Multi-cluster processor operating only select number of clusters during each phase based on program statistic monitored at predetermined intervals

DOEpatents

Balasubramonian, Rajeev [Sandy, UT; Dwarkadas, Sandhya [Rochester, NY; Albonesi, David [Ithaca, NY

2009-02-10

In a processor having multiple clusters which operate in parallel, the number of clusters in use can be varied dynamically. At the start of each program phase, the configuration option for an interval is run to determine the optimal configuration, which is used until the next phase change is detected. The optimum instruction interval is determined by starting with a minimum interval and doubling it until a low stability factor is reached.

Earth orbital teleoperator visual system evaluation program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frederick, P. N.; Shields, N. L., Jr.; Kirkpatrick, M., III

1977-01-01

Visual system parameters and stereoptic television component geometries were evaluated for optimum viewing. The accuracy of operator range estimation using a Fresnell stereo television system with a three dimensional cursor was examined. An operator's ability to align three dimensional targets using vidicon tube and solid state television cameras as part of a Fresnell stereoptic system was evaluated. An operator's ability to discriminate between varied color samples viewed with a color television system was determined.

Optimizing the availability of a buffered industrial process

DOEpatents

Martz, Jr., Harry F.; Hamada, Michael S.; Koehler, Arthur J.; Berg, Eric C.

2004-08-24

A computer-implemented process determines optimum configuration parameters for a buffered industrial process. A population size is initialized by randomly selecting a first set of design and operation values associated with subsystems and buffers of the buffered industrial process to form a set of operating parameters for each member of the population. An availability discrete event simulation (ADES) is performed on each member of the population to determine the product-based availability of each member. A new population is formed having members with a second set of design and operation values related to the first set of design and operation values through a genetic algorithm and the product-based availability determined by the ADES. Subsequent population members are then determined by iterating the genetic algorithm with product-based availability determined by ADES to form improved design and operation values from which the configuration parameters are selected for the buffered industrial process.

Comparative evaluation of distributed-collector solar thermal electric power plants

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fujita, T.; El Gabalawi, N.; Herrera, G. G.; Caputo, R. S.

1978-01-01

Distributed-collector solar thermal-electric power plants are compared by projecting power plant economics of selected systems to the 1990-2000 timeframe. The approach taken is to evaluate the performance of the selected systems under the same weather conditions. Capital and operational costs are estimated for each system. Energy costs are calculated for different plant sizes based on the plant performance and the corresponding capital and maintenance costs. Optimum systems are then determined as the systems with the minimum energy costs for a given load factor. The optimum system is comprised of the best combination of subsystems which give the minimum energy cost for every plant size. Sensitivity analysis is done around the optimum point for various plant parameters.

Evaluation of optimum room entry times for radiation therapists after high energy whole pelvic photon treatments.

PubMed

Ho, Lavine; White, Peter; Chan, Edward; Chan, Kim; Ng, Janet; Tam, Timothy

2012-01-01

Linear accelerators operating at or above 10 MV produce neutrons by photonuclear reactions and induce activation in machine components, which are a source of potential exposure for radiation therapists. This study estimated gamma dose contributions to radiation therapists during high energy, whole pelvic, photon beam treatments and determined the optimum room entry times, in terms of safety of radiation therapists. Two types of technique (anterior-posterior opposing and 3-field technique) were studied. An Elekta Precise treatment system, operating up to 18 MV, was investigated. Measurements with an area monitoring device (a Mini 900R radiation monitor) were performed, to calculate gamma dose rates around the radiotherapy facility. Measurements inside the treatment room were performed when the linear accelerator was in use. The doses received by radiation therapists were estimated, and optimum room entry times were determined. The highest gamma dose rates were approximately 7 μSv/h inside the treatment room, while the doses in the control room were close to background (~0 μSv/h) for all techniques. The highest personal dose received by radiation therapists was estimated at 5 mSv/yr. To optimize protection, radiation therapists should wait for up to11 min after beam-off prior to room entry. The potential risks to radiation therapists with standard safety procedures were well below internationally recommended values, but risks could be further decreased by delaying room entry times. Dependent on the technique used, optimum entry times ranged between 7 to 11 min. A balance between moderate treatment times versus reduction in measured equivalent doses should be considered.

Technical support package: Large, easily deployable structures. NASA Tech Briefs, Fall 1982, volume 7, no. 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1982-01-01

Design and test data for packaging, deploying, and assembling structures for near term space platform systems, were provided by testing light type hardware in the Neutral Buoyancy Simulator. An optimum or near optimum structural configuration for varying degrees of deployment utilizing different levels of EVA and RMS was achieved. The design of joints and connectors and their lock/release mechanisms were refined to improve performance and operational convenience. The incorporation of utilities into structural modules to determine their effects on packaging and deployment was evaluated. By simulation tests, data was obtained for stowage, deployment, and assembly of the final structural system design to determine construction timelines, and evaluate system functioning and techniques.

