the sigma value for each pixel are written to the file.

Teaching Creative Thinking through Architectural Design

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jeon, Kijeong; Cotner, Teresa L.

2010-01-01

Art and art education are open to broader definitions in the twenty-first century. It is time that teachers seriously think about including built environment design in K-12 art education. The term "built environment" includes interior design, architecture, landscape architecture, and urban planning. Due to increased exposure to built environment…

Waste water processing technology for Space Station Freedom - Comparative test data analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miernik, Janie H.; Shah, Burt H.; Mcgriff, Cindy F.

1991-01-01

Comparative tests were conducted to choose the optimum technology for waste water processing on SSF. A thermoelectric integrated membrane evaporation (TIMES) subsystem and a vapor compression distillation subsystem (VCD) were built and tested to compare urine processing capability. Water quality, performance, and specific energy were compared for conceptual designs intended to function as part of the water recovery and management system of SSF. The VCD is considered the most mature and efficient technology and was selected to replace the TIMES as the baseline urine processor for SSF.

As-Built design specification for the CLASFYT program. [production of classification files - crop inventory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Horton, C. L. (Principal Investigator)

1981-01-01

The CLASFYT program is described in detail. The program produces a one-channel universal-formatted classification file. Trajectory coefficients and a composite set of tolerance values are calculated from five acquisitions of radiance values in each of the training fields corresponding to up to ten agricultural products. These coefficients and tolerance values are used to classify each pixel in the test field of the same segment to be the same agricultural product as one of the training fields, none of the products or a screened pixel.

Alignment Fixtures For Vacuum-Plasma-Spray Gun

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Woodford, William H.; Mckechnie, Timothy N.; Power, Christopher A.; Daniel, Ronald L., Jr.

1993-01-01

Fixtures for alignment of vacuum-plasma-spray guns built. Each fixture designed to fit specific gun and holds small, battery-powered laser on centerline of gun. Laser beam projects small red dot where centerline intersects surface of workpiece to be sprayed. After laser beam positioned on surface of workpiece, fixture removed from gun and spraying proceeds.

76 FR 41260 - Agency Forms Undergoing Paperwork Reduction Act Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-13

... environmental causes of disease and disability and related risk factors. The efficacy of green building design... wisdom. A better understanding is needed of the extent to which green-built, low-income housing actually..., this study may provide insight into how specific green building practices (e.g., use of low chemical...

49 CFR 178.347-1 - General requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Containers for Motor Vehicle Transportation § 178.347-1 General requirements. (a) Each specification DOT 407 cargo tank motor vehicle must conform to the general design and construction requirements in § 178.345... circular cross-section and have an MAWP of at least 25 psig. (c) Any cargo tank motor vehicle built to this...

49 CFR 178.347-1 - General requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Containers for Motor Vehicle Transportation § 178.347-1 General requirements. (a) Each specification DOT 407 cargo tank motor vehicle must conform to the general design and construction requirements in § 178.345... circular cross-section and have an MAWP of at least 25 psig. (c) Any cargo tank motor vehicle built to this...

49 CFR 178.347-1 - General requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Containers for Motor Vehicle Transportation § 178.347-1 General requirements. (a) Each specification DOT 407 cargo tank motor vehicle must conform to the general design and construction requirements in § 178.345... circular cross-section and have an MAWP of at least 25 psig. (c) Any cargo tank motor vehicle built to this...

49 CFR 178.347-1 - General requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Containers for Motor Vehicle Transportation § 178.347-1 General requirements. (a) Each specification DOT 407 cargo tank motor vehicle must conform to the general design and construction requirements in § 178.345... circular cross-section and have an MAWP of at least 25 psig. (c) Any cargo tank motor vehicle built to this...

Cell module and fuel conditioner development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoover, D. Q., Jr.

1980-01-01

Components for the first 5 cell stack (no cooling plates) of the MK-2 design were fabricated. Preliminary specfications and designs for the components of a 23 cell MK-1 stack with four DIGAS cooling plates were developed. The MK-2 was selected as a bench mark design and a preliminary design of the facilities required for high rate manufacture of fuel cell modules was developed. Two stands for testing 5 cell stacks were built and design work for modifying existing stands and building new stands for 23 and 80 cell stacks was initiated. Design and procurement of components and materials for the catalyst test stand were completed and construction initiated. Work on the specifications of pipeline gas, tap water and recovered water and definition of equipment required for treatment was initiated. An innovative geometry for the reformer was conceived and modifications of the computer program to be used in its design were stated.

Performance and applications of a hypertemporal hyperspectral Fourier-transform infrared spectroradiometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

King, Bruce H.; Ellis, Thomas; Old, Tom E.

2009-05-01

A fast-scanning, high-resolution FTIR spectroradiometer has been designed and built for use in remote sensing, stand-off detection, and spectral-temporal characterization of fast, energetic infrared events. The instrument design uses a Michelson-type interferometer with a rotary modulator which is capable of continuous measurement of infrared spectra at a rate of 1000 scans per second with 4 cm-1 resolution in the 2 - 25 micron spectral range. Sensitivity, spectral accuracy, and radiometric precision are discussed along with specific design parameters. This instrument can be used for passive sensing as a stand-alone sensor, or for active sensing as a receiver when used in conjunction with a highenergy excitation source such as a laser. Applications include muzzle flash signature measurement, ordnance detonation characterization, missile plume identification, and rocket motor combustion diagnostics.

Making microbiology of the built environment relevant to design.

PubMed

Brown, G Z; Kline, Jeff; Mhuireach, Gwynne; Northcutt, Dale; Stenson, Jason

2016-02-16

Architects are enthusiastic about "bioinformed design" as occupant well-being is a primary measure of architectural success. However, architects are also under mounting pressure to create more sustainable buildings. Scientists have a critical opportunity to make the emerging field of microbiology of the built environment more relevant and applicable to real-world design problems by addressing health and sustainability in tandem. Practice-based research, which complements evidence-based design, represents a promising approach to advancing knowledge of the indoor microbiome and translating it to architectural practice.

Designing with Care. A Guide to Adaptation of the Built Environment for Disabled Persons.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hanson, Lisa; And Others

Developed as part of the International Year of Disabled Persons, the guide is intended to help planners, architects, and designers to accommodate the built environment of developing regions for disabled persons. Guidelines focus on public building in urban or village settings and emphasize simple solutions to common problems. Following an…

How the built environment affects physical activity: views from urban planning.

PubMed

Handy, Susan L; Boarnet, Marlon G; Ewing, Reid; Killingsworth, Richard E

2002-08-01

The link between the built environment and human behavior has long been of interest to the field of urban planning, but direct assessments of the links between the built environment and physical activity as it influences personal health are still rare in the field. Yet the concepts, theories, and methods used by urban planners provide a foundation for an emerging body of research on the relationship between the built environment and physical activity. Recent research efforts in urban planning have focused on the idea that land use and design policies can be used to increase transit use as well as walking and bicycling. The development of appropriate measures for the built environment and for travel behavior is an essential element of this research. The link between the built environment and travel behavior is then made using theoretical frameworks borrowed from economics, and in particular, the concept of travel as a derived demand. The available evidence lends itself to the argument that a combination of urban design, land use patterns, and transportation systems that promotes walking and bicycling will help create active, healthier, and more livable communities. To provide more conclusive evidence, however, researchers must address the following issues: An alternative to the derived-demand framework must be developed for walking, measures of the built environment must be refined, and more-complete data on walking must be developed. In addition, detailed data on the built environment must be spatially matched to detailed data on travel behavior.

Modular techniques for dynamic fault-tree analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Patterson-Hine, F. A.; Dugan, Joanne B.

1992-01-01

It is noted that current approaches used to assess the dependability of complex systems such as Space Station Freedom and the Air Traffic Control System are incapable of handling the size and complexity of these highly integrated designs. A novel technique for modeling such systems which is built upon current techniques in Markov theory and combinatorial analysis is described. It enables the development of a hierarchical representation of system behavior which is more flexible than either technique alone. A solution strategy which is based on an object-oriented approach to model representation and evaluation is discussed. The technique is virtually transparent to the user since the fault tree models can be built graphically and the objects defined automatically. The tree modularization procedure allows the two model types, Markov and combinatoric, to coexist and does not require that the entire fault tree be translated to a Markov chain for evaluation. This effectively reduces the size of the Markov chain required and enables solutions with less truncation, making analysis of longer mission times possible. Using the fault-tolerant parallel processor as an example, a model is built and solved for a specific mission scenario and the solution approach is illustrated in detail.

Design of a New Built-in UHF Multi-Frequency Antenna Sensor for Partial Discharge Detection in High-Voltage Switchgears.

PubMed

Zhang, Xiaoxing; Cheng, Zheng; Gui, Yingang

2016-07-26

In this study a new built-in ultrahigh frequency (UHF) antenna sensor was designed and applied in a high-voltage switchgear for partial discharge (PD) detection. The casing of the switchgear was initially used as the ground plane of the antenna sensor, which integrated the sensor into the high-voltage switchgear. The Koch snowflake patch was adopted as the radiation patch of the antenna to overcome the disadvantages of common microstrip antennas, and the feed position and the dielectric layer thickness were simulated in detail. Simulation results show that the antenna sensor possessed four resonant points with good impedance matching from 300 MHz to 1000 MHz, and it also presented good multi-frequency performance in the entire working frequency band. PD detection experiments were conducted in the high-voltage switchgear, and the fabricated antenna sensor was effectively built into the high-voltage switchgear. In order to reflect the advantages of the built-in antenna sensor, another external UHF antenna sensor was used as a comparison to simultaneously detect PD. Experimental results demonstrated that the built-in antenna sensor possessed high detection sensitivity and strong anti-interference capacity, which ensured the practicability of the design. In addition, it had more high-voltage switchgear PD detection advantages than the external sensor.

Design of a New Built-in UHF Multi-Frequency Antenna Sensor for Partial Discharge Detection in High-Voltage Switchgears

PubMed Central

Zhang, Xiaoxing; Cheng, Zheng; Gui, Yingang

2016-01-01

In this study a new built-in ultrahigh frequency (UHF) antenna sensor was designed and applied in a high-voltage switchgear for partial discharge (PD) detection. The casing of the switchgear was initially used as the ground plane of the antenna sensor, which integrated the sensor into the high-voltage switchgear. The Koch snowflake patch was adopted as the radiation patch of the antenna to overcome the disadvantages of common microstrip antennas, and the feed position and the dielectric layer thickness were simulated in detail. Simulation results show that the antenna sensor possessed four resonant points with good impedance matching from 300 MHz to 1000 MHz, and it also presented good multi-frequency performance in the entire working frequency band. PD detection experiments were conducted in the high-voltage switchgear, and the fabricated antenna sensor was effectively built into the high-voltage switchgear. In order to reflect the advantages of the built-in antenna sensor, another external UHF antenna sensor was used as a comparison to simultaneously detect PD. Experimental results demonstrated that the built-in antenna sensor possessed high detection sensitivity and strong anti-interference capacity, which ensured the practicability of the design. In addition, it had more high-voltage switchgear PD detection advantages than the external sensor. PMID:27472331

TokenPasser: A petri net specification tool. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mittmann, Michael

1991-01-01

In computer program design it is essential to know the effectiveness of different design options in improving performance, and dependability. This paper provides a description of a CAD tool for distributed hierarchical Petri nets. After a brief review of Petri nets, Petri net languages, and Petri net transducers, and descriptions of several current Petri net tools, the specifications and design of the TokenPasser tool are presented. TokenPasser is a tool to allow design of distributed hierarchical systems based on Petri nets. A case study for an intelligent robotic system is conducted, a coordination structure with one dispatcher controlling three coordinators is built to model a proposed robotic assembly system. The system is implemented using TokenPasser, and the results are analyzed to allow judgment of the tool.

Specific coil design for SENSE: a six-element cardiac array.

PubMed

Weiger, M; Pruessmann, K P; Leussler, C; Röschmann, P; Boesiger, P

2001-03-01

In sensitivity encoding (SENSE), the effects of inhomogeneous spatial sensitivity of surface coils are utilized for signal localization in addition to common Fourier encoding using magnetic field gradients. Unlike standard Fourier MRI, SENSE images exhibit an inhomogeneous noise distribution, which crucially depends on the geometrical sensitivity relations of the coils used. Thus, for optimum signal-to-noise-ratio (SNR) and noise homogeneity, specialized coil configurations are called for. In this article we study the implications of SENSE imaging for coil layout by means of simulations and imaging experiments in a phantom and in vivo. New, specific design principles are identified. For SENSE imaging, the elements of a coil array should be smaller than for common phased-array imaging. Furthermore, adjacent coil elements should not overlap. Based on the findings of initial investigations, a configuration of six coils was designed and built specifically for cardiac applications. The in vivo evaluation of this array showed a considerable SNR increase in SENSE images, as compared with a conventional array. Magn Reson Med 45:495-504, 2001. Copyright 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Analysis of commercial equipment and instrumentation for Spacelab payloads, volume 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1974-01-01

Technical results are presented of a study to investigate analytically the feasibility of using commercially available laboratory equipment and instrumentation in the spacelab in support of various experiments. The feasibility is demonstrated by the breadth of application of commercial, airborne, and military equipment to experiment equipment requirements in the spacelab, and the cost effectiveness of utilizing this class of equipment instead of custom-built aerospace equipment typical of past designs. Equipment design and specifications are discussed.

US-75 ICM system as-built design : Dallas Integrated Corridor Management (ICM) demonstration project.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-05-01

This As-Built document for the US-75 Integrated Corridor Management (ICM) Program has been developed as part of the US Department of Transportation Integrated Corridor Management Initiative. The basic premise behind the ICM initiative is that indepen...

Mid-infrared photodetection in an AlGaAs/GaAs quantum-well infrared photodetector using photoinduced noise

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fernandes, F. M.; Optovac Mecânica e Optoeletrônica LTDA, 12244-000 São José dos Campos, SP; Silva, E. C. F. da

We propose a new way to assess the output signal of a quantum-well infrared photodetector (QWIP). Instead of measuring the photocurrent produced by the device, as usually done, we show that the noise induced by the absorption process can be used to generate a useful detection signal. We built a simple electronic circuit able to quantify the noise of an AlGaAs/GaAs QWIP that was intentionally designed to produce no photocurrent at all, and we demonstrated that such a circuit was able to generate a strong output signal whenever an infrared radiation of a specific wavelength was shed on the detector.more » This concept opens new possibilities for the design of novel types of photodetection systems.« less

Walking and child pedestrian injury: a systematic review of built environment correlates of safe walking.

PubMed

Rothman, Linda; Buliung, Ron; Macarthur, Colin; To, Teresa; Howard, Andrew

2014-02-01

The child active transportation literature has focused on walking, with little attention to risk associated with increased traffic exposure. This paper reviews the literature related to built environment correlates of walking and pedestrian injury in children together, to broaden the current conceptualization of walkability to include injury prevention. Two independent searches were conducted focused on walking in children and child pedestrian injury within nine electronic databases until March, 2012. Studies were included which: 1) were quantitative 2) set in motorized countries 3) were either urban or suburban 4) investigated specific built environment risk factors 5) had outcomes of either walking in children and/or child pedestrian roadway collisions (ages 0-12). Built environment features were categorized according to those related to density, land use diversity or roadway design. Results were cross-tabulated to identify how built environment features associate with walking and injury. Fifty walking and 35 child pedestrian injury studies were identified. Only traffic calming and presence of playgrounds/recreation areas were consistently associated with more walking and less pedestrian injury. Several built environment features were associated with more walking, but with increased injury. Many features had inconsistent results or had not been investigated for either outcome. The findings emphasise the importance of incorporating safety into the conversation about creating more walkable cities.

The signs of life in architecture.

PubMed

Gruber, Petra

2008-06-01

Engineers, designers and architects often look to nature for inspiration. The research on 'natural constructions' is aiming at innovation and the improvement of architectural quality. The introduction of life sciences terminology in the context of architecture delivers new perspectives towards innovation in architecture and design. The investigation is focused on the analogies between nature and architecture. Apart from other principles that are found in living nature, an interpretation of the so-called 'signs of life', which characterize living systems, in architecture is presented. Selected architectural projects that have applied specific characteristics of life, whether on purpose or not, will show the state of development in this field and open up future challenges. The survey will include famous built architecture as well as students' design programs, which were carried out under supervision of the author at the Department of Design and Building Construction at the Vienna University of Technology.

Design, fabrication and test of graphite/polyimide composite joints and attachments for advanced aerospace vehicles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1981-01-01

The development of several types of graphite/polyimide (GR/PI) bonded and bolted joints is reported. The program consists of two concurrent tasks: (1) design and test of specific built up attachments; and (2) evaluation of standard advanced bonded joint concepts. A data base for the design and analysis of advanced composite joints for use at elevated temperatures (561K (550 deg F)) to design concepts for specific joining applications, and the fundamental parameters controlling the static strength characteristics of such joints are evaluated. Data for design and build GR/PI of lightly loaded flight components for advanced space transportation systems and high speed aircraft are presented. Results for compression and interlaminar shear strengths of Celion 6000/PMR-15 laminates are given. Static discriminator test results for type 3 and type 4 bonded and bolted joints and final joint designs for TASK 1.4 scale up fabrication and testing are presented.

Evaluation of the "e-rater"® Scoring Engine for the "GRE"® Issue and Argument Prompts. Research Report. ETS RR-12-02

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ramineni, Chaitanya; Trapani, Catherine S.; Williamson, David M.; Davey, Tim; Bridgeman, Brent

2012-01-01

Automated scoring models for the "e-rater"® scoring engine were built and evaluated for the "GRE"® argument and issue-writing tasks. Prompt-specific, generic, and generic with prompt-specific intercept scoring models were built and evaluation statistics such as weighted kappas, Pearson correlations, standardized difference in…

Assessment of Environmental Determinants of Physical Activity: a Study of Built Environment Indicators in Brno, Czech Republic.

PubMed

Brázdová, Zuzana Derflerová; Klimusová, Helena; Hruška, Dalibor; Prokopová, Alice; Burjanek, Aleš; Wulff, Krauff Rainer Schwanhaeuser

2015-11-01

Research on physical activity in relation to obesity gradually becomes more focused on environmental determinants, which can potentially influence people's health choices. The present article addresses the topic of physical activity from a wider sociological perspective. Our pilot study was designed with the objective of testing the applicability of a method included in the EC 6th Framework Programme EURO-PREVOB, in the Czech context. The method examines specific determinants of the built environment that can have an impact on physical activity at the population level. In addition, the study aims to analyze possible differences in built environment indicators and their relation to the physical activity of people living in neighbourhoods with areas of varying socioeconomic status. The field study was carried out in the city of Brno, Czech Republic, in 5 neighbourhood quintiles, i.e. areas divided according to the socioeconomic status of local residents. In each quintile, we evaluated the quality of the built environment according to the quality, aesthetics and safety of segregated cycle facilities, playgrounds/playing areas, public open spaces, marked road crossings and pavements as well as signs of incivilities and devastation. Between the five quintiles, significant differences were found in the quality of parks and playgrounds/playing areas, pavements, marking of pedestrian crossings, and in general aesthetics, i.e. signs of incivilities and devastation of the built environment. No differences were found in the quality and use of cycle facilities. The method we used for the evaluation of the built environment proved highly applicable in Czech populated areas. Monitoring of built environment indicators in the Czech Republic should provide a basis for health maps, showing potential associations between the prevalence of high-incidence, non-infectious diseases and various social determinants of physical activity. This information might help in achieving an improvement in these determinants at a community level and promoting an increase in physical activity at the population level. Copyright© by the National Institute of Public Health, Prague 2015.

Comparing the appropriate geographic region for assessing built environmental correlates with walking trips using different metrics and model approaches

PubMed Central

Tribby, Calvin P.; Miller, Harvey J.; Brown, Barbara B.; Smith, Ken R.; Werner, Carol M.

2017-01-01

There is growing international evidence that supportive built environments encourage active travel such as walking. An unsettled question is the role of geographic regions for analyzing the relationship between the built environment and active travel. This paper examines the geographic region question by assessing walking trip models that use two different regions: walking activity spaces and self-defined neighborhoods. We also use two types of built environment metrics, perceived and audit data, and two types of study design, cross-sectional and longitudinal, to assess these regions. We find that the built environment associations with walking are dependent on the type of metric and the type of model. Audit measures summarized within walking activity spaces better explain walking trips compared to audit measures within self-defined neighborhoods. Perceived measures summarized within self-defined neighborhoods have mixed results. Finally, results differ based on study design. This suggests that results may not be comparable among different regions, metrics and designs; researchers need to consider carefully these choices when assessing active travel correlates. PMID:28237743

Adaptable data management for systems biology investigations

PubMed Central

Boyle, John; Rovira, Hector; Cavnor, Chris; Burdick, David; Killcoyne, Sarah; Shmulevich, Ilya

2009-01-01

Background Within research each experiment is different, the focus changes and the data is generated from a continually evolving barrage of technologies. There is a continual introduction of new techniques whose usage ranges from in-house protocols through to high-throughput instrumentation. To support these requirements data management systems are needed that can be rapidly built and readily adapted for new usage. Results The adaptable data management system discussed is designed to support the seamless mining and analysis of biological experiment data that is commonly used in systems biology (e.g. ChIP-chip, gene expression, proteomics, imaging, flow cytometry). We use different content graphs to represent different views upon the data. These views are designed for different roles: equipment specific views are used to gather instrumentation information; data processing oriented views are provided to enable the rapid development of analysis applications; and research project specific views are used to organize information for individual research experiments. This management system allows for both the rapid introduction of new types of information and the evolution of the knowledge it represents. Conclusion Data management is an important aspect of any research enterprise. It is the foundation on which most applications are built, and must be easily extended to serve new functionality for new scientific areas. We have found that adopting a three-tier architecture for data management, built around distributed standardized content repositories, allows us to rapidly develop new applications to support a diverse user community. PMID:19265554

Multipurpose Prepregging Machine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnston, N. J.; Wilkinson, Steven; Marchello, J. M.; Dixon, D.

1995-01-01

Machine designed and built for variety of uses involving coating or impregnating ("prepregging") fibers, tows, yarns, or webs or tapes made of such fibrous materials with thermoplastic or thermosetting resins. Prepreg materials produced used to make matrix/fiber composite materials. Comprises modules operated individually, sequentially, or simultaneously, depending on nature of specific prepreg material and prepregging technique used. Machine incorporates number of safety features.

Drug Prevention by Increasing Self-Esteem: Influence of Teaching Approaches and Gender on Different Consumption Groups

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Heyne, Thomas; Bogner, Franz X.

2013-01-01

Our study focused on an educational intervention designed to increase the self-esteem of low-achieving eighth graders. The intervention was a substance-specific life skills program built upon teacher-centered versus student-centered teaching methods. A cluster analysis identified four consumption groups prior to the intervention: A potentially…

Aiming Airsea Battle: An Operational Concept To Counter China’s Maritime Area Denial Capabilities

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-06-18

the SS- N-22 Sunburn , is a sea-skimming weapon with a supersonic, evading flight path specifically designed to defeat the air defenses of U.S. Navy... Sunburn .10 The last ten years has also seen a rapid modernization of the indigenously built Chinese submarine force. China has introduced a new

Literature-Based Workshops for Mathematics: Ideas for Active Learning Grades K-2.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morrison, Kathy; Dittrich, Tina; Claridge, Jill

This book presents ways to use high quality children's literature to plan small group workshops in mathematics for K-2 instruction. Each of the six sets of workshops is built around storybooks children love and focuses on a specific aspect of numeracy: shapes, counting, seriation, addition, money, and measurement. Each set is designed for a…

Application of Hybrid Geo-Spatially Granular Fragility Curves to Improve Power Outage Predictions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fernandez, Steven J; Allen, Melissa R; Omitaomu, Olufemi A

2014-01-01

Fragility curves depict the relationship between a weather variable (wind speed, gust speed, ice accumulation, precipitation rate) and the observed outages for a targeted infrastructure network. This paper describes an empirical study of the county by county distribution of power outages and one minute weather variables during Hurricane Irene with the objective of comparing 1) as built fragility curves (statistical approach) to engineering as designed (bottom up) fragility curves for skill in forecasting outages during future hurricanes; 2) county specific fragility curves to find examples of significant deviation from average behavior; and 3) the engineering practices of outlier counties tomore » suggest future engineering studies of robustness. Outages in more than 90% of the impacted counties could be anticipated through an average or generic fragility curve. The remaining counties could be identified and handled as exceptions through geographic data sets. The counties with increased or decreased robustness were characterized by terrain more or less susceptible to persistent flooding in areas where above ground poles located their foundations. Land use characteristics of the area served by the power distribution system can suggest trends in the as built power grid vulnerabilities to extreme weather events that would be subjects for site specific studies.« less

An under-designed RC frame: Seismic assessment through displacement based approach and possible refurbishment with FRP strips and RC jacketing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valente, Marco; Milani, Gabriele

2017-07-01

Many existing reinforced concrete buildings in Southern Europe were built (and hence designed) before the introduction of displacement based design in national seismic codes. They are obviously highly vulnerable to seismic actions. In such a situation, simplified methodologies for the seismic assessment and retrofitting of existing structures are required. In this study, a displacement based procedure using non-linear static analyses is applied to a four-story existing RC frame. The aim is to obtain an estimation of its overall structural inadequacy as well as the effectiveness of a specific retrofitting intervention by means of GFRP laminates and RC jacketing. Accurate numerical models are developed within a displacement based approach to reproduce the seismic response of the RC frame in the original configuration and after strengthening.

EVA tools and equipment reference book

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fullerton, R. K.

1993-01-01

This document contains a mixture of tools and equipment used throughout the space shuttle-based extravehicular activity (EVA) program. Promising items which have reached the prototype stage of development are also included, but should not be considered certified ready for flight. Each item is described with a photo, a written discussion, technical specifications, dimensional drawings, and points of contact for additional information. Numbers on the upper left-hand corner of each photo may be used to order specific pictures from NASA and contractor photo libraries. Points of contact were classified as either operational or technical. An operational contact is an engineer from JSC Mission Operations Directorate who is familiar with the basic function and on-orbit use of the tool. A technical contact would be the best source of detailed technical specifications and is typically the NASA subsystem manager. The technical information table for each item uses the following terms to describe the availability or status of each hardware item: Standard - Flown on every mission as standard manifest; Flight specific - Potentially available for flight, not flown every mission (flight certification cannot be guaranteed and recertification may be required); Reference only - Item no longer in active inventory or not recommended for future use, some items may be too application-specific for general use; and Developmental - In the prototype stage only and not yet available for flight. The current availability and certification of any flight-specific tool should be verified with the technical point of contact. Those tools built and fit checked for Hubble Space Telescope maintenance are program dedicated and are not available to other customers. Other customers may have identical tools built from the existing, already certified designs as an optional service.

Safeguards and Security by Design (SSBD) for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) through a Common Global Approach

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Badwan, Faris M.; Demuth, Scott Francis; Miller, Michael Conrad

Small Modular Reactors (SMR) with power levels significantly less than the currently standard 1000 to 1600-MWe reactors have been proposed as a potential game changer for future nuclear power. SMRs may offer a simpler, more standardized, and safer modular design by using factory built and easily transportable components. Additionally, SMRs may be more easily built and operated in isolated locations, and may require smaller initial capital investment and shorter construction times. Because many SMRs designs are still conceptual and consequently not yet fixed, designers have a unique opportunity to incorporate updated design basis threats, emergency preparedness requirements, and then fullymore » integrate safety, physical security, and safeguards/material control and accounting (MC&A) designs. Integrating safety, physical security, and safeguards is often referred to as integrating the 3Ss, and early consideration of safeguards and security in the design is often referred to as safeguards and security by design (SSBD). This paper describes U.S./Russian collaborative efforts toward developing an internationally accepted common approach for implementing SSBD/3Ss for SMRs based upon domestic requirements, and international guidance and requirements. These collaborative efforts originated with the Nuclear Energy and Nuclear Security working group established under the U.S.-Russia Bilateral Presidential Commission during the 2009 Presidential Summit. Initial efforts have focused on review of U.S. and Russian domestic requirements for Security and MC&A, IAEA guidance for security and MC&A, and IAEA requirements for international safeguards. Additionally, example SMR design features that can enhance proliferation resistance and physical security have been collected from past work and reported here. The development of a U.S./Russian common approach for SSBD/3Ss should aid the designer of SMRs located anywhere in the world. More specifically, the application of this approach may lead to more proliferation resistant and physically secure design features for SMRs.« less

Accessibility of health clubs for people with mobility disabilities and visual impairments.

PubMed

Rimmer, James H; Riley, Barth; Wang, Edward; Rauworth, Amy

2005-11-01

We sought to examine the accessibility of health clubs to persons with mobility disabilities and visual impairments. We assessed 35 health clubs and fitness facilities as part of a national field trial of a new instrument, Accessibility Instruments Measuring Fitness and Recreation Environments (AIMFREE), designed to assess accessibility of fitness facilities in the following domains: (1) built environment, (2) equipment, (3) swimming pools, (4) information, (5) facility policies, and (6) professional behavior. All facilities had a low to moderate level of accessibility. Some of the deficiencies concerned specific Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines pertaining to the built environment, whereas other deficiency areas were related to aspects of the facilities' equipment, information, policies, and professional staff. Persons with mobility disabilities and visual impairments have difficulty accessing various areas of fitness facilities and health clubs. AIMFREE is an important tool for increasing awareness of these accessibility barriers for people with disabilities.

Accessibility of Health Clubs for People with Mobility Disabilities and Visual Impairments

PubMed Central

Rimmer, James H.; Riley, Barth; Wang, Edward; Rauworth, Amy

2005-01-01

Objective. We sought to examine the accessibility of health clubs to persons with mobility disabilities and visual impairments. Methods. We assessed 35 health clubs and fitness facilities as part of a national field trial of a new instrument, Accessibility Instruments Measuring Fitness and Recreation Environments (AIMFREE), designed to assess accessibility of fitness facilities in the following domains: (1) built environment, (2) equipment, (3) swimming pools, (4) information, (5) facility policies, and (6) professional behavior. Results. All facilities had a low to moderate level of accessibility. Some of the deficiencies concerned specific Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines pertaining to the built environment, whereas other deficiency areas were related to aspects of the facilities’ equipment, information, policies, and professional staff. Conclusions. Persons with mobility disabilities and visual impairments have difficulty accessing various areas of fitness facilities and health clubs. AIMFREE is an important tool for increasing awareness of these accessibility barriers for people with disabilities. PMID:16254234

A machine for the preliminary investigation of design features influencing the wear behaviour of knee prostheses.

PubMed

McGloughlin, T M; Murphy, D M; Kavanagh, A G

2004-01-01

Degradation of tibial inserts in vivo has been found to be multifactorial in nature, resulting in a complex interaction of many variables. A range of kinematic conditions occurs at the tibio-femoral interface, giving rise to various degrees of rolling and sliding at this interface. The movement of the tibio-femoral contact point may be an influential factor in the overall wear of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) tibial components. As part of this study a three-station wear-test machine was designed and built to investigate the influence of rolling and sliding on the wear behaviour of specific design aspects of contemporary knee prostheses. Using the machine, it is possible to monitor the effect of various slide roll ratios on the performance of contemporary bearing designs from a geometrical and materials perspective.

Using Green Building As A Model For Making Health Promotion Standard In The Built Environment.

PubMed

Trowbridge, Matthew J; Worden, Kelly; Pyke, Christopher

2016-11-01

The built environment-the constructed physical parts of the places where people live and work-is a powerful determinant of both individual and population health. Awareness of the link between place and health is growing within the public health sector and among built environment decision makers working in design, construction, policy, and both public and private finance. However, these decision makers lack the knowledge, tools, and capacity to ensure that health and well-being are routinely considered across all sectors of the built environment. The green building industry has successfully established environmental sustainability as a normative part of built environment practice, policy making, and investment. We explore the value of this industry's experience as a template for promoting health and well-being in the built environment. Project HOPE—The People-to-People Health Foundation, Inc.

Influence of core design, production technique, and material selection on fracture behavior of yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal fixed dental prostheses produced using different multilayer techniques: split-file, over-pressing, and manually built-up veneers.

PubMed

Mahmood, Deyar Jallal Hadi; Linderoth, Ewa H; Wennerberg, Ann; Vult Von Steyern, Per

2016-01-01

To investigate and compare the fracture strength and fracture mode in eleven groups of currently, the most commonly used multilayer three-unit all-ceramic yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP) fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) with respect to the choice of core material, veneering material area, manufacturing technique, design of connectors, and radii of curvature of FDP cores. A total of 110 three-unit Y-TZP FDP cores with one intermediate pontic were made. The FDP cores in groups 1-7 were made with a split-file design, veneered with manually built-up porcelain, computer-aided design-on veneers, and over-pressed veneers. Groups 8-11 consisted of FDPs with a state-of-the-art design, veneered with manually built-up porcelain. All the FDP cores were subjected to simulated aging and finally loaded to fracture. There was a significant difference (P<0.05) between the core designs, but not between the different types of Y-TZP materials. The split-file designs with VITABLOCS(®) (1,806±165 N) and e.max(®) ZirPress (1,854±115 N) and the state-of-the-art design with VITA VM(®) 9 (1,849±150 N) demonstrated the highest mean fracture values. The shape of a split-file designed all-ceramic reconstruction calls for a different dimension protocol, compared to traditionally shaped ones, as the split-file design leads to sharp approximal indentations acting as fractural impressions, thus decreasing the overall strength. The design of a framework is a crucial factor for the load bearing capacity of an all-ceramic FDP. The state-of-the-art design is preferable since the split-file designed cores call for a cross-sectional connector area at least 42% larger, to have the same load bearing capacity as the state-of-the-art designed cores. All veneering materials and techniques tested in the study, split-file, over-press, built-up porcelains, and glass-ceramics are, with a great safety margin, sufficient for clinical use both anteriorly and posteriorly. Analysis of the fracture pattern shows differences between the milled veneers and over-pressed or built-up veneers, where the milled ones show numerically more veneer cracks and the other groups only show complete connector fractures.

Encouraging walking for transport and physical activity in children and adolescents: how important is the built environment?

PubMed

Giles-Corti, Billie; Kelty, Sally F; Zubrick, Stephen R; Villanueva, Karen P

2009-01-01

In the post-World War II era, there have been dramatic changes to the environment that appear to be having a detrimental impact on the lifestyles and incidental physical activities of young people. These changes are not trivial and have the potential to influence not only physical health, but also mental health and child development. However, the evidence of the impact of the built environment on physical activity to date is inconsistent. This review examines the evidence on the association between the built environment and walking for transport as well as physical activity generally, with a focus on methodological issues that may explain inconsistencies in the literature to date. It appears that many studies fail to measure behaviour-specific environmental correlates, and insufficient attention is being given to differences according to the age of study participants. Higher levels of out-of-school-hours physical activity and walking appear to be significantly associated with higher levels of urban density and neighbourhoods with mixed-use planning, especially for older children and adolescents. Proximate recreational facilities also appear to predict young people's level of physical activity. However, there are inconsistencies in the literature involving studies with younger children. Independent mobility increases with age. For younger children, the impact of the built environment is influenced by the decision-making of parents as the gatekeepers of their behaviour. Cross-cultural differences may also be present and are worthy of greater exploration. As children develop and are given more independent mobility, it appears that the way neighbourhoods are designed - particularly in terms of proximity and connectivity to local destinations, including schools and shopping centres, and the presence of footpaths - becomes a determinant of whether children are able, and are permitted by their parents, to walk and use destinations locally. If older children and adolescents are to enjoy health and developmental benefits of independent mobility, a key priority must be in reducing exposure to traffic and in increasing surveillance on streets (i.e. 'eyes-on-the-street') through neighbourhood and building design, by encouraging others to walk locally, and by discouraging motor vehicle use in favour of walking and cycling. Parents need to be assured that the rights and safety of pedestrians (and cyclists) - particularly child pedestrians and cyclists - are paramount if we are to turn around our 'child-free streets', now so prevalent in contemporary Australian and US cities. There remains a need for more age- and sex-specific research using behaviour- and context-specific measures, with a view to building a more consistent evidence base to inform future environmental interventions.

Ultra Small Aperture Terminal: System Design and Test Results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sohn, Philip Y.; Reinhart, Richard C.

1996-01-01

The Ultra Small Aperture Terminal (USAT) has been developed to test and demonstrate remote and broadcast satcom applications via the Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS). The design of these ground stations emphasize small size, low power consumption, portable and rugged terminals. Each ground station includes several custom design parts such as 35 cm diameter antenna, 1/4 Watt transmitter with built-in upconverter, and 4.0 dB Noise Figure (NF) receiver with built-in downconverter. In addition, state-of-the-art commercial parts such as highly stable ovenized crystal oscillators and dielectric resonator oscillators are used in the ground station design. Presented in this paper are system level design description, performance, and sample applications.

Laser systems for the combustion research facility - Diana

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Miller, C.K.; Lavasek, J.W.; Jones, E.D.

1982-03-01

A 5-Joule/pulse, 1.8-..mu..s-pulse-width, 10-ppS flashlamp-pumped tunable-dye-laser system, called Diana, has been built for use in experiments to be performed at the Combustion Research Facility, Sandia National Laboratories, Livermore. Design specifications for the system and details of construction are described, and it is noted that performance of the laser meets or exceeds all design criteria. Areas for further performance improvements are discussed, and updates are suggested to enhance system usefulness.

Optimal design and dynamic impact tests of removable bollards

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Suwen; Liu, Tianyi; Li, Guoqiang; Liu, Qing; Sun, Jianyun

2017-10-01

Anti-ram bollard systems, which are installed around buildings and infrastructure, can prevent unauthorized vehicles from entering, maintain distance from vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIED) and reduce the corresponding damage. Compared with a fixed bollard system, a removable bollard system provides more flexibility as it can be removed when needed. This paper first proposes a new type of K4-rated removable anti-ram bollard system. To simulate the collision of a vehicle hitting the bollard system, a finite element model was then built and verified through comparison of numerical simulation results and existing experimental results. Based on the orthogonal design method, the factors influencing the safety and economy of this proposed system were examined and sorted according to their importance. An optimal design scheme was then produced. Finally, to validate the effectiveness of the proposed design scheme, four dynamic impact tests, including two front impact tests and two side impact tests, have been conducted according to BSI Specifications. The residual rotation angles of the specimen are smaller than 30º and satisfy the requirements of the BSI Specification.

Expression and Purification of a Novel Computationally Designed Antigen for Simultaneously Detection of HTLV-1 and HBV Antibodies.

PubMed

Heydari Zarnagh, Hafez; Ravanshad, Mehrdad; Pourfatollah, Ali Akbar; Rasaee, Mohammad Javad

2015-04-01

Computational tools are reliable alternatives to laborious work in chimeric protein design. In this study, a chimeric antigen was designed using computational techniques for simultaneous detection of anti-HTLV-I and anti-HBV in infected sera. Databases were searched for amino acid sequences of HBV/HLV-I diagnostic antigens. The immunodominant fragments were selected based on propensity scales. The diagnostic antigen was designed using these fragments. Secondary and tertiary structures were predicted and the B-cell epitopes were mapped on the surface of built model. The synthetic DNA coding antigen was sub-cloned into pGS21a expression vector. SDS-PAGE analysis showed that glutathione fused antigen was highly expressed in E. coli BL21 (DE3) cells. The recombinant antigen was purified by nickel affinity chromatography. ELISA results showed that soluble antigen could specifically react with the HTLV-I and HBV infected sera. This specific antigen could be used as suitable agent for antibody-antigen based screening tests and can help clinicians in order to perform quick and precise screening of the HBV and HTLV-I infections.

Properties of large nearly perfect crystals at very low temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davis, W.; Krack, K. R.; Richard, J. P.; Weber, J.

1983-01-01

A liquid helium cryostat of a size and construction unavailable commercially, was built for use in measuring the Q of several materials at milli-Kelvin temperatures. The design and testing of the cryostat is described as well as the design of the experiment vacuum chamber and adaptor for the dilution refrigerator insert. Theory, design, and testing are also discussed for the magnetic coils built to levitate the materials so as to isolate them and increase the measured Q. A four point suspension with capacitor end plates as the transducer was used to obtain preliminary Q measurements of 6061 aluminum alloy and single crystal silicon. Results are tabulated.

Mobile device-based optical instruments for agriculture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sumriddetchkajorn, Sarun

2013-05-01

Realizing that a current smart-mobile device such as a cell phone and a tablet can be considered as a pocket-size computer embedded with a built-in digital camera, this paper reviews and demonstrates on how a mobile device can be specifically functioned as a portable optical instrument for agricultural applications. The paper highlights several mobile device-based optical instruments designed for searching small pests, measuring illumination level, analyzing spectrum of light, identifying nitrogen status in the rice field, estimating chlorine in water, and determining ripeness level of the fruit. They are suitable for individual use as well as for small and medium enterprises.

Built-in electric field thickness design for betavoltaic batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haiyang, Chen; Darang, Li; Jianhua, Yin; Shengguo, Cai

2011-09-01

Isotope source energy deposition along the thickness direction of a semiconductor is calculated, based upon which an ideal short current is evaluated for betavoltaic batteries. Electron-hole pair recombination and drifting length in a PN junction built-in electric field are extracted by comparing the measured short currents with the ideal short currents. A built-in electric field thickness design principle is proposed for betavoltaic batteries: after measuring the energy deposition depth and the carrier drift length, the shorter one should then be chosen as the built-in electric field thickness. If the energy deposition depth is much larger than the carrier drift length, a multi-junction is preferred in betavoltaic batteries and the number of the junctions should be the value of the deposition depth divided by the drift length.

Multilevel modelling of built environment characteristics related to neighbourhood walking activity in older adults

PubMed Central

Li, F.; Fisher, K; Brownson, R.; Bosworth, M.

2005-01-01

Objective: To examine the relation between built environment factors (representing several dimensions of urban form of neighbourhoods) and walking activity at both the neighbourhood level and the resident level, in an older adult sample. Design, setting, participants: A cross sectional, multilevel design with neighbourhoods as the primary sampling unit and senior residents as the secondary unit. Five hundred and seventy seven residents (mean age = 74 years, SD = 6.3 years) participated in the survey, which was conducted among 56 city defined neighbourhoods in Portland, Oregon, USA. Neighbourhood level variables were constructed using geographical information systems. Resident level variables consisted of a mix of self reports and geocoded data on the built environment. Main outcome measure: Self reported neighbourhood walking. Main results: A positive relation was found between built environment factors (density of places of employment, household density, green and open spaces for recreation, number of street intersections) and walking activity at the neighbourhood level. At the resident level, perceptions of safety for walking and number of nearby recreational facilities were positively related to high levels of walking activity. A significant interaction was observed between number of street intersections and perceptions of safety from traffic. Conclusions: Certain neighbourhood built environment characteristics related to urban form were positively associated with walking activity in the neighbourhoods of senior residents. Public health promotion of walking activity/urban mobility and the design of interventions need to consider the contribution of neighbourhood level built environment influences. PMID:15965138

Numerical Algorithms Based on Biorthogonal Wavelets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ponenti, Pj.; Liandrat, J.

1996-01-01

Wavelet bases are used to generate spaces of approximation for the resolution of bidimensional elliptic and parabolic problems. Under some specific hypotheses relating the properties of the wavelets to the order of the involved operators, it is shown that an approximate solution can be built. This approximation is then stable and converges towards the exact solution. It is designed such that fast algorithms involving biorthogonal multi resolution analyses can be used to resolve the corresponding numerical problems. Detailed algorithms are provided as well as the results of numerical tests on partial differential equations defined on the bidimensional torus.

Active spectroscopic measurements using the ITER diagnostic system.

PubMed

Thomas, D M; Counsell, G; Johnson, D; Vasu, P; Zvonkov, A

2010-10-01

Active (beam-based) spectroscopic measurements are intended to provide a number of crucial parameters for the ITER device being built in Cadarache, France. These measurements include the determination of impurity ion temperatures, absolute densities, and velocity profiles, as well as the determination of the plasma current density profile. Because ITER will be the first experiment to study long timescale (∼1 h) fusion burn plasmas, of particular interest is the ability to study the profile of the thermalized helium ash resulting from the slowing down and confinement of the fusion alphas. These measurements will utilize both the 1 MeV heating neutral beams and a dedicated 100 keV hydrogen diagnostic neutral beam. A number of separate instruments are being designed and built by several of the ITER partners to meet the different spectroscopic measurement needs and to provide the maximum physics information. In this paper, we describe the planned measurements, the intended diagnostic ensemble, and we will discuss specific physics and engineering challenges for these measurements in ITER.

Design and fabrication of a miniature objective consisting of high refractive index zinc sulfide lenses for laser surgery

PubMed Central

Shadfan, Adam; Pawlowski, Michal; Wang, Ye; Subramanian, Kaushik; Gabay, Ilan; Ben-Yakar, Adela; Tkaczyk, Tomasz

2016-01-01

A miniature laser ablation probe relying on an optical fiber to deliver light requires a high coupling efficiency objective with sufficient magnification in order to provide adequate power and field for surgery. A diffraction-limited optical design is presented that utilizes high refractive index zinc sulfide to meet specifications while reducing the miniature objective down to two lenses. The design has a hypercentric conjugate plane on the fiber side and is telecentric on the tissue end. Two versions of the objective were built on a diamond lathe—a traditional cylindrical design and a custom-tapered mount. Both received an antireflective coating. The objectives performed as designed in terms of observable resolution and field of view as measured by imaging a 1951 USAF resolution target. The slanted edge technique was used to find Strehl ratios of 0.75 and 0.78, respectively, indicating nearly diffraction-limited performance. Finally, preliminary ablation experiments indicated threshold fluence of gold film was comparable to similar reported probes. PMID:28579656

Design and fabrication of a miniature objective consisting of high refractive index zinc sulfide lenses for laser surgery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shadfan, Adam; Pawlowski, Michal; Wang, Ye; Subramanian, Kaushik; Gabay, Ilan; Ben-Yakar, Adela; Tkaczyk, Tomasz

2016-02-01

A miniature laser ablation probe relying on an optical fiber to deliver light requires a high coupling efficiency objective with sufficient magnification in order to provide adequate power and field for surgery. A diffraction-limited optical design is presented that utilizes high refractive index zinc sulfide to meet specifications while reducing the miniature objective down to two lenses. The design has a hypercentric conjugate plane on the fiber side and is telecentric on the tissue end. Two versions of the objective were built on a diamond lathe-a traditional cylindrical design and a custom-tapered mount. Both received an antireflective coating. The objectives performed as designed in terms of observable resolution and field of view as measured by imaging a 1951 USAF resolution target. The slanted edge technique was used to find Strehl ratios of 0.75 and 0.78, respectively, indicating nearly diffraction-limited performance. Finally, preliminary ablation experiments indicated threshold fluence of gold film was comparable to similar reported probes.

Morphogenic designer--an efficient tool to digitally design tooth forms.

PubMed

Hajtó, J; Marinescu, C; Silva, N R F A

2014-01-01

Different digital software tools are available today for the purpose of designing anatomically correct anterior and posterior restorations. The current concepts present weaknesses, which can be potentially addressed by more advanced modeling tools, such as the ones already available in professional CAD (Computer Aided Design) graphical software. This study describes the morphogenic designer (MGD) as an efficient and easy method for digitally designing tooth forms for the anterior and posterior dentition. Anterior and posterior tooth forms were selected from a collection of digitalized natural teeth and subjectively assessed as "average". The models in the form of STL files were filtered, cleaned, idealized, and re-meshed to match the specifications of the software used. The shapes were then imported as wavefront ".obj" model into Modo 701, software built for modeling, texturing, visualization, and animation. In order to create a parametric design system, intentional interactive deformations were performed on the average tooth shapes and then further defined as morph targets. By combining various such parameters, several tooth shapes were formed virtually and their images presented. MGD proved to be a versatile and powerful tool for the purpose of esthetic and functional digital crown designs.

Heat Balance of a Sheep in the Sun. Physical Processes in Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecosystems, Transport Processes.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hatheway, W. H.

These materials were designed to be used by life science students for instruction in the application of physical theory to ecosystem operation. Most modules contain computer programs which are built around a particular application of a physical process. Specifically, this module develops a method for calculating the exchange of heat between an…

Fluid Dynamics Applied to Streams. Physical Processes in Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecosystems, Transport Processes.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cowan, Christina E.

This module is part of a series designed to be used by life science students for instruction in the application of physical theory to ecosystem operation. Most modules contain computer programs which are built around a particular application of a physical process. This module deals specifically with concepts that are basic to fluid flow and…

Design and implementation of a physical activity intervention to enhance children's use of the built environment (the CUBE study).

PubMed

Oreskovic, Nicolas M; Goodman, Elizabeth; Park, Elyse R; Robinson, Alyssa I; Winickoff, Jonathan P

2015-01-01

Adequate physical activity promotes physical and mental health and decreases obesity risk. However, most adolescents do not attain recommended physical activity levels and effective interventions are lacking. Physical activity trials rarely incorporate built environment use patterns. This paper describes the design and rationale of the Children's Use of the Built Environment (CUBE) Study, an office-based intervention designed to teach youth how to use their surrounding built environment to increase physical activity. CUBE is a 6-month intervention trial among 60 overweight and obese 10-16 year old adolescents from a community health center in Massachusetts. The study began in the winter of 2013. Patients are sequentially assigned to either the intervention or control group. Baseline physical activity by accelerometry and location by GPS, along with measured height, weight, and blood pressure are collected. Control subjects receive standard of care lifestyle counseling. Intervention subjects receive tailored recommendations on how to increase their physical activity based on their accelerometer and GPS data. Data collections are repeated at end-of-treatment, and again 3 months later. The findings from this study should help guide future efforts to design interventions aimed at increasing adolescent physical activity as well as to inform design professionals and government officials charged with creating outdoor spaces where adolescents spend time. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development of intelligent instruments with embedded HTTP servers for control and data acquisition in a cryogenic setup--The hardware, firmware, and software implementation.

PubMed

Antony, Joby; Mathuria, D S; Datta, T S; Maity, Tanmoy

2015-12-01

The power of Ethernet for control and automation technology is being largely understood by the automation industry in recent times. Ethernet with HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is one of the most widely accepted communication standards today. Ethernet is best known for being able to control through internet from anywhere in the globe. The Ethernet interface with built-in on-chip embedded servers ensures global connections for crate-less model of control and data acquisition systems which have several advantages over traditional crate-based control architectures for slow applications. This architecture will completely eliminate the use of any extra PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) or similar control hardware in any automation network as the control functions are firmware coded inside intelligent meters itself. Here, we describe the indigenously built project of a cryogenic control system built for linear accelerator at Inter University Accelerator Centre, known as "CADS," which stands for "Complete Automation of Distribution System." CADS deals with complete hardware, firmware, and software implementation of the automated linac cryogenic distribution system using many Ethernet based embedded cryogenic instruments developed in-house. Each instrument works as an intelligent meter called device-server which has the control functions and control loops built inside the firmware itself. Dedicated meters with built-in servers were designed out of ARM (Acorn RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) Machine) and ATMEL processors and COTS (Commercially Off-the-Shelf) SMD (Surface Mount Devices) components, with analog sensor front-end and a digital back-end web server implementing remote procedure call over HTTP for digital control and readout functions. At present, 24 instruments which run 58 embedded servers inside, each specific to a particular type of sensor-actuator combination for closed loop operations, are now deployed and distributed across control LAN (Local Area Network). A group of six categories of such instruments have been identified for all cryogenic applications required for linac operation which were designed to build this medium-scale cryogenic automation setup. These devices have special features like remote rebooters, daughter boards for PIDs (Proportional Integral Derivative), etc., to operate them remotely in radiation areas and also have emergency switches by which each device can be taken to emergency mode temporarily. Finally, all the data are monitored, logged, controlled, and analyzed online at a central control room which has a user-friendly control interface developed using LabVIEW(®). This paper discusses the overall hardware, firmware, software design, and implementation for the cryogenics setup.

Development of intelligent instruments with embedded HTTP servers for control and data acquisition in a cryogenic setup—The hardware, firmware, and software implementation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Antony, Joby; Mathuria, D. S.; Datta, T. S.; Maity, Tanmoy

2015-12-01

The power of Ethernet for control and automation technology is being largely understood by the automation industry in recent times. Ethernet with HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is one of the most widely accepted communication standards today. Ethernet is best known for being able to control through internet from anywhere in the globe. The Ethernet interface with built-in on-chip embedded servers ensures global connections for crate-less model of control and data acquisition systems which have several advantages over traditional crate-based control architectures for slow applications. This architecture will completely eliminate the use of any extra PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) or similar control hardware in any automation network as the control functions are firmware coded inside intelligent meters itself. Here, we describe the indigenously built project of a cryogenic control system built for linear accelerator at Inter University Accelerator Centre, known as "CADS," which stands for "Complete Automation of Distribution System." CADS deals with complete hardware, firmware, and software implementation of the automated linac cryogenic distribution system using many Ethernet based embedded cryogenic instruments developed in-house. Each instrument works as an intelligent meter called device-server which has the control functions and control loops built inside the firmware itself. Dedicated meters with built-in servers were designed out of ARM (Acorn RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) Machine) and ATMEL processors and COTS (Commercially Off-the-Shelf) SMD (Surface Mount Devices) components, with analog sensor front-end and a digital back-end web server implementing remote procedure call over HTTP for digital control and readout functions. At present, 24 instruments which run 58 embedded servers inside, each specific to a particular type of sensor-actuator combination for closed loop operations, are now deployed and distributed across control LAN (Local Area Network). A group of six categories of such instruments have been identified for all cryogenic applications required for linac operation which were designed to build this medium-scale cryogenic automation setup. These devices have special features like remote rebooters, daughter boards for PIDs (Proportional Integral Derivative), etc., to operate them remotely in radiation areas and also have emergency switches by which each device can be taken to emergency mode temporarily. Finally, all the data are monitored, logged, controlled, and analyzed online at a central control room which has a user-friendly control interface developed using LabVIEW®. This paper discusses the overall hardware, firmware, software design, and implementation for the cryogenics setup.

Development of intelligent instruments with embedded HTTP servers for control and data acquisition in a cryogenic setup—The hardware, firmware, and software implementation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Antony, Joby; Mathuria, D. S.; Datta, T. S.

The power of Ethernet for control and automation technology is being largely understood by the automation industry in recent times. Ethernet with HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is one of the most widely accepted communication standards today. Ethernet is best known for being able to control through internet from anywhere in the globe. The Ethernet interface with built-in on-chip embedded servers ensures global connections for crate-less model of control and data acquisition systems which have several advantages over traditional crate-based control architectures for slow applications. This architecture will completely eliminate the use of any extra PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) or similarmore » control hardware in any automation network as the control functions are firmware coded inside intelligent meters itself. Here, we describe the indigenously built project of a cryogenic control system built for linear accelerator at Inter University Accelerator Centre, known as “CADS,” which stands for “Complete Automation of Distribution System.” CADS deals with complete hardware, firmware, and software implementation of the automated linac cryogenic distribution system using many Ethernet based embedded cryogenic instruments developed in-house. Each instrument works as an intelligent meter called device-server which has the control functions and control loops built inside the firmware itself. Dedicated meters with built-in servers were designed out of ARM (Acorn RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) Machine) and ATMEL processors and COTS (Commercially Off-the-Shelf) SMD (Surface Mount Devices) components, with analog sensor front-end and a digital back-end web server implementing remote procedure call over HTTP for digital control and readout functions. At present, 24 instruments which run 58 embedded servers inside, each specific to a particular type of sensor-actuator combination for closed loop operations, are now deployed and distributed across control LAN (Local Area Network). A group of six categories of such instruments have been identified for all cryogenic applications required for linac operation which were designed to build this medium-scale cryogenic automation setup. These devices have special features like remote rebooters, daughter boards for PIDs (Proportional Integral Derivative), etc., to operate them remotely in radiation areas and also have emergency switches by which each device can be taken to emergency mode temporarily. Finally, all the data are monitored, logged, controlled, and analyzed online at a central control room which has a user-friendly control interface developed using LabVIEW{sup ®}. This paper discusses the overall hardware, firmware, software design, and implementation for the cryogenics setup.« less

A mechanical rotator for neutron scattering measurements

DOE PAGES

Thaler, A.; Northen, E.; Aczel, A. A.; ...

2016-12-01

We have designed and built a mechanical rotation system for use in single crystal neutron scattering experiments at low temperatures. The main motivation for this device is to facilitate the application of magnetic fields transverse to a primary training axis, using only a vertical cryomagnet. Development was done in the context of a triple-axis neutron spectrometer, but the design is such that it can be generalized to a number of different instruments or measurement techniques. Here, we discuss some of the experimental constraints motivating the design, followed by design specifics, preliminary experimental results, and a discussion of potential uses andmore » future extension possibilities.« less

Aspheric design for manufacturability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kreischer, Cody B.

2007-05-01

The experienced lens designer is well aware of the potential advantages aspherics can afford. Within the last few years, machines specifically designed for the CNC machining and polishing of glass aspheres have become commercially available through several manufacturers. This has brought down manufacturing cost to the point that designs incorporating aspheres can be used to reduce system cost compared to all spherical designs. (That is aspheres are no longer used just to save space and weight at the expense of cost.) Not all aspheres are equally manufacturable, however. Arbitrary choices at the beginning of a design can have major impact on manufacturing cost and limit final "as built" performance. This paper considers factors in designing ground and polished (as opposed to molded) glass aspheres which may not be obvious to even the experienced lens designer accustomed to using spherical surfaces or who has dealt with diamond turned aspheres. Factors considered include the surface shape, how the shape is specified, how the surface is to be tested and how it is toleranced. Emphasis will be placed on medium priced components where practical considerations are important.

Data Concentrator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Willett, Mike

2015-01-01

Orbital Research, Inc., developed, built, and tested three high-temperature components for use in the design of a data concentrator module in distributed turbine engine control. The concentrator receives analog and digital signals related to turbine engine control and communicates with a full authority digital engine control (FADEC) or high-level command processor. This data concentrator follows the Distributed Engine Controls Working Group (DECWG) roadmap for turbine engine distributed controls communication development that operates at temperatures at least up to 225 C. In Phase I, Orbital Research developed detailed specifications for each component needed for the system and defined the total system specifications. This entailed a combination of system design, compiling existing component specifications, laboratory testing, and simulation. The results showed the feasibility of the data concentrator. Phase II of this project focused on three key objectives. The first objective was to update the data concentrator design modifications from DECWG and prime contractors. Secondly, the project defined requirements for the three new high-temperature, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs): one-time programmable (OTP), transient voltage suppression (TVS), and 3.3V. Finally, the project validated each design by testing over temperature and under load.

Framework for Development of Object-Oriented Software

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perez-Poveda, Gus; Ciavarella, Tony; Nieten, Dan

2004-01-01

The Real-Time Control (RTC) Application Framework is a high-level software framework written in C++ that supports the rapid design and implementation of object-oriented application programs. This framework provides built-in functionality that solves common software development problems within distributed client-server, multi-threaded, and embedded programming environments. When using the RTC Framework to develop software for a specific domain, designers and implementers can focus entirely on the details of the domain-specific software rather than on creating custom solutions, utilities, and frameworks for the complexities of the programming environment. The RTC Framework was originally developed as part of a Space Shuttle Launch Processing System (LPS) replacement project called Checkout and Launch Control System (CLCS). As a result of the framework s development, CLCS software development time was reduced by 66 percent. The framework is generic enough for developing applications outside of the launch-processing system domain. Other applicable high-level domains include command and control systems and simulation/ training systems.

Using the Textpresso Site-Specific Recombinases Web server to identify Cre expressing mouse strains and floxed alleles.

PubMed

Condie, Brian G; Urbanski, William M

2014-01-01

Effective tools for searching the biomedical literature are essential for identifying reagents or mouse strains as well as for effective experimental design and informed interpretation of experimental results. We have built the Textpresso Site Specific Recombinases (Textpresso SSR) Web server to enable researchers who use mice to perform in-depth searches of a rapidly growing and complex part of the mouse literature. Our Textpresso Web server provides an interface for searching the full text of most of the peer-reviewed publications that report the characterization or use of mouse strains that express Cre or Flp recombinase. The database also contains most of the publications that describe the characterization or analysis of strains carrying conditional alleles or transgenes that can be inactivated or activated by site-specific recombinases such as Cre or Flp. Textpresso SSR complements the existing online databases that catalog Cre and Flp expression patterns by providing a unique online interface for the in-depth text mining of the site specific recombinase literature.

Surrogate Poster Artist Concept

NASA Image and Video Library

2015-03-11

This artist's concept shows Surrogate, a robot that could one day assist in disasters or hazardous situations such as a dangerous chemical laboratory. Surrogate was designed and built at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California. Its components came from RoboSimian, another JPL-built robot designed for disaster relief and mitigation (see PIA19313). Surrogate rolls on a track rather than moving on its limbs. http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA19314

Modeling and Experimental Study of Fracture-Based Wellbore Strengthening

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, Ruizhi

Measuring physical dimensions has always been one of the challenges for optical metrology. Specifically, the thickness is often a prerequisite piece of information for other optical properties when characterizing components and materials. For example, when measuring the index of refraction of materials using interferometric methods, the direct measurement is optical path length difference. To acquire index of refraction with high accuracy, the thickness must be predetermined with correspondingly high accuracy as well. In this dissertation, a prototype low-coherence interferometer system is developed through several design iterations to measure the absolute thickness map of a plane-parallel samples in a nondestructive manner. The prototype system is built with all off-the-shelf components in a configuration that combines a Twyman-Green interferometer and a Sagnac interferometer. The repeatability and accuracy of the measured thickness are characterized to be less than one micrometer. Based on the information acquired from the development of the prototype system, a permanent low-coherence interferometer system is designed and built to achieve a higher accuracy in thickness measurements, on the level of a hundred nanometers. A comprehensive uncertainty model is established for the thickness measurement using the low-coherence interferometer system. Additionally, this system is also capable of measuring the topography of both surfaces of the sample, as well as the wedge of the sample. This low-coherence dimensional metrology uses only the reflection signals from the sample surfaces. Thus, the measured physical dimensions are independent of the index of refraction, transparency, transmission, or homogeneity of the sample. In addition, a laser Sagnac interferometer is designed and built by repurposing the test arm of the low-coherence interferometer. The laser Sagnac interferometer provides a non-contact bulk index of refraction metrology for solid materials. The uncertainty model for the index of refraction measurement is detailed with analytical solutions. The laser Sagnac interferometer requires relatively simple sample preparation and fast turn-around time, which is suitable for applications in optical material research.

Rapid optimization method of the strong stray light elimination for extremely weak light signal detection.

PubMed

Wang, Geng; Xing, Fei; Wei, Minsong; You, Zheng

2017-10-16

The strong stray light has huge interference on the detection of weak and small optical signals, and is difficult to suppress. In this paper, a miniaturized baffle with angled vanes was proposed and a rapid optimization model of strong light elimination was built, which has better suppression of the stray lights than the conventional vanes and can optimize the positions of the vanes efficiently and accurately. Furthermore, the light energy distribution model was built based on the light projection at a specific angle, and the light propagation models of the vanes and sidewalls were built based on the Lambert scattering, both of which act as the bias of a calculation method of stray light. Moreover, the Monte-Carlo method was employed to realize the Point Source Transmittance (PST) simulation, and the simulation result indicated that it was consistent with the calculation result based on our models, and the PST could be improved by 2-3 times at the small incident angles for the baffle designed by the new method. Meanwhile, the simulation result was verified by laboratory tests, and the new model with derived analytical expressions which can reduce the simulation time significantly.

Analysis of Latest Experience in Design of Industrial Buildings Reconstruction by Constructing Additional Interfloor Overlaps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peshnina, I.; Sinitsina, O.

2017-11-01

The study relevance is determined by the increasing interest in reconstruction of city historical centers and located in the area of industrial buildings the functional profile of which needs to be changed. The problem of obtaining extra usable spaces in the historical centers of cities is solved by raising the number of storeys in the buildings which can be achieved by the construction of additional built-in inter-floor overlaps. The article is dedicated to the analysis of the recent years’ experience in reconstruction design involving this method in our country and abroad, in the Netherlands, in particular. The article presents the results of the analysis of the experience in reconstruction of the objects by constructing additional inter-floor overlaps and aims to define the optimum construction solution for built-in inter-floor overlapping and to develop non-existing solutions for wide application of this method in the reconstruction of a building with non-unified and unmodulated parameters. It was determined as expedient to apply a monolith reinforced concrete slab with the use of steel profiled flooring as a formwork and reinforcement and steel beams designed as “Built-in Beams” for the construction of built-in inter-floor overlaps in reconstruction. The article will be useful for specialists doing research in the sphere of reconstruction of the buildings and for the practical activity of design engineers.

An information sources map for Occupational and Environmental Medicine: guidance to network-based information through domain-specific indexing.

PubMed Central

Silverstein, S. M.; Miller, P. L.; Cullen, M. R.

1993-01-01

This paper describes a prototype information sources map (ISM), an on-line information source finder, for Occupational and Environmental Medicine (OEM). The OEM ISM was built as part of the Unified Medical Language System (UMLS) project of the National Library of Medicine. It allows a user to identify sources of on-line information appropriate to a specific OEM question, and connect to the sources. In the OEM ISM we explore a domain-specific method of indexing information source contents, and also a domain-specific user interface. The indexing represents a domain expert's opinion of the specificity of an information source in helping to answer specific types of domain questions. For each information source, an index field represents whether a source might provide useful information in an occupational, industrial, or environmental category. Additional fields represent the degree of specificity of a source in individual question types in each category. The paper discusses the development, design, and implementation of the prototype OEM ISM. PMID:8130548

Construction quality assurance report for the Y-12 Construction/Demolition Landfill VII (CDL VII), Oak Ridge, Tennessee

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Burton, P.M.

This Construction Quality Assurance (CQA) Report provides documentation that Bid Option 2 of the Y-12 Plant Construction Demolition Landfill 7 (CDL-7) was constructed in substantial compliance with the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) approved design, as indicated and specified in the permit drawings, approved changes, and specifications. CDL-7 is located in Anderson County on the south side of Chestnut Ridge, approximately 0.5 miles south of the Y-12 Plant in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. This report applies specifically to the limits of excavation for Area No. 1 portions of the perimeter maintenance road and drainage channel and Sedimentation Pond No.more » 3. A partial ``As-Built`` survey was performed and is included.« less

The Problem of Size in Robust Design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koch, Patrick N.; Allen, Janet K.; Mistree, Farrokh; Mavris, Dimitri

1997-01-01

To facilitate the effective solution of multidisciplinary, multiobjective complex design problems, a departure from the traditional parametric design analysis and single objective optimization approaches is necessary in the preliminary stages of design. A necessary tradeoff becomes one of efficiency vs. accuracy as approximate models are sought to allow fast analysis and effective exploration of a preliminary design space. In this paper we apply a general robust design approach for efficient and comprehensive preliminary design to a large complex system: a high speed civil transport (HSCT) aircraft. Specifically, we investigate the HSCT wing configuration design, incorporating life cycle economic uncertainties to identify economically robust solutions. The approach is built on the foundation of statistical experimentation and modeling techniques and robust design principles, and is specialized through incorporation of the compromise Decision Support Problem for multiobjective design. For large problems however, as in the HSCT example, this robust design approach developed for efficient and comprehensive design breaks down with the problem of size - combinatorial explosion in experimentation and model building with number of variables -and both efficiency and accuracy are sacrificed. Our focus in this paper is on identifying and discussing the implications and open issues associated with the problem of size for the preliminary design of large complex systems.

Using multivariate generalizability theory to assess the effect of content stratification on the reliability of a performance assessment.

PubMed

Keller, Lisa A; Clauser, Brian E; Swanson, David B

2010-12-01

In recent years, demand for performance assessments has continued to grow. However, performance assessments are notorious for lower reliability, and in particular, low reliability resulting from task specificity. Since reliability analyses typically treat the performance tasks as randomly sampled from an infinite universe of tasks, these estimates of reliability may not be accurate. For tests built according to a table of specifications, tasks are randomly sampled from different strata (content domains, skill areas, etc.). If these strata remain fixed in the test construction process, ignoring this stratification in the reliability analysis results in an underestimate of "parallel forms" reliability, and an overestimate of the person-by-task component. This research explores the effect of representing and misrepresenting the stratification appropriately in estimation of reliability and the standard error of measurement. Both multivariate and univariate generalizability studies are reported. Results indicate that the proper specification of the analytic design is essential in yielding the proper information both about the generalizability of the assessment and the standard error of measurement. Further, illustrative D studies present the effect under a variety of situations and test designs. Additional benefits of multivariate generalizability theory in test design and evaluation are also discussed.

Health-equity issues related to childhood obesity: a scoping review.

PubMed

Vargas, Clemencia M; Stines, Elsie M; Granado, Herta S

2017-06-01

The purpose of this scoping review was to determine the health-equity issues that relate to childhood obesity. Health-equity issues related to childhood obesity were identified by analyzing food environment, natural and built environment, and social environment. The authors searched Medline, PubMed, and Web of Science, using the keywords "children" and "obesity." Specific terms for each environment were added: "food desert," "advertising," "insecurity," "price," "processing," "trade," and "school" for food environment; "urban design," "land use," "transportation mode," "public facilities," and "market access" for natural and built environment; and "financial capacity/poverty," "living conditions," "transport access," "remoteness," "social support," "social cohesion," "working practices," "eating habits," "time," and "social norms" for social environment. Inclusion criteria were studies or reports with populations under age 12, conducted in the United States, and published in English in 2005 or later. The final search yielded 39 references (16 for food environment, 11 for built environment, and 12 for social environment). Most food-environment elements were associated with obesity, except food insecurity and food deserts. A natural and built environment that hinders access to physical activity resources and access to healthy foods increased the risk of childhood obesity. Similarly, a negative social environment was associated with childhood obesity. More research is needed on the effects of food production, living conditions, time for shopping, and exercise, as related to childhood obesity. Most elements of food, natural and built, and social-environments were associated with weight in children under age 12, except food insecurity and food deserts. © 2017 American Association of Public Health Dentistry.

A visualization framework for design and evaluation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blundell, Benjamin J.; Ng, Gary; Pettifer, Steve

2006-01-01

The creation of compelling visualisation paradigms is a craft often dominated by intuition and issues of aesthetics, with relatively few models to support good design. The majority of problem cases are approached by simply applying a previously evaluated visualisation technique. A large body of work exists covering the individual aspects of visualisation design such as the human cognition aspects visualisation methods for specific problem areas, psychology studies and so forth, yet most frameworks regarding visualisation are applied after-the-fact as an evaluation measure. We present an extensible framework for visualisation aimed at structuring the design process, increasing decision traceability and delineating the notions of function, aesthetics and usability. The framework can be used to derive a set of requirements for good visualisation design and evaluating existing visualisations, presenting possible improvements. Our framework achieves this by being both broad and general, built on top of existing works, with hooks for extensions and customizations. This paper shows how existing theories of information visualisation fit into the scheme, presents our experience in the application of this framework on several designs, and offers our evaluation of the framework and the designs studied.

The Space-Age Legacy of Telescope Designer George A. Carroll

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Briggs, John W.

2013-01-01

Remembered particularly as a founding member of Stony Ridge Observatory near Mount Wilson, George A. Carroll (1902-1987) was legendary in the Southern California telescope making community. In Texas at the age of sixteen, Carroll built and flew his own aircraft, becoming one of the youngest aviators in the country. He eventually became an employee of Lockheed's "Skunk Works" in Burbank. His earliest known commercial telescopes were high-end amateur instruments built by R. R. Cook. As described in a brochure describing his later telescope work, he had "experience in so many branches of technology that it is unbelievable." By the time Carroll's designs were built by Thomas Tool & Die in Sun Valley, his telescopes were well known in the solar community and in use at National Solar Observatory, Caltech, and at many other domestic and international research institutions. Among the most remarkable were large solar spars for Lockheed Solar Observatory in California and Ottawa River Solar Observatory in Canada. His instrumentation also equipped educational facilities including observatories at UCLA, Westmont College, Pasadena City College, Bevard Community College, and many others. A Carroll telescope boasting a particularly distinguished educational history was a small astrograph built in 1953 for Professor George Moyen of Hollywood and subsequently used for the long-running Summer Science Program in Ojai, California. Later solar instruments built by Carson Instruments were closely derivative of Carroll designs.

Large optics for the National Ignition Facility

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Baisden, P.

2015-01-12

The National Ignition Facility (NIF) laser with its 192 independent laser beams is not only the world’s largest laser, it is also the largest optical system ever built. With its 192 independent laser beams, the NIF requires a total of 7648 large-aperture (meter-sized) optics. One of the many challenges in designing and building NIF has been to carry out the research and development on optical materials, optics design, and optics manufacturing and metrology technologies needed to achieve NIF’s high output energies and precision beam quality. This paper describes the multiyear, multi-supplier, development effort that was undertaken to develop the advancedmore » optical materials, coatings, fabrication technologies, and associated process improvements necessary to manufacture the wide range of NIF optics. The optics include neodymium-doped phosphate glass laser amplifiers; fused silica lenses, windows, and phase plates; mirrors and polarizers with multi-layer, high-reflectivity dielectric coatings deposited on BK7 substrates; and potassium di-hydrogen phosphate crystal optics for fast optical switches, frequency conversion, and polarization rotation. Also included is a discussion of optical specifications and custom metrology and quality-assurance tools designed, built, and fielded at supplier sites to verify compliance with the stringent NIF specifications. In addition, a brief description of the ongoing program to improve the operational lifetime (i.e., damage resistance) of optics exposed to high fluence in the 351-nm (3ω) is provided.« less

Aero-acoustic performance comparison of core engine noise suppressors on NASA quiet engine 'C'

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bloomer, H. E.; Schaefer, J. W.

1977-01-01

The purpose of the experimental program reported herein was to evaluate and compare the relative aero-acoustic effectiveness of two core engine suppressors, a contractor-designed suppressor delivered with the Quiet Engine, and a NASA-designed suppressor, designed and built subsequently. The NASA suppressor was tested with and without a splitter making a total of three configurations being reported in addition to the baseline hardwall case. The aerodynamic results are presented in terms of tailpipe pressure loss, corrected net thrust, and corrected specific fuel consumption as functions of engine power setting. The acoustic results are divided into duct and far-field acoustic data. The NASA-designed core suppressor did the better job of suppressing aft end noise, but the splitter associated with it caused a significant engine performance penalty. The NASA core suppressor without the splitter suppressed most of the core noise without any engine performance penalty.

On estimating the accuracy of monitoring methods using Bayesian error propagation technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zonta, Daniele; Bruschetta, Federico; Cappello, Carlo; Zandonini, R.; Pozzi, Matteo; Wang, Ming; Glisic, B.; Inaudi, D.; Posenato, D.; Zhao, Y.

2014-04-01

This paper illustrates an application of Bayesian logic to monitoring data analysis and structural condition state inference. The case study is a 260 m long cable-stayed bridge spanning the Adige River 10 km north of the town of Trento, Italy. This is a statically indeterminate structure, having a composite steel-concrete deck, supported by 12 stay cables. Structural redundancy, possible relaxation losses and an as-built condition differing from design, suggest that long-term load redistribution between cables can be expected. To monitor load redistribution, the owner decided to install a monitoring system which combines built-on-site elasto-magnetic and fiber-optic sensors. In this note, we discuss a rational way to improve the accuracy of the load estimate from the EM sensors taking advantage of the FOS information. More specifically, we use a multi-sensor Bayesian data fusion approach which combines the information from the two sensing systems with the prior knowledge, including design information and the outcomes of laboratory calibration. Using the data acquired to date, we demonstrate that combining the two measurements allows a more accurate estimate of the cable load, to better than 50 kN.

Characteristics of the Built Environment and the Presence of the Norway Rat in New York City: Results From a Neighborhood Rat Surveillance Program, 2008-2010.

PubMed

Johnson, Sarah; Bragdon, Caroline; Olson, Carolyn; Merlino, Mario; Bonaparte, Sancia

2016-06-01

Characteristics of an urban setting such as New York City (NYC), including readily available putrescible waste and ample underground infrastructure, make it highly attractive to the Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus). To identify property and neighborhood characteristics associated with rat presence, recent inspectional results were analyzed from over 77,000 properties in the Bronx and Manhattan. Variables capturing the location and density of factors believed to promote rat populations were tested individually and in combination in models predicting rat activity. We found that property-specific characteristics typically associated with high garbage volume, including large numbers of residential units, public ownership, and open-space designation (parks, outdoor recreation, or vacant land) were the most important factors in explaining increased rat presence across neighborhoods in NYC. Interventions that involved improved garbage management and street sanitation within a designated area reduced the likelihood of finding rats, especially in medium- and high-poverty neighborhoods. Neighborhood characteristics, such as being near a railroad or subway line, having a school nearby, the presence of numerous restaurants, or having older infrastructure, also contributed to the increased likelihood of rats. Our results support the use of built environment data to target community-level interventions and capture emerging rat infestations.

Progress on development of SPIDER diagnostics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pasqualotto, R.; Agostini, M.; Barbisan, M.; Bernardi, M.; Brombin, M.; Cavazzana, R.; Croci, G.; Palma, M. Dalla; Delogu, R. S.; Gorini, G.; Lotto, L.; Muraro, A.; Peruzzo, S.; Pimazzoni, A.; Pomaro, N.; Rizzolo, A.; Serianni, G.; Spolaore, M.; Tardocchi, M.; Zaniol, B.; Zaupa, M.

2017-08-01

SPIDER experiment, the full size prototype of the beam source for the ITER heating neutral beam injector, has to demonstrate extraction and acceleration to 100 kV of a large negative ion hydrogen or deuterium beam with co-extracted electron fraction e-/D- <1 and beam uniformity within 10%, for up to one hour beam pulses. Main RF source plasma and beam parameters are measured with different complementary techniques to exploit the combination of their specific features. While SPIDER plant systems are being installed, the different diagnostic systems are in the procurement phase. Their final design is described here with a focus on some key solutions and most original and cost effective implementations. Thermocouples used to measure the power load distribution in the source and over the beam dump front surface will be efficiently fixed with proven technique and acquired through commercial and custom electronics. Spectroscopy needs to use well collimated lines of sight and will employ novel design spectrometers with higher efficiency and resolution and filtered detectors with custom built amplifiers. The electrostatic probes will be operated through electronics specifically developed to cope with the challenging environment of the RF source. The instrumented calorimeter STRIKE will use new CFC tiles, still under development. Two linear cameras, one built in house, have been tested as suitable for optical beam tomography. Some diagnostic components are off the shelf, others are custom developed: some of these are being prototyped or are under test before final production and installation, which will be completed before start of SPIDER operation.

A 400-kWe high-efficiency steam turbine for industrial cogeneration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leibowitz, H. M.

1982-01-01

An advanced state-of-the-art steam turbine-generator developed to serve as the power conversion subsystem for the Department of Energy's Sandia National Laboratories' Solar Total-Energy Project (STEP) is described. The turbine-generator, which is designed to provide 400-kW of net electrical power, represents the largest turbine-generator built specifically for commercial solar-powered cogeneration. The controls for the turbine-generator incorporate a multiple, partial-arc entry to provide efficient off-design performance, as well as an extraction control scheme to permit extraction flow regulation while maintaining 110-spsig pressure. Normal turbine operation is achieved while synchronized to a local utility and in a stand-alone mode. In both cases, the turbine-generator features automatic load control as well as remote start-up and shutdown capability. Tests totaling 200 hours were conducted to confirm the integrity of the turbine's mechanical structure and control function. Performance tests resulted in a measured inlet throttle flow of 8,450 pounds per hour, which was near design conditions.

Building a computer-aided design capability using a standard time share operating system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sobieszczanski, J.

1975-01-01

The paper describes how an integrated system of engineering computer programs can be built using a standard commercially available operating system. The discussion opens with an outline of the auxiliary functions that an operating system can perform for a team of engineers involved in a large and complex task. An example of a specific integrated system is provided to explain how the standard operating system features can be used to organize the programs into a simple and inexpensive but effective system. Applications to an aircraft structural design study are discussed to illustrate the use of an integrated system as a flexible and efficient engineering tool. The discussion concludes with an engineer's assessment of an operating system's capabilities and desirable improvements.

CAFE: Calar Alto Fiber-fed Échelle spectrograph

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aceituno, J.; Sánchez, S. F.; Grupp, F.; Lillo, J.; Hernán-Obispo, M.; Benitez, D.; Montoya, L. M.; Thiele, U.; Pedraz, S.; Barrado, D.; Dreizler, S.; Bean, J.

2013-04-01

We present here CAFE, the Calar Alto Fiber-fed Échelle spectrograph, a new instrument built at the Centro Astronomico Hispano Alemán (CAHA). CAFE is a single-fiber, high-resolution (R ~ 70 000) spectrograph, covering the wavelength range between 3650-9800 Å. It was built on the basis of the common design for Échelle spectrographs. Its main aim is to measure radial velocities of stellar objects up to V ~ 13-14 mag with a precision as good as a few tens of m s-1. To achieve this goal the design was simplified at maximum, removing all possible movable components, the central wavelength is fixed, as is the wavelength coverage; there is no filter wheel, etc. Particular care was taken with the thermal and mechanical stability. The instrument is fully operational and publically accessible at the 2.2 m telescope of the Calar Alto Observatory. In this article we describe (i) the design, summarizing its manufacturing phase; (ii) characterize the main properties of the instrument; (iii) describe the reduction pipeline; and (iv) show the results from the first light and commissioning runs. The preliminar results indicate that the instrument fulfills the specifications and can achieve the planned goals. In particular, the results show that the instrument is more efficient than anticipated, reaching a signal-to-noise of ~20 for a stellar object as faint as V ~ 14.5 mag in ~2700 s integration time. The instrument is a wonderful machine for exoplanetary research (by studying large samples of possible systems cotaining massive planets), galactic dynamics (highly precise radial velocities in moving groups or stellar associations), or astrochemistry.