On the optimum polarizations of incoherently reflected waves

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Van Zyl, Jakob J.; Elachi, Charles; Papas, Charles H.

1987-01-01

The Stokes scattering operator is noted to be the most useful characterization of incoherent scattering in radar imaging; the polarization that would yield an optimum amount of power received from the scatterer is obtained by assuming a knowledge of the Stokes scattering operator instead of the 2x2 scattering matrix with complex elements. It is thereby possible to find the optimum polarizations for the case in which the scatterers can only be fully characterized by their Stokes scattering operator, and the case in which the scatterer can be fully characterized by the complex 2x2 scattering matrix. It is shown that the optimum polarizations reported in the literature form the solution for a subset of a more general class of problems, so that six optimum polarizations can exist for incoherent scattering.

Cyclically optimized electrochemical processes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruedisueli, Robert Louis

It has been frequently observed in experiment and industry practice that electrochemical processes (deposition, dissolution, fuel cells) operated in an intermittent or cyclic (AC) mode show improvements in efficiency and/or quality and yield over their steady (DC) mode of operation. Whether rationally invoked by design or empirically tuned-in, the optimal operating frequency and duty cycle is dependent upon the dominant relaxation time constant for the process in question. The electrochemical relaxation time constant is a function of: double-layer and reaction intermediary pseudo-capacitances, ion (charge) transport via electrical migration (mobility), and diffusion across a concentration gradient to electrode surface reaction sites where charge transfer and species incorporation or elimination occurs. The rate determining step dominates the time constant for the reaction or process. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and piezoelectric crystal electrode (PCE) response analysis have proven to be useful tools in the study and identification of reaction mechanisms. This work explains and demonstrates with the electro-deposition of copper the application of EIS and PCE measurement and analysis to the selection of an optimum cyclic operating schedule, an optimum driving frequency for efficient, sustained cyclic (pulsed) operation.

Development of display design and command usage guidelines for Spacelab experiment computer applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dodson, D. W.; Shields, N. L., Jr.

1979-01-01

Individual Spacelab experiments are responsible for developing their CRT display formats and interactive command scenarios for payload crew monitoring and control of experiment operations via the Spacelab Data Display System (DDS). In order to enhance crew training and flight operations, it was important to establish some standardization of the crew/experiment interface among different experiments by providing standard methods and techniques for data presentation and experiment commanding via the DDS. In order to establish optimum usage guidelines for the Spacelab DDS, the capabilities and limitations of the hardware and Experiment Computer Operating System design had to be considered. Since the operating system software and hardware design had already been established, the Display and Command Usage Guidelines were constrained to the capabilities of the existing system design. Empirical evaluations were conducted on a DDS simulator to determine optimum operator/system interface utilization of the system capabilities. Display parameters such as information location, display density, data organization, status presentation and dynamic update effects were evaluated in terms of response times and error rates.

18 CFR 1304.404 - Commercial marina harbor limits.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... facilities at the dock, navigation and flood control requirements, optimum use of lands and land rights owned... to, changes in the ownership of the land base supporting the marina. ... harbor areas are determined by the extent of land rights held by the dock operator. The lakeward limits...

Parallel operation of NH3 screw compressors - the optimum way

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pijnenburg, B.; Ritmann, J.

2015-08-01

The use of more smaller industrial NH3 screw compressors operating in parallel seems to offer the optimum way when it comes to fulfilling maximum part load efficiency, increased redundancy and other highly requested features in the industrial refrigeration industry today. Parallel operation in an optimum way can be selected to secure continuous operation and can in most applications be configured to ensure lower overall operating economy. New compressors are developed to meet requirements for flexibility in operation and are controlled in an intelligent way. The intelligent control system keeps focus on all external demands, but yet striving to offer always the lowest possible absorbed power, including in future scenarios with connection to smart grid.

Investigation of an ejector heat pump by analytical methods

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

Hsu, C.T.