EVA Suit R and D for Performance Optimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cowley, Matthew S.; Harvill, Lauren; Benson, Elizabeth; Rajulu, Sudhakar

2014-01-01

Designing a planetary suit is very complex and often requires difficult trade-offs between performance, cost, mass, and system complexity. To verify that new suit designs meet requirements, full prototypes must be built and tested with human subjects. However, numerous design iterations will occur before the hardware meets those requirements. Traditional draw-prototype-test paradigms for R&D are prohibitively expensive with today's shrinking Government budgets. Personnel at NASA are developing modern simulation techniques which focus on human-centric designs by creating virtual prototype simulations and fully adjustable physical prototypes of suit hardware. During the R&D design phase, these easily modifiable representations of an EVA suit's hard components will allow designers to think creatively and exhaust design possibilities before they build and test working prototypes with human subjects. It allows scientists to comprehensively benchmark current suit capabilities and limitations for existing suit sizes and sizes that do not exist. This is extremely advantageous and enables comprehensive design down-selections to be made early in the design process, enables the use of human performance as design criteria, and enables designs to target specific populations

Information therapy: The strategic role of prescribed information in disease self-management.

PubMed

Mettler, Molly; Kemper, Donald W

2006-01-01

Imagine this: evidence-based medical information specifically written for and prescribed to a patient with chronic illness, targeted to that patient's specific "moment in care" and designed to help that patient manage his or her illness. Imagine "information therapy" built into every clinical encounter that a patient has with a physician or other health care service. Information therapy is defined as the timely prescription and availability of evidence-based health information to meet individuals' specific needs and support sound decision making. Information therapy is a new disease management tool that provides cost-effective disease management support to a much larger portion of the chronically ill population than is generally reached. This paper is a practical presentation of information therapy, its role in predictive modeling and disease self-management, and its potential for improving the outcomes of chronic care.

Computer-Aided Design for Built-In-Test (CADBIT) - Software Specification. Volume 3

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-10-01

CADD COMAN WIDO IO-CNURET MSL PPLYING~ TET ATEN Figur 3-13- TUTORIA FIGUR PLCMI IN CAD-NVIOMENT ON BOAR SEFTST- 1"os-rnenu, long-tur d nnnih que- list...have software package for reliability calculation A-8 LIBRARY ELEMENT DATA SHE T’" BIT TECHNIQUE: ON-BOARD ROM CATEGORY: L’ONG TUTORIA PAGE ,5 of 14

High Power Silicon Carbide (SiC) Power Processing Unit Development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Scheidegger, Robert J.; Santiago, Walter; Bozak, Karin E.; Pinero, Luis R.; Birchenough, Arthur G.

2015-01-01

NASA GRC successfully designed, built and tested a technology-push power processing unit for electric propulsion applications that utilizes high voltage silicon carbide (SiC) technology. The development specifically addresses the need for high power electronics to enable electric propulsion systems in the 100s of kilowatts. This unit demonstrated how high voltage combined with superior semiconductor components resulted in exceptional converter performance.

The Ideal Oriented Co-design Approach Revisited

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnstone, Christina

There exist a large number of different methodologies for developing information systems on the market. This implies that there also are a large number of "best" ways of developing those information systems. Avison and Fitzgerald (2003) states that every methodology is built on a philosophy. With philosophy they refer to the underlying attitudes and viewpoints, and the different assumptions and emphases to be found within the specific methodology.

El Toro Library Solar Heating and Cooling Demonstration Project. Final report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Not Available

This report is divided into a number of essentially independent sections, each of which covers a specific topic. The sections, and the topics covered, are as follows. Section 1 provides a brief summary description of the solar energy heating and cooling system including the key final design parameters. Section 2 contains a copy of the final Acceptance Test Report. Section 3 consists of a reduced set of final updated as-built mechanical, electrical, control and instrumentations drawings of the solar energy heating and cooling system. Section 4 provides a summary of system maintenance requirements, in the form of a maintenance schedulemore » which lists necessary maintenance tasks to be performed at monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, and annual intervals. Section 5 contains a series of photographs of the final solar energy system installation, including the collector field and the mechanical equipment room. Section 6 provides a concise summary of system operation and performance for the period of December 1981 through June 1982, as measured, computed and reported by Vitro Laboratories Division of Automation Industries, Inc., for the DOE National Solar Data Network. Section 7 provides a summary of key as-built design parameters, compared with the corresponding original design concept parameters. Section 8 provides a description of a series of significant problems encountered during construction, start-up and check-out of the solar energy heating and cooling system, together with the method employed to solve the problem at the time and/or recommendations for avoiding the problem in the future design of similar systems. Appendices A through H contain the installation, operation and maintenance submittals of the various manufacturers on the major items of equipment in the system. Reference CAPE-2823.« less

Public open space, physical activity, urban design and public health: Concepts, methods and research agenda.

PubMed

Koohsari, Mohammad Javad; Mavoa, Suzanne; Villanueva, Karen; Sugiyama, Takemi; Badland, Hannah; Kaczynski, Andrew T; Owen, Neville; Giles-Corti, Billie

2015-05-01

Public open spaces such as parks and green spaces are key built environment elements within neighbourhoods for encouraging a variety of physical activity behaviours. Over the past decade, there has been a burgeoning number of active living research studies examining the influence of public open space on physical activity. However, the evidence shows mixed associations between different aspects of public open space (e.g., proximity, size, quality) and physical activity. These inconsistencies hinder the development of specific evidence-based guidelines for urban designers and policy-makers for (re)designing public open space to encourage physical activity. This paper aims to move this research agenda forward, by identifying key conceptual and methodological issues that may contribute to inconsistencies in research examining relations between public open space and physical activity. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Theoretical Construct of Serious Play and the Design of a Tangible Social Interface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jennings, Pamela L.

To construct is to creatively invent one's world by engaging in creative decision-making, problem solving, and negotiation. The metaphor of construction is used to demonstrate how a simple artifact - a building blockw can be used to facilitate the exploration of personal narratives. This chapter presents an argument for the development of tangible social interfaces and interaction design practices that are informed by the premises of twentieth century philosophical and cultural theories. Specifically, this chapter explores the historical notion of the role of play in constructing a civic society. The constructed narratives' electronic construction kit is introduced as an example of research and development of a critical creative technology built on a wireless ad hoc 802.15.4 network platform. The game is designed to support collaborative play and learning.

Experimental Lithium-Ion Battery Developed for Demonstration at the 2007 NASA Desert Research and Technology Studies (D-RATS) Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bennett, William R.; Baldwin, Richard S.

2010-01-01

The NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) Electrochemistry Branch designed and built five lithium-ion battery packs for demonstration in spacesuit simulators as a part of the 2007 Desert Research and Technology Studies (D-RATS) activity at Cinder Lake, Arizona. The experimental batteries incorporated advanced, NASA-developed electrolytes and included internal protection against over-current, overdischarge and over-temperature. The 500-g experimental batteries were designed to deliver a constant power of 22 W for 2.5 hr with a minimum voltage of 13 V. When discharged at the maximum expected power output of 38.5 W, the batteries operated for 103 min of discharge time, achieving a specific energy of 130 Wh/kg. This report summarizes design details and safety considerations. Results for field trials and laboratory testing are summarized.

Color Helmet Mounted Display System with Real Time Computer Generated and Video Imagery for In-Flight Simulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sawyer, Kevin; Jacobsen, Robert; Aiken, Edwin W. (Technical Monitor)

1995-01-01

NASA Ames Research Center and the US Army are developing the Rotorcraft Aircrew Systems Concepts Airborne Laboratory (RASCAL) using a Sikorsky UH-60 helicopter for the purpose of flight systems research. A primary use of the RASCAL is in-flight simulation for which the visual scene will use computer generated imagery and synthetic vision. This research is made possible in part to a full color wide field of view Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) system that provides high performance color imagery suitable for daytime operations in a flight-rated package. This paper describes the design and performance characteristics of the HMD system. Emphasis is placed on the design specifications, testing, and integration into the aircraft of Kaiser Electronics' RASCAL HMD system that was designed and built under contract for NASA. The optical performance and design of the Helmet mounted display unit will be discussed as well as the unique capabilities provided by the system's Programmable Display Generator (PDG).

High voltage and current, gate assisted, turn-off thyristor development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nowalk, T. P.; Brewster, J. B.; Kao, Y. C.

1972-01-01

An improved high speed power switch with unique turn-off capability was developed. This gate assisted turn-off thyristor (GATT) was rated 1000 volts and 100 amperes with turn-off times of 2 microseconds. Fifty units were delivered for evaluation. In addition, test circuits designed to relate to the series inverter application were built and demonstrated. In the course of this work it was determined that the basic device design is adequate to meet the static characteristics and dynamic turn-off specification. It was further determined that the turn-on specification is critically dependent on the gate drive circuit due to the distributive nature of the cathode-gate geometry. Future work should emphasize design modifications which reduce the gate current required for fast turn-on, thereby opening the way to higher power (current) devices.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kornfeldt, H.; Bjoerk, K.O.; Ekstroem, P.

The protection against dynamic effects in connection with potential pipe breaks has been implemented in different ways in the development of BWR reactor designs. First-generation plant designs reflect code requirements in effect at that time which means that no piping restraint systems were designed and built into those plants. Modern designs have, in contrast, implemented full protection against damage in connection with postulated pipe breaks, as required in current codes and regulations. Moderns standards and current regulatory demands can be met for the older plants by backfitting pipe whip restraint hardware. This could lead to several practical difficulties as thesemore » installations were not anticipated in the original plant design and layout. Meeting the new demands by analysis would in this situation have great advantages. Application of leak-before-break criteria gives an alternative opportunity of meeting modem standards in reactor safety design. Analysis takes into account data specific to BWR primary system operation, actual pipe material properties, piping loads and leak detection capability. Special attention must be given to ensure that the data used reflects actual plant conditions.« less

Feasibility study of patient-specific surgical templates for the fixation of pedicle screws.

PubMed

Salako, F; Aubin, C-E; Fortin, C; Labelle, H

2002-01-01

Surgery for scoliosis, as well as other posterior spinal surgeries, frequently uses pedicle screws to fix an instrumentation on the spine. Misplacement of a screw can lead to intra- and post-operative complications. The objective of this study is to design patient-specific surgical templates to guide the drilling operation. From the CT-scan of a vertebra, the optimal drilling direction and limit angles are computed from an inverse projection of the pedicle limits. The first template design uses a surface-to-surface registration method and was constructed in a CAD system by subtracting the vertebra from a rectangular prism and a cylinder with the optimal orientation. This template and the vertebra were built using rapid prototyping. The second design uses a point-to-surface registration method and has 6 adjustable screws to adjust the orientation and length of the drilling support device. A mechanism was designed to hold it in place on the spinal process. A virtual prototype was build with CATIA software. During the operation, the surgeon places either template on patient's vertebra until a perfect match is obtained before drilling. The second design seems better than the first one because it can be reused on different vertebra and is less sensible to registration errors. The next step is to build the second design and make experimental and simulations tests to evaluate the benefits of this template during a scoliosis operation.

Beam director design report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Younger, F.C.

1986-08-01

A design and fabrication effort for a beam director is documented. The conceptual design provides for the beam to pass first through a bending and focusing system (or ''achromat''), through a second achromat, through an air-to-vacuum interface (the ''beam window''), and finally through the vernier steering system. Following an initial concept study for a beam director, a prototype permanent magnet 30/sup 0/ beam-bending achromat and prototype vernier steering magnet were designed and built. In volume II, copies are included of the funding instruments, requests for quotations, purchase orders, a complete set of as-built drawings, magnetic measurement reports, the concept designmore » report, and the final report on the design and fabrication project. (LEW)« less

Multipole gas thruster design. Ph.D. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Isaacson, G. C.

1977-01-01

The development of a low field strength multipole thruster operating on both argon and xenon is described. Experimental results were obtained with a 15-cm diameter multipole thruster and are presented for a wide range of discharge-chamber configurations. Minimum discharge losses were 300-350 eV/ion for argon and 200-250 eV/ion for xenon. Ion beam flatness parameters in the plane of the accelerator grid ranged from 0.85 to 0.93 for both propellants. Thruster performance is correlated for a range of ion chamber sizes and operating conditions as well as propellant type and accelerator system open area. A 30-cm diameter ion source designed and built using the procedure and theory presented here-in is shown capable of low discharge losses and flat ion-beam profiles without optimization. This indicates that by using the low field strength multipole design, as well as general performance correlation information provided herein, it should be possible to rapidly translate initial performance specifications into easily fabricated, high performance prototypes.

Optimal design of vertebrate and insect sarcomeres.

PubMed

Otten, E

1987-01-01

This paper offers a model for the normalized length-tension relation of a muscle fiber based upon sarcomere design. Comparison with measurements published by Gordon et al. ('66) shows an accurate fit as long as the inhomogeneity of sarcomere length in a single muscle fiber is taken into account. Sequential change of filament length and the length of the cross-bridge-free zone leads the model to suggest that most vertebrate sarcomeres tested match the condition of optimal construction for the output of mechanical energy over a full sarcomere contraction movement. Joint optimization of all three morphometric parameters suggests that a slightly better (0.3%) design is theoretically possible. However, this theoretical sarcomere, optimally designed for the conversion of energy, has a low normalized contraction velocity; it provides a poorer match to the combined functional demands of high energy output and high contraction velocity than the real sarcomeres of vertebrates. The sarcomeres in fish myotomes appear to be built suboptimally for isometric contraction, but built optimally for that shortening velocity generating maximum power. During swimming, these muscles do indeed contract concentrically only. The sarcomeres of insect asynchronous flight muscles contract only slightly. They are not built optimally for maximum output of energy across the full range of contraction encountered in vertebrate sarcomeres, but are built almost optimally for the contraction range that they do in fact employ.

As-built design specification for proportion estimate software subsystem

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Obrien, S. (Principal Investigator)

1980-01-01

The Proportion Estimate Processor evaluates four estimation techniques in order to get an improved estimate of the proportion of a scene that is planted in a selected crop. The four techniques to be evaluated were provided by the techniques development section and are: (1) random sampling; (2) proportional allocation, relative count estimate; (3) proportional allocation, Bayesian estimate; and (4) sequential Bayesian allocation. The user is given two options for computation of the estimated mean square error. These are referred to as the cluster calculation option and the segment calculation option. The software for the Proportion Estimate Processor is operational on the IBM 3031 computer.

Evaluation of a miniature microscope objective designed for fluorescence array microscopy detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

PubMed

McCall, Brian; Olsen, Randall J; Nelles, Nicole J; Williams, Dawn L; Jackson, Kevin; Richards-Kortum, Rebecca; Graviss, Edward A; Tkaczyk, Tomasz S

2014-03-01

A prototype miniature objective that was designed for a point-of-care diagnostic array microscope for detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and previously fabricated and presented in a proof of concept is evaluated for its effectiveness in detecting acid-fast bacteria. To evaluate the ability of the microscope to resolve submicron features and details in the image of acid-fast microorganisms stained with a fluorescent dye, and to evaluate the accuracy of clinical diagnoses made with digital images acquired with the objective. The lens prescription data for the microscope design are presented. A test platform is built by combining parts of a standard microscope, a prototype objective, and a digital single-lens reflex camera. Counts of acid-fast bacteria made with the prototype objective are compared to counts obtained with a standard microscope over matched fields of view. Two sets of 20 smears, positive and negative, are diagnosed by 2 pathologists as sputum smear positive or sputum smear negative, using both a standard clinical microscope and the prototype objective under evaluation. The results are compared to a reference diagnosis of the same sample. More bacteria are counted in matched fields of view in digital images taken with the prototype objective than with the standard clinical microscope. All diagnostic results are found to be highly concordant. An array microscope built with this miniature lens design will be able to detect M tuberculosis with high sensitivity and specificity.

The relationship between the quality of the built environment and the quality of life of people with dementia in residential care.

PubMed

Fleming, Richard; Goodenough, Belinda; Low, Lee-Fay; Chenoweth, Lynn; Brodaty, Henry

2016-07-01

While there is considerable evidence on the impact of specific design features on problems associated with dementia, the link between the quality of the built environment and quality of life of people with dementia is largely unexplored. This study explored the environmental and personal characteristics that are associated with quality of life in people with dementia living in residential aged care. Data were obtained from 275 residents of 35 aged care homes and analysed using linear regression. The quality of the built environment was significantly associated with the quality of life of the resident measured by global self-report. Environmental ratings were not associated with proxy or detailed self-report ratings. Higher quality of life is associated with buildings that facilitate engagement with a variety of activities both inside and outside, are familiar, provide a variety of private and community spaces and the amenities and opportunities to take part in domestic activities. © The Author(s) 2014.

Preliminary testing of a prototype portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Patten, L. L.; Anderson, N. B.; Stevenson, J. J.

1982-01-01

A portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometer for use as an analyzer in mineral resource investigative work was built and tested. The prototype battery powered spectrometer, measuring 11 by 12 by 5 inches and weighing only about 15 pounds, was designed specifically for field use. The spectrometer has two gas proportional counters and two radioactive sources, Cd (10a) and Fe (55). Preliminary field and laboratory tests on rock specimens and rock pulps have demonstrated the capability of the spectrometer to detect 33 elements to date. Characteristics of the system present some limitations, however, and further improvements are recommended.

From the Ground Up: Art in American Built Environment Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Guilfoil, Joanne K.

2000-01-01

Provides a case for teaching children about local architecture. Describes a specific example called the Kentucky Project as a humanist approach to built environmental education that enabled middle and high school students to study their architectural heritage through a program of videos and related teaching materials. (CMK)

SMAP Verification and Validation Project - Final Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murry, Michael

2012-01-01

In 2007, the National Research Council (NRC) released the Decadal Survey of Earth science. In the future decade, the survey identified 15 new space missions of significant scientific and application value for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to undertake. One of these missions was the Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) mission that NASA assigned to the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in 2008. The goal of SMAP1 is to provide global, high resolution mapping of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw states. The SMAP project recently passed its Critical Design Review and is proceeding with its fabrication and testing phase.Verification and Validation (V&V) is widely recognized as a critical component in system engineering and is vital to the success of any space mission. V&V is a process that is used to check that a system meets its design requirements and specifications in order to fulfill its intended purpose. Verification often refers to the question "Have we built the system right?" whereas Validation asks "Have we built the right system?" Currently the SMAP V&V team is verifying design requirements through inspection, demonstration, analysis, or testing. An example of the SMAP V&V process is the verification of the antenna pointing accuracy with mathematical models since it is not possible to provide the appropriate micro-gravity environment for testing the antenna on Earth before launch.

Glider accidents: an analysis of 143 cases, 2001-2005.

PubMed

van Doorn, Robert R A; de Voogt, Alexander J

2007-01-01

The majority of aviation crashes and casualties take place in general and sport aviation. Although gliding has gained popularity in recent decades, we could find no systematic analysis of glider accidents. This study determined factors associated with both non-fatal and fatal glider accidents to document their position within sport and general aviation accidents, and to suggest preventive measures and improvements. We performed a retrospective review of glider accidents for the period 2001-2005 in the database maintained by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). A total of 117 non-fatal and 26 fatal glider accidents were reported for the 5-yr period. Adverse weather was the cause in 20% of all non-fatal accidents, 60% of which occurred in the cruise phase. Logistic regression revealed that fatal accidents were predicted by pilot error, flight phase, and home-built aircraft. Factors contributing to glider crashes are specific to this type of sport aviation. Owners of home-built gliders should pay particular attention to the aircraft's specifications and design limits.

Columbia County Habitat for Humanity Passive Townhomes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dentz, Jordan; Alaigh, Kunal; Dadia, Devanshi

2016-03-18

Columbia County (New York) Habitat for Humanity built a pair of townhomes to Passive House criteria with the purpose of exploring approaches for achieving Passive House performance and to eventually develop a prototype design for future projects. The project utilized a 2x6 frame wall with a structural insulated panel curtain wall and a ventilated attic over a sealed OSB ceiling air barrier. Mechanical systems include a single head, wall mounted ductless mini-split heat pump in each unit and a heat recovery ventilator. Costs were $26,000 per unit higher for Passive House construction compared with the same home built to ENERGYmore » STAR version 3 specifications, representing about 18% of total construction cost. This report discusses the cost components, energy modeling results and lessons from construction. Two alternative ventilation systems are analyzed: a central system; and, a point-source system with small through-wall units distributed throughout the house. The report includes a design and cost analysis of these two approaches.« less

Building America Case Study: Columbia County Habitat for Humanity Passive Townhomes, Hudson, New York

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

2016-04-01

Columbia County (New York) Habitat for Humanity built a pair of townhomes to Passive House criteria with the purpose of exploring approaches for achieving Passive House performance and to eventually develop a prototype design for future projects. The project utilized a 2x6 frame wall with a structural insulated panel curtain wall and a ventilated attic over a sealed OSB ceiling air barrier. Mechanical systems include a single head, wall mounted ductless mini-split heat pump in each unit and a heat recovery ventilator. Costs were $26,000 per unit higher for Passive House construction compared with the same home built to ENERGYmore » STAR version 3 specifications, representing about 18 percent of total construction cost. This report discusses the cost components, energy modeling results and lessons from construction. Two alternative ventilation systems are analyzed: a central system; and, a point-source system with small through-wall units distributed throughout the house. The report includes a design and cost analysis of these two approaches.« less

Performance and Sizing Tool for Quadrotor Biplane Tailsitter UAS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Strom, Eric

The Quadrotor-Biplane-Tailsitter (QBT) configuration is the basis for a mechanically simplistic rotorcraft capable of both long-range, high-speed cruise as well as hovering flight. This work presents the development and validation of a set of preliminary design tools built specifically for this aircraft to enable its further development, including: a QBT weight model, preliminary sizing framework, and vehicle analysis tools. The preliminary sizing tool presented here shows the advantage afforded by QBT designs in missions with aggressive cruise requirements, such as offshore wind turbine inspections, wherein transition from a quadcopter configuration to a QBT allows for a 5:1 trade of battery weight for wing weight. A 3D, unsteady panel method utilizing a nonlinear implementation of the Kutta-Joukowsky condition is also presented as a means of computing aerodynamic interference effects and, through the implementation of rotor, body, and wing geometry generators, is prepared for coupling with a comprehensive rotor analysis package.

Do users desire symmetrical lumbar supports in task seating?

PubMed

Fredericks, Tycho K; Butt, Steven E; Kumar, Anil R; Bellingar, Teresa

2016-07-01

This research was designed to objectively investigate the desired low back (lumbar) support in a task chair; specifically by allowing a user to self-select the magnitude and location of support. An experimental chair built specifically for this study allowed the users to remotely adjust 35 diodes to achieve their desired level of support. Pressure mapping was used to measure the interface pressure at the user-seat back interface. It was determined that 73.8% of the 201 participants in this study, self-selected asymmetrical lower back support that was at least 20% greater on one side vs. the other. Additionally, 16.9% of the participants self-selected support on one side which was at least twice that of the other side. Contrary to popular practice, participants were found to prefer asymmetric support in the lower back region. It is anticipated that the culmination of this research will aid chair manufacturers in designing adaptable back rests. Practitioner Summary: Most current lumbar supports are designed to move vertically and to symmetrically increase or decrease in firmness as per a user's adjustment. This investigation highlights that participants tended to select asymmetrical lumbar support, and as such, designers should consider providing lumbar supports that provide the desired support at appropriate locations.

High-contrast Imager for Complex Aperture Telescopes (HICAT): II. Design overview and first light results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

N'Diaye, Mamadou; Choquet, Elodie; Egron, Sylvain; Pueyo, Laurent; Leboulleux, Lucie; Levecq, Olivier; Perrin, Marshall D.; Elliot, Erin; Wallace, J. Kent; Hugot, Emmanuel; Marcos, Michel; Ferrari, Marc; Long, Chris A.; Anderson, Rachel; DiFelice, Audrey; Soummer, Rémi

2014-08-01

We present a new high-contrast imaging testbed designed to provide complete solutions in wavefront sensing, control and starlight suppression with complex aperture telescopes. The testbed was designed to enable a wide range of studies of the effects of such telescope geometries, with primary mirror segmentation, central obstruction, and spiders. The associated diffraction features in the point spread function make high-contrast imaging more challenging. In particular the testbed will be compatible with both AFTA-like and ATLAST-like aperture shapes, respectively on-axis monolithic, and on-axis segmented telescopes. The testbed optical design was developed using a novel approach to define the layout and surface error requirements to minimize amplitude­ induced errors at the target contrast level performance. In this communication we compare the as-built surface errors for each optic to their specifications based on end-to-end Fresnel modelling of the testbed. We also report on the testbed optical and optomechanical alignment performance, coronagraph design and manufacturing, and preliminary first light results.

Design and Verification of a Distributed Communication Protocol

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Munoz, Cesar A.; Goodloe, Alwyn E.

2009-01-01

The safety of remotely operated vehicles depends on the correctness of the distributed protocol that facilitates the communication between the vehicle and the operator. A failure in this communication can result in catastrophic loss of the vehicle. To complicate matters, the communication system may be required to satisfy several, possibly conflicting, requirements. The design of protocols is typically an informal process based on successive iterations of a prototype implementation. Yet distributed protocols are notoriously difficult to get correct using such informal techniques. We present a formal specification of the design of a distributed protocol intended for use in a remotely operated vehicle, which is built from the composition of several simpler protocols. We demonstrate proof strategies that allow us to prove properties of each component protocol individually while ensuring that the property is preserved in the composition forming the entire system. Given that designs are likely to evolve as additional requirements emerge, we show how we have automated most of the repetitive proof steps to enable verification of rapidly changing designs.

Toward domain-specific design environments: Some representation ideas from the telecommunications domain

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Greenspan, Sol; Feblowitz, Mark

1992-01-01

ACME is an experimental environment for investigating new approaches to modeling and analysis of system requirements and designs. ACME is built on and extends object-oriented conceptual modeling techniques and knowledge representation and reasoning (KRR) tools. The most immediate intended use for ACME is to help represent, understand, and communicate system designs during the early stages of system planning and requirements engineering. While our research is ostensibly aimed at software systems in general, we are particularly motivated to make an impact in the telecommunications domain, especially in the area referred to as Intelligent Networks (IN's). IN systems contain the software to provide services to users of a telecommunications network (e.g., call processing services, information services, etc.) as well as the software that provides the internal infrastructure for providing the services (e.g., resource management, billing, etc.). The software includes not only systems developed by the network proprietors but also by a growing group of independent service software providers.

49 CFR 179.200-1 - Tank built under these specifications must meet the requirements of §§ 179.200, and 179.201.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... Regulations Relating to Transportation PIPELINE AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SAFETY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION HAZARDOUS MATERIALS REGULATIONS SPECIFICATIONS FOR TANK CARS Specifications for Non-Pressure Tank Car Tanks (Classes DOT-111AW and 115AW) § 179.200-1 Tank built under these specifications must meet...

49 CFR 179.200-1 - Tank built under these specifications must meet the requirements of §§ 179.200, and 179.201.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) PIPELINE AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SAFETY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED) SPECIFICATIONS FOR TANK CARS Specifications for Non-Pressure Tank Car Tanks (Classes DOT-111AW and 115AW) § 179.200-1 Tank built under these specifications must meet...

49 CFR 179.200-1 - Tank built under these specifications must meet the requirements of §§ 179.200, and 179.201.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) PIPELINE AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SAFETY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED) SPECIFICATIONS FOR TANK CARS Specifications for Non-Pressure Tank Car Tanks (Classes DOT-111AW and 115AW) § 179.200-1 Tank built under these specifications must meet...

49 CFR 179.220-1 - Tanks built under these specifications must meet the requirements of §§ 179.220 and 179.221.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) PIPELINE AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SAFETY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED) SPECIFICATIONS FOR TANK CARS Specifications for Non-Pressure Tank Car Tanks (Classes DOT-111AW and 115AW) § 179.220-1 Tanks built under these specifications must meet...

Identifying mechanisms for facilitating knowledge to action strategies targeting the built environment.

PubMed

Fazli, Ghazal S; Creatore, Maria I; Matheson, Flora I; Guilcher, Sara; Kaufman-Shriqui, Vered; Manson, Heather; Johns, Ashley; Booth, Gillian L

2017-01-03

In recent years, obesity-related diseases have been on the rise globally resulting in major challenges for health systems and society as a whole. Emerging research in population health suggests that interventions targeting the built environment may help reduce the burden of obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, translation of the evidence on the built environment into effective policy and planning changes requires engagement and collaboration between multiple sectors and government agencies for designing neighborhoods that are more conducive to healthy and active living. In this study, we identified knowledge gaps and other barriers to evidence-based decision-making and policy development related to the built environment; as well as the infrastructure, processes, and mechanisms needed to drive policy changes in this area. We conducted a qualitative thematic analysis of data collected through consultations with a broad group of stakeholders (N = 42) from Southern Ontario, Canada, within various sectors (public health, urban planning, and transportation) and levels of government (federal, provincial, and municipalities). Relevant themes were classified based on the specific phase of the knowledge-to-action cycle (research, translation, and implementation) in which they were most closely aligned. We identified 5 themes including: 1) the need for policy-informed and actionable research (e.g. health economic analyses and policy evaluations); 2) impactful messaging that targets all relevant sectors to create the political will necessary to drive policy change; 3) common measures and tools to increase capacity for monitoring and surveillance of built environment changes; (4) intersectoral collaboration and alignment within and between levels of government to enable collective actions and provide mechanisms for sharing of resources and expertise, (5) aligning public and private sector priorities to generate public demand and support for community action; and, (6) solution-focused implementation of research that will be tailored to meet the needs of policymakers and planners. Additional research priorities and key policy and planning actions were also noted. Our research highlights the necessity of involving stakeholders in identifying inter-sectoral solutions to develop and translate actionable research on the built environment into effective policy and planning initiatives.

Fiber pulling apparatus modification

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Guy A.; Workman, Gary L.

1992-01-01

A reduced gravity fiber pulling apparatus (FPA) was constructed in order to study the effects of gravity on glass fiber formation. The apparatus was specifically designed and built for use on NASA's KC-135 aircraft. Four flights have been completed to date during which E-glass fiber was successfully produced in simulated zero, high, and lunar gravity environments. In addition simulated lunar soil samples were tested for their fiber producing properties using the FPA.

A Data Warehouse to Support Condition Based Maintenance (CBM)

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-05-01

Application ( VBA ) code sequence to import the original MAST-generated CSV and then create a single output table in DBASE IV format. The DBASE IV format...database architecture (Oracle, Sybase, MS- SQL , etc). This design includes table definitions, comments, specification of table attributes, primary and foreign...built queries and applications. Needs the application developers to construct data views. No SQL programming experience. b. Power Database User - knows

Design and analysis report for the flight weight 20-inch Columbium secondary nozzle for the RL10 engine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Castro, J. H.

1989-01-01

Pratt & Whitney (P and W) is currently under contract to NASA-LeRC for a multi-year program to evaluate the feasibility of the RL10-IIB/IIC engine models and the various improvements which broaden the engine capabilities and range of applications. The features being evaluated include the operation of the RL10 engine at low thrust levels and/or high mixture ratio levels and the addition of a high area ratio (250:1) translating nozzle to the engine to increase its specific impulse while shortening the installed engine length. The translating nozzle for the RL10-IIB/IIC engine is approximately 55 inches long with an exit plane diameter of 71 inches and an inlet plane diameter of 40 inches. This report documents the design and analysis work done investigating a small subscale Columbium nozzle which could be built and tested to provide findings which then could be incorporated into the high area ratio nozzle final design for the RL10-IIB/IIC engine. This report documents the design and analysis work done investigating a small subscale Columbium nozzle which could be built and tested to provide findings which then could be incorporated into the high area ratio nozzle final design for the RL10-IIB/IIC engine. The length of the subscale nozzle is 20 in.; its exit diameter is 46 in. With the nozzle in the stowed position, an RL10A-3-3A engine system is 70 inches long (Area Ratio = 61:1); with the nozzle deployed the engine length and area ratio are increased to 90 inches and 83:1 respectively. The increase in area ratio provides a calculated increase of 7 + or - 1 second of specific impulse.

Analysis and simulation tools for solar array power systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pongratananukul, Nattorn

This dissertation presents simulation tools developed specifically for the design of solar array power systems. Contributions are made in several aspects of the system design phases, including solar source modeling, system simulation, and controller verification. A tool to automate the study of solar array configurations using general purpose circuit simulators has been developed based on the modeling of individual solar cells. Hierarchical structure of solar cell elements, including semiconductor properties, allows simulation of electrical properties as well as the evaluation of the impact of environmental conditions. A second developed tool provides a co-simulation platform with the capability to verify the performance of an actual digital controller implemented in programmable hardware such as a DSP processor, while the entire solar array including the DC-DC power converter is modeled in software algorithms running on a computer. This "virtual plant" allows developing and debugging code for the digital controller, and also to improve the control algorithm. One important task in solar arrays is to track the maximum power point on the array in order to maximize the power that can be delivered. Digital controllers implemented with programmable processors are particularly attractive for this task because sophisticated tracking algorithms can be implemented and revised when needed to optimize their performance. The proposed co-simulation tools are thus very valuable in developing and optimizing the control algorithm, before the system is built. Examples that demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methodologies are presented. The proposed simulation tools are also valuable in the design of multi-channel arrays. In the specific system that we have designed and tested, the control algorithm is implemented on a single digital signal processor. In each of the channels the maximum power point is tracked individually. In the prototype we built, off-the-shelf commercial DC-DC converters were utilized. At the end, the overall performance of the entire system was evaluated using solar array simulators capable of simulating various I-V characteristics, and also by using an electronic load. Experimental results are presented.

Designing for emotion (among other things)

PubMed Central

Gaver, William

2009-01-01

Using computational approaches to emotion in design appears problematic for a range of technical, cultural and aesthetic reasons. After introducing some of the reasons as to why I am sceptical of such approaches, I describe a prototype we built that tried to address some of these problems, using sensor-based inferencing to comment upon domestic ‘well-being’ in ways that encouraged users to take authority over the emotional judgements offered by the system. Unfortunately, over two iterations we concluded that the prototype we built was a failure. I discuss the possible reasons for this and conclude that many of the problems we found are relevant more generally for designs based on computational approaches to emotion. As an alternative, I advocate a broader view of interaction design in which open-ended designs serve as resources for individual appropriation, and suggest that emotional experiences become one of several outcomes of engaging with them. PMID:19884154

Manufacturing process for the WEAVE prime focus corrector optics for the 4.2m William Hershel Telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lhomé, Emilie; Agócs, Tibor; Abrams, Don Carlos; Dee, Kevin M.; Middleton, Kevin F.; Tosh, Ian A.; Jaskó, Attila; Connor, Peter; Cochrane, Dave; Gers, Luke; Jonas, Graeme; Rakich, Andrew; Benn, Chris R.; Balcells, Marc; Trager, Scott C.; Dalton, Gavin B.; Carrasco, Esperanza; Vallenari, Antonella; Bonifacio, Piercarlo; Aguerri, J. Alfonso L.

2016-07-01

In this paper, we detail the manufacturing process for the lenses that will constitute the new two-degree field-of-view Prime Focus Corrector (PFC) for the 4.2m William Herschel Telescope (WHT) optimised for the upcoming WEAVE Multi-Object Spectroscopy (MOS) facility. The corrector, including an Atmospheric Dispersion Corrector (ADC), is made of six large lenses, the largest being 1.1-meter diameter. We describe how the prescriptions of the optical design were translated into manufacturing specifications for the blanks and lenses. We explain how the as-built glass blank parameters were fed back into the optical design and how the specifications for the lenses were subsequently modified. We review the critical issues for the challenging manufacturing process and discuss the trade-offs that were necessary to deliver the lenses while maintaining the optimal optical performance. A short description of the lens optical testing is also presented. Finally, the subsequent manufacturing steps, including assembly, integration, and alignment are outlined.

Space Operation of the MOLA Laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Afzal, Robert S.

2000-01-01

Interest in lasers for space applications such as active remote sensing in Earth orbit, planetary science, and inter-satellite laser communications is growing. These instruments typically use diode-pumped solid state lasers for the laser transmitter. The mission specifications and constraints of space qualification, place strict requirements on the design and operation of the laser. Although a laser can be built in the laboratory to meet performance specifications relatively routinely, tile mission constraints demand unique options and compromises in the materials used, and design to ensure the success of the mission. Presently, the best laser architecture for a light weight, rugged, high peak power and efficient transmitter is a diode laser pumped ND:YAG laser. Diode lasers can often obviate the need for water cooling, reduce the size and weight of the laser, increase the electrical to optical efficiency, system reliability, and lifetime. This paper describes the in-space operation and performance of the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA) laser transmitter, representing the current state-of-the-art in space-based solid- state lasers.

Numerical Model of the Hoosic River Flood-Control Channel, Adams, MA

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-02-01

The model was then used to evaluate the flow conditions associated with the as-built channel configuration. The existing channel conditions were then...end as part of a channel restoration project. The model was to determine if restoration alterations would change water- surface elevations associated ...water-surface elevations associated with the initial design and construction. After as-built flow conditions were established, flow conditions

Human Behavior and Environmental Sustainability: promoting a pro-environmental behavior by harnessing the social, psychological and physical influences of the built environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abusafieh, Shaden; Razem, Maiss

2017-11-01

Recently, technological advancements in the sustainable design field have allowed us to reduce the ecological impact of the built environment, to reduce consumption of non-renewable resources, to create healthy environments and in some cases may even rehabilitate the ecosystem. Nevertheless, several studies have been carried out showing that sustainable technology does not automatically lead to environmentally friendly behaviors in its users. Various environmental problems threaten environmental sustainability and many of these problems are rooted in human behavior. Unfortunately, there is a lack in studies which take into consideration the human behavior influences within a sustainable built environment. We believe that the built environment should be used to support human goals and requirements, but at the same time we should consider it as a context in which human values and behaviors are cultivated. This research aimed to help in promoting environmental sustainability by using architectural design in changing relevant human behavior toward an environmentally friendly behavior. In order to achieve this, the research adopted Environment-centered Approach to gain more acute perspective into the relationship between the physical environment and human behavior, focusing on social, psychological and physical influences of the built environment. It appears that environmental psychology's merits have high potential in changing behavior within the built environment. The research provides a systematic approach for selecting, assessing, evaluating the behaviors to be changed and the factors that determine them. Furthermore, this approach helps in choosing the best interventions that could be applied in built environment to encourage such a sustainable behavior. This study tried to construct an agenda for further researches to find particular architectural design elements and strategies that we can harness to develop a pro-environment human behavior.

The Role of Environmental Design in Cancer Prevention, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Survivorship: A Systematic Literature Review.

PubMed

Gharaveis, Arsalan; Kazem-Zadeh, Mahshad

2018-01-01

The purpose of this literature review is to provide a better understanding of the impact that environmental design can have on the process of cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Cancer is considered a chronic disease in the United States, and more than 1.6 million new cases are diagnosed annually. New strategies of cancer care propose patient-centered services to achieve the best outcome, and researchers have found that environmental design can be an important part of improving this care. Searches were conducted in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases as well as in specific healthcare design journals such as Health Environments Research & Design, Environmental Psychology, and Environment and Behavior. The criteria for articles included in the review were (a) English-language articles related to facility design, which addressed (b) the topics of built environment in relation to cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship, and were (c) published in peer-reviewed journals between 2000 and 2017. Finally, 10 articles were selected, and the contents were analyzed. The selected articles demonstrate that environmental design is one of the critical factors for success throughout the whole continuum of cancer care from diagnosis to end-of-treatment. Some of the specific conclusions from the review are that "neighborhood-oriented" design strategies can be beneficial (by providing accessibility to all facilities along the patient's path), that access to nature for patients, staff, and visitors alike is associated with better outcomes, and that provisions for natural lighting and noise reduction are associated with cancer patients' well-being.

Engineering Design of ITER Prototype Fast Plant System Controller

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goncalves, B.; Sousa, J.; Carvalho, B.; Rodrigues, A. P.; Correia, M.; Batista, A.; Vega, J.; Ruiz, M.; Lopez, J. M.; Rojo, R. Castro; Wallander, A.; Utzel, N.; Neto, A.; Alves, D.; Valcarcel, D.