1984-07-01

Using existing theories of ejector design, the optimum geometry of a high-efficiency ejector - including mixing section cross-sectional area, mass flow entrainment rate, ejector efficiency, and overall COP - for a heat pump cycle was determined. A parametric study was performed to evaluate the COP values for different operating conditions. A sensitivity study determined th effects of nozzle efficiency and diffuser efficiency on the overall ejector heat pump COP. The off-design study estimated the COP for an ejector heat pump operating at off-design conditions. Refrigerants 11, 113, and 114 are three of the halocarbons which best satisfy the criteria formore » an ejector heat pump system. The estimated COPs were 0.3 for the cooling mode and 1.3 for the heating mode at standard operating conditions: a boiler temperature of 93.3/sup 0/C (200/sup 0/F), a condenser temperature of 43.3/sup 0/C (110/sup 0/F), and an evaporator temperature of 10/sup 0/C (50/sup 0/F). Based on the same operating conditions, an optimum ejector geometry was estimated for each of the refrigerants R-11 and R-113. Since the COP values for heating obtained in this analysis are greater than unity, the performance of an ejector heat pump operating in the heating mode should be competitive with that of oil- or gas-fired furnaces or electrical resistance heaters.« less

MASTOS: Mammography Simulation Tool for design Optimization Studies.

PubMed

Spyrou, G; Panayiotakis, G; Tzanakos, G

2000-01-01

Mammography is a high quality imaging technique for the detection of breast lesions, which requires dedicated equipment and optimum operation. The design parameters of a mammography unit have to be decided and evaluated before the construction of such a high cost of apparatus. The optimum operational parameters also must be defined well before the real breast examination. MASTOS is a software package, based on Monte Carlo methods, that is designed to be used as a simulation tool in mammography. The input consists of the parameters that have to be specified when using a mammography unit, and also the parameters specifying the shape and composition of the breast phantom. In addition, the input may specify parameters needed in the design of a new mammographic apparatus. The main output of the simulation is a mammographic image and calculations of various factors that describe the image quality. The Monte Carlo simulation code is PC-based and is driven by an outer shell of a graphical user interface. The entire software package is a simulation tool for mammography and can be applied in basic research and/or in training in the fields of medical physics and biomedical engineering as well as in the performance evaluation of new designs of mammography units and in the determination of optimum standards for the operational parameters of a mammography unit.

The application of elastohydrodynamic lubrication in gear tooth contacts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Townsend, D. P.

1972-01-01

An analytical method is presented for determining elastohydrodynamic film thickness in gears from theory and how the film affects gear failure and life. The practical aspects of gear lubrication are presented, including mechanical and service variables which must be considered to obtain optimum gear performance under severe operating conditions.

Combination of artificial neural network and genetic algorithm method for modeling of methylene blue adsorption onto wood sawdust from water samples.

PubMed

Khajeh, Mostafa; Sarafraz-Yazdi, Ali; Natavan, Zahra Bameri

2016-03-01

The aim of this research was to develop a low price and environmentally friendly adsorbent with abundant of source to remove methylene blue (MB) from water samples. Sawdust solid-phase extraction coupled with high-performance liquid chromatography was used for the extraction and determination of MB. In this study, an experimental data-based artificial neural network model is constructed to describe the performance of sawdust solid-phase extraction method for various operating conditions. The pH, time, amount of sawdust, and temperature were the input variables, while the percentage of extraction of MB was the output. The optimum operating condition was then determined by genetic algorithm method. The optimized conditions were obtained as follows: 11.5, 22.0 min, 0.3 g, and 26.0°C for pH of the solution, extraction time, amount of adsorbent, and temperature, respectively. Under these optimum conditions, the detection limit and relative standard deviation were 0.067 μg L(-1) and <2.4%, respectively. The Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption models were applied to describe the isotherm constant and for the removal and determination of MB from water samples. © The Author(s) 2013.

Optimization of Operating Parameters for Minimum Mechanical Specific Energy in Drilling

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

Hamrick, Todd

2011-01-01

Efficiency in drilling is measured by Mechanical Specific Energy (MSE). MSE is the measure of the amount of energy input required to remove a unit volume of rock, expressed in units of energy input divided by volume removed. It can be expressed mathematically in terms of controllable parameters; Weight on Bit, Torque, Rate of Penetration, and RPM. It is well documented that minimizing MSE by optimizing controllable factors results in maximum Rate of Penetration. Current methods for computing MSE make it possible to minimize MSE in the field only through a trial-and-error process. This work makes it possible to computemore » the optimum drilling parameters that result in minimum MSE. The parameters that have been traditionally used to compute MSE are interdependent. Mathematical relationships between the parameters were established, and the conventional MSE equation was rewritten in terms of a single parameter, Weight on Bit, establishing a form that can be minimized mathematically. Once the optimum Weight on Bit was determined, the interdependent relationship that Weight on Bit has with Torque and Penetration per Revolution was used to determine optimum values for those parameters for a given drilling situation. The improved method was validated through laboratory experimentation and analysis of published data. Two rock types were subjected to four treatments each, and drilled in a controlled laboratory environment. The method was applied in each case, and the optimum parameters for minimum MSE were computed. The method demonstrated an accurate means to determine optimum drilling parameters of Weight on Bit, Torque, and Penetration per Revolution. A unique application of micro-cracking is also presented, which demonstrates that rock failure ahead of the bit is related to axial force more than to rotation speed.« less

Treatment of slaughter wastewater by coagulation sedimentation-anaerobic biological filter and biological contact oxidation process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, M.; Yu, P. F.; Fu, J. X.; Ji, X. Q.; Jiang, T.