2011-08-01

The ITER control, data access and communication (CODAC) design team identified the need for two types of plant systems. A slow control plant system is based on industrial automation technology with maximum sampling rates below 100 Hz, and a fast control plant system is based on embedded technology with higher sampling rates and more stringent real-time requirements than that required for slow controllers. The latter is applicable to diagnostics and plant systems in closed-control loops whose cycle times are below 1 ms. Fast controllers will be dedicated industrial controllers with the ability to supervise other fast and/or slow controllers, interface to actuators and sensors and, if necessary, high performance networks. Two prototypes of a fast plant system controller specialized for data acquisition and constrained by ITER technological choices are being built using two different form factors. This prototyping activity contributes to the Plant Control Design Handbook effort of standardization, specifically regarding fast controller characteristics. Envisaging a general purpose fast controller design, diagnostic use cases with specific requirements were analyzed and will be presented along with the interface with CODAC and sensors. The requirements and constraints that real-time plasma control imposes on the design were also taken into consideration. Functional specifications and technology neutral architecture, together with its implications on the engineering design, were considered. The detailed engineering design compliant with ITER standards was performed and will be discussed in detail. Emphasis will be given to the integration of the controller in the standard CODAC environment. Requirements for the EPICS IOC providing the interface to the outside world, the prototype decisions on form factor, real-time operating system, and high-performance networks will also be discussed, as well as the requirements for data streaming to CODAC for visualization and archiving.

Early-Stage Software Design for Usability

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Golden, Elspeth

2010-01-01

In spite of the goodwill and best efforts of software engineers and usability professionals, systems continue to be built and released with glaring usability flaws that are costly and difficult to fix after the system has been built. Although user interface (UI) designers, be they usability or design experts, communicate usability requirements to…

Rewarding safe behavior: strategies for change.

PubMed

Fell-Carlson, Deborah

2004-12-01

Effective, sustainable safety incentives are integrated into a performance management system designed to encourage long term behavior change. Effective incentive program design integrates the fundamental considerations of compensation (i.e., valence, instrumentality, expectancy, equity) with behavior change theory in the context of a strong merit based performance management system. Clear expectations are established and communicated from the time applicants apply for the position. Feedback and social recognition are leveraged and used as rewards, in addition to financial incentives built into the compensation system and offered periodically as short term incentives. Rewards are tied to specific objectives intended to influence specific behaviors. Objectives are designed to challenge employees, providing opportunities to grow and enhance their sense of belonging. Safety contests and other awareness activities are most effective when used to focus safety improvement efforts on specific behaviors or processes, for a predetermined period of time, in the context of a comprehensive safety system. Safety incentive programs designed around injury outcomes can result in unintended, and undesirable, consequences. Safety performance can be leveraged by integrating safety into corporate cultural indicators. Symbols of safety remind employees of corporate safety goals and objectives (e.g., posted safety goals and integrating safety into corporate mission and vision). Rites and ceremonies provide opportunities for social recognition and feedback and demonstrate safety is a corporate value. Feedback opportunities, rewards, and social recognition all provide content for corporate legends, those stories embellished over time, that punctuate the overall system of organizational norms, and provide examples of the organizational safety culture in action.

Biosensors with Built-In Biomolecular Logic Gates for Practical Applications

PubMed Central

Lai, Yu-Hsuan; Sun, Sin-Cih; Chuang, Min-Chieh

2014-01-01

Molecular logic gates, designs constructed with biological and chemical molecules, have emerged as an alternative computing approach to silicon-based logic operations. These molecular computers are capable of receiving and integrating multiple stimuli of biochemical significance to generate a definitive output, opening a new research avenue to advanced diagnostics and therapeutics which demand handling of complex factors and precise control. In molecularly gated devices, Boolean logic computations can be activated by specific inputs and accurately processed via bio-recognition, bio-catalysis, and selective chemical reactions. In this review, we survey recent advances of the molecular logic approaches to practical applications of biosensors, including designs constructed with proteins, enzymes, nucleic acids, nanomaterials, and organic compounds, as well as the research avenues for future development of digitally operating “sense and act” schemes that logically process biochemical signals through networked circuits to implement intelligent control systems. PMID:25587423

A Power Efficient Exaflop Computer Design for Global Cloud System Resolving Climate Models.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wehner, M. F.; Oliker, L.; Shalf, J.

2008-12-01

Exascale computers would allow routine ensemble modeling of the global climate system at the cloud system resolving scale. Power and cost requirements of traditional architecture systems are likely to delay such capability for many years. We present an alternative route to the exascale using embedded processor technology to design a system optimized for ultra high resolution climate modeling. These power efficient processors, used in consumer electronic devices such as mobile phones, portable music players, cameras, etc., can be tailored to the specific needs of scientific computing. We project that a system capable of integrating a kilometer scale climate model a thousand times faster than real time could be designed and built in a five year time scale for US$75M with a power consumption of 3MW. This is cheaper, more power efficient and sooner than any other existing technology.

ES-doc-errata: an issue tracker platform for CMIP6

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ben Nasser, Atef; Levavasseur, Guillaume; Greenslade, Mark; Denvil, Sébastien

2017-04-01

In the context of overseeing the quality of data, and as a result of the inherent complexity of projects such as CMIP5/6, it is a mandatory task to keep track of the status of datasets and the version evolution they sustain in their life-cycle. The ESdoc-errata project aims to keep track of the issues affecting specific versions of datasets/files. It enables users to resolve the history tree of each dataset/file enabling a better choice of the data used in their work based on the data status. The ES-doc-errata project has been designed and built on top of the Parent-IDentifiers handle service that will be deployed in the next iteration of the CMIP project, by ensuring maximum usability of ESGF ecosystem and encapsulated in the ES-doc structure. Consuming PIDs from handle service is guided by a specifically built algorithm that extracts meta-data regarding the issues that may or may not affect the quality of datasets/files and cause newer version to be published replacing older deprecated versions. This algorithm is able to deduce the nature of the flaws to the file granularity, that is of high value to the end-user. This new platform has been designed keeping in mind usability by end-users specialized in the data publishing process or other scientists requiring feedback on reliability of data required for their work. To this end, a specific set of rules and a code of conduct has been defined. A validation process ensures the quality of this newly introduced errata meta-data , an authentication safe-guard was implemented to prevent tampering with the archived data, and a wide variety of tools were put at users disposal to interact safely with the platform including a command-line client and a dedicated front-end.

[System design of small intellectualized ultrasound hyperthermia instrument in the LabVIEW environment].

PubMed

Jiang, Feng; Bai, Jingfeng; Chen, Yazhu

2005-08-01

Small-scale intellectualized medical instrument has attracted great attention in the field of biomedical engineering, and LabVIEW (Laboratory Virtual Instrument Engineering Workbench) provides a convenient environment for this application due to its inherent advantages. The principle and system structure of the hyperthermia instrument are presented. Type T thermocouples are employed as thermotransducers, whose amplifier consists of two stages, providing built-in ice point compensation and thus improving work stability over temperature. Control signals produced by specially designed circuit drive the programmable counter/timer 8254 chip to generate PWM (Pulse width modulation) wave, which is used as ultrasound radiation energy control signal. Subroutine design topics such as inner-tissue real time feedback temperature control algorithm, water temperature control in the ultrasound applicator are also described. In the cancer tissue temperature control subroutine, the authors exert new improvments to PID (Proportional Integral Differential) algorithm according to the specific demands of the system and achieve strict temperature control to the target tissue region. The system design and PID algorithm improvement have experimentally proved to be reliable and excellent, meeting the requirements of the hyperthermia system.

Passive isolation/damping system for the Hubble space telescope reaction wheels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hasha, Martin D.

1987-01-01

NASA's Hubble Space Telescope contain large, diffraction limited optics with extraordinary resolution and performance for surpassing existing observatories. The need to reduce structural borne vibration and resultant optical jitter from critical Pointing Control System components, Reaction Wheels, prompted the feasibility investigation and eventual development of a passive isolation system. Alternative design concepts considered were required to meet a host of stringent specifications and pass rigid tests to be successfully verified and integrated into the already built flight vehicle. The final design employs multiple arrays of fluid damped springs that attenuate over a wide spectrum, while confining newly introduced resonances to benign regions of vehicle dynamic response. Overall jitter improvement of roughly a factor of 2 to 3 is attained with this system. The basis, evolution, and performance of the isolation system, specifically discussing design concepts considered, optimization studies, development lessons learned, innovative features, and analytical and ground test verified results are presented.

Can space station software be specified through Ada?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knoebel, Arthur

1987-01-01

Programming of the space station is to be done in the Ada programming language. A breadboard of selected parts of the work package for Marshall Space Flight Center is to be built, and programming this small part will be a good testing ground for Ada. One coding of the upper levels of the design brings out several problems with top-down design when it is to be carried out strictly within the language. Ada is evaluated on the basis of this experience, and the points raised are compared with other experience as related in the literature. Rapid prototyping is another approach to the initial programming; several different types of prototypes are discussed, and compared with the art of specification. Some solutions are proposed and a number of recommendations presented.

Design of interactive health drama built on social realism.

PubMed

Graspemo, Gabriella; Hassling, Linda; Nordfeldt, Sam; Eriksson, Hendrik; Timpka, Toomas

2004-01-01

There are many psychosocial aspects of chronic diseases, such as diabetes. Educational multimedia can support patients with chronic diseases and their families by communicating narratives based on social realism. The production of such socio-realistic interactive health dramas requires systematic methods, especially for the identification of significant stories. The aim of this study is to explore the use of self-documentary video in the design of an Interactive Health Drama environment to support diabetic adolescents and their families. In particular, the potential of the self-documentary video for story development in combination with qualitative interviews were explored. The proposed approach, when further developed, is intended to enable all types of chronic disease patients to work with their specific psychosocial problems in a supportive and stimulating environment adapted to their personality and preferences.

Integration of the Plate Boundary Observatory and Existing GPS Networks in Southern California: A Multi Use Geodetic Network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walls, C.; Blume, F.; Meertens, C.; Arnitz, E.; Lawrence, S.; Miller, S.; Bradley, W.; Jackson, M.; Feaux, K.

2007-12-01

The ultra-stable GPS monument design developed by Southern California Geodetic Network (SCIGN) in the late 1990s demonstrates sub-millimeter errors on long time series where there are a high percentage of observations and low multipath. Following SCIGN, other networks such as PANGA and BARGEN have adopted the monument design for both deep drilled braced monuments (DDBM = 5 legs grouted 10.7 meters into bedrock/stratigraphy) and short drilled braced monuments (SDBM = 4 legs epoxied 2 meters into bedrock). A Plate Boundary Observatory (PBO) GPS station consists of a "SCIGN" style monument and state of the art NetRS receiver and IP based communications. Between the years 2003-2008 875 permanent PBO GPS stations are being built throughout the United States. Concomitant with construction of the PBO the majority of pre-existing GPS stations that meet stability specifications are being upgraded with Trimble NetRS and IP based communications to PBO standards under the EarthScope PBO Nucleus project. In 2008, with completed construction of the Plate Boundary Observatory, more than 1100 GPS stations will share common design specifications and have identical receivers with common communications making it the most homogenous geodetic network in the World. Of the 875 total Plate Boundary Observatory GPS stations, 211 proposed sites are distributed throughout the Southern California region. As of August 2007 the production status is: 174 stations built (81 short braced monuments, 93 deep drilled braced monuments), 181 permits signed, 211 permits submitted and 211 station reconnaissance reports. The balance of 37 stations (19 SDBM and 18 DDBM) will be built over the next year from Long Valley to the Mexico border in order of priority as recommended by the PBO Transform, Extension and Magmatic working groups. Fifteen second data is archived for each station and 1 Hz as well as 5 Hz data is buffered to be triggered for download in the event of an earthquake. Communications equipment includes CDMA Proxicast modems, Hughes Vsat, Intuicom 900 MHz Ethernet bridge radios and several "real-time" sites use 2.4 GHz Wilan radios. Ultimately, 125 of the existing former-SCIGN GPS stations will be integrated into the So Cal region of PBO, of which 25 have real-time data streams. At the time of this publication the total combined Southern California region has over 40 stations streaming real-time data using both radios and CDMA modems. The real-time GPS sites provide specific benefits beyond the standard GPS station: they can provide a live correction for local surveyors and can be used to trigger an alarm if large displacements are recorded. The cross fault spatial distribution of these 336 GPS stations in the seismically active southern California region has the grand potential of augmenting a strong motion earthquake early warning system.

Proving Correctness for Pointer Programs in a Verifying Compiler

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kulczycki, Gregory; Singh, Amrinder

2008-01-01

This research describes a component-based approach to proving the correctness of programs involving pointer behavior. The approach supports modular reasoning and is designed to be used within the larger context of a verifying compiler. The approach consists of two parts. When a system component requires the direct manipulation of pointer operations in its implementation, we implement it using a built-in component specifically designed to capture the functional and performance behavior of pointers. When a system component requires pointer behavior via a linked data structure, we ensure that the complexities of the pointer operations are encapsulated within the data structure and are hidden to the client component. In this way, programs that rely on pointers can be verified modularly, without requiring special rules for pointers. The ultimate objective of a verifying compiler is to prove-with as little human intervention as possible-that proposed program code is correct with respect to a full behavioral specification. Full verification for software is especially important for an agency like NASA that is routinely involved in the development of mission critical systems.

Using SysML for MBSE analysis of the LSST system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Claver, Charles F.; Dubois-Felsmann, Gregory; Delgado, Francisco; Hascall, Pat; Marshall, Stuart; Nordby, Martin; Schalk, Terry; Schumacher, German; Sebag, Jacques

2010-07-01

The Large Synoptic Survey Telescope is a complex hardware - software system of systems, making up a highly automated observatory in the form of an 8.4m wide-field telescope, a 3.2 billion pixel camera, and a peta-scale data processing and archiving system. As a project, the LSST is using model based systems engineering (MBSE) methodology for developing the overall system architecture coded with the Systems Modeling Language (SysML). With SysML we use a recursive process to establish three-fold relationships between requirements, logical & physical structural component definitions, and overall behavior (activities and sequences) at successively deeper levels of abstraction and detail. Using this process we have analyzed and refined the LSST system design, ensuring the consistency and completeness of the full set of requirements and their match to associated system structure and behavior. As the recursion process proceeds to deeper levels we derive more detailed requirements and specifications, and ensure their traceability. We also expose, define, and specify critical system interfaces, physical and information flows, and clarify the logic and control flows governing system behavior. The resulting integrated model database is used to generate documentation and specifications and will evolve to support activities from construction through final integration, test, and commissioning, serving as a living representation of the LSST as designed and built. We discuss the methodology and present several examples of its application to specific systems engineering challenges in the LSST design.

Public spaces and urban sustainability in the tropical built environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yusof, Y. M.; Kozlowski, M.

2018-01-01

Sustainability is an overarching sense of responsibility towards the future. On a city-wide level, urban sustainability incorporates a wide body of changes especially as they relate to the built environment, all of which intended at creating a livable place. This paper discusses existing public spaces in view of their achievement against a set of criteria for the built environment. The paper introduces performance design criteria for the tropical built environment. The key findings indicate that long-term strategies, guidance and directions for the city and region can achieve development which corresponds to local climate, synergies and provide a higher proportion of public spaces that offer something for everyone.

Scanning mirror for infrared sensors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, R. H.; Bernstein, S. B.

1972-01-01

A high resolution, long life angle-encoded scanning mirror, built for application in an infrared attitude sensor, is described. The mirror uses a Moire' fringe type optical encoder and unique torsion bar suspension together with a magnetic drive to meet stringent operational and environmental requirements at a minimum weight and with minimum power consumption. Details of the specifications, design, and construction are presented with an analysis of the mirror suspension that allows accurate prediction of performance. The emphasis is on mechanical design considerations, and brief discussions are included on the encoder and magnetic drive to provide a complete view of the mirror system and its capabilities.

The Third Flight Magnet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McGhee, R. Wayne

1998-01-01

A self-shielded superconducting magnet was designed for the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Adiabatic Demagnetization Refrigerator Program. This is the third magnet built from this design. The magnets utilize Cryomagnetics' patented ultra-low current technology. The magnetic system is capable of reaching a central field of two tesla at slightly under two amperes and has a total inductance of 1068 henries. This final report details the requirements of the magnet, the specifications of the resulting magnet, the test procedures and test result data for the third magnet (Serial # C-654-M), and recommended precautions for use of the magnet.

Large Field Visualization with Demand-Driven Calculation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moran, Patrick J.; Henze, Chris

1999-01-01

We present a system designed for the interactive definition and visualization of fields derived from large data sets: the Demand-Driven Visualizer (DDV). The system allows the user to write arbitrary expressions to define new fields, and then apply a variety of visualization techniques to the result. Expressions can include differential operators and numerous other built-in functions, ail of which are evaluated at specific field locations completely on demand. The payoff of following a demand-driven design philosophy throughout becomes particularly evident when working with large time-series data, where the costs of eager evaluation alternatives can be prohibitive.

Evolution of Orion Mission Design for Exploration Mission 1 and 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gutkowski, Jeffrey P.; Dawn, Timothy F.; Jedrey, Richard M.

2016-01-01

The evolving mission design and concepts of NASA’s next steps have shaped Orion into the spacecraft that it is today. Since the initial inception of Orion, through the Constellation Program, and now in the Exploration Mission frame-work with the Space Launch System (SLS), each mission design concept and pro-gram goal have left Orion with a set of capabilities that can be utilized in many different mission types. Exploration Missions 1 and 2 (EM-1 and EM-2) have now been at the forefront of the mission design focus for the last several years. During that time, different Design Reference Missions (DRMs) were built, analyzed, and modified to solve or mitigate enterprise level design trades to ensure a viable mission from launch to landing. The resulting DRMs for EM-1 and EM-2 were then expanded into multi-year trajectory scans to characterize vehicle performance as affected by variations in Earth-Moon geometry. This provides Orion’s subsystems with stressing reference trajectories to help design their system. Now that Orion has progressed through the Preliminary and Critical Design Reviews (PDR and CDR), there is a general shift in the focus of mission design from aiding the vehicle design to providing mission specific products needed for pre-flight and real time operations. Some of the mission specific products needed include, large quantities of nominal trajectories for multiple monthly launch periods and abort options at any point in the mission for each valid trajectory in the launch window.

An Analysis of the Advantages and Disadvantages of the Air Force Standard Control Panel

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-09-01

comparativ - process. The built-up system required approximately 100 hours to design , install and calibrate. The reader is reminded that the built-up...Summary......................................... 9 Outline of Research Design .................... 9 Ii. Literature Review...133 Question 3 .......................... 133 Area 3: Design Phase ................... 134 Question 4 .......................... 134 Area 4

A Design Model: The Autism Spectrum Disorder Classroom Design Kit

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McAllister, Keith; Maguire, Barry

2012-01-01

Architects and designers have a responsibility to provide an inclusive built environment. However, for those with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the built environment can be a frightening and confusing place, difficult to negotiate and tolerate. The challenge of integrating more fully into society is denied by an alienating built…

Tissue Engineering Platforms to Replicate the Tumor Microenvironment of Multiple Myeloma.

PubMed

Zhang, Wenting; Lee, Woo Y; Zilberberg, Jenny

2017-01-01

We described here the manufacturing and implementation of two prototype perfusion culture devices designed primarily for the cultivation of difficult-to-preserve primary patient-derived multiple myeloma cells (MMC). The first device consists of an osteoblast (OSB)-derived 3D tissue scaffold constructed in a perfused microfluidic environment. The second platform is a 96-well plate-modified perfusion culture device that can be utilized to reconstruct several tissue and tumor microenvironments utilizing both primary human and murine cells. This culture device was designed and fabricated specifically to: (1) enable the preservation of primary MMC for downstream use in biological studies and chemosensitivity analyses and, (2) provide a high-throughput format that is compatible with plate readers specifically seeing that this system is built on an industry standard 96-well tissue culture plate.

A comparative study of internally and externally capped balloons using small scale test balloons

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bell, Douglas P.

1994-01-01

Caps have been used to structurally reinforce scientific research balloons since the late 1950's. The scientific research balloons used by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) use internal caps. A NASA cap placement specification does not exist since no empirical information exisits concerning cap placement. To develop a cap placement specification, NASA has completed two in-hangar inflation tests comparing the structural contributions of internal caps and external caps. The tests used small scale test balloons designed to develop the highest possible stresses within the constraints of the hangar and balloon materials. An externally capped test balloon and an internally capped test balloon were designed, built, inflated and simulated to determine the structural contributions and benefits of each. The results of the tests and simulations are presented.

An investigation of ADA compliance of aquatic facilities in the North Texas area.

PubMed

Pike, Hilary; Walker, Joseph; Collins, John; Hodges, Jan

2008-01-01

The study expands research on accessibility, comparing compliance scores of aquatic facilities in North Texas built before the 1991 Title III Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) with facilities built after the 1991 ADAAG and the proposed 2002 supplement. A quasi-experimental design directed the selection of 52 facilities where measurements were taken to determine compliance with ADAAG and the supplement. A focus group provided insight into interpreting which features functioned as barriers or constraints to participation. Metropolitan statistical area in North Texas. A total of 52 aquatic facilities and 12 focus group participants (University of North Texas institutional review board 07-283). ADA aquatic facility compliance instrument. Frequency, ratios. No facilities were 100% ADA compliant overall, although some facilities were 100% compliant with specific structural domains. Women's restrooms rated lowest (average = 55%), and men's restrooms received the second lowest rating (average = 64%). Focus group results indicated that improperly designed restrooms and pool entries are primary barriers to participation. The findings support a need for stronger enforcement of policies that improve accessibility of facilities. Architectural reviews and construction practices need to be improved. The structural barriers and constraints identified can be limiting factors in efforts aimed at increasing physical activity among individuals with disabilities and individuals with physical limitations.

Community mobility in the context of universal design: inter-professional collaboration and education.

PubMed

Hitch, Danielle; Larkin, Helen; Watchorn, Valerie; Ang, Susan

2012-10-01

The design of built environments is a critical factor in facilitating participation for all community members. This study aimed to explore key stakeholders' views on the role and collaboration of occupational therapists and architects in relation to universal design and the built environment. This study is currently the only research to focus on the needs and practices of both occupational therapy and architecture in universal design. The results have implications for both clinical practice and professional education, and highlight an area of developing interest in occupational therapy. Focus groups and semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with key stakeholders involved in the design of built environments. Data from these interviews were analysed qualitatively, using codes of interpreted meaning which were then organised into themes. Three main themes emerged in relation to inter-professional collaboration around universal design: 'form vs. function', 'the earlier the better' and 'universal design as a specialist area'. Although there are areas of synergy between occupational therapy and architecture in universal design, each profession has its own strengths and skills to bring to the design process. Given the multidisciplinary nature of ensuring designs support participation in occupations and roles, both professions could benefit from opportunities to meaningfully collaborate during professional education and in the workplace. © 2011 The Authors. Australian Occupational Therapy Journal © 2011 Occupational Therapy Australia.

Elastic and inelastic scattering of positrons in gases and solids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcgowan, J. W.

1972-01-01

Three apparatuses were designed and built: The first, which is now operative, was designed to study the details of positron thermalization in solids and the subsequent emission of the low energy positrons from moderating foils; The second apparatus now under test is a positron bottle similar in design to an electron trap. It was built to store positrons at a fixed energy and to look at the number of stored positrons (storage time) as a function of a scattering gas in the vacuum chamber. The third apparatus is a crossed beam apparatus where positron-, alkali scattering will be studied. Much of the apparatus is now under test with electrons.

Wetting in Color: Designing a colorometric indicator for wettability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raymond, Kevin; Burgess, Ian B.; Koay, Natalie; Kolle, Mathias; Loncar, Marko; Aizenberg, Joanna

2012-02-01

Colorimetric litmus tests such as pH paper have enjoyed wide commercial success due to their inexpensive production and exceptional ease of use. While such indicators commonly rely on a specific photochemical response to an analyte, we exploit structural color, derived from coherent scattering from wavelength-scale porosity rather than molecular absorption or luminescence, to create a Wetting-in-Color-Kit (WICK). This inexpensive and highly selective colorimetric indicator for organic liquids employs chemically encoded inverse-opal photonic crystals to translate minute differences in liquids' wettability to macroscopically distinct, easy-to-visualize color patterns. The highly symmetric re-entrant inter-pore geometry imparts a highly specific wetting threshold for liquids. We developed surface modification techniques to generate built-in chemistry gradients within the porous network. These let us tailor the wettability threshold to specific liquids across a continuous range. As wetting is a generic fluidic phenomenon, we envision that WICK could be suitable for applications in authentication or identification of unknown liquids across a broad range of industries.

Columbia County Habitat for Humanity Passive Townhomes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

None, None

2016-03-01

Columbia County Habitat for Humanity (CCHH) (New York, Climate Zone 5A) built a pair of townhomes to Passive House Institute U.S. (PHIUS+ 2015) criteria to explore approaches for achieving Passive House performance (specifically with respect to exterior wall, space-conditioning, and ventilation strategies) within the labor and budget context inherent in a Habitat for Humanity project. CCHH’s goal is to eventually develop a cost-justified Passive House prototype design for future projects.

Exposure to natural environments, and photographs of natural environments, promotes more positive body image.

PubMed

Swami, Viren; Barron, David; Furnham, Adrian

2018-03-01

Five studies were conducted to understand the impact of nature exposure on body image. In three studies using different designs and outcome measures, British university students were exposed to photographs of natural or built environments. Results indicated that exposure to images of natural, but not built, environments resulted in improved state body image. In Study 4, British community participants went on a walk in a natural or built environment, with results indicating that the walk in a natural environment resulted in significantly higher state body appreciation, whereas the walk in a built environment resulted in significantly lower scores. In Study 5, British participants were recruited as they were entering a designed green space on their own volition. Results indicated that spending time in the green space led to improved state body appreciation. These results indicate that exposure to isomorphic or in-situ natural environments has positive effects on state body image. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Design and evaluation of an imaging informatics system for analytics-based decision support in radiation therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deshpande, Ruchi; DeMarco, John; Liu, Brent J.

2015-03-01

We have developed a comprehensive DICOM RT specific database of retrospective treatment planning data for radiation therapy of head and neck cancer. Further, we have designed and built an imaging informatics module that utilizes this database to perform data mining. The end-goal of this data mining system is to provide radiation therapy decision support for incoming head and neck cancer patients, by identifying best practices from previous patients who had the most similar tumor geometries. Since the performance of such systems often depends on the size and quality of the retrospective database, we have also placed an emphasis on developing infrastructure and strategies to encourage data sharing and participation from multiple institutions. The infrastructure and decision support algorithm have both been tested and evaluated with 51 sets of retrospective treatment planning data of head and neck cancer patients. We will present the overall design and architecture of our system, an overview of our decision support mechanism as well as the results of our evaluation.

Design of an S band narrow-band bandpass BAW filter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Yang; Zhao, Kun-li; Han, Chao

2017-11-01

An S band narrowband bandpass filter BAW with center frequency 2.460 GHz, bandwidth 41MHz, band insertion loss - 1.154 dB, the passband ripple 0.9 dB, the out of band rejection about -42.5dB@2.385 GHz; -45.5dB@2.506 GHz was designed for potential UAV measurement and control applications. According to the design specifications, the design is as follows: each FBAR's stack was designed in BAW filter by using Mason model. Each FBAR's shape was designed with the method of apodization electrode. The layout of BAW filter was designed. The acoustic-electromagnetic cosimulation model was built to validate the performance of the designed BAW filter. The presented design procedure is a common one, and there are two characteristics: 1) an A and EM co-simulation method is used for the final BAW filter performance validation in the design stage, thus ensures over-optimistic designs by the bare 1D Mason model are found and rejected in time; 2) An in-house developed auto-layout method is used to get compact BAW filter layout, which simplifies iterative error-and-try work here and output necessary in-plane geometry information to the A and EM cosimulation model.

PromoterCAD: data-driven design of plant regulatory DNA

PubMed Central

Cox, Robert Sidney; Nishikata, Koro; Shimoyama, Sayoko; Yoshida, Yuko; Matsui, Minami; Makita, Yuko; Toyoda, Tetsuro

2013-01-01

Synthetic promoters can control the timing, location and amount of gene expression for any organism. PromoterCAD is a web application for designing synthetic promoters with altered transcriptional regulation. We use a data-first approach, using published high-throughput expression and motif data from for Arabidopsis thaliana to guide DNA design. We demonstrate data mining tools for finding motifs related to circadian oscillations and tissue-specific expression patterns. PromoterCAD is built on the LinkData open platform for data publication and rapid web application development, allowing new data to be easily added, and the source code modified to add new functionality. PromoterCAD URL: http://promotercad.org. LinkData URL: http://linkdata.org. PMID:23766287

Design and development of a severe storm research UAS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Avery, Alyssa Shearon

A small unmanned aircraft system (SUAS) was designed and developed to be utilized for meteorological data collection, specifically information useful for severe storm and tornado prediction. The system will operate prior to and during severe weather in order to minimize current knowledge gaps with respect to severe storms. This aircraft was developed to maximize the useful data collection while retaining the operational simplicity required of a tool used in an unpredictable environment. The aircraft design is capable of collecting in-situ atmospheric and IR thermodynamic data continuously in flight and deploying sensor packages, dropsondes, at vital locations. The airframe was built, has undergone initial testing, and will be integrated into an operational system in future work.

Requirements for Space Settlement Design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gale, Anita E.; Edwards, Richard P.

2004-02-01

When large space settlements are finally built, inevitably the customers who pay for them will start the process by specifying requirements with a Request for Proposal (RFP). Although we are decades away from seeing the first of these documents, some of their contents can be anticipated now, and provide insight into the variety of elements that must be researched and developed before space settlements can happen. Space Settlement Design Competitions for High School students present design challenges in the form of RFPs, which predict basic requirements for space settlement attributes in the future, including structural features, infrastructure, living conveniences, computers, business areas, and safety. These requirements are generically summarized, and unique requirements are noted for specific space settlement locations and applications.

A mobile robot system for ground servicing operations on the space shuttle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dowling, K.; Bennett, R.; Blackwell, M.; Graham, T.; Gatrall, S.; O'Toole, R.; Schempf, H.

1992-11-01

A mobile system for space shuttle servicing, the Tessellator, has been configured, designed and is currently being built and integrated. Robot tasks include chemical injection and inspection of the shuttle's thermal protection system. This paper outlines tasks, rationale, and facility requirements for the development of this system. A detailed look at the mobile system and manipulator follow with a look at mechanics, electronics, and software. Salient features of the mobile robot include omnidirectionality, high reach, high stiffness and accuracy with safety and self-reliance integral to all aspects of the design. The robot system is shown to meet task, facility, and NASA requirements in its design resulting in unprecedented specifications for a mobile-manipulation system.

A mobile robot system for ground servicing operations on the space shuttle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dowling, K.; Bennett, R.; Blackwell, M.; Graham, T.; Gatrall, S.; O'Toole, R.; Schempf, H.

1992-01-01

A mobile system for space shuttle servicing, the Tessellator, has been configured, designed and is currently being built and integrated. Robot tasks include chemical injection and inspection of the shuttle's thermal protection system. This paper outlines tasks, rationale, and facility requirements for the development of this system. A detailed look at the mobile system and manipulator follow with a look at mechanics, electronics, and software. Salient features of the mobile robot include omnidirectionality, high reach, high stiffness and accuracy with safety and self-reliance integral to all aspects of the design. The robot system is shown to meet task, facility, and NASA requirements in its design resulting in unprecedented specifications for a mobile-manipulation system.

Error detection and correction unit with built-in self-test capability for spacecraft applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Timoc, Constantin

1990-01-01

The objective of this project was to research and develop a 32-bit single chip Error Detection and Correction unit capable of correcting all single bit errors and detecting all double bit errors in the memory systems of a spacecraft. We designed the 32-bit EDAC (Error Detection and Correction unit) based on a modified Hamming code and according to the design specifications and performance requirements. We constructed a laboratory prototype (breadboard) which was converted into a fault simulator. The correctness of the design was verified on the breadboard using an exhaustive set of test cases. A logic diagram of the EDAC was delivered to JPL Section 514 on 4 Oct. 1988.

PROFILES OF SIGNIFICANT SCHOOLS, NEWTON SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL, NEWTON, MASSACHUSETTS.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

CLINCY, EVANS

A REPORT DESIGNED TO ACQUAINT SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS WITH A NEW DEVELOPMENT IN SCHOOL PLANNING AND DESIGN IS PRESENTED. IT ATTEMPTS TO SHOW WHY THE SCHOOL WAS DESIGNED AS IT WAS, HOW IT WAS DESIGNED AND BUILT, THE EDUCATIONAL BASIS OF THE DESIGN, AND THE RELATION OF THE SCHOOL TO THE PROGRAM FOR WHICH IT WAS PLANNED. SUCH TOPICS AS THE COMMUNITY…

Obesity relationships with community design, physical activity, and time spent in cars.

PubMed

Frank, Lawrence D; Andresen, Martin A; Schmid, Thomas L

2004-08-01

Obesity is a major health problem in the United States and around the world. To date, relationships between obesity and aspects of the built environment have not been evaluated empirically at the individual level. To evaluate the relationship between the built environment around each participant's place of residence and self-reported travel patterns (walking and time in a car), body mass index (BMI), and obesity for specific gender and ethnicity classifications. Body Mass Index, minutes spent in a car, kilometers walked, age, income, educational attainment, and gender were derived through a travel survey of 10,878 participants in the Atlanta, Georgia region. Objective measures of land use mix, net residential density, and street connectivity were developed within a 1-kilometer network distance of each participant's place of residence. A cross-sectional design was used to associate urban form measures with obesity, BMI, and transportation-related activity when adjusting for sociodemographic covariates. Discrete analyses were conducted across gender and ethnicity. The data were collected between 2000 and 2002 and analysis was conducted in 2004. Land-use mix had the strongest association with obesity (BMI >/= 30 kg/m(2)), with each quartile increase being associated with a 12.2% reduction in the likelihood of obesity across gender and ethnicity. Each additional hour spent in a car per day was associated with a 6% increase in the likelihood of obesity. Conversely, each additional kilometer walked per day was associated with a 4.8% reduction in the likelihood of obesity. As a continuous measure, BMI was significantly associated with urban form for white cohorts. Relationships among urban form, walk distance, and time in a car were stronger among white than black cohorts. Measures of the built environment and travel patterns are important predictors of obesity across gender and ethnicity, yet relationships among the built environment, travel patterns, and weight may vary across gender and ethnicity. Strategies to increase land-use mix and distance walked while reducing time in a car can be effective as health interventions.

Evidence and speculation: reimagining approaches to architecture and research within the paediatric hospital.

PubMed

McLaughlan, Rebecca; Pert, Alan

2017-11-25

As the dominant research paradigm within the construction of contemporary healthcare facilities, evidence-based design (EBD) will increasingly impact our expectations of what hospital architecture should be. Research methods within EBD focus on prototyping incremental advances and evaluating what has already been built. Yet medical care is a rapidly evolving system; changes to technology, workforce composition, patient demographics and funding models can create rapid and unpredictable changes to medical practice and modes of care. This dynamism has the potential to curtail or negate the usefulness of current best practice approaches. To imagine new directions for the role of the hospital in society, or innovative ways in which the built environment might support well-being, requires a model that can project beyond existing constraints. Speculative design employs a design-based research methodology to imagine alternative futures and uses the artefacts created through this process to enable broader critical reflection on existing practices. This paper examines the contribution of speculative design within the context of the paediatric hospital as a means of facilitating critical reflection regarding the design of new healthcare facilities. While EBD is largely limited by what has already been built, speculative design offers a complementary research method to meet this limitation. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dobromir Panayotov; Andrew Grief; Brad J. Merrill

'Fusion for Energy' (F4E) develops designs and implements the European Test Blanket Systems (TBS) in ITER - Helium-Cooled Lithium-Lead (HCLL) and Helium-Cooled Pebble-Bed (HCPB). Safety demonstration is an essential element for the integration of TBS in ITER and accident analyses are one of its critical segments. A systematic approach to the accident analyses had been acquired under the F4E contract on TBS safety analyses. F4E technical requirements and AMEC and INL efforts resulted in the development of a comprehensive methodology for fusion breeding blanket accident analyses. It addresses the specificity of the breeding blankets design, materials and phenomena and atmore » the same time is consistent with the one already applied to ITER accident analyses. Methodology consists of several phases. At first the reference scenarios are selected on the base of FMEA studies. In the second place elaboration of the accident analyses specifications we use phenomena identification and ranking tables to identify the requirements to be met by the code(s) and TBS models. Thus the limitations of the codes are identified and possible solutions to be built into the models are proposed. These include among others the loose coupling of different codes or code versions in order to simulate multi-fluid flows and phenomena. The code selection and issue of the accident analyses specifications conclude this second step. Furthermore the breeding blanket and ancillary systems models are built on. In this work challenges met and solutions used in the development of both MELCOR and RELAP5 codes models of HCLL and HCPB TBSs will be shared. To continue the developed models are qualified by comparison with finite elements analyses, by code to code comparison and sensitivity studies. Finally, the qualified models are used for the execution of the accident analyses of specific scenario. When possible the methodology phases will be illustrated in the paper by limited number of tables and figures. Description of each phase and its results in detail as well the methodology applications to EU HCLL and HCPB TBSs will be published in separate papers. The developed methodology is applicable to accident analyses of other TBSs to be tested in ITER and as well to DEMO breeding blankets.« less

Chronological analysis of architectural and acoustical indices in music performance halls.

PubMed

Kwon, Youngmin; Siebein, Gary W

2007-05-01

This study aims to identify the changes in architectural and acoustical indices in halls for music performance built in the 18th through the 20th Centuries. Seventy-one halls are classified in five specific periods from the Classical Period (1751-1820) to the Contemporary Period (1981-2000) based on chronology in music and architectural acoustics. Architectural indices such as room shape, seating capacity, room volume, balcony configuration, and the like as well as acoustical indices such as RT, EDT, G, C80, IACC, and the like for the halls found in the literature are chronologically tabulated and statistically analyzed to identify trends and relationships in architectural and acoustical design for each of the historical periods identified. Some indices appear correlated with each other.

Dismantling the Built Drawing: Working with Mood in Architectural Design

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Teal, Randall

2010-01-01

From the late Middle Ages onward an emphasis on the rational and the technical aspects of design and design drawing gained hold of architectural practice. In this transformation, the phenomenon of mood has been frequently overlooked or seen as something to be added on to a design; yet the fundamental grounding of mood, as described in Martin…

Learning Biology through Innovative Curricula: A Comparison of Game- and Nongame-Based Approaches

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sadler, Troy D.; Romine, William L.; Menon, Deepika; Ferdig, Richard E.; Annetta, Leonard

2015-01-01

This study explored student learning in the context of innovative biotechnology curricula and the effects of gaming as a central element of the learning experience. The quasi-experimentally designed study compared learning outcomes between two curricular approaches: One built around a computer-based game, and the other built around a narrative…

Pathfinding the Flight Advanced Stirling Convertor Design with the ASC-E3

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wong, Wayne A.; Wilson, Kyle; Smith, Eddie; Collins, Josh

2012-01-01

The Advanced Stirling Convertor (ASC) was initially developed by Sunpower, Inc. under contract to NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) as a technology development project. The ASC technology fulfills NASA's need for high efficiency power convertors for future Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS). Early successful technology demonstrations between 2003 to 2005 eventually led to the expansion of the project including the decision in 2006 to use the ASC technology on the Advanced Stirling Radioisotope Generator (ASRG). Sunpower has delivered 22 ASC convertors of progressively mature designs to date to GRC. Currently, Sunpower with support from GRC, Lockheed Martin Space System Company (LMSSC), and the Department of Energy (DOE) is developing the flight ASC-F in parallel with the ASC-E3 pathfinders. Sunpower will deliver four pairs of ASC-E3 convertors to GRC which will be used for extended operation reliability assessment, independent validation and verification testing, system interaction tests, and to support LMSSC controller verification. The ASC-E3 and -F convertors are being built to the same design and processing documentation and the same product specification. The initial two pairs of ASC-E3 are built before the flight units and will validate design and processing changes prior to implementation on the ASC-F flight convertors. This paper provides a summary on development of the ASC technology and the status of the ASC-E3 build and how they serve the vital pathfinder role ahead of the flight build for ASRG. The ASRG is part of two of the three candidate missions being considered for selection for the Discovery 12 mission.

Is Walk Score associated with hospital admissions from chronic diseases? Evidence from a cross-sectional study in a high socioeconomic status Australian city-state

PubMed Central

Mazumdar, Soumya; Learnihan, Vincent; Cochrane, Thomas; Phung, Hai; O'Connor, Bridget; Davey, Rachel

2016-01-01

Objectives To explore patterns of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).To ascertain the effect of the neighbourhood built environmental features and especially walkability on health outcomes, specifically for hospital admissions from NCDs. Design A cross-sectional analysis of public hospital episode data (2007–2013). Setting Hospitalisations from the ACT, Australia at very small geographic areas. Participants Secondary data on 75 290 unique hospital episodes representing 39 851 patients who were admitted to ACT hospitals from 2007 to 2013. No restrictions on age, sex or ethnicity. Main exposure measures Geographic Information System derived or compatible measures of general practitioner access, neighbourhood socioeconomic status, alcohol access, exposure to traffic and Walk Score walkability. Main outcome measures Hospitalisations of circulatory diseases, specific endocrine, nutritional and metabolic diseases, respiratory diseases and specific cancers. Results Geographic clusters with significant high and low risks of NCDs were found that displayed an overall geographic pattern of high risk in the outlying suburbs of the territory. Significant relationships between neighbourhood walkability as measured by Walk Score and the likelihood of hospitalisation with a primary diagnosis of myocardial infarction (heart attack) were found. A possible relationship was also found with the likelihood of being hospitalised with 4 major lifestyle-related cancers. Conclusions Our research augments the growing literature underscoring the relationships between the built environment and health outcomes. In addition, it supports the importance of walkable neighbourhoods, as measured by Walk Score, for improved health. PMID:27932340

Geographic Information System (Gis) for Culinary in Pekanbaru using Herversine Formula

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yunefri, Yogi; Devega, Mariza; Kristanto, Dwi

2017-12-01

Pekanbaru is one of a big city in Indonesia with 897.767 inhabitants’ population on 2010. There are various cultures of the population. That diversity presents the difference of culinary in Pekanbaru, so Pekanbaru be one of the cities which appropriate for culinary that give charm circumstance and worth to taste. One of the obstacles that often occur is the tourists still difficult to find the right and nice place to eat, close to tourism place and find information about culinary is difficult as well. Therefore a web-based GIS application built to give information about culinary in Pekanbaru. This application built through some steps, i.e. system analysis, design system, implementation, and testing. This application built using PHP as a programming language and harversine Formula as a method to fine the closest distance. After it built the application, the data of culinary tested used black box. The result shows that testing using this application is similar with the manual test. Thus the application has been built correctly.

As-built design specification for P1A software system modified display subsystem

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Horton, C. L.; Story, A. S. (Principal Investigator)

1980-01-01

This document contains the design of the proportional estimate processor which was written to satisfy the software requirement of Part A of the P1A experiment. The purposes of the project are: (1) to select the dots to be labelled; (2) to create tables of green numbers and brightness values for all selected dots per acquisition; (3) to create scatter plots of green numbers vs brightness for each acquisition for all selected dots. If labels have been provided then scatter plots of only categories of interest can be optionally produced; and (4) to produce trajectory plots of green number vs brightness at differing acquisition times for each dot. These plots need to be in the same order as the list of selected dots. When labels are provided only plots of dots of categories of interest are to be produced.

Use of 3D Printing for Custom Wind Tunnel Fabrication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gagorik, Paul; Bates, Zachary; Issakhanian, Emin

2016-11-01

Small-scale wind tunnels for the most part are fairly simple to produce with standard building equipment. However, the intricate bell housing and inlet shape of an Eiffel type wind tunnel, as well as the transition from diffuser to fan in a rectangular tunnel can present design and construction obstacles. With the help of 3D printing, these shapes can be custom designed in CAD models and printed in the lab at very low cost. The undergraduate team at Loyola Marymount University has built a custom benchtop tunnel for gas turbine film cooling experiments. 3D printing is combined with conventional construction methods to build the tunnel. 3D printing is also used to build the custom tunnel floor and interchangeable experimental pieces for various experimental shapes. This simple and low-cost tunnel is a custom solution for specific engineering experiments for gas turbine technology research.

CICADA, CCD and Instrument Control Software

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Young, Peter J.; Brooks, Mick; Meatheringham, Stephen J.; Roberts, William H.

Computerised Instrument Control and Data Acquisition (CICADA) is a software system for control of telescope instruments in a distributed computing environment. It is designed using object-oriented techniques and built with standard computing tools such as RPC, SysV IPC, Posix threads, Tcl, and GUI builders. The system is readily extensible to new instruments and currently supports the Astromed 3200 CCD controller and MSSSO's new tip-tilt system. Work is currently underway to provide support for the SDSU CCD controller and MSSSO's Double Beam Spectrograph. A core set of processes handle common communication and control tasks, while specific instruments are ``bolted'' on using C++ inheritance techniques.

CD-SEM real time bias correction using reference metrology based modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ukraintsev, V.; Banke, W.; Zagorodnev, G.; Archie, C.; Rana, N.; Pavlovsky, V.; Smirnov, V.; Briginas, I.; Katnani, A.; Vaid, A.

2018-03-01

Accuracy of patterning impacts yield, IC performance and technology time to market. Accuracy of patterning relies on optical proximity correction (OPC) models built using CD-SEM inputs and intra die critical dimension (CD) control based on CD-SEM. Sub-nanometer measurement uncertainty (MU) of CD-SEM is required for current technologies. Reported design and process related bias variation of CD-SEM is in the range of several nanometers. Reference metrology and numerical modeling are used to correct SEM. Both methods are slow to be used for real time bias correction. We report on real time CD-SEM bias correction using empirical models based on reference metrology (RM) data. Significant amount of currently untapped information (sidewall angle, corner rounding, etc.) is obtainable from SEM waveforms. Using additional RM information provided for specific technology (design rules, materials, processes) CD extraction algorithms can be pre-built and then used in real time for accurate CD extraction from regular CD-SEM images. The art and challenge of SEM modeling is in finding robust correlation between SEM waveform features and bias of CD-SEM as well as in minimizing RM inputs needed to create accurate (within the design and process space) model. The new approach was applied to improve CD-SEM accuracy of 45 nm GATE and 32 nm MET1 OPC 1D models. In both cases MU of the state of the art CD-SEM has been improved by 3x and reduced to a nanometer level. Similar approach can be applied to 2D (end of line, contours, etc.) and 3D (sidewall angle, corner rounding, etc.) cases.

An Integrated Strategy for an Apparel Design Curriculum

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bye, Elizabeth; Labat, Karen L.

2005-01-01

The core of apparel design education is the studio experience. This article discusses an Integrated Apparel Design Curriculum model built on a foundation of creative and technical experimentation and learning which contributes to developing abstract thinking skills. Various learning styles are supported as students work through the design process…

Influence of design and clinical factors on the removal force ratio in tapered implant-abutment interfaces.

PubMed

Aguirrebeitia, Josu; Abasolo, Mikel; Müftü, Sinan; Vallejo, Javier

2017-04-01

A previous study investigated the effects of the preload and taper-angle mismatch in tapered implant systems on the removal force characteristics of the self-locking mechanism. The present study builds upon the previous one and introduces the effects of the time elapsed between insertion and removal and the presence of saliva in the implant-abutment interface as 2 new additional parameters. The purpose of this in vitro study was to elucidate the influences of design and clinical parameters on the removal force for implant systems that use tapered interference fit (TIF) type connections by measuring the force needed to remove an abutment from an implant. Ninety-six implants with tapered abutment-implant interfaces specifically built for an unreplicated factorial design were tested on a custom-built workbench for removal force. Four levels were chosen for the preload, F P , and the taper mismatch Δθ; 3 levels for the wait time t; and 2 levels for the saliva presence s at the interface. A regression model was used based on physical reasoning and a theoretical understanding of the interface. A 4-way ANOVA was used to evaluate the influence of the main effects and interactions (α=.05). The experiments strongly indicated that preload, taper mismatch, and saliva presence are relevant variables in removal force. The wait time becomes important when its effect is evaluated along with the preload. The results of this study can be used for decision making in the design and use of TIF type systems. The study supports the use of artificial saliva in any implant design experiment because of its significance in the removal force of the abutment. Copyright © 2016 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Local health department leadership strategies for healthy built environments.

PubMed

Kuiper, Heather; Jackson, Richard J; Barna, Stefi; Satariano, William A

2012-01-01

The built environment is an important but less-recognized health determinant, and local health departments need expanded guidance to address it. In such situations, leadership is particularly relevant. To assess whether and how local public and environmental health leaders increase their departments' health-promoting impact on built environment design, and what pitfalls they should avoid. Mixed-methods employing cross-sectional surveys and a comparative case study. Local public and environmental health departments. PARTICIPANTS SURVEY: A total of 159 (89%) health officers, health directors, and environmental health directors from all 62 local jurisdictions in California. Case-Study: Three departments, 12 cases, 36 health and land-use professionals, and 30 key informants. The study measured the influence of leadership practices on health departments' built environment-related collaborations, land use activities, policy developments, and contributions to physical changes. Quantitative multivariate linear and logistic regression were used. Case-study content analysis and pattern-matching, which related strong and weak leadership practices to outcomes, were also employed. Departments having highly innovative leaders with positive attitudes had greater odds of achieving physical changes to the built environment (OR: 4.5, 3.4, respectively). Leadership that most prepared their departments for built environment work (by updating staffing, structure, and strategy) tripled interagency and cross-sector collaboration (OR: 3.4). Leadership of successful departments consistently (1) established and managed a healthy built environment vision, (2) cultivated innovation, (3) supported, empowered and protected staff, (4) directly engaged in land use and transportation processes, (5) established direct contacts with directors in other departments, and (6) leveraged their professional reputation. Inconsistency in these practices was twice as common among failure as success cases (80%, 43%). Local health leadership underlies public and environmental health departments' community design efforts and should receive technical support and targeted resources to do so effectively.

Design Considerations for Human Rating of Liquid Rocket Engines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parkinson, Douglas

2010-01-01

I.Human-rating is specific to each engine; a. Context of program/project must be understood. b. Engine cannot be discussed independently from vehicle and mission. II. Utilize a logical combination of design, manufacturing, and test approaches a. Design 1) It is crucial to know the potential ways a system can fail, and how a failure can propagate; 2) Fault avoidance, fault tolerance, DFMR, caution and warning all have roles to play. b. Manufacturing and Assembly; 1) As-built vs. as-designed; 2) Review procedures for assembly and maintenance periodically; and 3) Keep personnel trained and certified. c. There is no substitute for test: 1) Analytical tools are constantly advancing, but still need test data for anchoring assumptions; 2) Demonstrate robustness and explore sensitivities; 3) Ideally, flight will be encompassed by ground test experience. III. Consistency and repeatability is key in production a. Maintain robust processes and procedures for inspection and quality control based upon development and qualification experience; b. Establish methods to "spot check" quality and consistency in parts: 1) Dedicated ground test engines; 2) Random components pulled from the line/lot to go through "enhanced" testing.

Hybrid CMS methods with model reduction for assembly of structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Farhat, Charbel

1991-01-01

Future on-orbit structures will be designed and built in several stages, each with specific control requirements. Therefore there must be a methodology which can predict the dynamic characteristics of the assembled structure, based on the dynamic characteristics of the subassemblies and their interfaces. The methodology developed by CSC to address this issue is Hybrid Component Mode Synthesis (HCMS). HCMS distinguishes itself from standard component mode synthesis algorithms in the following features: (1) it does not require the subcomponents to have displacement compatible models, which makes it ideal for analyzing the deployment of heterogeneous flexible multibody systems, (2) it incorporates a second-level model reduction scheme at the interface, which makes it much faster than other algorithms and therefore suitable for control purposes, and (3) it does answer specific questions such as 'how does the global fundamental frequency vary if I change the physical parameters of substructure k by a specified amount?'. Because it is based on an energy principle rather than displacement compatibility, this methodology can also help the designer to define an assembly process. Current and future efforts are devoted to applying the HCMS method to design and analyze docking and berthing procedures in orbital construction.

Eliminating the use of ticket takers.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1998-03-01

The Oregon Department of Transportation tested an automated means of collecting data from paving trucks as an alternative to the traditional method of "ticket taking". A computerized communication system was designed and built by Quality Design Syste...

On-Line Tool for the Assessment of Radiation in Space - Deep Space Mission Enhancements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sandridge, Chris a.; Blattnig, Steve R.; Norman, Ryan B.; Slaba, Tony C.; Walker, Steve A.; Spangler, Jan L.

2011-01-01

The On-Line Tool for the Assessment of Radiation in Space (OLTARIS, https://oltaris.nasa.gov) is a web-based set of tools and models that allows engineers and scientists to assess the effects of space radiation on spacecraft, habitats, rovers, and spacesuits. The site is intended to be a design tool for those studying the effects of space radiation for current and future missions as well as a research tool for those developing advanced material and shielding concepts. The tools and models are built around the HZETRN radiation transport code and are primarily focused on human- and electronic-related responses. The focus of this paper is to highlight new capabilities that have been added to support deep space (outside Low Earth Orbit) missions. Specifically, the electron, proton, and heavy ion design environments for the Europa mission have been incorporated along with an efficient coupled electron-photon transport capability to enable the analysis of complicated geometries and slabs exposed to these environments. In addition, a neutron albedo lunar surface environment was also added, that will be of value for the analysis of surface habitats. These updates will be discussed in terms of their implementation and on how OLTARIS can be used by instrument vendors, mission designers, and researchers to analyze their specific requirements.12

Locker Rooms: The Durable Design.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Viklund, Roy; Coons, John

1997-01-01

Offers advice on heavy-use locker-room design that provides easier maintenance and vandal resistance. Design features and materials used for flooring, ceilings, and walls are addressed as are built-in systems and equipment, toilet and shower fixtures and partitions, lockers, and mechanical and electrical systems. (GR)

Evaluation of the "e-rater"® Scoring Engine for the "TOEFL"® Independent and Integrated Prompts. Research Report. ETS RR-12-06

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ramineni, Chaitanya; Trapani, Catherine S.; Williamson, David M.; Davey, Tim; Bridgeman, Brent

2012-01-01

Scoring models for the "e-rater"® system were built and evaluated for the "TOEFL"® exam's independent and integrated writing prompts. Prompt-specific and generic scoring models were built, and evaluation statistics, such as weighted kappas, Pearson correlations, standardized differences in mean scores, and correlations with…

Locomotive cab design development. volume 2 : operator's manual - Interim Report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1976-10-01

Locomotive Cab 913 designed as a result of Contract DOT-TSC- 913 has been built as a hard mock-up. This Operator's Manual is to familiarize the user with the mock-up. Normal and emergency procedures and cab facilities are described.

The Role of Combat Heavy Engineer Battalions in Nation Assistance.

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-06-07

project can be built, it must first be designed and planned. Someone must assess what the user needs and provide a set of specifications, blueprints, and...the soldiers 65 of both Niger and the United States grew to respect and appreciate each other.1 9 Still much can be learned from the number of...the lessons learned from these projects to assess when combat heavy battalions can be most effectively used for nation assistance. 96 ENDNOTES

Plug-and-Play Multicellular Circuits with Time-Dependent Dynamic Responses.

PubMed

Urrios, Arturo; Gonzalez-Flo, Eva; Canadell, David; de Nadal, Eulàlia; Macia, Javier; Posas, Francesc

2018-04-20

Synthetic biology studies aim to develop cellular devices for biomedical applications. These devices, based on living instead of electronic or electromechanic technology, might provide alternative treatments for a wide range of diseases. However, the feasibility of these devices depends, in many cases, on complex genetic circuits that must fulfill physiological requirements. In this work, we explored the potential of multicellular architectures to act as an alternative to complex circuits for implementation of new devices. As a proof of concept, we developed specific circuits for insulin or glucagon production in response to different glucose levels. Here, we show that fundamental features, such as circuit's affinity or sensitivity, are dependent on the specific configuration of the multicellular consortia, providing a method for tuning these properties without genetic engineering. As an example, we have designed and built circuits with an incoherent feed-forward loop architecture (FFL) that can be easily adjusted to generate single pulse responses. Our results might serve as a blueprint for future development of cellular devices for glycemia regulation in diabetic patients.

High-Power, High-Thrust Ion Thruster (HPHTion)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Peterson, Peter Y.

2015-01-01

Advances in high-power photovoltaic technology have enabled the possibility of reasonably sized, high-specific power solar arrays. At high specific powers, power levels ranging from 50 to several hundred kilowatts are feasible. Ion thrusters offer long life and overall high efficiency (typically greater than 70 percent efficiency). In Phase I, the team at ElectroDynamic Applications, Inc., built a 25-kW, 50-cm ion thruster discharge chamber and fabricated a laboratory model. This was in response to the need for a single, high-powered engine to fill the gulf between the 7-kW NASA's Evolutionary Xenon Thruster (NEXT) system and a notional 25-kW engine. The Phase II project matured the laboratory model into a protoengineering model ion thruster. This involved the evolution of the discharge chamber to a high-performance thruster by performance testing and characterization via simulated and full beam extraction testing. Through such testing, the team optimized the design and built a protoengineering model thruster. Coupled with gridded ion thruster technology, this technology can enable a wide range of missions, including ambitious near-Earth NASA missions, Department of Defense missions, and commercial satellite activities.

Parental perceptions of the impacts the built environment has on young children׳s health: a qualitative examination and lay assessment amongst residents in four Scottish communities.

PubMed

Teedon, Paul; Gillespie, Morag; Lindsay, Kate; Baker, Keith

2014-07-01

The built environment is important for children׳s health and development. Qualitative research in four communities in Scotland explored with groups of parents of young children their lay perceptions of their local environment with specific reference to its impact upon their children׳s health. Valuing most strong supportive communities; good quality public spaces and social housing, parents׳ key concerns included anti-social behaviour, incivility and a range of locally-specific concerns. As knowledgeable key gatekeepers to children׳s use of home environments and public spaces, parent׳s qualitative lay input is important for the development of children׳s effective use of outdoor spaces and the built environment over the long term. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

CAD Instructor Designs Eco-Friendly Shed

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schwendau, Mark

2013-01-01

Dissatisfied with the options offered by big box stores--and wanting to save some money and go as green as possible--the author puts his design and construction skills to good use. In this article, he shares how he designed and built an eco-friendly shed. He says he is very pleased with the results of working with his own design, reducing waste,…

Relocatable dense medium coal preparation plants for Indonesia

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lamb, R.

1994-12-31

The major recent coal mine developments in Indonesia have been situated along the east coast of Kalimantan (Borneo). Design and construction in these remote areas require a high level of innovation and ingenuity to ensure that the plants can be brought on line effectively. This paper describes the design, installation, and operation of two relocatable modular dense medium plants. The plants were specifically built to overcome the difficulties of remote areas and can be assembled by a semi-skilled workforce. The two relocatable dense medium coal preparation plants recently built for mines in Kalimantan are unique in that the plants weremore » fabricated, preassembled, and wet-commissioned in Brisbane, Australia, before shipment to Indonesia. The plants are a 3OO t/h dense medium bath, cyclone, and spirals plant and a 250 t/h dense medium cyclone and spirals with reject and tailings co-disposal. The relocatable plant concept has enabled a low capital cost per ton per hour and an extremely fast construction timetable-20 weeks from contract award to completion of wet-commissioning for shipment to Indonesia.« less

Electronic data capture in a rural African setting: evaluating experiences with different systems in Malawi

PubMed Central

King, Carina; Hall, Jenny; Banda, Masford; Beard, James; Bird, Jon; Kazembe, Peter; Fottrell, Ed

2014-01-01

Background As hardware for electronic data capture (EDC), such as smartphones or tablets, becomes cheaper and more widely available, the potential for using such hardware as data capture tools in routine healthcare and research is increasing. Objective We aim to highlight the advantages and disadvantages of four EDC systems being used simultaneously in rural Malawi: two for Android devices (CommCare and ODK Collect), one for PALM and Windows OS (Pendragon), and a custom-built application for Android (Mobile InterVA – MIVA). Design We report on the personal field and development experience of fieldworkers, project managers, and EDC system developers. Results Fieldworkers preferred using EDC to paper-based systems, although some struggled with the technology at first. Highlighted features include in-built skip patterns for all systems, and specifically the ‘case’ function that CommCare offers. MIVA as a standalone app required considerably more time and expertise than the other systems to create and could not be customised for our specific research needs; however, it facilitates standardised routine data collection. CommCare and ODK Collect both have user-friendly web-interfaces for form development and good technical support. CommCare requires Internet to build an application and download it to a device, whereas all steps can be done offline with ODK Collect, a desirable feature in low connectivity settings. Pendragon required more complex programming of logic, using a Microsoft Access application, and generally had less technical support. Start-up costs varied between systems, and all were considered more expensive than setting up a paper-based system; however running costs were generally low and therefore thought to be cost-effective over the course of our projects. Conclusions EDC offers many opportunities for efficient data collection, but brings some issues requiring consideration when designing a study; the decision of which hardware and software to use should be informed by the aim of data collection, budget, and local circumstances. PMID:25363364

Towards Requirements in Systems Engineering for Aerospace IVHM Design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Saxena, Abhinav; Roychoudhury, Indranil; Lin, Wei; Goebel, Kai

2013-01-01

Health management (HM) technologies have been employed for safety critical system for decades, but a coherent systematic process to integrate HM into the system design is not yet clear. Consequently, in most cases, health management resorts to be an after-thought or 'band-aid' solution. Moreover, limited guidance exists for carrying out systems engineering (SE) on the subject of writing requirements for designs with integrated vehicle health management (IVHM). It is well accepted that requirements are key to developing a successful IVHM system right from the concept stage to development, verification, utilization, and support. However, writing requirements for systems with IVHM capability have unique challenges that require the designers to look beyond their own domains and consider the constraints and specifications of other interlinked systems. In this paper we look at various stages in the SE process and identify activities specific to IVHM design and development. More importantly, several relevant questions are posed that system engineers must address at various design and development stages. Addressing these questions should provide some guidance to systems engineers towards writing IVHM related requirements to ensure that appropriate IVHM functions are built into the system design.

Lithium Circuit Test Section Design and Fabrication

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Godfroy, Thomas; Garber, Anne

2006-01-01

The Early Flight Fission - Test Facilities (EFF-TF) team has designed and built an actively pumped lithium flow circuit. Modifications were made to a circuit originally designed for NaK to enable the use of lithium that included application specific instrumentation and hardware. Component scale freeze/thaw tests were conducted to both gain experience with handling and behavior of lithium in solid and liquid form and to supply anchor data for a Generalized Fluid System Simulation Program (GFSSP) model that was modified to include the physics for freeze/thaw transitions. Void formation was investigated. The basic circuit components include: reactor segment, lithium to gas heat exchanger, electromagnetic (EM) liquid metal pump, load/drain reservoir, expansion reservoir, instrumentation, and trace heaters. This paper will discuss the overall system design and build and the component testing findings.

Lithium Circuit Test Section Design and Fabrication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Godfroy, Thomas; Garber, Anne; Martin, James

2006-01-01

The Early Flight Fission - Test Facilities (EFF-TF) team has designed and built an actively pumped lithium flow circuit. Modifications were made to a circuit originally designed for NaK to enable the use of lithium that included application specific instrumentation and hardware. Component scale freeze/thaw tests were conducted to both gain experience with handling and behavior of lithium in solid and liquid form and to supply anchor data for a Generalized Fluid System Simulation Program (GFSSP) model that was modified to include the physics for freeze/thaw transitions. Void formation was investigated. The basic circuit components include: reactor segment, lithium to gas heat exchanger, electromagnetic (EM) liquid metal pump, load/drain reservoir, expansion reservoir, instrumentation, and trace heaters. This paper discusses the overall system design and build and the component testing findings.

Working with Policy and Regulatory Factors to Implement Universal Design in the Built Environment: The Australian Experience.

PubMed

Larkin, Helen; Hitch, Danielle; Watchorn, Valerie; Ang, Susan

2015-07-15

Built environments that are usable by all provide opportunities for engagement in meaningful occupations. However, enabling them in day to day design processes and practice is problematic for relevant professions. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to gain greater understanding of the policy and regulatory influences that promote or hinder the uptake of universal design in built environments, to inform better future design. Focus groups or telephone interviews were undertaken with 28 key building industry and disability stakeholders in Australia. Four themes were identified: the difficulties of definition; the push or pull of regulations and policy; the role of formal standards; and, shifting the focus of design thinking. The findings highlight the complexity of working within policy and regulatory contexts when implementing universal design. Occupational therapists working with colleagues from other professions must be aware of these influences, and develop the skills to work with them for successful practice.

Non - Vegetated Standard Bioretention Structure Hydrodynamic Soil Characterization For Ponding - Layer Optimum Thickness Determination With A Distinctive Urban - Region Rainfall Event In Bogota

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Velasco Ávila, Frank; Acero Rivero, Germán Eduardo; Angulo Jaramillo, Rafael

2017-04-01

Aiming to propose a system, in accordance with Best Management Practices (BMP) kind of structures, specifically a standard bioretention system in Bogota city, and in order to apply the inverse solution methodology on Hydrus - 1D, it is mandatory to determine each θ_s; θ_r; α;n and ks parameters in van Genuchten - Mualem function, without considering the hysteresis phenomenon, for a standard bioretention system composing soils, as well as required components and dimensions to implement the bioretention structure in Bogota. First, a bioretention structure general dimensioning was carried out based on current urban landscaping regulations and recommendations given by the sewage - system service provider in Bogota city. Soil composing and design were performed after information gathering and previous investigation on bioretention systems dimensioning from different sources such as manuals. To give an adequate interpretation of the vadose zone, a soil column experimental prototype was built to be able to control and measure the intervening parameters in the subsoil unidimensional flow description, such as capillary pressure, soil water saturation, inflow and outflow. Thirteen sensor - based devices were built to measure the inverse model required parameters. It is important to underline that all the designed instrumentation was based on low cost electronic development. In addition, the whole instrumentation system is controlled by an Arduino Mega PLC and was designed and built as a personal initiative by the author of this work. For signal processing and data capturing, a commercial Lab View version intuitive program was designed, to be able to create a user-friendly interface to make real-time sensor visualisation and control. Finally, all the hydrodynamic characterisation for the studied soils was made through a Hydrus-1D inverse model and laboratory experimenting and obtained results. In addition, several direct models were run in order to determinate both bioretention structures' operation condition retention time and outflow. A storage layer in the base of the structure, which is made up by rocks to settle an appropriate retention volume, was suggested after computing model results. A Hydrus-1D direct model was also made as an application example for an urban zone in Bogota in order to observe the structure's behaviour and the runoff - peak mitigation percentage under normal functioning conditions, using hydrological data from the study region given by the water and sewage - service provider in Bogota city.

Energy and daylighting: A correlation between quality of light and energy consciousness

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Krug, N.

1997-12-31

Energy and Daylighting, an advanced topics graduate/professional elective has been established to help the student develop a deeper understanding of Architectural Daylighting, Energy Conserving Design, and Material/Construction/Methods through direct application. After a brief survey of the principles and applications of current and developing attitudes and techniques in energy conservation and natural lighting strategies is conducted (in order to build upon previous courses), an extensive exercise follows which allows the student the opportunity for direct applications. Both computer modeling/analysis and physical modeling (light box simulation with photographic documentation) are employed to focus attention on the interrelationships between natural lighting and passivemore » energy conserving design--all within the context of establishing environmental (interior) quality and (exterior) design direction. As a result, students broaden their understanding of natural light and energy conservation as design tools; the importance of environmental responsibility, both built and natural environments; and using computer analysis as a design tool. This presentation centers around the activities and results obtained from explorations into Energy and Daylighting. Discussion will highlight the course objectives, the methodology involved in the studies, specific requirements and means of evaluation, a slide show of befores and afters (results), and a retrospective look at the course`s value, as well as future directions and implications.« less

Biologically active LIL proteins built with minimal chemical diversity

PubMed Central

Heim, Erin N.; Marston, Jez L.; Federman, Ross S.; Edwards, Anne P. B.; Karabadzhak, Alexander G.; Petti, Lisa M.; Engelman, Donald M.; DiMaio, Daniel

2015-01-01

We have constructed 26-amino acid transmembrane proteins that specifically transform cells but consist of only two different amino acids. Most proteins are long polymers of amino acids with 20 or more chemically distinct side-chains. The artificial transmembrane proteins reported here are the simplest known proteins with specific biological activity, consisting solely of an initiating methionine followed by specific sequences of leucines and isoleucines, two hydrophobic amino acids that differ only by the position of a methyl group. We designate these proteins containing leucine (L) and isoleucine (I) as LIL proteins. These proteins functionally interact with the transmembrane domain of the platelet-derived growth factor β-receptor and specifically activate the receptor to transform cells. Complete mutagenesis of these proteins identified individual amino acids required for activity, and a protein consisting solely of leucines, except for a single isoleucine at a particular position, transformed cells. These surprisingly simple proteins define the minimal chemical diversity sufficient to construct proteins with specific biological activity and change our view of what can constitute an active protein in a cellular context. PMID:26261320

Combined Raman/LIBS spectrometer elegant breadboard: built and tested - and flight model spectrometer unit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahlers, B.; Hutchinson, I.; Ingley, R.

2017-11-01

A spectrometer for combined Raman and Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) is amongst the different instruments that have been pre-selected for the Pasteur payload of the ExoMars rover. It is regarded as a fundamental, next-generation instrument for organic, mineralogical and elemental characterisation of Martian soil, rock samples and organic molecules. Raman spectroscopy and LIBS will be integrated into a single instrument sharing many hardware commonalities [1]. The combined Raman / LIBS instrument has been recommended as the highest priority mineralogy instrument to be included in the rover's analytical laboratory for the following tasks: Analyse surface and sub-surface soil and rocks on Mars, identify organics in the search for life and determine soil origin & toxicity. The synergy of the system is evident: the Raman spectrometer is dedicated to molecular analysis of organics and minerals; the LIBS provides information on the sample's elemental composition. An international team, under ESA contract and with the leadership of TNO Science and Industry, has built and tested an Elegant Bread Board (EBB) of the combined Raman / LIBS instrument. The EBB comprises a specifically designed, extremely compact, spectrometer with high resolution over a large wavelength range, suitable for both Raman spectroscopy and LIBS measurements. The EBB also includes lasers, illumination and imaging optics as well as fibre optics for light transfer. A summary of the functional and environmental requirements together with a description of the optical design and its expected performance are described in [2]. The EBB was developed and constructed to verify the instruments' end-to-end functional performance with natural samples. The combined Raman / LIBS EBB realisation and test results of natural samples will be presented. For the Flight Model (FM) instrument, currently in the design phase, the Netherlands will be responsible for the design, development and verification of the spectrometer unit, while the UK provides the detector. The differences between the EBB and the FM will be demonstrated.

FASTBUS Slaves: a designers view

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Downing, R.W.

1981-10-01

Although FASTBUS has features built into it which allow complex interconnections and multiple Masters, the rules for implementing Slaves are very simple. The first time designer of Slave Modules should not be intimidated by the 200 pages of the FASTBUS document. About 90% of the specification is associated with system implications that do not impact Slave design. This paper will review the basic logic and timing requirements for FASTBUS Slave design. Also, some examples of implementation will be shown. The discussion which follows assumes that mastership of the bus has been gained. Bus arbitration, system interconnection, message routing, etc. aremore » separate topics and will not be discussed here. These topics affect only the design of devices which operate at the system level since FASTBUS Slave modules have been specified to be completely transparent to these system considerations.« less

The journey from proton to gamma knife.

PubMed

Ganz, Jeremy C

2014-01-01

It was generally accepted by the early 1960s that proton beam radiosurgery was too complex and impractical. The need was seen for a new machine. The beam design had to be as good as a proton beam. It was also decided that a static design was preferable even if the evolution of that notion is no longer clear. Complex collimators were designed that using sources of cobalt-60 could produce beams with characteristics adequately close to those of proton beams. The geometry of the machine was determined including the distance of the sources from the patient the optimal distance between the sources. The first gamma unit was built with private money with no contribution from the Swedish state, which nonetheless required detailed design information in order to ensure radiation safety. This original machine was built with rectangular collimators to produce lesions for thalamotomy for functional work. However, with the introduction of dopamine analogs, this indication virtually disappeared overnight.

The Built Environment and Its Relationship to the Public’s Health: The Legal Framework

PubMed Central

Perdue, Wendy Collins; Stone, Lesley A.; Gostin, Lawrence O.

2003-01-01

The built environment significantly affects the public’s health. This was most obvious when infectious disease was the primary public health threat during the industrial revolution; unsanitary conditions and overcrowded urban areas facilitated the spread of infection. However, even today in the age of chronic diseases there remains an important connection between population health and the built environment. Physical spaces can expose people to toxins or pollutants and influence lifestyles that contribute to diabetes, coronary vascular disease, and asthma. Public health advocates can help shape the design of cities and suburbs in ways that improve public health, but to do so effectively they need to understand the legal framework. This article reviews the connection between public health and the built environment and then describes the legal pathways for improving the design of our built environment. PMID:12948949

Small Reactor Designs Suitable for Direct Nuclear Thermal Propulsion: Interim Report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bruce G. Schnitzler

Advancement of U.S. scientific, security, and economic interests requires high performance propulsion systems to support missions beyond low Earth orbit. A robust space exploration program will include robotic outer planet and crewed missions to a variety of destinations including the moon, near Earth objects, and eventually Mars. Past studies, in particular those in support of both the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) and the Space Exploration Initiative (SEI), have shown nuclear thermal propulsion systems provide superior performance for high mass high propulsive delta-V missions. In NASA's recent Mars Design Reference Architecture (DRA) 5.0 study, nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP) was again selectedmore » over chemical propulsion as the preferred in-space transportation system option for the human exploration of Mars because of its high thrust and high specific impulse ({approx}900 s) capability, increased tolerance to payload mass growth and architecture changes, and lower total initial mass in low Earth orbit. The recently announced national space policy2 supports the development and use of space nuclear power systems where such systems safely enable or significantly enhance space exploration or operational capabilities. An extensive nuclear thermal rocket technology development effort was conducted under the Rover/NERVA, GE-710 and ANL nuclear rocket programs (1955-1973). Both graphite and refractory metal alloy fuel types were pursued. The primary and significantly larger Rover/NERVA program focused on graphite type fuels. Research, development, and testing of high temperature graphite fuels was conducted. Reactors and engines employing these fuels were designed, built, and ground tested. The GE-710 and ANL programs focused on an alternative ceramic-metallic 'cermet' fuel type consisting of UO2 (or UN) fuel embedded in a refractory metal matrix such as tungsten. The General Electric program examined closed loop concepts for space or terrestrial applications as well as open loop systems for direct nuclear thermal propulsion. Although a number of fast spectrum reactor and engine designs suitable for direct nuclear thermal propulsion were proposed and designed, none were built. This report summarizes status results of evaluations of small nuclear reactor designs suitable for direct nuclear thermal propulsion.« less

Avionics System Architecture Tool

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chau, Savio; Hall, Ronald; Traylor, marcus; Whitfield, Adrian

2005-01-01

Avionics System Architecture Tool (ASAT) is a computer program intended for use during the avionics-system-architecture- design phase of the process of designing a spacecraft for a specific mission. ASAT enables simulation of the dynamics of the command-and-data-handling functions of the spacecraft avionics in the scenarios in which the spacecraft is expected to operate. ASAT is built upon I-Logix Statemate MAGNUM, providing a complement of dynamic system modeling tools, including a graphical user interface (GUI), modeling checking capabilities, and a simulation engine. ASAT augments this with a library of predefined avionics components and additional software to support building and analyzing avionics hardware architectures using these components.

Powering an in-space 3D printer using solar light energy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leake, Skye; McGuire, Thomas; Parsons, Michael; Hirsch, Michael P.; Straub, Jeremy

2016-05-01

This paper describes how a solar power source can enable in-space 3D printing without requiring conversion to electric power and back. A design for an in-space 3D printer is presented, with a particular focus on the power generation system. Then, key benefits are presented and evaluated. Specifically, the approach facilitates the design of a spacecraft that can be built, launched, and operated at very low cost levels. The proposed approach also facilitates easy configuration of the amount of energy that is supplied. Finally, it facilitates easier disposal by removing the heavy metals and radioactive materials required for a nuclear-power solution.

SQL Collaborative Learning Framework Based on SOA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Armiati, S.; Awangga, RM

2018-04-01

The research is focused on designing collaborative learning-oriented framework fulfilment service in teaching SQL Oracle 10g. Framework built a foundation of academic fulfilment service performed by a layer of the working unit in collaboration with Program Studi Manajemen Informatika. In the design phase defined what form of collaboration models and information technology proposed for Program Studi Manajemen Informatika by using a framework of collaboration inspired by the stages of modelling a Service Oriented Architecture (SOA). Stages begin with analyzing subsystems, this activity is used to determine subsystem involved and reliance as well as workflow between the subsystems. After the service can be identified, the second phase is designing the component specifications, which details the components that are implemented in the service to include the data, rules, services, profiles can be configured, and variations. The third stage is to allocate service, set the service to the subsystems that have been identified, and its components. Implementation framework contributes to the teaching guides and application architecture that can be used as a landing realize an increase in service by applying information technology.

Hollow-Core Photonic Band Gap Fibers for Particle Acceleration

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Noble, Robert J.; Spencer, James E.; /SLAC

Photonic band gap (PBG) dielectric fibers with hollow cores are being studied both theoretically and experimentally for use as laser driven accelerator structures. The hollow core functions as both a longitudinal waveguide for the transverse-magnetic (TM) accelerating fields and a channel for the charged particles. The dielectric surrounding the core is permeated by a periodic array of smaller holes to confine the mode, forming a photonic crystal fiber in which modes exist in frequency pass-bands, separated by band gaps. The hollow core acts as a defect which breaks the crystal symmetry, and so-called defect, or trapped modes having frequencies inmore » the band gap will only propagate near the defect. We describe the design of 2-D hollow-core PBG fibers to support TM defect modes with high longitudinal fields and high characteristic impedance. Using as-built dimensions of industrially-made fibers, we perform a simulation analysis of the first prototype PBG fibers specifically designed to support speed-of-light TM modes.« less

Convolutional neural network-based malaria diagnosis from focus stack of blood smear images acquired using custom-built slide scanner.

PubMed

Gopakumar, Gopalakrishna Pillai; Swetha, Murali; Sai Siva, Gorthi; Sai Subrahmanyam, Gorthi R K

2018-03-01

The present paper introduces a focus stacking-based approach for automated quantitative detection of Plasmodium falciparum malaria from blood smear. For the detection, a custom designed convolutional neural network (CNN) operating on focus stack of images is used. The cell counting problem is addressed as the segmentation problem and we propose a 2-level segmentation strategy. Use of CNN operating on focus stack for the detection of malaria is first of its kind, and it not only improved the detection accuracy (both in terms of sensitivity [97.06%] and specificity [98.50%]) but also favored the processing on cell patches and avoided the need for hand-engineered features. The slide images are acquired with a custom-built portable slide scanner made from low-cost, off-the-shelf components and is suitable for point-of-care diagnostics. The proposed approach of employing sophisticated algorithmic processing together with inexpensive instrumentation can potentially benefit clinicians to enable malaria diagnosis. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Building Ecology & School Design. Technical Bulletin.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Maryland State Dept. of Education, Baltimore.

To better understand construction's impact, an overview of building ecology as a concept and as a decision-making model for school systems is provided. "Building ecology" is defined as the interrelationships among people, the built environment, and the natural environment. It has special relevance for school design because most of the…

Deairing Techniques for Double-Ended Centrifugal Total Artificial Heart Implantation.

PubMed

Karimov, Jamshid H; Horvath, David J; Byram, Nicole; Sunagawa, Gengo; Grady, Patrick; Sinkewich, Martin; Moazami, Nader; Sale, Shiva; Golding, Leonard A R; Fukamachi, Kiyotaka

2017-06-01

The unique device architecture of the Cleveland Clinic continuous-flow total artificial heart (CFTAH) requires dedicated and specific air-removal techniques during device implantation in vivo. These procedures comprise special surgical techniques and intraoperative manipulations, as well as engineering design changes and optimizations to the device itself. The current study evaluated the optimal air-removal techniques during the Cleveland Clinic double-ended centrifugal CFTAH in vivo implants (n = 17). Techniques and pump design iterations consisted of developing a priming method for the device and the use of built-in deairing ports in the early cases (n = 5). In the remaining cases (n = 12), deairing ports were not used. Dedicated air-removal ports were not considered an essential design requirement, and such ports may represent an additional risk for pump thrombosis. Careful passive deairing was found to be an effective measure with a centrifugal pump of this design. In this report, the techniques and design changes that were made during this CFTAH development program to enable effective residual air removal and prevention of air embolism during in vivo device implantation are explained. © 2016 International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Automated Ground Umbilical Systems (AGUS) Project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gosselin, Armand M.

2007-01-01

All space vehicles require ground umbilical systems for servicing. Servicing requirements can include, but are not limited to, electrical power and control, propellant loading and venting, pneumatic system supply, hazard gas detection and purging as well as systems checkout capabilities. Of the various types of umbilicals, all require several common subsystems. These typically include an alignment system, mating and locking system, fluid connectors, electrical connectors and control !checkout systems. These systems have been designed to various levels of detail based on the needs for manual and/or automation requirements. The Automated Ground Umbilical Systems (AGUS) project is a multi-phase initiative to develop design performance requirements and concepts for launch system umbilicals. The automation aspect minimizes operational time and labor in ground umbilical processing while maintaining reliability. This current phase of the project reviews the design, development, testing and operations of ground umbilicals built for the Saturn, Shuttle, X-33 and Atlas V programs. Based on the design and operations lessons learned from these systems, umbilicals can be optimized for specific applications. The product of this study is a document containing details of existing systems and requirements for future automated umbilical systems with emphasis on design-for-operations (DFO).

Specification of the 2nd cryogenic plant for RAON

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoon, S.; Ki, T.; Lee, K. W.; Kim, Y.; Jo, H. C.; Kim, D. G.

2017-12-01

RAON is a rare isotope beam facility being built at Daejeon, South Korea. The RAON consists of three linear accelerators, SCL1 (1st SuperConducting LINAC), SCL2, and SCL3. Each LINAC has its own cryogenic plant. The cryogenic plant for SCL2 will provide the cooling for cryomodules, low temperature SC magnets, high temperature SC magnets, and a cryogenic distribution system. This paper describes the specification of the plant including cooling capacity, steady state and transient operation modes, and cooling strategies. In order to reduce CAPEX with the specification, two suppliers will consider no liquid nitrogen pre-cooling, one integrated cold box, and one back-up HP compressor. The detail design of the plant will be started at the end of this year.

46 CFR 153.483 - Restricted voyage waiver for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built before July 1, 1986...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

..., LIQUEFIED GAS, OR COMPRESSED GAS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Design and Equipment Design and Equipment for Pollution Control § 153.483 Restricted voyage waiver for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built before July 1...

46 CFR 153.480 - Stripping quantity for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built after June 30, 1986: Categories...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

..., LIQUEFIED GAS, OR COMPRESSED GAS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Design and Equipment Design and Equipment for Pollution Control § 153.480 Stripping quantity for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built after June 30, 1986...

46 CFR 153.480 - Stripping quantity for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built after June 30, 1986: Categories...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

..., LIQUEFIED GAS, OR COMPRESSED GAS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Design and Equipment Design and Equipment for Pollution Control § 153.480 Stripping quantity for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built after June 30, 1986...

46 CFR 153.480 - Stripping quantity for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built after June 30, 1986: Categories...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

..., LIQUEFIED GAS, OR COMPRESSED GAS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Design and Equipment Design and Equipment for Pollution Control § 153.480 Stripping quantity for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built after June 30, 1986...

46 CFR 153.483 - Restricted voyage waiver for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built before July 1, 1986...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

..., LIQUEFIED GAS, OR COMPRESSED GAS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Design and Equipment Design and Equipment for Pollution Control § 153.483 Restricted voyage waiver for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built before July 1...

46 CFR 153.480 - Stripping quantity for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built after June 30, 1986: Categories...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

..., LIQUEFIED GAS, OR COMPRESSED GAS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Design and Equipment Design and Equipment for Pollution Control § 153.480 Stripping quantity for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built after June 30, 1986...

46 CFR 153.480 - Stripping quantity for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built after June 30, 1986: Categories...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

..., LIQUEFIED GAS, OR COMPRESSED GAS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Design and Equipment Design and Equipment for Pollution Control § 153.480 Stripping quantity for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built after June 30, 1986...

46 CFR 153.483 - Restricted voyage waiver for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built before July 1, 1986...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

..., LIQUEFIED GAS, OR COMPRESSED GAS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Design and Equipment Design and Equipment for Pollution Control § 153.483 Restricted voyage waiver for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built before July 1...

46 CFR 153.483 - Restricted voyage waiver for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built before July 1, 1986...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

..., LIQUEFIED GAS, OR COMPRESSED GAS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Design and Equipment Design and Equipment for Pollution Control § 153.483 Restricted voyage waiver for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built before July 1...

46 CFR 153.483 - Restricted voyage waiver for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built before July 1, 1986...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

..., LIQUEFIED GAS, OR COMPRESSED GAS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Design and Equipment Design and Equipment for Pollution Control § 153.483 Restricted voyage waiver for Category B and C NLS tanks on ships built before July 1...

49 CFR 195.264 - Impoundment, protection against entry, normal/emergency venting or pressure/vacuum relief for...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... specified: (1) For tanks built to API Specification 12F, API Standard 620, and others (such as API Standard... accordance with section 4.3.2.3.1. (2) For tanks built to API 2510, the installation of impoundment must be in accordance with section 5 or 11 of API 2510 (incorporated by reference, see § 195.3). (c...

49 CFR 195.264 - Impoundment, protection against entry, normal/emergency venting or pressure/vacuum relief for...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... specified: (1) For tanks built to API Specification 12F, API Standard 620, and others (such as API Standard... accordance with section 4.3.2.3.1. (2) For tanks built to API 2510, the installation of impoundment must be in accordance with section 5 or 11 of API 2510 (incorporated by reference, see § 195.3). (c...

49 CFR 195.264 - Impoundment, protection against entry, normal/emergency venting or pressure/vacuum relief for...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... specified: (1) For tanks built to API Specification 12F, API Standard 620, and others (such as API Standard... accordance with section 4.3.2.3.1. (2) For tanks built to API 2510, the installation of impoundment must be in accordance with section 5 or 11 of API 2510 (incorporated by reference, see § 195.3). (c...

49 CFR 195.264 - Impoundment, protection against entry, normal/emergency venting or pressure/vacuum relief for...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... specified: (1) For tanks built to API Specification 12F, API Standard 620, and others (such as API Standard... accordance with section 4.3.2.3.1. (2) For tanks built to API 2510, the installation of impoundment must be in accordance with section 5 or 11 of API 2510 (incorporated by reference, see § 195.3). (c...

The ID Database: Managing the Instructional Development Process

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Piña, Anthony A.; Sanford, Barry K.

2017-01-01

Management is evolving as a foundational domain to the field of instructional design and technology. However, there are few tools dedicated to the management of instructional design and development projects and activities. In this article, we describe the development, features and implementation of an instructional design database--built from a…

Catalyzing Graduate Teaching Assistants' Laboratory Teaching through Design Research

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bond-Robinson, Janet; Rodriques, Romola A. Bernard

2006-01-01

We report on a study of a laboratory teaching apprenticeship program designed to improve graduate teaching assistant (GTA) performance. To catalyze GTAs as laboratory teachers we constructed learning goals, synthesized previous literature into a design model and a developmental path, and built two instruments to measure 12 strategic pedagogical…

49 CFR Appendix A to Part 24 - Additional Information

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... relocation may precede acquisition. Superfund is a program designed to clean up hazardous waste sites. When... built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a dwelling with or without a permanent... necessarily designed to comply with the Uniform Act and other Federal eminent domain based appraisal...

49 CFR Appendix A to Part 24 - Additional Information

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... relocation may precede acquisition. Superfund is a program designed to clean up hazardous waste sites. When... built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a dwelling with or without a permanent... necessarily designed to comply with the Uniform Act and other Federal eminent domain based appraisal...

49 CFR Appendix A to Part 24 - Additional Information

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... relocation may precede acquisition. Superfund is a program designed to clean up hazardous waste sites. When... built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a dwelling with or without a permanent... necessarily designed to comply with the Uniform Act and other Federal eminent domain based appraisal...

49 CFR Appendix A to Part 24 - Additional Information

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... relocation may precede acquisition. Superfund is a program designed to clean up hazardous waste sites. When... built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a dwelling with or without a permanent... necessarily designed to comply with the Uniform Act and other Federal eminent domain based appraisal...

Practicing Engineering While Building with Blocks: Identifying Engineering Thinking

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bagiati, Aikaterini; Evangelou, Demetra

2016-01-01

Children's free play naturally enhances skills of observation, communication, experimentation, as well as development of rationale and construction skills. These domains, while synthesised, can lead to the development of certain process models regarding the way constructions could be designed, built and improved. The Design Process model…

A Spreadsheet Simulation Tool for Terrestrial and Planetary Balloon Design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Raquea, Steven M.

1999-01-01

During the early stages of new balloon design and development, it is necessary to conduct many trade studies. These trade studies are required to determine the design space, and aid significantly in determining overall feasibility. Numerous point designs then need to be generated as details of payloads, materials, mission, and manufacturing are determined. To accomplish these numerous designs, transient models are both unnecessary and time intensive. A steady state model that uses appropriate design inputs to generate system-level descriptive parameters can be very flexible and fast. Just such a steady state model has been developed and has been used during both the MABS 2001 Mars balloon study and the Ultra Long Duration Balloon Project. Using Microsoft Excel's built-in iteration routine, a model was built. Separate sheets were used for performance, structural design, materials, and thermal analysis as well as input and output sheets. As can be seen from figure 1, the model takes basic performance requirements, weight estimates, design parameters, and environmental conditions and generates a system level balloon design. Figure 2 shows a sample output of the model. By changing the inputs and a few of the equations in the model, balloons on earth or other planets can be modeled. There are currently several variations of the model for terrestrial and Mars balloons, as well there are versions of the model that perform crude material design based on strength and weight requirements. To perform trade studies, the Visual Basic language built into Excel was used to create an automated matrix of designs. This trade study module allows a three dimensional trade surface to be generated by using a series of values for any two design variables. Once the fixed and variable inputs are defined, the model automatically steps through the input matrix and fills a spreadsheet with the resulting point designs. The proposed paper will describe the model in detail, including current variations. The assumptions, governing equations, and capabilities will be addressed. Detailed examples of the model in practice will also be used.

Computer display and manipulation of biological molecules

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Coeckelenbergh, Y.; Macelroy, R. D.; Hart, J.; Rein, R.

1978-01-01

This paper describes a computer model that was designed to investigate the conformation of molecules, macromolecules and subsequent complexes. Utilizing an advanced 3-D dynamic computer display system, the model is sufficiently versatile to accommodate a large variety of molecular input and to generate data for multiple purposes such as visual representation of conformational changes, and calculation of conformation and interaction energy. Molecules can be built on the basis of several levels of information. These include the specification of atomic coordinates and connectivities and the grouping of building blocks and duplicated substructures using symmetry rules found in crystals and polymers such as proteins and nucleic acids. Called AIMS (Ames Interactive Molecular modeling System), the model is now being used to study pre-biotic molecular evolution toward life.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: PAndAS view of Andromeda satellites. II. (Martin+, 2016)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martin, N. F.; Ibata, R. A.; Lewis, G. F.; McConnachie, A.; Babul, A.; Bate, N. F.; Bernard, E.; Chapman, S. C.; Collins, M. M. L.; Conn, A. R.; Crnojevic, D.; Fardal, M. A.; Ferguson, A. M. N.; Irwin, M.; Mackey, A. D.; McMonigal, B.; Navarro, J. F.; Rich, R. M.

2017-04-01

The specifics of the design, acquisition, reduction, and calibration of the Pan-Andromeda Archaeological Survey (PAndAS) survey have been explained in detail in previous contributions from our collaboration (e.g., Ibata+ 2014ApJ...780..128I). This Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope (CFHT) Large Program was built on two previous CFHT surveys led by R. Ibata and A. McConnachie (Ibata+ 2007ApJ...671.1591I; McConnachie+ 2008ApJ...688.1009M), which were further complemented by ~230hr of observation with the same wide-field imager, MegaCam, in order to cover a contiguous region of ~390deg2 within ~150kpc of M31 and ~50kpc of its companion M33. (3 data files).

Quantification of uncertainties in the performance of smart composite structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shiao, Michael C.; Chamis, Christos C.

1993-01-01

A composite wing with spars, bulkheads, and built-in control devices is evaluated using a method for the probabilistic assessment of smart composite structures. Structural responses (such as change in angle of attack, vertical displacements, and stresses in regular plies with traditional materials and in control plies with mixed traditional and actuation materials) are probabilistically assessed to quantify their respective scatter. Probabilistic sensitivity factors are computed to identify those parameters that have a significant influence on a specific structural response. Results show that the uncertainties in the responses of smart composite structures can be quantified. Responses such as structural deformation, ply stresses, frequencies, and buckling loads in the presence of defects can be reliably controlled to satisfy specified design requirements.

Universal design characteristic on themed streets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harsritanto, Bangun IR; Indriastjario; Wijayanti

2017-12-01

People around the world can access the streets to fulfil their daily activities regardless of their gender, age, and abilities. The streetscape is an urban public space which is built to facilitate the basic needs of people as social being. The themed street is an urban streetscape designed and built in detail with a theme or special purpose in an of urban development process. Universal design facilitates the full range of human diversity as physical appearance, perception, cognitive abilities, sizes, and shapes. By designing for the diversity, the specialized streets become more functional and user-friendly. The purpose of this study is to examine several design characteristics of themed streets in several countries from three different continents using universal design principles for giving proper directions to develop more user-friendly streets. Literature review and case study were used as research methods. The literature review was extracted and compiled from manuscripts, streetscape design books, and from universal design principles. Furthermore, the constructed theory were used to examine the case studies of themed streets. The findings indicated that themed streets’ character design were strongly influenced by local cultural aspect even though the basic guidelines were universal design principles; the resumed design direction can be suggested universal along with the richness of local aspects.

Study of aerodynamic technology for single-cruise-engine VSTOL fighter/attack aircraft, phase 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Foley, W. H.; Sheridan, A. E.; Smith, C. W.

1982-01-01

A conceptual design and analysis on a single engine VSTOL fighter/attack aircraft is completed. The aircraft combines a NASA/deHavilland ejector with vectored thrust and is capable of accomplishing the mission and point performance of type Specification 169, and a flight demonstrator could be built with an existing F101/DFE engine. The aerodynamic, aero/propulsive, and propulsive uncertainties are identified, and a wind tunnel program is proposed to address those uncertainties associated with wing borne flight.

Cryogenic Propellant Storage and Transfer Engineering Development Unit Hydrogen Tank

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Werkheiser, Arthur

2015-01-01

The Cryogenic Propellant Storage and Transfer (CPST) project has been a long-running program in the Space Technology Mission Directorate to enhance the knowledge and technology related to handling cryogenic propellants, specifically liquid hydrogen. This particular effort, the CPST engineering development unit (EDU), was a proof of manufacturability effort in support of a flight article. The EDU was built to find and overcome issues related to manufacturability and collect data to anchor the thermal models for use on the flight design.

Marine Animal Alert System -- Task 2.1.5.3: Development of Monitoring Technologies -- FY 2011 Progress Report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Carlson, Thomas J.; Deng, Zhiqun; Myers, Joshua R.

2011-09-30

The Marine Animal Alert System (MAAS) in development by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory is focused on providing elements of compliance monitoring to support deployment of marine hydrokinetic energy devices. An initial focus is prototype tidal turbines to be deployed in Puget Sound in Washington State. The MAAS will help manage the risk of injury or mortality to marine animals from blade strike or contact with tidal turbines. In particular, development has focused on detection, classification, and localization of listed Southern Resident killer whales within 200 m of prototype turbines using both active and passive acoustic approaches. At the closemore » of FY 2011, a passive acoustic system consisting of a pair of four-element star arrays and parallel processing of eight channels of acoustic receptions has been designed and built. Field tests of the prototype system are scheduled for the fourth quarter of calendar year 2011. Field deployment and testing of the passive acoustic prototype is scheduled for the first quarter of FY 2012. The design of an active acoustic system that could be built using commercially available off-the-shelf components from active acoustic system vendors is also in the final stages of design and specification.« less

Design, assembly, and metrology of an oil-immersion microscope objective with long working distance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Wei-Jei; Lin, Wen-Lung; Kuo, Hui-Jean; Ho, Cheng-Fang; Hsu, Wei-Yao

2016-10-01

The design, tolerance sensitivity reduction, assembly, and optical bench test for an oil-immersion microscope objective with long working distance employed in a lattice light-sheet microscope is presented in this paper. In this application, the orthogonal excitation and detection objectives are dipped in an oil medium. The excitation objective focuses the incident laser beam to generate fluorescence on specimen for collecting by detection objective. The excitation objective is custom-designed to meet the requirement specification such as oil-immersion, the long working distance, and numerical aperture (NA) of 0.5, etc. To produce an acceptable point spread function (PSF) for effective excitation, the performance of the objective needs to be close to diffraction limit. Because the tolerance of the modulation transfer function (MTF) is more and more sensitive at higher spatial frequency, it is extremely critical to keep the performance after manufacture. Consequently, an insensitive optical design is very important for relaxing tolerance. We compare the design with and without tolerance sensitivity reduction, and the as-built MTF shows the result. Furthermore, the method for sensitivity reduction is presented. The opto-mechanical design and assembly method are also discussed. Eventually, the objective with five spherical lenses was fabricated. In optical bench test, the depth of the oil is sensitive to MTF, and it leads to the complicated adjustment. For solving this issue, we made an index-matching lens to replace oil for measurement easily. Finally, the measured MTF of the excitation objective can accomplish the requirement specification and successfully employed in a lattice light-sheet microscope.

Refuge alternatives relief valve testing and design with updated test stand.

PubMed

Lutz, T J; Bissert, P T; Homce, G T; Yonkey, J A

2018-03-01

Underground refuge alternatives require an air source to supply breathable air to the occupants. This requires pressure relief valves to prevent unsafe pressures from building up within the refuge alternative. The U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) mandates that pressure relief valves prevent pressure from exceeding 1.25 kPa (0.18 psi), or as specified by the manufacturer, above mine atmospheric pressure when a fan or compressor is used for the air supply. The U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) tested a variety of pressure relief valves using an instrumented test fixture consisting of data acquisition equipment, a centrifugal blower, ductwork and various sensors to determine if the subject pressure relief valves meet the MSHA requirement. Relief pressures and flow characteristics, including opening pressure and flow rate, were measured for five different pressure relief valves under a variety of conditions. The subject pressure relief valves included two off-the-shelf modified check valves, two check valves used in MSHA-approved built-in-place refuge alternatives, and a commercially available valve that was designed for a steel refuge alternative and is currently being used in some built-in-place refuge alternatives. The test results showed relief pressures ranging from 0.20 to 1.53 kPa (0.03 to 0.22 psi) and flow rates up to 19.3 m 3 /min (683 scfm). As tested, some of the pressure relief valves did not meet the 1.25 kPa (0.18 psi) relief specification.

Design and construction of a photobioreactor for hydrogen production, including status in the field.

PubMed

Skjånes, Kari; Andersen, Uno; Heidorn, Thorsten; Borgvang, Stig A

Several species of microalgae and phototrophic bacteria are able to produce hydrogen under certain conditions. A range of different photobioreactor systems have been used by different research groups for lab-scale hydrogen production experiments, and some few attempts have been made to upscale the hydrogen production process. Even though a photobioreactor system for hydrogen production does require special construction properties (e.g., hydrogen tight, mixing by other means than bubbling with air), only very few attempts have been made to design photobioreactors specifically for the purpose of hydrogen production. We have constructed a flat panel photobioreactor system that can be used in two modes: either for the cultivation of phototrophic microorganisms (upright and bubbling) or for the production of hydrogen or other anaerobic products (mixing by "rocking motion"). Special emphasis has been taken to avoid any hydrogen leakages, both by means of constructional and material choices. The flat plate photobioreactor system is controlled by a custom-built control system that can log and control temperature, pH, and optical density and additionally log the amount of produced gas and dissolved oxygen concentration. This paper summarizes the status in the field of photobioreactors for hydrogen production and describes in detail the design and construction of a purpose-built flat panel photobioreactor system, optimized for hydrogen production in terms of structural functionality, durability, performance, and selection of materials. The motivations for the choices made during the design process and advantages/disadvantages of previous designs are discussed.

49 CFR 195.307 - Pressure testing aboveground breakout tanks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... aboveground breakout tanks. (a) For aboveground breakout tanks built into API Specification 12F and first placed in service after October 2, 2000, pneumatic testing must be in accordance with section 5.3 of API Specification 12 F (incorporated by reference, see § 195.3). (b) For aboveground breakout tanks built to API...

49 CFR 195.307 - Pressure testing aboveground breakout tanks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... aboveground breakout tanks. (a) For aboveground breakout tanks built into API Specification 12F and first placed in service after October 2, 2000, pneumatic testing must be in accordance with section 5.3 of API Specification 12 F (incorporated by reference, see § 195.3). (b) For aboveground breakout tanks built to API...

49 CFR 195.307 - Pressure testing aboveground breakout tanks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... aboveground breakout tanks. (a) For aboveground breakout tanks built into API Specification 12F and first placed in service after October 2, 2000, pneumatic testing must be in accordance with section 5.3 of API Specification 12 F (incorporated by reference, see § 195.3). (b) For aboveground breakout tanks built to API...

49 CFR 195.307 - Pressure testing aboveground breakout tanks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... aboveground breakout tanks. (a) For aboveground breakout tanks built into API Specification 12F and first placed in service after October 2, 2000, pneumatic testing must be in accordance with section 5.3 of API Specification 12 F (incorporated by reference, see § 195.3). (b) For aboveground breakout tanks built to API...

Low cost and compact quantum key distribution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duligall, J. L.; Godfrey, M. S.; Harrison, K. A.; Munro, W. J.; Rarity, J. G.

2006-10-01

We present the design of a novel free-space quantum cryptography system, complete with purpose-built software, that can operate in daylight conditions. The transmitter and receiver modules are built using inexpensive off-the-shelf components. Both modules are compact allowing the generation of renewed shared secrets on demand over a short range of a few metres. An analysis of the software is shown as well as results of error rates and therefore shared secret yields at varying background light levels. As the system is designed to eventually work in short-range consumer applications, we also present a use scenario where the consumer can regularly 'top up' a store of secrets for use in a variety of one-time-pad (OTP) and authentication protocols.

Built Environment Education in Art Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Guilfoil, Joanne K., Ed.; Sandler, Alan R., Ed.

This anthology brings the study of the built environment, its design, social and cultural functions, and the criticism thereof into focus. Following a preface and introduction, 22 essays are organized in three parts. Part 1 includes: (1) "Landscape Art and the Role of the Natural Environment in Built Environment Education" (Heather…

Announcement: Community Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation for Built Environment Interventions to Increase Physical Activity.

PubMed

2017-05-05

The Community Preventive Services Task Force recently posted new information on its website: "Physical Activity: Built Environment Approaches Combining Transportation System Interventions with Land Use and Environmental Design." This information is available at https://www.thecommunityguide.org/findings/physical-activity-built-environment-approaches.

Research on non-direct reflection columnar microstructure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, B. Q.; Wang, X. Z.; Dong, L. H.

2015-10-01

To minimize the risk of laser accidents, especially those involving eye and skin injuries, it is crucial to pay more attention to laser safety. To control the risk of injury, depending on the laser power and wavelength, a number of required safety measures have been put forward, such as specific protection walls, and wearing safety goggles when operating lasers. The direct reflection columnar microstructure can also be used for laser safety. Based on mathematical foundations , a columnar microstructure is designed by the optical design software LightTools. Simulation showed that there is a tilt angle between the emergent and incident light, the incident light being perpendicular to the microstructure, as well as the phenomenon of no direct reflection happened. A novel testing platform was built for the columnar microstructure after it was machined. The applied testing method can measure the angle between the emergent and incident light. The method lays the condition for the further research. It is shown that the columnar microstructure with no direct reflection can be utilized in laser protection systems.

Hand-Held UXO Discriminator

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-04-01

structure design showed that we could achieve both of these goals with a 14-in (0.35 m) sensor cube. To avoid the reliance on accurate multiple...differenced pair receiver. 4. Conclusions We have designed and built a sensor package of a 14-in (0.35 m) cube based on the...funding (UX-1225, MM-0437, and MM-0838), we have successfully designed and built a cart-mounted Berkeley UXO Discriminator (BUD) and demonstrated its

Internal filament modulation in low-dielectric gap design for built-in selector-less resistive switching memory application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Ying-Chen; Lin, Chih-Yang; Huang, Hui-Chun; Kim, Sungjun; Fowler, Burt; Chang, Yao-Feng; Wu, Xiaohan; Xu, Gaobo; Chang, Ting-Chang; Lee, Jack C.

2018-02-01

Sneak path current is a severe hindrance for the application of high-density resistive random-access memory (RRAM) array designs. In this work, we demonstrate nonlinear (NL) resistive switching characteristics of a HfO x /SiO x -based stacking structure as a realization for selector-less RRAM devices. The NL characteristic was obtained and designed by optimizing the internal filament location with a low effective dielectric constant in the HfO x /SiO x structure. The stacking HfO x /SiO x -based RRAM device as the one-resistor-only memory cell is applicable without needing an additional selector device to solve the sneak path issue with a switching voltage of ~1 V, which is desirable for low-power operating in built-in nonlinearity crossbar array configurations.

Processing techniques for digital sonar images from GLORIA.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Chavez, P.S.

1986-01-01

Image processing techniques have been developed to handle data from one of the newest members of the remote sensing family of digital imaging systems. This paper discusses software to process data collected by the GLORIA (Geological Long Range Inclined Asdic) sonar imaging system, designed and built by the Institute of Oceanographic Sciences (IOS) in England, to correct for both geometric and radiometric distortions that exist in the original 'raw' data. Preprocessing algorithms that are GLORIA-specific include corrections for slant-range geometry, water column offset, aspect ratio distortion, changes in the ship's velocity, speckle noise, and shading problems caused by the power drop-off which occurs as a function of range.-from Author

Authentic teaching and learning through synthetic biology

PubMed Central

Kuldell, Natalie

2007-01-01

Synthetic biology is an emerging engineering discipline that, if successful, will allow well-characterized biological components to be predictably and reliably built into robust organisms that achieve specific functions. Fledgling efforts to design and implement a synthetic biology curriculum for undergraduate students have shown that the co-development of this emerging discipline and its future practitioners does not undermine learning. Rather it can serve as the lynchpin of a synthetic biology curriculum. Here I describe educational goals uniquely served by synthetic biology teaching, detail ongoing curricula development efforts at MIT, and specify particular aspects of the emerging field that must develop rapidly in order to best train the next generation of synthetic biologists. PMID:18271945

Geotechnical behavior of the MSW in Tianziling landfill.

PubMed

Zhu, Xiang-Rong; Jin, Jian-Min; Fang, Peng-Fei

2003-01-01

The valley shaped Tianziling landfill of Hangzhou in China built in 1991 to dispose of municipal solid waste (MSW) was designed for a service life of 13 years. The problem of waste landfill slope stability and expansion must be considered from the geotechnical engineering point of view, for which purpose, it is necessary to understand the geotechnical properties of the MSW in the landfill, some of whose physical properties were measured by common geotechnical tests, such as those on unit weight, water content, organic matter content, specific gravity, coefficient of permeability, compressibility, etc. The mechanical properties were studied by direct shear test, triaxial compression test, and static and dynamic penetration tests. Some strength parameters for engineering analysis were obtained.

Efficient composite broadband polarization retarders and polarization filters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dimova, E.; Ivanov, S. S.; Popkirov, G.; Vitanov, N. V.

2014-12-01

A new type of broadband polarization half-wave retarder and narrowband polarization filters are described and experimentally tested. Both, the retarders and the filters are designed as composite stacks of standard optical half-wave plates, each of them twisted at specific angles. The theoretical background of the proposed optical devices was obtained by analogy with the method of composite pulses, known from the nuclear and quantum physics. We show that combining two composite filters built from different numbers and types of waveplates, the transmission spectrum is reduced from about 700 nm to about 10 nm width.We experimentally demonstrate that this method can be applied to different types of waveplates (broadband, zero-order, multiple order, etc.).

Validation Experiments for Spent-Fuel Dry-Cask In-Basket Convection

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Smith, Barton L.

2016-08-16

This work consisted of the following major efforts; 1. Literature survey on validation of external natural convection; 2. Design the experiment; 3. Build the experiment; 4. Run the experiment; 5. Collect results; 6. Disseminate results; and 7. Perform a CFD validation study using the results. We note that while all tasks are complete, some deviations from the original plan were made. Specifically, geometrical changes in the parameter space were skipped in favor of flow condition changes, which were found to be much more practical to implement. Changing the geometry required new as-built measurements, which proved extremely costly and impractical givenmore » the time and funds available« less

ARIES: Acquisition of Requirements and Incremental Evolution of Specifications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roberts, Nancy A.

1993-01-01

This paper describes a requirements/specification environment specifically designed for large-scale software systems. This environment is called ARIES (Acquisition of Requirements and Incremental Evolution of Specifications). ARIES provides assistance to requirements analysts for developing operational specifications of systems. This development begins with the acquisition of informal system requirements. The requirements are then formalized and gradually elaborated (transformed) into formal and complete specifications. ARIES provides guidance to the user in validating formal requirements by translating them into natural language representations and graphical diagrams. ARIES also provides ways of analyzing the specification to ensure that it is correct, e.g., testing the specification against a running simulation of the system to be built. Another important ARIES feature, especially when developing large systems, is the sharing and reuse of requirements knowledge. This leads to much less duplication of effort. ARIES combines all of its features in a single environment that makes the process of capturing a formal specification quicker and easier.

A fuel cell balance of plant test facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dicks, A. L.; Martin, P. A.

Much attention is focused in the fuel cell community on the development of reliable stack technology, but to successfully exploit fuel cells, they must form part of integrated power generation systems. No universal test facilities exist to evaluate SOFC stacks and comparatively little research has been undertaken concerning the issues of the rest of the system, or balance of plant (BOP). BG, in collaboration with Eniricerche, has therefore recently designed and built a test facility to evaluate different configurations of the BOP equipment for a 1-5 kWe solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) stack. Within this BOP project, integrated, dynamic models have been developed. These have shown that three characteristic response times exist when the stack load is changed and that three independent control loops are required to manage the almost instantaneous change in power output from an SOFC stack, maintain the fuel utilisation and control the stack temperature. Control strategies and plant simplifications, arising from the dynamic modelling, have also been implemented in the BOP test facility. An SOFC simulator was designed and integrated into the control system of the test rig to behave as a real SOFC stack, allowing the development of control strategies without the need for a real stack. A novel combustor has been specifically designed, built and demonstrated to be capable of burning the low calorific anode exhaust gas from an SOFC using the oxygen depleted cathode stream. High temperature, low cost, shell and tube heat exchangers have been shown to be suitable for SOFC systems. Sealing of high temperature anode recirculation fans has, however, been shown to be a major issue and identified as a key area for further investigation.

Design, Fabrication and Testing of an Axisymmetric, Annular, Subsonic Diffuser and Associated Instrumentation Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-12-01

this investigation are threefold. First, an annular diffuser is to be designed and built to model the annulardiffuser arranged between the compressor ...on these calculations. The final design of the diffuser model (Figs 7, 8, 12 1and 9) was 20 in in diameter at the inlet. The axial annular sections...traversing mechanism was designed and built (Fig 18). It was constructed so that all peripheral data stations at one axial point could be used either

40 CFR 90.1103 - Emission warranty, warranty period.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... purchaser and each subsequent purchaser that the engine is designed, built and equipped so as to conform at... the owner's choosing, such items as spark plugs, points, condensers, and any other part, item, or device related to emission control (but not designed for emission control) under the terms of the last...

Instructional Design Using an In-House Built Teaching Assistant Robot to Enhance Elementary School English-as-a-Foreign-Language Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wu, Wen-Chi Vivian; Wang, Rong-Jyue; Chen, Nian-Shing

2015-01-01

This paper presents a design for a cutting-edge English program in which elementary school learners of English as a foreign language in Taiwan had lively interactions with a teaching assistant robot. Three dimensions involved in the design included (1) a pleasant and interactive classroom environment as the learning context, (2) a teaching…

Authentic Performance in the Instrumental Analysis Laboratory: Building a Visible Spectrophotometer Prototype

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wilson, Mark V.; Wilson, Erin

2017-01-01

In this work we describe an authentic performance project for Instrumental Analysis in which students designed, built, and tested spectrophotometers made from simple components. The project addressed basic course content such as instrument design principles, UV-vis spectroscopy, and spectroscopic instrument components as well as skills such as…

TRMM Solar Array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1996-01-01

Basic requirement of 978.59 watts per Panel output @ 58.9 volts B.O.L. was met on an average basis per agreement with NASA. Lower grade Cells were used on the shadowed Panel (Boom shadow) to maximize available power to the Spacecraft. The average output @ 58.9 volts was 991 watts. The outputs of the four t4) Panels ranged from 960 to 1,022 watts. The Panels successfully passed environmental testing at TRW to the contract specification and subsequent testing at NASA which involved output measurements at elevated temperatures. As this type of Array had never previously been built by TRW (aluminum Substrate with 4 cm x 4.4 cm GaAs Cells), the TRMM Program was a development effort combined with a Qual and Flight production effort. The most significant technical problem was Cell cracking during Qual thermal cycling. The cracking problem was determined to be generic within our Solar Array factory in the application of GaAs Cells to our designs. As a result, a TRW funded manufacturing process verification panel (known as the Manufacturing Verification Panel) was built to demonstrate our ability to properly apply GaAs Cells. The original Qual Panel comprised three (3) design variations with respect to Coverglass-to-Cell and Cell-to-Substrate adhesives. The intent was to qualify multiple designs in case one or more failed. When two of the three combinations failed due to excessive Cell breakage during thermal cycling, NASA was reluctant to allow Flight production based on the one remaining good Qual Panel Quadrant. This issue was pivotal for continuing the contract. Facts and recommendations are as follows: (1) The cause of the excessive cracking was never determined. and (2) The areas where the excessive cracking occurred utilized DC93-500 glassing adhesive which was NASA approved, and had been widely used by TRW on a multitude of projects.

Solazyme Integrated Biorefinery (SzIBR): Diesel Fuels from Heterotrophic Algae

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Brinkmann, David

2014-12-23

Under Department of Energy Award Number DE-EE0002877 (the “DOE Award”), Solazyme, Inc. (“Solazyme”) has built a demonstration scale “Solazyme Integrated Biorefinery (SzlBR).” The SzIBR was built to provide integrated scale-up of Solazyme’s novel heterotrophic algal oil biomanufacturing process, validate the projected commercial-scale economics of producing multiple algal oils, and to enable Solazyme to collect the data necessary to complete the design of its first commercial-scale facility. Solazyme’s technology enables it to convert a range of low-cost plant-based sugars into high-value oils. Solazyme’s renewable products replace or enhance oils derived from the world’s three existing sources—petroleum, plants, and animal fats. Solazymemore » tailors the composition of its oils to address specific customer requirements, offering superior performance characteristics and value. This report summarizes history and the results of the project.« less

Standards for Environmental Measurement Using GIS: Toward a Protocol for Protocols.

PubMed

Forsyth, Ann; Schmitz, Kathryn H; Oakes, Michael; Zimmerman, Jason; Koepp, Joel

2006-02-01

Interdisciplinary research regarding how the built environment influences physical activity has recently increased. Many research projects conducted jointly by public health and environmental design professionals are using geographic information systems (GIS) to objectively measure the built environment. Numerous methodological issues remain, however, and environmental measurements have not been well documented with accepted, common definitions of valid, reliable variables. This paper proposes how to create and document standardized definitions for measures of environmental variables using GIS with the ultimate goal of developing reliable, valid measures. Inherent problems with software and data that hamper environmental measurement can be offset by protocols combining clear conceptual bases with detailed measurement instructions. Examples demonstrate how protocols can more clearly translate concepts into specific measurement. This paper provides a model for developing protocols to allow high quality comparative research on relationships between the environment and physical activity and other outcomes of public health interest.

Air pollution abatement performances of green infrastructure in open road and built-up street canyon environments - A review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abhijith, K. V.; Kumar, Prashant; Gallagher, John; McNabola, Aonghus; Baldauf, Richard; Pilla, Francesco; Broderick, Brian; Di Sabatino, Silvana; Pulvirenti, Beatrice

2017-08-01

Intensifying the proportion of urban green infrastructure has been considered as one of the remedies for air pollution levels in cities, yet the impact of numerous vegetation types deployed in different built environments has to be fully synthesised and quantified. This review examined published literature on neighbourhood air quality modifications by green interventions. Studies were evaluated that discussed personal exposure to local sources of air pollution under the presence of vegetation in open road and built-up street canyon environments. Further, we critically evaluated the available literature to provide a better understanding of the interactions between vegetation and surrounding built-up environments and ascertain means of reducing local air pollution exposure using green infrastructure. The net effects of vegetation in each built-up environment are also summarised and possible recommendations for the future design of green infrastructure are proposed. In a street canyon environment, high-level vegetation canopies (trees) led to a deterioration in air quality, while low-level green infrastructure (hedges) improved air quality conditions. For open road conditions, wide, low porosity and tall vegetation leads to downwind pollutant reductions while gaps and high porosity vegetation could lead to no improvement or even deteriorated air quality. The review considers that generic recommendations can be provided for vegetation barriers in open road conditions. Green walls and roofs on building envelopes can also be used as effective air pollution abatement measures. The critical evaluation of the fundamental concepts and the amalgamation of key technical features of past studies by this review could assist urban planners to design and implement green infrastructures in the built environment.

Design and Manufacturing of Extremely Low Mass Flight Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Michael R.

2002-01-01

Extremely small flight systems pose some unusual design and manufacturing challenges. The small size of the components that make up the system generally must be built with extremely tight tolerances to maintain the functionality of the assembled item. Additionally, the total mass of the system is extremely sensitive to what would be considered small perturbations in a larger flight system. The MUSES C mission, designed, built, and operated by Japan, has a small rover provided by NASA that falls into this small flight system category. This NASA-provided rover is used as a case study of an extremely small flight system design. The issues that were encountered with the rover portion of the MUSES C program are discussed and conclusions about the recommended mass margins at different stages of a small flight system project are presented.

Validation and evaluation of common large-area display set (CLADS) performance specification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hermann, David J.; Gorenflo, Ronald L.

1998-09-01

Battelle is under contract with Warner Robins Air Logistics Center to design a Common Large Area Display Set (CLADS) for use in multiple Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) applications that currently use 19- inch Cathode Ray Tubes (CRTs). Battelle engineers have built and fully tested pre-production prototypes of the CLADS design for AWACS, and are completing pre-production prototype displays for three other platforms simultaneously. With the CLADS design, any display technology that can be packaged to meet the form, fit, and function requirements defined by the Common Large Area Display Head Assembly (CLADHA) performance specification is a candidate for CLADS applications. This technology independent feature reduced the risk of CLADS development, permits life long technology insertion upgrades without unnecessary redesign, and addresses many of the obsolescence problems associated with COTS technology-based acquisition. Performance and environmental testing were performed on the AWACS CLADS and continues on other platforms as a part of the performance specification validation process. A simulator assessment and flight assessment were successfully completed for the AWACS CLADS, and lessons learned from these assessments are being incorporated into the performance specifications. Draft CLADS specifications were released to potential display integrators and manufacturers for review in 1997, and the final version of the performance specifications are scheduled to be released to display integrators and manufacturers in May, 1998. Initial USAF applications include replacements for the E-3 AWACS color monitor assembly, E-8 Joint STARS graphics display unit, and ABCCC airborne color display. Initial U.S. Navy applications include the E-2C ACIS display. For these applications, reliability and maintainability are key objectives. The common design will reduce the cost of operation and maintenance by an estimated 3.3M per year on E-3 AWACS alone. It is realistic to anticipate savings of over 30M per year as CLADS is implemented widely across DoD applications. As commonality and open systems interfaces begin to surface in DoD applications, the CLADS architecture can easily and cost effectively absorb the changes, and avoid COTS obsolescence issues.

From Universal Laws of Cognition to Specific Cognitive Models

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chater, Nick; Brown, Gordon D. A.

2008-01-01

The remarkable successes of the physical sciences have been built on highly general quantitative laws, which serve as the basis for understanding an enormous variety of specific physical systems. How far is it possible to construct universal principles in the cognitive sciences, in terms of which specific aspects of perception, memory, or decision…

Shape design sensitivity analysis using domain information

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Seong, Hwal-Gyeong; Choi, Kyung K.

1985-01-01

A numerical method for obtaining accurate shape design sensitivity information for built-up structures is developed and demonstrated through analysis of examples. The basic character of the finite element method, which gives more accurate domain information than boundary information, is utilized for shape design sensitivity improvement. A domain approach for shape design sensitivity analysis of built-up structures is derived using the material derivative idea of structural mechanics and the adjoint variable method of design sensitivity analysis. Velocity elements and B-spline curves are introduced to alleviate difficulties in generating domain velocity fields. The regularity requirements of the design velocity field are studied.

Development of the optimal radiochromic film dosimetry system for measurement of IMRT radiation beams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baker, Jameson Todd

The complex dose patterns that result in Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy make the typical QA of a second calculation insufficient for ensuring safe treatment of patients. Many facilities choose to deliver the treatment to film inserted in a phantom and calculate the dose delivered as an additional check of the treatment plan. Radiochromic films allow for measurements without the use of a processor in the current digital age. International Specialty Products developed Gafchromic EBT film, which is a radiochromic film having a useful range of 1 -- 800 cGy. EBT film properties are fully analyzed including studies of uniformity, spectral absorption, exposure sensitivity, energy dependence and post exposure density growth. Dosimetric performance on commercially available digitizers is studied with specific attention on the shortcomings. Finally, a custom designed scanner is built specifically for EBT film and its unique properties. Performance of the EBT digitizer is analyzed and compared against currently available scanners.

Engineering and algorithm design for an image processing Api: a technical report on ITK--the Insight Toolkit.

PubMed

Yoo, Terry S; Ackerman, Michael J; Lorensen, William E; Schroeder, Will; Chalana, Vikram; Aylward, Stephen; Metaxas, Dimitris; Whitaker, Ross

2002-01-01

We present the detailed planning and execution of the Insight Toolkit (ITK), an application programmers interface (API) for the segmentation and registration of medical image data. This public resource has been developed through the NLM Visible Human Project, and is in beta test as an open-source software offering under cost-free licensing. The toolkit concentrates on 3D medical data segmentation and registration algorithms, multimodal and multiresolution capabilities, and portable platform independent support for Windows, Linux/Unix systems. This toolkit was built using current practices in software engineering. Specifically, we embraced the concept of generic programming during the development of these tools, working extensively with C++ templates and the freedom and flexibility they allow. Software development tools for distributed consortium-based code development have been created and are also publicly available. We discuss our assumptions, design decisions, and some lessons learned.

Simulation of Nitrogen and Phosphorus Removal in Ecological Ditch Based on EFDC Model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, S. M.; Wang, X. L.; Zhou, Q. Y.; Han, N. N.

2018-03-01

Agricultural non-point source pollution threatens water quality and ecological system recently. To control it, the first and most important task is to control the migration and transformation of nitrogen and phosphorus in the agricultural ditches. An ecological ditch was designed, and according to the design a pilot device was built, the mechanism of N and P removal in ditches under the collaboration of aquatic organisms-hydraulic power was studied through the dynamic and static experiments, in order to find out the specific influences of different environmental factors such as influent concentration, influent flow and water level. The transport and diffusion of N and P in the ditch was simulated by a three dimensional water quality model EFDC, the simulation results and the experimental data were compared. The average relative errors of EFDC model simulated results were all less than 15%, which verified the reliability of the model.

Atomic physics research with second and third generation synchrotron light sources

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Johnson, B.M.

1990-10-01

This contribution to these proceedings is intended to provide an introduction and overview for other contributions on atomic (and related) physics research at existing and planned synchrotron light sources. The emphasis will be on research accomplishments and future opportunities, but a comparison will be given of operating characteristics for first, second, and third generation machines. First generation light sources were built to do research with the primary electron and positron beams, rather than with the synchrotron radiation itself. Second generation machines were specifically designed to be dedicated synchrotron-radiation facilities, with an emphasis on the use of bending-magnet radiation. The newmore » third generation light sources are being designed to optimize radiation from insertion devices, such as undulators and wigglers. Each generation of synchrotron light source offers useful capabilities for forefront research in atomic physics and many other disciplines. 27 refs., 1 fig., 3 tabs.« less

Requirements analysis and preliminary design of a robotic assistant for reconstructive microsurgery.

PubMed

Vanthournhout, L; Herman, B; Duisit, J; Château, F; Szewczyk, J; Lengelé, B; Raucent, B

2015-08-01

Microanastomosis is a microsurgical gesture that involves suturing two very small blood vessels together. This gesture is used in many operations such as avulsed member auto-grafting, pediatric surgery, reconstructive surgery - including breast reconstruction by free flap. When vessels have diameters smaller than one millimeter, hand tremors make movements difficult to control. This paper introduces our preliminary steps towards robotic assistance for helping surgeons to perform microanastomosis in optimal conditions, in order to increase gesture quality and reliability even on smaller diameters. A general needs assessment and an experimental motion analysis were performed to define the requirements of the robot. Geometric parameters of the kinematic structure were then optimized to fulfill specific objectives. A prototype of the robot is currently being designed and built in order to providing a sufficient increase in accuracy without prolonging the duration of the procedure.

FSW of Aluminum Tailor Welded Blanks across Machine Platforms

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hovanski, Yuri; Upadhyay, Piyush; Carlson, Blair

2015-02-16

Development and characterization of friction stir welded aluminum tailor welded blanks was successfully carried out on three separate machine platforms. Each was a commercially available, gantry style, multi-axis machine designed specifically for friction stir welding. Weld parameters were developed to support high volume production of dissimilar thickness aluminum tailor welded blanks at speeds of 3 m/min and greater. Parameters originally developed on an ultra-high stiffness servo driven machine where first transferred to a high stiffness servo-hydraulic friction stir welding machine, and subsequently transferred to a purpose built machine designed to accommodate thin sheet aluminum welding. The inherent beam stiffness, bearingmore » compliance, and control system for each machine were distinctly unique, which posed specific challenges in transferring welding parameters across machine platforms. This work documents the challenges imposed by successfully transferring weld parameters from machine to machine, produced from different manufacturers and with unique control systems and interfaces.« less

The anatomy of the safe and social suburb: an exploratory study of the built environment, social capital and residents' perceptions of safety.

PubMed

Wood, Lisa; Shannon, Tya; Bulsara, Max; Pikora, Terri; McCormack, Gavin; Giles-Corti, Billie

2008-03-01

This study explored the relationship between social capital and aspects of the built environment, focusing in particular on the walkability of suburbs as determined by street network design and the mix of land uses. We measured social capital and feelings of personal safety in 335 residents of three suburbs in metropolitan Perth, WA, and collected objective and perceived data on the built environment. After adjustment for demographic factors, the built environment was found to have a significant but small effect on social capital and feelings of safety, particularly in relation to the number and perceived adequacy of destinations. A high level of neighbourhood upkeep was associated with both higher social capital and feelings of safety.

Working with Policy and Regulatory Factors to Implement Universal Design in the Built Environment: The Australian Experience

PubMed Central

Larkin, Helen; Hitch, Danielle; Watchorn, Valerie; Ang, Susan

2015-01-01

Built environments that are usable by all provide opportunities for engagement in meaningful occupations. However, enabling them in day to day design processes and practice is problematic for relevant professions. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to gain greater understanding of the policy and regulatory influences that promote or hinder the uptake of universal design in built environments, to inform better future design. Focus groups or telephone interviews were undertaken with 28 key building industry and disability stakeholders in Australia. Four themes were identified: the difficulties of definition; the push or pull of regulations and policy; the role of formal standards; and, shifting the focus of design thinking. The findings highlight the complexity of working within policy and regulatory contexts when implementing universal design. Occupational therapists working with colleagues from other professions must be aware of these influences, and develop the skills to work with them for successful practice. PMID:26184278

Implementation of a patient-facing genomic test report in the electronic health record using a web-application interface.

PubMed

Williams, Marc S; Kern, Melissa S; Lerch, Virginia R; Billet, Jonathan; Williams, Janet L; Moore, Gregory J

2018-05-30

Genomic medicine is emerging into clinical care. Communication of genetic laboratory results to patients and providers is hampered by the complex technical nature of the laboratory reports. This can lead to confusion and misinterpretation of the results resulting in inappropriate care. Patients usually do not receive a copy of the report leading to further opportunities for miscommunication. To address these problems, interpretive reports were created using input from the intended end users, patients and providers. This paper describes the technical development and deployment of the first patient-facing genomic test report (PGR) within an electronic health record (EHR) ecosystem using a locally developed standards-based web-application interface. A patient-facing genomic test report with a companion provider report was configured for implementation within the EHR using a locally developed software platform, COMPASS™. COMPASS™ is designed to manage secure data exchange, as well as patient and provider access to patient reported data capture and clinical display tools. COMPASS™ is built using a Software as a Service (SaaS) approach which exposes an API that apps can interact with. An authoring tool was developed that allowed creation of patient-specific PGRs and the accompanying provider reports. These were converted to a format that allowed them to be presented in the patient portal and EHR respectively using the existing COMPASS™ interface thus allowing patients, caregivers and providers access to individual reports designed for the intended end user. The PGR as developed was shown to enhance patient and provider communication around genomic results. It is built on current standards but is designed to support integration with other tools and be compatible with emerging opportunities such as SMART on FHIR. This approach could be used to support genomic return of results as the tool is scalable and generalizable.

10 CFR Appendix A to Subpart B of... - Policy Statement for Electric Motors Covered Under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... with NEMA Design A or B characteristics, or equivalent designs such as IEC Design N (IEC); and (8... design for use at variable speeds. However, NEMA Design A or B motors that are single speed, meet all... single-speed induction motor, built in a two-digit frame number series in accordance with NEMA Standards...

10 CFR Appendix A to Subpart B of... - Policy Statement for Electric Motors Covered Under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... with NEMA Design A or B characteristics, or equivalent designs such as IEC Design N (IEC); and (8... design for use at variable speeds. However, NEMA Design A or B motors that are single speed, meet all... single-speed induction motor, built in a two-digit frame number series in accordance with NEMA Standards...

Toward a standard for the evaluation of PET-Auto-Segmentation methods following the recommendations of AAPM task group No. 211: Requirements and implementation.

PubMed

Berthon, Beatrice; Spezi, Emiliano; Galavis, Paulina; Shepherd, Tony; Apte, Aditya; Hatt, Mathieu; Fayad, Hadi; De Bernardi, Elisabetta; Soffientini, Chiara D; Ross Schmidtlein, C; El Naqa, Issam; Jeraj, Robert; Lu, Wei; Das, Shiva; Zaidi, Habib; Mawlawi, Osama R; Visvikis, Dimitris; Lee, John A; Kirov, Assen S

2017-08-01

The aim of this paper is to define the requirements and describe the design and implementation of a standard benchmark tool for evaluation and validation of PET-auto-segmentation (PET-AS) algorithms. This work follows the recommendations of Task Group 211 (TG211) appointed by the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM). The recommendations published in the AAPM TG211 report were used to derive a set of required features and to guide the design and structure of a benchmarking software tool. These items included the selection of appropriate representative data and reference contours obtained from established approaches and the description of available metrics. The benchmark was designed in a way that it could be extendable by inclusion of bespoke segmentation methods, while maintaining its main purpose of being a standard testing platform for newly developed PET-AS methods. An example of implementation of the proposed framework, named PETASset, was built. In this work, a selection of PET-AS methods representing common approaches to PET image segmentation was evaluated within PETASset for the purpose of testing and demonstrating the capabilities of the software as a benchmark platform. A selection of clinical, physical, and simulated phantom data, including "best estimates" reference contours from macroscopic specimens, simulation template, and CT scans was built into the PETASset application database. Specific metrics such as Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC), Positive Predictive Value (PPV), and Sensitivity (S), were included to allow the user to compare the results of any given PET-AS algorithm to the reference contours. In addition, a tool to generate structured reports on the evaluation of the performance of PET-AS algorithms against the reference contours was built. The variation of the metric agreement values with the reference contours across the PET-AS methods evaluated for demonstration were between 0.51 and 0.83, 0.44 and 0.86, and 0.61 and 1.00 for DSC, PPV, and the S metric, respectively. Examples of agreement limits were provided to show how the software could be used to evaluate a new algorithm against the existing state-of-the art. PETASset provides a platform that allows standardizing the evaluation and comparison of different PET-AS methods on a wide range of PET datasets. The developed platform will be available to users willing to evaluate their PET-AS methods and contribute with more evaluation datasets. © 2017 The Authors. Medical Physics published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Analytical investigation of bidirectional ductile diaphragms in multi-span bridges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Xiaone; Bruneau, Michel

2018-04-01

In the AASHTO Guide Specifications for Seismic Bridge Design Provisions, ductile diaphragms are identified as Permissible Earthquake-Resisting Elements (EREs), designed to help resist seismic loads applied in the transverse direction of bridges. When adding longitudinal ductile diaphragms, a bidirectional ductile diaphragm system is created that can address seismic excitations acting along both the bridge's longitudinal and transverse axes. This paper investigates bidirectional ductile diaphragms with Buckling Restrained Braces (BRBs) in straight multi-span bridge with simply supported floating spans. The flexibility of the substructures in the transverse and longitudinal direction of the bridge is considered. Design procedures for the bidirectional ductile diaphragms are first proposed. An analytical model of the example bridge with bidirectional ductile diaphragms, designed based on the proposed methodology, is then built in SAP2000. Pushover and nonlinear time history analyses are performed on the bridge model, and corresponding results are presented. The effect of changing the longitudinal stiffness of the bidirectional ductile diaphragms in the end spans connecting to the abutment is also investigated, in order to better understand the impact on the bridge's dynamic performance.

Conceptual design of Dipole Research Experiment (DREX)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao, Qingmei; Wang, Zhibin; Wang, Xiaogang; Xiao, Chijie; Yang, Xiaoyi; Zheng, Jinxing

2017-03-01

A new terrella-like device for laboratory simulation of inner magnetosphere plasmas, Dipole Research Experiment, is scheduled to be built at the Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT), China, as a major state scientific research facility for space physics studies. It is designed to provide a ground experimental platform to reproduce the inner magnetosphere to simulate the processes of trapping, acceleration, and transport of energetic charged particles restrained in a dipole magnetic field configuration. The scaling relation of hydromagnetism between the laboratory plasma of the device and the geomagnetosphere plasma is applied to resemble geospace processes in the Dipole Research Experiment plasma. Multiple plasma sources, different kinds of coils with specific functions, and advanced diagnostics are designed to be equipped in the facility for multi-functions. The motivation, design criteria for the Dipole Research Experiment experiments and the means applied to generate the plasma of desired parameters in the laboratory are also described. Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 11505040, 11261140326 and 11405038), China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (Nos. 2016M591518, 2015M570283) and Project Supported by Natural Scientific Research Innovation Foundation in Harbin Institute of Technology (No. 2017008).

Compact high voltage, high peak power, high frequency transformer for converter type modulator applications.

PubMed

Reghu, T; Mandloi, V; Shrivastava, Purushottam

2016-04-01

The design and development of a compact high voltage, high peak power, high frequency transformer for a converter type modulator of klystron amplifiers is presented. The transformer has been designed to operate at a frequency of 20 kHz and at a flux swing of ±0.6 T. Iron (Fe) based nanocrystalline material has been selected as a core for the construction of the transformer. The transformer employs a specially designed solid Teflon bobbin having 120 kV insulation for winding the high voltage secondary windings. The flux swing of the core has been experimentally found by plotting the hysteresis loop at actual operating conditions. Based on the design, a prototype transformer has been built which is per se a unique combination of high voltage, high frequency, and peak power specifications. The transformer was able to provide 58 kV (pk-pk) at the secondary with a peak power handling capability of 700 kVA. The transformation ratio was 1:17. The performance of the transformer is also presented and discussed.

Full-Scale Wind-Tunnel Investigation of Wing-Cooling Ducts Effects of Propeller Slipstream, Special Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nickle, F. R.; Freeman, Arthur B.

1939-01-01

The safety of remotely operated vehicles depends on the correctness of the distributed protocol that facilitates the communication between the vehicle and the operator. A failure in this communication can result in catastrophic loss of the vehicle. To complicate matters, the communication system may be required to satisfy several, possibly conflicting, requirements. The design of protocols is typically an informal process based on successive iterations of a prototype implementation. Yet distributed protocols are notoriously difficult to get correct using such informal techniques. We present a formal specification of the design of a distributed protocol intended for use in a remotely operated vehicle, which is built from the composition of several simpler protocols. We demonstrate proof strategies that allow us to prove properties of each component protocol individually while ensuring that the property is preserved in the composition forming the entire system. Given that designs are likely to evolve as additional requirements emerge, we show how we have automated most of the repetitive proof steps to enable verification of rapidly changing designs.

46 CFR 108.515 - Requirements for units built before October 1, 1996.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Requirements for units built before October 1, 1996. 108.515 Section 108.515 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT Lifesaving Equipment § 108.515 Requirements for units built...

46 CFR 108.515 - Requirements for units built before October 1, 1996.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Requirements for units built before October 1, 1996. 108.515 Section 108.515 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT Lifesaving Equipment § 108.515 Requirements for units built...

46 CFR 108.515 - Requirements for units built before October 1, 1996.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Requirements for units built before October 1, 1996. 108.515 Section 108.515 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT Lifesaving Equipment § 108.515 Requirements for units built...

46 CFR 108.515 - Requirements for units built before October 1, 1996.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Requirements for units built before October 1, 1996. 108.515 Section 108.515 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT Lifesaving Equipment § 108.515 Requirements for units built...

Integrated modeling environment for systems-level performance analysis of the Next-Generation Space Telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mosier, Gary E.; Femiano, Michael; Ha, Kong; Bely, Pierre Y.; Burg, Richard; Redding, David C.; Kissil, Andrew; Rakoczy, John; Craig, Larry

1998-08-01

All current concepts for the NGST are innovative designs which present unique systems-level challenges. The goals are to outperform existing observatories at a fraction of the current price/performance ratio. Standard practices for developing systems error budgets, such as the 'root-sum-of- squares' error tree, are insufficient for designs of this complexity. Simulation and optimization are the tools needed for this project; in particular tools that integrate controls, optics, thermal and structural analysis, and design optimization. This paper describes such an environment which allows sub-system performance specifications to be analyzed parametrically, and includes optimizing metrics that capture the science requirements. The resulting systems-level design trades are greatly facilitated, and significant cost savings can be realized. This modeling environment, built around a tightly integrated combination of commercial off-the-shelf and in-house- developed codes, provides the foundation for linear and non- linear analysis on both the time and frequency-domains, statistical analysis, and design optimization. It features an interactive user interface and integrated graphics that allow highly-effective, real-time work to be done by multidisciplinary design teams. For the NGST, it has been applied to issues such as pointing control, dynamic isolation of spacecraft disturbances, wavefront sensing and control, on-orbit thermal stability of the optics, and development of systems-level error budgets. In this paper, results are presented from parametric trade studies that assess requirements for pointing control, structural dynamics, reaction wheel dynamic disturbances, and vibration isolation. These studies attempt to define requirements bounds such that the resulting design is optimized at the systems level, without attempting to optimize each subsystem individually. The performance metrics are defined in terms of image quality, specifically centroiding error and RMS wavefront error, which directly links to science requirements.

Using Symmetry to Design Self-Assembling Protein Cages and Nanomaterials on the Mid-Nanometer Scale

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yeates, Todd

Self-assembling molecular structures having diverse cellular functions are widespread in nature. Some of the largest and most sophisticated types are built from many copies of the same or similar protein molecules arranged following principles of symmetry. A long-standing engineering goal has been to design novel protein molecules to self-assemble into geometrically specific structures similar to the extraordinary structures that have evolved in Nature. Practical routes to this goal have been developed by using ideas in symmetry to articulate the minimum design requirements for achieving various types of symmetric architectures, including cages, extended two-dimensional layers, and three-dimensional crystalline materials. The key requirement is that two distinct self-associating interfaces, each conferring one element of rotational symmetry, have to be engineered into the protein molecule (or molecules), following particular geometric specifications. The main principle is that combining two separate symmetry elements into a single molecular entity produces a molecule that necessarily assembles into an architecture dictated by a symmetry group that is the product of the two simpler contributing symmetries. Recent experiments have demonstrated success using a variety of symmetry-based strategies. Strategic variations are emerging that differ from each other with respect to biophysical features such as flexibility vs rigidity in the assembled structures, and with respect to design aspects such as whether the protein interfaces are inherited from natural oligomeric proteins or are designed de novo by advanced computational methods. The success of these strategies has been proven by determining crystal structures of several giant, self-assembling protein cages and clusters (10-25 nm in diameter), created by design. The ability to create sophisticated supramolecular structures from designed protein subunits opens the way to broad applications in synthetic biology and nanotechnology.

A novel tool for assessing and summarizing the built environment

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background A growing corpus of research focuses on assessing the quality of the local built environment and also examining the relationship between the built environment and health outcomes and indicators in communities. However, there is a lack of research presenting a highly resolved, systematic, and comprehensive spatial approach to assessing the built environment over a large geographic extent. In this paper, we contribute to the built environment literature by describing a tool used to assess the residential built environment at the tax parcel-level, as well as a methodology for summarizing the data into meaningful indices for linkages with health data. Methods A database containing residential built environment variables was constructed using the existing body of literature, as well as input from local community partners. During the summer of 2008, a team of trained assessors conducted an on-foot, curb-side assessment of approximately 17,000 tax parcels in Durham, North Carolina, evaluating the built environment on over 80 variables using handheld Global Positioning System (GPS) devices. The exercise was repeated again in the summer of 2011 over a larger geographic area that included roughly 30,700 tax parcels; summary data presented here are from the 2008 assessment. Results Built environment data were combined with Durham crime data and tax assessor data in order to construct seven built environment indices. These indices were aggregated to US Census blocks, as well as to primary adjacency communities (PACs) and secondary adjacency communities (SACs) which better described the larger neighborhood context experienced by local residents. Results were disseminated to community members, public health professionals, and government officials. Conclusions The assessment tool described is both easily-replicable and comprehensive in design. Furthermore, our construction of PACs and SACs introduces a novel concept to approximate varying scales of community and describe the built environment at those scales. Our collaboration with community partners at all stages of the tool development, data collection, and dissemination of results provides a model for engaging the community in an active research program. PMID:23075269

A & M Consolidated Senior High School, College Station, Texas. Profiles of Significant Schools.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clinchy, Evans

A profile of a high school is presented in which the building design features provided versatile interior space and provisions for future expansion. In briefly describing the educational bases of the building design, two items are emphasized--(1) why the school was designed as it was, and (2) how it was designed and built. Schematics and…

(Re)Designing Writing in English Class: A Multimodal Approach to Teaching Writing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rowsell, Jennifer; Decoste, Eryn

2012-01-01

Based on a 2-year ethnographic study in an urban secondary school in Toronto, the article presents how a teacher and a researcher teach Grade 11 students through a design-based approach to teaching and learning in English class. Built on research and pedagogy on design, the authors designed a programme of study as an alternative to more…

Grasping with mechanical intelligence. M.S. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ulrich, Nathan Thatcher

1988-01-01

Many robotic hands have been designed and a number have been built. Because of the difficulty of controlling and using complex hands, which usually have nine or more degrees of freedom, the simple one- or two-degree-of-freedom gripper is still the most common robotic end effector. A new category of device is presented: a medium-complexity end effector. With three to five degrees of freedom, such a tool is much easier to control and use, as well as more economical, compact and lightweight than complex hands. In order to increase the versatility, it was necessary to identify grasping primitives and to implement them in the mechanism. In addition, power and enveloping grasps are stressed over fingertip and precision grasps. The design is based upon analysis of object apprehension types, requisite characteristics for active sensing, and a determination of necessary environmental interactions. Contained are the general concepts necessary to the design of a medium-complexity end effector, an analysis of typical performance, and a computer simulation of a grasp planning algorithm specific to this type of mechanism. Finally, some details concerning the UPenn Hand-a tool designed for the research laboratory-are presented.

Embedded Volttron specification - benchmarking small footprint compute device for Volttron

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sanyal, Jibonananda; Fugate, David L.; Woodworth, Ken

An embedded system is a small footprint computing unit that typically serves a specific purpose closely associated with measurements and control of hardware devices. These units are designed for reasonable durability and operations in a wide range of operating conditions. Some embedded systems support real-time operations and can demonstrate high levels of reliability. Many have failsafe mechanisms built to handle graceful shutdown of the device in exception conditions. The available memory, processing power, and network connectivity of these devices are limited due to the nature of their specific-purpose design and intended application. Industry practice is to carefully design the softwaremore » for the available hardware capability to suit desired deployment needs. Volttron is an open source agent development and deployment platform designed to enable researchers to interact with devices and appliances without having to write drivers themselves. Hosting Volttron on small footprint embeddable devices enables its demonstration for embedded use. This report details the steps required and the experience in setting up and running Volttron applications on three small footprint devices: the Intel Next Unit of Computing (NUC), the Raspberry Pi 2, and the BeagleBone Black. In addition, the report also details preliminary investigation of the execution performance of Volttron on these devices.« less

NIF optical materials and fabrication technologies: an overview

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Campbell, John H.; Hawley-Fedder, Ruth A.; Stolz, Christopher J.; Menapace, Joseph A.; Borden, Michael R.; Whitman, Pamela K.; Yu, June; Runkel, Michael J.; Riley, Michael O.; Feit, Michael D.; Hackel, Richard P.

2004-05-01

The high-energy/high-power section of the NIF laser system contains 7360 meter-scale optics. Advanced optical materials and fabrication technologies needed to manufacture the NIF optics have been developed and put into production at key vendor sites. Production rates are up to 20 times faster and per-optic costs 5 times lower than could be achieved prior to the NIF. In addition, the optics manufactured for NIF are better than specification giving laser performance better than the design. A suite of custom metrology tools have been designed, built and installed at the vendor sites to verify compliance with NIF optical specifications. A brief description of the NIF optical wavefront specifications for the glass and crystal optics is presented. The wavefront specifications span a continuous range of spatial scale-lengths from 10 μm to 0.5 m (full aperture). We have continued our multi-year research effort to improve the lifetime (i.e. damage resistance) of bulk optical materials, finished optical surfaces and multi-layer dielectric coatings. New methods for post-processing the completed optic to improve the damage resistance have been developed and made operational. This includes laser conditioning of coatings, glass surfaces and bulk KDP and DKDP and well as raster and full aperture defect mapping systems. Research on damage mechanisms continues to drive the development of even better optical materials.

Crashworthiness analysis on alternative square honeycomb structure under axial loading

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Meng; Deng, Zongquan; Guo, Hongwei; Liu, Rongqiang; Ding, Beichen

2013-07-01

Hexagonal metal honeycomb is widely used in energy absorption field for its special construction. However, many other metal honeycomb structures also show good energy absorption characteristics. Currently, most of the researches focus on hexagonal honeycomb, while few are performed into different honeycomb structures. Therefore, a new alternative square honeycomb is developed to expand the non-hexagonal metal honeycomb applications in the energy absorption fields with the aim of designing low mass and low volume energy absorbers. The finite element model of alternative square honeycomb is built to analyze its specific energy absorption property. As the diversity of honeycomb structure, the parameterized metal honeycomb finite element analysis program is conducted based on PCL language. That program can automatically create finite element model. Numerical results show that with the same foil thickness and cell length of metal honeycomb, the alternative square has better specific energy absorption than hexagonal honeycomb. Using response surface method, the mathematical formulas of honeycomb crashworthiness properties are obtained and optimization is done to get the maximum specific energy absorption property honeycomb. Optimal results demonstrate that to absorb same energy, alternative square honeycomb can save 10% volume of buffer structure than hexagonal honeycomb can do. This research is significant in providing technical support in the extended application of different honeycomb used as crashworthiness structures, and is absolutely essential in low volume and low mass energy absorber design.

Heavy-ion injector based on an electron cyclotron ion source for the superconducting linear accelerator of the Rare Isotope Science Project.

PubMed

Hong, In-Seok; Kim, Yong-Hwan; Choi, Bong-Hyuk; Choi, Suk-Jin; Park, Bum-Sik; Jin, Hyun-Chang; Kim, Hye-Jin; Heo, Jeong-Il; Kim, Deok-Min; Jang, Ji-Ho

2016-02-01

The injector for the main driver linear accelerator of the Rare Isotope Science Project in Korea, has been developed to allow heavy ions up to uranium to be delivered to the inflight fragmentation system. The critical components of the injector are the superconducting electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) ion sources, the radio frequency quadrupole (RFQ), and matching systems for low and medium energy beams. We have built superconducting magnets for the ECR ion source, and a prototype with one segment of the RFQ structure, with the aim of developing a design that can satisfy our specifications, demonstrate stable operation, and prove results to compare the design simulation.

Management software for a universal device communication controller: application to monitoring and computerized infusions.

PubMed

Coussaert, E J; Cantraine, F R

1996-11-01

We designed a virtual device for a local area network observing, operating and connecting devices to a personal computer. To keep the widest field of application, we proceeded by using abstraction and specification rules of software engineering in the design and implementation of the hardware and software for the Infusion Monitor. We specially built a box of hardware to interface multiple medical instruments with different communication protocols to a PC via a single serial port. We called that box the Universal Device Communication Controller (UDCC). The use of the virtual device driver is illustrated by the Infusion Monitor implemented for the anaesthesia and intensive care workstation.

Experimental characterization of a binary actuated parallel manipulator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giuseppe, Carbone

2016-05-01

This paper describes the BAPAMAN (Binary Actuated Parallel MANipulator) series of parallel manipulators that has been conceived at Laboratory of Robotics and Mechatronics (LARM). Basic common characteristics of BAPAMAN series are described. In particular, it is outlined the use of a reduced number of active degrees of freedom, the use of design solutions with flexural joints and Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) actuators for achieving miniaturization, cost reduction and easy operation features. Given the peculiarities of BAPAMAN architecture, specific experimental tests have been proposed and carried out with the aim to validate the proposed design and to evaluate the practical operation performance and the characteristics of a built prototype, in particular, in terms of operation and workspace characteristics.

COI NMSD Hybrid Mirror

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mehle, Greg; Stahl, Phil (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

This presentation provides an overview of the development of the 1.6 meter hybrid mirror demonstrator for the NGST Mirror System Demonstrator (NMSD) program. The COI design approach for the NGST program combines the optical performance of glass, with the high specific stiffness capabilities of composite materials The foundation technologies being exploited in the development of the hybrid mirror focus upon precision Composite Materials for cryogenic operation, and non-contact optical processing (ion figuring) of the lightweight mirror surface. The NGST Mirror System Demonstrator (NMSD) has been designed and built by Composite Optics, Inc. (COI) with optical processing performed by SAGEM (REOSC). The sponsors of these efforts are the NASA Marshall and Goddard Space Flight Centers.

International Space Station Program Phase 3 Integrated Atmosphere Revitalization Subsystem Test

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perry, J. L.; Franks, G. D.; Knox, J. C.

1997-01-01

Testing of the International Space Station (ISS) U.S. Segment baseline configuration of the Atmosphere Revitalization Subsystem (ARS) by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) was conducted as part of the Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) design and development program. This testing was designed to answer specific questions regarding the control and performance of the baseline ARS subassemblies in the ISS U.S. Segment configuration. These questions resulted from the continued maturation of the ISS ECLSS configuration and design requirement changes since 1992. The test used pressurized oxygen injection, a mass spectrometric major constituent analyzer, a Four-Bed Molecular Sieve Carbon Dioxide Removal Assembly, and a Trace Contaminant Control Subassembly to maintain the atmospheric composition in a sealed chamber at ISS specifications for 30 days. Human metabolic processes for a crew of four were simulated according to projected ISS mission time lines. The performance of a static feed water electrolysis Oxygen Generator Assembly was investigated during the test preparation phases; however, technical difficulties prevented its use during the integrated test. The Integrated ARS Test (IART) program built upon previous closed-door and open-door integrated testing conducted at MSFC between 1987 and 1992. It is the most advanced test of an integrated ARS conducted by NASA to demonstrate its end-to-end control and overall performance. IART test objectives, facility design, pretest analyses, test and control requirements, and test results are presented.

Digital Platform for Wafer-Level MEMS Testing and Characterization Using Electrical Response

PubMed Central

Brito, Nuno; Ferreira, Carlos; Alves, Filipe; Cabral, Jorge; Gaspar, João; Monteiro, João; Rocha, Luís

2016-01-01

The uniqueness of microelectromechanical system (MEMS) devices, with their multiphysics characteristics, presents some limitations to the borrowed test methods from traditional integrated circuits (IC) manufacturing. Although some improvements have been performed, this specific area still lags behind when compared to the design and manufacturing competencies developed over the last decades by the IC industry. A complete digital solution for fast testing and characterization of inertial sensors with built-in actuation mechanisms is presented in this paper, with a fast, full-wafer test as a leading ambition. The full electrical approach and flexibility of modern hardware design technologies allow a fast adaptation for other physical domains with minimum effort. The digital system encloses a processor and the tailored signal acquisition, processing, control, and actuation hardware control modules, capable of the structure position and response analysis when subjected to controlled actuation signals in real time. The hardware performance, together with the simplicity of the sequential programming on a processor, results in a flexible and powerful tool to evaluate the newest and fastest control algorithms. The system enables measurement of resonant frequency (Fr), quality factor (Q), and pull-in voltage (Vpi) within 1.5 s with repeatability better than 5 ppt (parts per thousand). A full-wafer with 420 devices under test (DUTs) has been evaluated detecting the faulty devices and providing important design specification feedback to the designers. PMID:27657087

Digital Platform for Wafer-Level MEMS Testing and Characterization Using Electrical Response.

PubMed

Brito, Nuno; Ferreira, Carlos; Alves, Filipe; Cabral, Jorge; Gaspar, João; Monteiro, João; Rocha, Luís

2016-09-21

The uniqueness of microelectromechanical system (MEMS) devices, with their multiphysics characteristics, presents some limitations to the borrowed test methods from traditional integrated circuits (IC) manufacturing. Although some improvements have been performed, this specific area still lags behind when compared to the design and manufacturing competencies developed over the last decades by the IC industry. A complete digital solution for fast testing and characterization of inertial sensors with built-in actuation mechanisms is presented in this paper, with a fast, full-wafer test as a leading ambition. The full electrical approach and flexibility of modern hardware design technologies allow a fast adaptation for other physical domains with minimum effort. The digital system encloses a processor and the tailored signal acquisition, processing, control, and actuation hardware control modules, capable of the structure position and response analysis when subjected to controlled actuation signals in real time. The hardware performance, together with the simplicity of the sequential programming on a processor, results in a flexible and powerful tool to evaluate the newest and fastest control algorithms. The system enables measurement of resonant frequency (Fr), quality factor (Q), and pull-in voltage (Vpi) within 1.5 s with repeatability better than 5 ppt (parts per thousand). A full-wafer with 420 devices under test (DUTs) has been evaluated detecting the faulty devices and providing important design specification feedback to the designers.

Lunar rovers and local positioning system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Avery, James; Su, Renjeng

1991-11-01

Telerobotic rovers equipped with adequate actuators and sensors are clearly necessary for extraterrestrial construction. They will be employed as substitutes for humans, to perform jobs like surveying, sensing, signaling, manipulating, and the handling of small materials. Important design criteria for these rovers include versatility and robustness. They must be easily programmed and reprogrammed to perform a wide variety of different functions, and they must be robust so that construction work will not be jeopardized by parts failures. The key qualities and functions necessary for these rovers to achieve the required versatility and robustness are modularity, redundancy, and coordination. Three robotic rovers are being built by CSC as a test bed to implement the concepts of modularity and coordination. The specific goal of the design and construction of these robots is to demonstrate the software modularity and multirobot control algorithms required for the physical manipulation of constructible elements. Each rover consists of a transporter platform, bus manager, simple manipulator, and positioning receivers. These robots will be controlled from a central control console via a radio-frequency local area network (LAN). To date, one prototype transporter platform frame was built with batteries, motors, a prototype single-motor controller, and two prototype internal LAN boards. Software modules were developed in C language for monitor functions, i/o, and parallel port usage in each computer board. Also completed are the fabrication of half of the required number of computer boards, the procurement of 19.2 Kbaud RF modems for inter-robot communications, and the simulation of processing requirements for positioning receivers. In addition to the robotic platform, the fabrication of a local positioning system based on infrared signals is nearly completed. This positioning system will make the rovers into a moving reference system capable of performing site surveys. In addition, a four degree mechanical manipulator especially suited for coordinated teleoperation was conceptually designed and is currently being analyzed. This manipulator will be integrated into the rovers as their end effector. Twenty internal LAN cards fabricated by a commercial firm are being used, a prototype manipulator and a range finder for a positioning system were built, a prototype two-motor controller was designed, and one of the robots is performing its first telerobotic motion. In addition, the robots' internal LAN's were coordinated and tested, hardware design upgrades based on fabrication and fit experience were completed, and the positioning system is running.

Lunar rovers and local positioning system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Avery, James; Su, Renjeng

1991-01-01

Telerobotic rovers equipped with adequate actuators and sensors are clearly necessary for extraterrestrial construction. They will be employed as substitutes for humans, to perform jobs like surveying, sensing, signaling, manipulating, and the handling of small materials. Important design criteria for these rovers include versatility and robustness. They must be easily programmed and reprogrammed to perform a wide variety of different functions, and they must be robust so that construction work will not be jeopardized by parts failures. The key qualities and functions necessary for these rovers to achieve the required versatility and robustness are modularity, redundancy, and coordination. Three robotic rovers are being built by CSC as a test bed to implement the concepts of modularity and coordination. The specific goal of the design and construction of these robots is to demonstrate the software modularity and multirobot control algorithms required for the physical manipulation of constructible elements. Each rover consists of a transporter platform, bus manager, simple manipulator, and positioning receivers. These robots will be controlled from a central control console via a radio-frequency local area network (LAN). To date, one prototype transporter platform frame was built with batteries, motors, a prototype single-motor controller, and two prototype internal LAN boards. Software modules were developed in C language for monitor functions, i/o, and parallel port usage in each computer board. Also completed are the fabrication of half of the required number of computer boards, the procurement of 19.2 Kbaud RF modems for inter-robot communications, and the simulation of processing requirements for positioning receivers. In addition to the robotic platform, the fabrication of a local positioning system based on infrared signals is nearly completed. This positioning system will make the rovers into a moving reference system capable of performing site surveys. In addition, a four degree mechanical manipulator especially suited for coordinated teleoperation was conceptually designed and is currently being analyzed. This manipulator will be integrated into the rovers as their end effector. Twenty internal LAN cards fabricated by a commercial firm are being used, a prototype manipulator and a range finder for a positioning system were built, a prototype two-motor controller was designed, and one of the robots is performing its first telerobotic motion. In addition, the robots' internal LAN's were coordinated and tested, hardware design upgrades based on fabrication and fit experience were completed, and the positioning system is running. The rover system is able to perform simple tasks such as sensing and signaling; coordination systems which allow construction tasks to begin were established, and soon coordinated teams of robots in the laboratory will be able to manipulate common objects.

Systematic design methodology for robust genetic transistors based on I/O specifications via promoter-RBS libraries.

PubMed

Lee, Yi-Ying; Hsu, Chih-Yuan; Lin, Ling-Jiun; Chang, Chih-Chun; Cheng, Hsiao-Chun; Yeh, Tsung-Hsien; Hu, Rei-Hsing; Lin, Che; Xie, Zhen; Chen, Bor-Sen

2013-10-27

Synthetic genetic transistors are vital for signal amplification and switching in genetic circuits. However, it is still problematic to efficiently select the adequate promoters, Ribosome Binding Sides (RBSs) and inducer concentrations to construct a genetic transistor with the desired linear amplification or switching in the Input/Output (I/O) characteristics for practical applications. Three kinds of promoter-RBS libraries, i.e., a constitutive promoter-RBS library, a repressor-regulated promoter-RBS library and an activator-regulated promoter-RBS library, are constructed for systematic genetic circuit design using the identified kinetic strengths of their promoter-RBS components.According to the dynamic model of genetic transistors, a design methodology for genetic transistors via a Genetic Algorithm (GA)-based searching algorithm is developed to search for a set of promoter-RBS components and adequate concentrations of inducers to achieve the prescribed I/O characteristics of a genetic transistor. Furthermore, according to design specifications for different types of genetic transistors, a look-up table is built for genetic transistor design, from which we could easily select an adequate set of promoter-RBS components and adequate concentrations of external inducers for a specific genetic transistor. This systematic design method will reduce the time spent using trial-and-error methods in the experimental procedure for a genetic transistor with a desired I/O characteristic. We demonstrate the applicability of our design methodology to genetic transistors that have desirable linear amplification or switching by employing promoter-RBS library searching.

Systematic design methodology for robust genetic transistors based on I/O specifications via promoter-RBS libraries

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Synthetic genetic transistors are vital for signal amplification and switching in genetic circuits. However, it is still problematic to efficiently select the adequate promoters, Ribosome Binding Sides (RBSs) and inducer concentrations to construct a genetic transistor with the desired linear amplification or switching in the Input/Output (I/O) characteristics for practical applications. Results Three kinds of promoter-RBS libraries, i.e., a constitutive promoter-RBS library, a repressor-regulated promoter-RBS library and an activator-regulated promoter-RBS library, are constructed for systematic genetic circuit design using the identified kinetic strengths of their promoter-RBS components. According to the dynamic model of genetic transistors, a design methodology for genetic transistors via a Genetic Algorithm (GA)-based searching algorithm is developed to search for a set of promoter-RBS components and adequate concentrations of inducers to achieve the prescribed I/O characteristics of a genetic transistor. Furthermore, according to design specifications for different types of genetic transistors, a look-up table is built for genetic transistor design, from which we could easily select an adequate set of promoter-RBS components and adequate concentrations of external inducers for a specific genetic transistor. Conclusion This systematic design method will reduce the time spent using trial-and-error methods in the experimental procedure for a genetic transistor with a desired I/O characteristic. We demonstrate the applicability of our design methodology to genetic transistors that have desirable linear amplification or switching by employing promoter-RBS library searching. PMID:24160305

External built residential environment characteristics that affect mental health of adults.

PubMed

Ochodo, Charles; Ndetei, D M; Moturi, W N; Otieno, J O

2014-10-01

External built residential environment characteristics include aspects of building design such as types of walls, doors and windows, green spaces, density of houses per unit area, and waste disposal facilities. Neighborhoods that are characterized by poor quality external built environment can contribute to psychosocial stress and increase the likelihood of mental health disorders. This study investigated the relationship between characteristics of external built residential environment and mental health disorders in selected residences of Nakuru Municipality, Kenya. External built residential environment characteristics were investigated for 544 residents living in different residential areas that were categorized by their socioeconomic status. Medically validated interview schedules were used to determine mental health of residents in the respective neighborhoods. The relationship between characteristics of the external built residential environment and mental health of residents was determined by multivariable logistic regression analyses and chi-square tests. The results show that walling materials used on buildings, density of dwelling units, state of street lighting, types of doors, states of roofs, and states of windows are some built external residential environment characteristics that affect mental health of adult males and females. Urban residential areas that are characterized by poor quality external built environment substantially expose the population to daily stressors and inconveniences that increase the likelihood of developing mental health disorders.

Mission Control Technologies: A New Way of Designing and Evolving Mission Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Trimble, Jay; Walton, Joan; Saddler, Harry

2006-01-01

Current mission operations systems are built as a collection of monolithic software applications. Each application serves the needs of a specific user base associated with a discipline or functional role. Built to accomplish specific tasks, each application embodies specialized functional knowledge and has its own data storage, data models, programmatic interfaces, user interfaces, and customized business logic. In effect, each application creates its own walled-off environment. While individual applications are sometimes reused across multiple missions, it is expensive and time consuming to maintain these systems, and both costly and risky to upgrade them in the light of new requirements or modify them for new purposes. It is even more expensive to achieve new integrated activities across a set of monolithic applications. These problems impact the lifecycle cost (especially design, development, testing, training, maintenance, and integration) of each new mission operations system. They also inhibit system innovation and evolution. This in turn hinders NASA's ability to adopt new operations paradigms, including increasingly automated space systems, such as autonomous rovers, autonomous onboard crew systems, and integrated control of human and robotic missions. Hence, in order to achieve NASA's vision affordably and reliably, we need to consider and mature new ways to build mission control systems that overcome the problems inherent in systems of monolithic applications. The keys to the solution are modularity and interoperability. Modularity will increase extensibility (evolution), reusability, and maintainability. Interoperability will enable composition of larger systems out of smaller parts, and enable the construction of new integrated activities that tie together, at a deep level, the capabilities of many of the components. Modularity and interoperability together contribute to flexibility. The Mission Control Technologies (MCT) Project, a collaboration of multiple NASA Centers, led by NASA Ames Research Center, is building a framework to enable software to be assembled from flexible collections of components and services.

A Boundary Scan Test Vehicle for Direct Chip Attach Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parsons, Heather A.; DAgostino, Saverio; Arakaki, Genji

2000-01-01

To facilitate the new faster, better and cheaper spacecraft designs, smaller more mass efficient avionics and instruments are using higher density electronic packaging technologies such as direct chip attach (DCA). For space flight applications, these technologies need to have demonstrated reliability and reasonably well defined fabrication and assembly processes before they will be accepted as baseline designs in new missions. As electronics shrink in size, not only can repair be more difficult, but 49 probing" circuitry can be very risky and it becomes increasingly more difficult to identify the specific source of a problem. To test and monitor these new technologies, the Direct Chip Attach Task, under NASA's Electronic Parts and Packaging Program (NEPP), chose the test methodology of boundary scan testing. The boundary scan methodology was developed for interconnect integrity and functional testing at hard to access electrical nodes. With boundary scan testing, active devices are used and failures can be identified to the specific device and lead. This technology permits the incorporation of "built in test" into almost any circuit and thus gives detailed test access to the highly integrated electronic assemblies. This presentation will describe boundary scan, discuss the development of the boundary scan test vehicle for DCA and current plans for testing of direct chip attach configurations.

40 CFR 91.1203 - Emission warranty, warranty period.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... subsequent purchaser, that the engine is designed, built, and equipped so as to conform at the time of sale... owner's choosing, such items as spark plugs, points, condensers, and any other part, item, or device related to emission control (but not designed for emission control) under the terms of the last sentence...

Aviation Design Software

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1997-01-01

DARcorporation developed a General Aviation CAD package through a Small Business Innovation Research contract from Langley Research Center. This affordable, user-friendly preliminary design system for General Aviation aircraft runs on the popular 486 IBM-compatible personal computers. Individuals taking the home-built approach, small manufacturers of General Aviation airplanes, as well as students and others interested in the analysis and design of aircraft are possible users of the package. The software can cut design and development time in half.

Making a Better Beer Glass.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hoffer, Alan R.

1982-01-01

A class activity is detailed in which alternative designs for glasses are examined. The goal is to design a glass which is built tilted, so that beer can be poured in without creating a foam problem. The activity is viewed as one leading to interesting questions. (MP)

Analyzing the impact of intermodal-related risk to the design and management of biofuel supply chain.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-12-01

The objective of this project is to design decision-support tools for identifying : biorefinery locations that ensure a cost-efficient and reliable supply chain. We built : mathematical models which take into consideration the benefits (such as acces...

Covalent layer-by-layer films: chemistry, design, and multidisciplinary applications.

PubMed

An, Qi; Huang, Tao; Shi, Feng

2018-05-16

Covalent layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly is a powerful method used to construct functional ultrathin films that enables nanoscopic structural precision, componential diversity, and flexible design. Compared with conventional LbL films built using multiple noncovalent interactions, LbL films prepared using covalent crosslinking offer the following distinctive characteristics: (i) enhanced film endurance or rigidity; (ii) improved componential diversity when uncharged species or small molecules are stably built into the films by forming covalent bonds; and (iii) increased structural diversity when covalent crosslinking is employed in componential, spacial, or temporal (labile bonds) selective manners. In this review, we document the chemical methods used to build covalent LbL films as well as the film properties and applications achievable using various film design strategies. We expect to translate the achievement in the discipline of chemistry (film-building methods) into readily available techniques for materials engineers and thus provide diverse functional material design protocols to address the energy, biomedical, and environmental challenges faced by the entire scientific community.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Stanislavskii, L.Ya.

Large turbogenerators with built-up rotor designs operating in U.S.S.R. power plants were studied to obtain data on reliability, failures, and performance characteristics for normal and abnormal operating conditions. Data for 23 turbogenerators manufactured by domestic and foreign firms were analyzed. The studies showed that the reliability factor of the joints of built-up rotors should be equal to approximately 6 to provide a monolithic built-up rotor. At lower built-up rotor joint reliability factors, weakening of the joints occurred during their operation, leading to extreme generator vibration, damage to the insulating sockets at the joint, burning of the joints and sometimes breakagemore » of the screws holding the joints. When it is necessary to restore the monolithic nature of the joints of a rotor its design should permit replacement of the tightening devices (tie rods, screws). If this is not possible the built-up rotor becomes unsuitable for operation. During abnormal conditions there are maximum temperatures in the joint of a built-up rotor about 50 percent greater than in the end part of the rotor. Thus special structural measures are necessary to improve the electrical contact in the joints of the built-up parts of the rotors of large turbogenerators. In all cases where they are not dictated by construction requirements (supercooled turbogenerators), the use of built-up rotors is unfavorable. (LCL)« less

Annual Performance Evaluation of a Pair of Energy Efficient Houses (WC3 and WC4) in Oak Ridge, TN

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Biswas, Kaushik; Christian, Jeffrey E; Gehl, Anthony C

2012-04-01

Beginning in 2008, two pairs of energy-saver houses were built at Wolf Creek in Oak Ridge, TN. These houses were designed to maximize energy efficiency using new ultra-high-efficiency components emerging from ORNL s Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) partners and others. The first two houses contained 3713 square feet of conditioned area and were designated as WC1 and WC2; the second pair consisted of 2721 square feet conditioned area with crawlspace foundation and they re called WC3 and WC4. This report is focused on the annual energy performance of WC3 and WC4, and how they compare against a previouslymore » benchmarked maximum energy efficient house of a similar footprint. WC3 and WC4 are both about 55-60% more efficient than traditional new construction. Each house showcases a different envelope system: WC3 is built with advanced framing featured cellulose insulation partially mixed with phase change materials (PCM); and WC4 house has cladding composed of an exterior insulation and finish system (EIFS). The previously benchmarked house was one of three built at the Campbell Creek subdivision in Knoxville, TN. This house (CC3) was designed as a transformation of a builder house (CC1) with the most advanced energy-efficiency features, including solar electricity and hot water, which market conditions are likely to permit within the 2012 2015 period. The builder house itself was representative of a standard, IECC 2006 code-certified, all-electric house built by the builder to sell around 2005 2008.« less

Design and "restoration": the Roots of Architecture Porject for the Built

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Campanella, C.

2017-05-01

It is absolutely essential now to prepare a project of pre-critical understanding of the building which will be the object of action, free from preconceived notions of value, fully committed to the implementation of a variety of useful and indispensable to determine that operating margin and freedom that each architecture has not being linked uniquely to the precise original function. This is the margin that you can leverage to implement the architectural project for the built that mutuerà inside knowledge, conservation and innovation at the same time. The binomials in the lead paragraph as all sides of the same coin that merge into one integrated design process that takes charge of design including those different styles of drafting of survey (in all aspects) of an existing architecture.

Testing light concentrators prototypes for the Cherenkov Telescope Array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hénault, François; Petrucci, Pierre-Olivier; Jocou, Laurent; Arezki, Brahim; Magnard, Yves; Khélifi, Bruno; Manigot, Pascal; Olive, Jean-François; Jean, Pierre; Punch, Michael

2017-09-01

With more than 30 Medium-Size Telescopes (MST) located in both North and South hemispheres, the Cherenkov Telescope Array (CTA) shall be the largest cosmic gamma ray detector ever built. Each MST focal plane consists in an array of some 1800 photomultipliers equipped with their own light concentrating optics in order to maximizing the amount of Cherenkov radiation collected by the telescope and to block stray light originating from ground environment. Within the CTA Consortium, the Institut de Planétologie et d'Astrophysique de Grenoble (IPAG) is in charge of designing, subcontracting the realization to industry, and testing the MST light concentrators. Two different optical solutions were pre-selected, respectively based on CPCs (Winston cones) and non-imaging concentrating lenses. Prototypes were manufactured by different industrial companies and tested in our laboratory on a test bench specifically built for the project. After shortly describing both optical designs, this communication is essentially focused at experimental results. Each type of concentrator has been submitted to extensive performance measurements, including radiometric efficiency at different wavelengths, rejection curves, and qualitative shape error test. The final selected concentrator is the CPC, although non-imaging lenses exhibit interesting properties in terms of radiometric performance.

Ultra-sensitive chemical and biological analysis via specialty fibers with built-in microstructured optofluidic channels.

PubMed

Zhang, Nan; Li, Kaiwei; Cui, Ying; Wu, Zhifang; Shum, Perry Ping; Auguste, Jean-Louis; Dinh, Xuan Quyen; Humbert, Georges; Wei, Lei

2018-02-13

All-in-fiber optofluidics is an analytical tool that provides enhanced sensing performance with simplified analyzing system design. Currently, its advance is limited either by complicated liquid manipulation and light injection configuration or by low sensitivity resulting from inadequate light-matter interaction. In this work, we design and fabricate a side-channel photonic crystal fiber (SC-PCF) and exploit its versatile sensing capabilities in in-line optofluidic configurations. The built-in microfluidic channel of the SC-PCF enables strong light-matter interaction and easy lateral access of liquid samples in these analytical systems. In addition, the sensing performance of the SC-PCF is demonstrated with methylene blue for absorptive molecular detection and with human cardiac troponin T protein by utilizing a Sagnac interferometry configuration for ultra-sensitive and specific biomolecular specimen detection. Owing to the features of great flexibility and compactness, high-sensitivity to the analyte variation, and efficient liquid manipulation/replacement, the demonstrated SC-PCF offers a generic solution to be adapted to various fiber-waveguide sensors to detect a wide range of analytes in real time, especially for applications from environmental monitoring to biological diagnosis.

Energy Storage System Safety: Plan Review and Inspection Checklist

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cole, Pam C.; Conover, David R.

Codes, standards, and regulations (CSR) governing the design, construction, installation, commissioning, and operation of the built environment are intended to protect the public health, safety, and welfare. While these documents change over time to address new technology and new safety challenges, there is generally some lag time between the introduction of a technology into the market and the time it is specifically covered in model codes and standards developed in the voluntary sector. After their development, there is also a timeframe of at least a year or two until the codes and standards are adopted. Until existing model codes andmore » standards are updated or new ones are developed and then adopted, one seeking to deploy energy storage technologies or needing to verify the safety of an installation may be challenged in trying to apply currently implemented CSRs to an energy storage system (ESS). The Energy Storage System Guide for Compliance with Safety Codes and Standards1 (CG), developed in June 2016, is intended to help address the acceptability of the design and construction of stationary ESSs, their component parts, and the siting, installation, commissioning, operations, maintenance, and repair/renovation of ESS within the built environment.« less

A Two-Stage-to-Orbit Spaceplane Concept With Growth Potential

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mehta, Unmeel B.; Bowles, Jeffrey V.

2001-01-01

A two-stage-to-orbit (TSTO) spaceplane concept developed in 1993 is revisited, and new information is provided to assist in the development of the next-generation space transportation vehicles. The design philosophy, TSTO spaceplane concept, and the design method are briefly described. A trade study between cold and hot structures leads to the choice of cold structures with external thermal protection systems. The optimal Mach number for staging the second stage of the TSTO spaceplane (with air-breathing propulsion on the first stage) is 10, based on life-cycle cost analysis. The performance and specification of a prototype/experimental (P/X) TSTO spaceplane with a turbo/ram/scramjet propulsion system and built-in growth potential are presented and discussed. The internal rate of return on investment is the highest for the proposed TSTO spaceplane, vis-A-vis a single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) rocket vehicle and a TSTO spaceplane without built-in growth. Additional growth potentials for the proposed spaceplane are suggested. This spaceplane can substantially decrease access-to-space cost and risk, and increase safety and reliability in the near term It can be a serious candidate for the next-generation space transportation system.

Design of an automated cart and mount for a hyperspectral imaging system to be used in produce fields

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lefcourt, Alan M.; Kistler, Ross; Gadsden, S. Andrew

2016-05-01

The goal of this project was to construct a cart and a mounting system that would allow a hyperspectral laser-induced fluorescence imaging system (HLIFIS) to be used to detect fecal material in produce fields. Fecal contaminated produce is a recognized food safety risk. Previous research demonstrated the HLIFIS could detect fecal contamination in a laboratory setting. A cart was designed and built, and then tested to demonstrate that the cart was capable of moving at constant speeds or at precise intervals. A mounting system was designed and built to facilitate the critical alignment of the camera's imaging and the laser's illumination fields, and to allow the HLIFIS to be used in both field and laboratory settings without changing alignments. A hardened mount for the Powell lens that is used to produce the appropriate illumination profile was also designed, built, and tested.

From built environment to health inequalities: An explanatory framework based on evidence

PubMed Central

Gelormino, Elena; Melis, Giulia; Marietta, Cristina; Costa, Giuseppe

2015-01-01

Objective: The Health in All Policies strategy aims to engage every policy domain in health promotion. The more socially disadvantaged groups are usually more affected by potential negative impacts of policies if they are not health oriented. The built environment represents an important policy domain and, apart from its housing component, its impact on health inequalities is seldom assessed. Methods: A scoping review of evidence on the built environment and its health equity impact was carried out, searching both urban and medical literature since 2000 analysing socio-economic inequalities in relation to different components of the built environment. Results: The proposed explanatory framework assumes that key features of built environment (identified as density, functional mix and public spaces and services), may influence individual health through their impact on both natural environment and social context, as well as behaviours, and that these effects may be unequally distributed according to the social position of individuals. Conclusion: In general, the expected links proposed by the framework are well documented in the literature; however, evidence of their impact on health inequalities remains uncertain due to confounding factors, heterogeneity in study design, and difficulty to generalize evidence that is still very embedded to local contexts. PMID:26844145

Improvement program for polycarbonate capacitors. [hermetically sealed, and ac wound

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bailey, R. R.; Waterman, K. D.

1973-01-01

Hermetically sealed, wound, AC, polycarbonate capacitors incorporating design improvements recommended in a previous study were designed and built. A 5000 hour, 400 Hz ac life test was conducted using 384 of these capacitors to verify the adequacy of the design improvements. The improvements incorporated in the capacitors designed for this program eliminated the major cause of failure found in the preceding work, termination failure. A failure cause not present in the previous test became significant in this test with capacitors built from one lot of polycarbonate film. The samples from this lot accounted for 25 percent of the total test complement. Analyses of failed samples showed that the film had an excessive solvent content. This solvent problem was found in 37 of the total 46 failures which occurred in this test. The other nine were random failures resulting from causes such as seal leaks, foreign particles, and possibly wrinkles.

Mobile-Based Dictionary of Information and Communication Technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liando, O. E. S.; Mewengkang, A.; Kaseger, D.; Sangkop, F. I.; Rantung, V. P.; Rorimpandey, G. C.

2018-02-01

This study aims to design and build mobile-based dictionary of information and communication technology applications to provide access to information in the form of glossary of terms in the context of information and communication technologies. Applications built in this study using the Android platform, with SQLite database model. This research uses prototype model development method which covers the stages of communication, Quick Plan, Quick Design Modeling, Construction of Prototype, Deployment Delivery & Feedback, and Full System Transformation. The design of this application is designed in such a way as to facilitate the user in the process of learning and understanding the new terms or vocabularies encountered in the world of information and communication technology. Mobile-based dictionary of Information And Communication Technology applications that have been built can be an alternative to learning literature. In its simplest form, this application is able to meet the need for a comprehensive and accurate dictionary of Information And Communication Technology function.

An information model to support user-centered design of medical devices.

PubMed

Hagedorn, Thomas J; Krishnamurty, Sundar; Grosse, Ian R

2016-08-01

The process of engineering design requires the product development team to balance the needs and limitations of many stakeholders, including those of the user, regulatory organizations, and the designing institution. This is particularly true in medical device design, where additional consideration must be given for a much more complex user-base that can only be accessed on a limited basis. Given this inherent challenge, few projects exist that consider design domain concepts, such as aspects of a detailed design, a detailed view of various stakeholders and their capabilities, along with the user-needs simultaneously. In this paper, we present a novel information model approach that combines a detailed model of design elements with a model of the design itself, customer requirements, and of the capabilities of the customer themselves. The information model is used to facilitate knowledge capture and automated reasoning across domains with a minimal set of rules by adopting a terminology that treats customer and design specific factors identically, thus enabling straightforward assessments. A uniqueness of this approach is that it systematically provides an integrated perspective on the key usability information that drive design decisions towards more universal or effective outcomes with the very design information impacted by the usability information. This can lead to cost-efficient optimal designs based on a direct inclusion of the needs of customers alongside those of business, marketing, and engineering requirements. Two case studies are presented to show the method's potential as a more effective knowledge management tool with built-in automated inferences that provide design insight, as well as its overall effectiveness as a platform to develop and execute medical device design from a holistic perspective. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

On the Use of Statistics in Design and the Implications for Deterministic Computer Experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simpson, Timothy W.; Peplinski, Jesse; Koch, Patrick N.; Allen, Janet K.

1997-01-01

Perhaps the most prevalent use of statistics in engineering design is through Taguchi's parameter and robust design -- using orthogonal arrays to compute signal-to-noise ratios in a process of design improvement. In our view, however, there is an equally exciting use of statistics in design that could become just as prevalent: it is the concept of metamodeling whereby statistical models are built to approximate detailed computer analysis codes. Although computers continue to get faster, analysis codes always seem to keep pace so that their computational time remains non-trivial. Through metamodeling, approximations of these codes are built that are orders of magnitude cheaper to run. These metamodels can then be linked to optimization routines for fast analysis, or they can serve as a bridge for integrating analysis codes across different domains. In this paper we first review metamodeling techniques that encompass design of experiments, response surface methodology, Taguchi methods, neural networks, inductive learning, and kriging. We discuss their existing applications in engineering design and then address the dangers of applying traditional statistical techniques to approximate deterministic computer analysis codes. We conclude with recommendations for the appropriate use of metamodeling techniques in given situations and how common pitfalls can be avoided.

Computational Design and Analysis of a Transonic Natural Laminar Flow Wing for a Wind Tunnel Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lynde, Michelle N.; Campbell, Richard L.

2017-01-01

A natural laminar flow (NLF) wind tunnel model has been designed and analyzed for a wind tunnel test in the National Transonic Facility (NTF) at the NASA Langley Research Center. The NLF design method is built into the CDISC design module and uses a Navier-Stokes flow solver, a boundary layer profile solver, and stability analysis and transition prediction software. The NLF design method alters the pressure distribution to support laminar flow on the upper surface of wings with high sweep and flight Reynolds numbers. The method addresses transition due to attachment line contamination/transition, Gortler vortices, and crossflow and Tollmien-Schlichting modal instabilities. The design method is applied to the wing of the Common Research Model (CRM) at transonic flight conditions. Computational analysis predicts significant extents of laminar flow on the wing upper surface, which results in drag savings. A 5.2 percent scale semispan model of the CRM NLF wing will be built and tested in the NTF. This test will aim to validate the NLF design method, as well as characterize the laminar flow testing capabilities in the wind tunnel facility.

Fostering learners' interaction with content: A learner-centered mobile device interface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdous, M.

2015-12-01

With the ever-increasing omnipresence of mobile devices in student life, leveraging smart devices to foster students' interaction with course content is critical. Following a learner-centered design iterative approach, we designed a mobile interface that may enable learners to access and interact with online course content efficiently and intuitively. Our design process leveraged recent technologies, such as bootstrap, Google's Material Design, HTML5, and JavaScript to design an intuitive, efficient, and portable mobile interface with a variety of built-in features, including context sensitive bookmarking, searching, progress tracking, captioning, and transcript display. The mobile interface also offers students the ability to ask context-related questions and to complete self-checks as they watch audio/video presentations. Our design process involved ongoing iterative feedback from learners, allowing us to refine and tweak the interface to provide learners with a unified experience across platforms and devices. The innovative combination of technologies built around well-structured and well-designed content seems to provide an effective learning experience to mobile learners. Early feedback indicates a high level of satisfaction with the interface's efficiency, intuitiveness, and robustness from both students and faculty.

The structural characteristics of inflatable beams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wicker, William J.

1992-08-01

Two inflatable beams are designed and fabricated from polyethylene of ultrahigh molecular weight, and the structures are tested against similar composite and metal-alloy tubes. Specific attention is given to the choice of material that insures material stiffness, good strength-to-weight ratio, creep resistance, and durability. A cloth beam is built from a commercial extended-chain polyethylene fiber, and the inflated beams are tested by means of three- and four-point loading to measure bending and shear deformation. Comparing geometrically similar structures shows that the fabric beams can be about 35 percent as stiff as aluminum for small deflections. The inflatable beams have elastic stiffness coefficients five and two times higher than those for nylon and polyester tubes, respectively. Inflatable structures are concluded to hold promise for lightweight aerospace applications which demand small storage areas.

Project W-314 acceptance test report HNF-4647 for HNF-4646 241-B pit leak detection ANB-WT-LDSTA-231 for project W-314

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

HAMMERS, J.S.

The purpose of the test was to verify that the AN Tank Farm B Pit Leak Detector components are functionally integrated and operate in accordance with engineering design specifications. The Acceptance Test Procedure HNF-4646,241-AN-B-Pit Leak Detection ANB-WT-LDSTA-231 was conducted between 26 June and 02 July 1999 at the 200E AN Tank Farm. The test has been completed with no open test exceptions. The test was conducted prior to final engineering ''as built'' activities being completed this had no impact on the procedure or test results. All components, identified in the procedure were found to be labeled and identified as writtenmore » in the procedure.« less

The Built Environment and Childhood Obesity in Durham, NC

PubMed Central

Miranda, Marie Lynn; Edwards, Sharon E.; Anthopolos, Rebecca; Dolinsky, Diana H.; Kemper, Alex R.

2013-01-01

The relationship between childhood obesity and aspects of the built environment characterizing neighborhood social context is understudied. We evaluate the association between seven built environment domains and childhood obesity in Durham, NC. Measures of housing damage, property disorder, vacancy, nuisances, and territoriality were constructed using data from a 2008 community assessment. Renter-occupied housing and crime measures were developed from public databases. We linked these measures to 2008–2009 Duke University Medical Center pediatric preventive care visits. Age- and sex-specific body mass index percentiles were used to classify children as normal weight (>5th and ≤ 85th percentile), overweight (>85th and ≤ 95th percentile), or obese (> 95th percentile). Ordinal logistic regression models with cluster-corrected standard errors evaluated the association between weight status and the built environment. Adjusting for child-level socioeconomic characteristics, nuisances and crime were associated with childhood overweight/obesity (P<0.05). Built environment characteristics appear important to childhood weight status in Durham, NC. PMID:22563061

Architectural design influences the diversity and structure of the built environment microbiome

PubMed Central

Kembel, Steven W; Jones, Evan; Kline, Jeff; Northcutt, Dale; Stenson, Jason; Womack, Ann M; Bohannan, Brendan JM; Brown, G Z; Green, Jessica L

2012-01-01

Buildings are complex ecosystems that house trillions of microorganisms interacting with each other, with humans and with their environment. Understanding the ecological and evolutionary processes that determine the diversity and composition of the built environment microbiome—the community of microorganisms that live indoors—is important for understanding the relationship between building design, biodiversity and human health. In this study, we used high-throughput sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene to quantify relationships between building attributes and airborne bacterial communities at a health-care facility. We quantified airborne bacterial community structure and environmental conditions in patient rooms exposed to mechanical or window ventilation and in outdoor air. The phylogenetic diversity of airborne bacterial communities was lower indoors than outdoors, and mechanically ventilated rooms contained less diverse microbial communities than did window-ventilated rooms. Bacterial communities in indoor environments contained many taxa that are absent or rare outdoors, including taxa closely related to potential human pathogens. Building attributes, specifically the source of ventilation air, airflow rates, relative humidity and temperature, were correlated with the diversity and composition of indoor bacterial communities. The relative abundance of bacteria closely related to human pathogens was higher indoors than outdoors, and higher in rooms with lower airflow rates and lower relative humidity. The observed relationship between building design and airborne bacterial diversity suggests that we can manage indoor environments, altering through building design and operation the community of microbial species that potentially colonize the human microbiome during our time indoors. PMID:22278670

Design and multiphysics analysis of a 176Â MHz continuous-wave radio-frequency quadrupole

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kutsaev, S. V.; Mustapha, B.; Ostroumov, P. N.; Barcikowski, A.; Schrage, D.; Rodnizki, J.; Berkovits, D.

2014-07-01

We have developed a new design for a 176 MHz cw radio-frequency quadrupole (RFQ) for the SARAF upgrade project. At this frequency, the proposed design is a conventional four-vane structure. The main design goals are to provide the highest possible shunt impedance while limiting the required rf power to about 120 kW for reliable cw operation, and the length to about 4 meters. If built as designed, the proposed RFQ will be the first four-vane cw RFQ built as a single cavity (no resonant coupling required) that does not require π-mode stabilizing loops or dipole rods. For this, we rely on very detailed 3D simulations of all aspects of the structure and the level of machining precision achieved on the recently developed ATLAS upgrade RFQ. A full 3D model of the structure including vane modulation was developed. The design was optimized using electromagnetic and multiphysics simulations. Following the choice of the vane type and geometry, the vane undercuts were optimized to produce a flat field along the structure. The final design has good mode separation and should not need dipole rods if built as designed, but their effect was studied in the case of manufacturing errors. The tuners were also designed and optimized to tune the main mode without affecting the field flatness. Following the electromagnetic (EM) design optimization, a multiphysics engineering analysis of the structure was performed. The multiphysics analysis is a coupled electromagnetic, thermal and mechanical analysis. The cooling channels, including their paths and sizes, were optimized based on the limiting temperature and deformation requirements. The frequency sensitivity to the RFQ body and vane cooling water temperatures was carefully studied in order to use it for frequency fine-tuning. Finally, an inductive rf power coupler design based on the ATLAS RFQ coupler was developed and simulated. The EM design optimization was performed using cst Microwave Studio and the results were verified using both hfss and ansys. The engineering analysis was performed using hfss and ansys and most of the results were verified using the newly developed cst Multiphysics package.

Reaching record-low β* at the CERN Large Hadron Collider using a novel scheme of collimator settings and optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bruce, R.; Bracco, C.; De Maria, R.; Giovannozzi, M.; Mereghetti, A.; Mirarchi, D.; Redaelli, S.; Quaranta, E.; Salvachua, B.

2017-03-01

The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN is built to collide intense proton beams with an unprecedented energy of 7 TeV. The design stored energy per beam of 362 MJ makes the LHC beams highly destructive, so that any beam losses risk to cause quenches of superconducting magnets or damage to accelerator components. Collimators are installed to protect the machine and they define a minimum normalized aperture, below which no other element is allowed. This imposes a limit on the achievable luminosity, since when squeezing β* (the β-function at the collision point) to smaller values for increased luminosity, the β-function in the final focusing system increases. This leads to a smaller normalized aperture that risks to go below the allowed collimation aperture. In the first run of the LHC, this was the main limitation on β*, which was constrained to values above the design specification. In this article, we show through theoretical and experimental studies how tighter collimator openings and a new optics with specific phase-advance constraints allows a β* as small as 40 cm, a factor 2 smaller than β*=80 cm used in 2015 and significantly below the design value β*=55 cm, in spite of a lower beam energy. The proposed configuration with β*=40 cm has been successfully put into operation and has been used throughout 2016 as the LHC baseline. The decrease in β* compared to 2015 has been an essential contribution to reaching and surpassing, in 2016, the LHC design luminosity for the first time, and to accumulating a record-high integrated luminosity of around 40 fb-1 in one year, in spite of using less bunches than in the design.

RIMS: An Integrated Mapping and Analysis System with Applications to Earth Sciences and Hydrology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Proussevitch, A. A.; Glidden, S.; Shiklomanov, A. I.; Lammers, R. B.

2011-12-01

A web-based information and computational system for analysis of spatially distributed Earth system, climate, and hydrologic data have been developed. The System allows visualization, data exploration, querying, manipulation and arbitrary calculations with any loaded gridded or vector polygon dataset. The system's acronym, RIMS, stands for its core functionality as a Rapid Integrated Mapping System. The system can be deployed for a Global scale projects as well as for regional hydrology and climatology studies. In particular, the Water Systems Analysis Group of the University of New Hampshire developed the global and regional (Northern Eurasia, pan-Arctic) versions of the system with different map projections and specific data. The system has demonstrated its potential for applications in other fields of Earth sciences and education. The key Web server/client components of the framework include (a) a visualization engine built on Open Source libraries (GDAL, PROJ.4, etc.) that are utilized in a MapServer; (b) multi-level data querying tools built on XML server-client communication protocols that allow downloading map data on-the-fly to a client web browser; and (c) data manipulation and grid cell level calculation tools that mimic desktop GIS software functionality via a web interface. Server side data management of the system is designed around a simple database of dataset metadata facilitating mounting of new data to the system and maintaining existing data in an easy manner. RIMS contains "built-in" river network data that allows for query of upstream areas on-demand which can be used for spatial data aggregation and analysis of sub-basin areas. RIMS is an ongoing effort and currently being used to serve a number of websites hosting a suite of hydrologic, environmental and other GIS data.

Development and Applications of a Comprehensive Land Use Classification and Map for the US

PubMed Central

Theobald, David M.

2014-01-01

Land cover maps reasonably depict areas that are strongly converted by human activities, but typically are unable to resolve low-density but widespread development patterns. Data products specifically designed to resolve land uses complement land cover datasets and likely improve our ability to understand the extent and complexity of human modification. Methods for developing a comprehensive land use classification system are described, and a map of land use for the conterminous United States is presented to reveal what we are doing on the land. The comprehensive, detailed and high-resolution dataset was developed through spatial analysis of nearly two-dozen publicly-available, national spatial datasets – predominately based on census housing, employment, and infrastructure, as well as land cover from satellite imagery. This effort resulted in 79 land use classes that fit within five main land use groups: built-up, production, recreation, conservation, and water. Key findings from this study are that built-up areas occupy 13.6% of mainland US, but that the majority of this occurs as low-density exurban/rural residential (9.1% of the US), while more intensive built-up land uses occupy 4.5%. For every acre of urban and suburban residential land, there are 0.13 commercial, 0.07 industrial, 0.48 institutional, and 0.29 acres of interstates/highways. This database can be used to address a variety of natural resource applications, and I provide three examples here: an entropy index of the diversity of land uses for smart-growth planning, a power-law scaling of metropolitan area population to developed footprint, and identifying potential conflict areas by delineating the urban interface. PMID:24728210

Maximum Power Point Tracking Control of Hydrokinetic Turbine and Low-speed High-Thrust Permanent Magnet Generator Design

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-01-01

Schematic of the generator and power converters built in PLECS ............. 26 Figure 3.12. Block diagram of the MPPT control built in Matlab/Simulink...validated by simulation results done in Matlab/Simulink R2010a and PLECS . Figure 3.9 shows the block diagram of the hydrokinetic system built in Matlab...rectifier, boost converter and battery model built in PLECS . The battery bank on the load side is simulated by a constant dc voltage source. 25

Electronic readout system for the Belle II imaging Time-Of-Propagation detector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kotchetkov, Dmitri

2017-07-01

The imaging Time-Of-Propagation (iTOP) detector, constructed for the Belle II experiment at the SuperKEKB e+e- collider, is an 8192-channel high precision Cherenkov particle identification detector with timing resolution below 50 ps. To acquire data from the iTOP, a novel front-end electronic readout system was designed, built, and integrated. Switched-capacitor array application-specific integrated circuits are used to sample analog signals. Triggering, digitization, readout, and data transfer are controlled by Xilinx Zynq-7000 system on a chip devices.

Intelligent supercomputers: the Japanese computer sputnik

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Walter, G.

1983-11-01

Japan's government-supported fifth-generation computer project has had a pronounced effect on the American computer and information systems industry. The US firms are intensifying their research on and production of intelligent supercomputers, a combination of computer architecture and artificial intelligence software programs. While the present generation of computers is built for the processing of numbers, the new supercomputers will be designed specifically for the solution of symbolic problems and the use of artificial intelligence software. This article discusses new and exciting developments that will increase computer capabilities in the 1990s. 4 references.

The journey from discoveries in fundamental immunology to cancer immunotherapy.

PubMed

Miller, Jacques F A P; Sadelain, Michel

2015-04-13

Recent advances in cancer immunotherapy have directly built on 50 years of fundamental and technological advances that made checkpoint blockade and T cell engineering possible. In this review, we intend to show that research, not specifically designed to bring relief or cure to any particular disease, can, when creatively exploited, lead to spectacular results in the management of cancer. The discovery of thymus immune function, T cells, and immune surveillance bore the seeds for today's targeted immune interventions and chimeric antigen receptors. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Rotary engine research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

1992-06-01

A development history is presented for NASA's 1983-1991 Rotary Engine Enablement Program, emphasizing the CFD approaches to various problems that were instituted from 1987 to the end of the program. In phase I, a test rig was built to intensively clarify and characterize the stratified-charge rotary engine concept. In phase II, a high pressure, electronically controlled fuel injection system was tested. In phase III, the testing of improved fuel injectors led to the achievement of the stipulated 5 hp/cu inch specific power goal. CFD-aided design of advanced rotor-pocket shapes led to additional performance improvements.

49 CFR 195.205 - Repair, alteration and reconstruction of aboveground breakout tanks that have been in service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

...-refrigerated and tanks built to API Standard 650 or its predecessor Standard 12C, repair, alteration, and reconstruction must be in accordance with API Standard 653. (2) For tanks built to API Specification 12F or API..., examination, and material requirements of those respective standards. (3) For high pressure tanks built to API...

49 CFR 195.205 - Repair, alteration and reconstruction of aboveground breakout tanks that have been in service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

...-refrigerated and tanks built to API Standard 650 or its predecessor Standard 12C, repair, alteration, and reconstruction must be in accordance with API Standard 653. (2) For tanks built to API Specification 12F or API..., examination, and material requirements of those respective standards. (3) For high pressure tanks built to API...

49 CFR 195.205 - Repair, alteration and reconstruction of aboveground breakout tanks that have been in service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

...-refrigerated and tanks built to API Standard 650 or its predecessor Standard 12C, repair, alteration, and reconstruction must be in accordance with API Standard 653. (2) For tanks built to API Specification 12F or API..., examination, and material requirements of those respective standards. (3) For high pressure tanks built to API...

49 CFR 195.205 - Repair, alteration and reconstruction of aboveground breakout tanks that have been in service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

...-refrigerated and tanks built to API Standard 650 or its predecessor Standard 12C, repair, alteration, and reconstruction must be in accordance with API Standard 653. (2) For tanks built to API Specification 12F or API..., examination, and material requirements of those respective standards. (3) For high pressure tanks built to API...

Design details of Intelligent Instruments for PLC-free Cryogenic measurements, control and data acquisition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Antony, Joby; Mathuria, D. S.; Chaudhary, Anup; Datta, T. S.; Maity, T.

2017-02-01

Cryogenic network for linear accelerator operations demand a large number of Cryogenic sensors, associated instruments and other control-instrumentation to measure, monitor and control different cryogenic parameters remotely. Here we describe an alternate approach of six types of newly designed integrated intelligent cryogenic instruments called device-servers which has the complete circuitry for various sensor-front-end analog instrumentation and the common digital back-end http-server built together, to make crateless PLC-free model of controls and data acquisition. These identified instruments each sensor-specific viz. LHe server, LN2 Server, Control output server, Pressure server, Vacuum server and Temperature server are completely deployed over LAN for the cryogenic operations of IUAC linac (Inter University Accelerator Centre linear Accelerator), New Delhi. This indigenous design gives certain salient features like global connectivity, low cost due to crateless model, easy signal processing due to integrated design, less cabling and device-interconnectivity etc.

Cranial reconstruction: 3D biomodel and custom-built implant created using additive manufacturing.

PubMed

Jardini, André Luiz; Larosa, Maria Aparecida; Maciel Filho, Rubens; Zavaglia, Cecília Amélia de Carvalho; Bernardes, Luis Fernando; Lambert, Carlos Salles; Calderoni, Davi Reis; Kharmandayan, Paulo

2014-12-01

Additive manufacturing (AM) technology from engineering has helped to achieve several advances in the medical field, particularly as far as fabrication of implants is concerned. The use of AM has made it possible to carry out surgical planning and simulation using a three-dimensional physical model which accurately represents the patient's anatomy. AM technology enables the production of models and implants directly from a 3D virtual model, facilitating surgical procedures and reducing risks. Furthermore, AM has been used to produce implants designed for individual patients in areas of medicine such as craniomaxillofacial surgery, with optimal size, shape and mechanical properties. This work presents AM technologies which were applied to design and fabricate a biomodel and customized implant for the surgical reconstruction of a large cranial defect. A series of computed tomography data was obtained and software was used to extract the cranial geometry. The protocol presented was used to create an anatomic biomodel of the bone defect for surgical planning and, finally, the design and manufacture of the patient-specific implant. Copyright © 2014 European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Acoustic Resonance Spectroscopy (ARS) Munition Classification System enhancements. Final report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Vela, O.A.; Huggard, J.C.

Acoustic Resonance Spectroscopy (ARS) is a non-destructive evaluation technology developed at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). This technology has resulted in three generations of instrumentation, funded by the Defense Special Weapons Agency (DSWA), specifically designed for field identification of chemical weapon (CW) munitions. Each generation of ARS instrumentation was developed with a specific user in mind. The ARS1OO was built for use by the U.N. Inspection Teams going into Iraq immediately after the Persian Gulf War. The ARS200 was built for use in the US-Russia Bilateral Chemical Weapons Treaty (the primary users for this system are the US Onsitemore » Inspection Agency (OSIA) and their Russian counterparts). The ARS300 was built with the requirements of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in mind. Each successive system is an improved version of the previous system based on learning the weaknesses of each and, coincidentally, on the fact that more time was available to do a requirements analysis and the necessary engineering development. The ARS300 is at a level of development that warrants transferring the technology to a commercial vendor. Since LANL will supply the computer software to the selected vendor, it is possible for LANL to continue to improve the decision algorithms, add features where necessary, and adjust the user interface before the final transfer occurs. This paper describes the current system, ARS system enhancements, and software enhancements. Appendices contain the Operations Manual (software Version 3.01), and two earlier reports on enhancements.« less