2017-08-01

The optimal process parameters and conditions for the treatment of slaughterhouse wastewater by coagulation sedimentation-AF - biological contact oxidation process were studied to solve the problem of high concentration organic wastewater treatment in the production of small and medium sized slaughter plants. The suitable water temperature and the optimum reaction time are determined by the experiment of precipitation to study the effect of filtration rate and reflux ratio on COD and SS in anaerobic biological filter and the effect of biofilm thickness and gas water ratio on NH3-N and COD in biological contact oxidation tank, and results show that the optimum temperature is 16-24°C, reaction time is 20 min in coagulating sedimentation, the optimum filtration rate is 0.6 m/h, and the optimum reflux ratio is 300% in anaerobic biological filter reactor. The most suitable biological film thickness range of 1.8-2.2 mm and the most suitable gas water ratio is 12:1-14:1 in biological contact oxidation pool. In the coupling process of continuous operation for 80 days, the average effluent’s mass concentrations of COD, TP and TN were 15.57 mg/L, 40 mg/L and 0.63 mg/L, the average removal rates were 98.93%, 86.10%, 88.95%, respectively. The coupling process has stable operation effect and good effluent quality, and is suitable for the industrial application.

Thermoelectric thin film thermal coating systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harpster, J. W.; Bulman, W. E.; Middleton, A. E.; Swinehart, P. R.; Braun, F. D.

1973-01-01

Derivation of the fluid loop temperature profile for a model with thermoelectric devices (TED) attached is developed as a function of position, incident radiation intensity, input fluid loop temperature and TED current. The associated temperature of the radiator is also developed so that the temperature difference across the TED can be determined for each position. The temperature difference is used in determining optimum operating conditions and available generated electrical power.

Determination of Optimum Operating Parameters of Single-Electron Photomultiplier

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

Lukichev, A.A.; Shalyapin, A.L.; Shul'gin, B.V.

1986-06-01

This paper presents a procedure for determining the effective quantum yield and average gain of the dynode system of a photomultiplier. An objective performance figure, the extrapolated count response, is introduced. The results for FEU-142 photomultiplier studies are given. The radiation source used in the studies was a PRK-2 mercury-vapor lamp with a regulated power supply. The recorder was a pulse analyzer based on a UNO-4096-90, which was equipped with BPA-2-95, BPV-2-90, and UVTs-2-90 units. The amplifier used a KP303V transistor and a 140UD1B operational amplifier.

Remote sensing of soils, land forms, and land use in the northern Great Plains in preparation for ERTS applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frazee, C. J.; Westin, F. C.; Gropper, J.; Myers, V. I.

1972-01-01

Research to determine the optimum time or season for obtaining imagery to identify and map soil limitations was conducted in the proposed Oahe irrigation project area in South Dakota. The optimum time for securing photographs or imagery is when the soil surface patterns are most apparent. For cultivated areas similar to the study area, May is the optimum time. The density slicing analysis of the May image provided additional and more accurate information than did the existing soil map. The soil boundaries were more accurately located. The use of a density analysis system for an operational soil survey has not been tested, but is obviously dependent upon securing excellent photographs for interpretation. The colors or densities of photographs will have to be corrected for sun angle effects, vignetting effects, and processing to have maximum effectiveness for mapping soil limitations. Rangeland sites were established in Bennett County, South Dakota to determine the usefulness of ERTS imagery. Imagery from these areas was interpreted for land use and drainage patterns.

Improving Reliability of High Power Quasi-CW Laser Diode Arrays Operating in Long Pulse Mode

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Amzajerdian, Farzin; Meadows, Byron L.; Barnes, Bruce W.; Lockard, George E.; Singh, Upendra N.; Kavaya, Michael J.; Baker, Nathaniel R.

2006-01-01

Operating high power laser diode arrays in long pulse regime of about 1 msec, which is required for pumping 2-micron thulium and holmium-based lasers, greatly limits their useful lifetime. This paper describes performance of laser diode arrays operating in long pulse mode and presents experimental data of the active region temperature and pulse-to-pulse thermal cycling that are the primary cause of their premature failure and rapid degradation. This paper will then offer a viable approach for determining the optimum design and operational parameters leading to the maximum attainable lifetime.

Preliminary compressor design study for an advanced multistage axial flow compressor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marman, H. V.; Marchant, R. D.

1976-01-01

An optimum, axial flow, high pressure ratio compressor for a turbofan engine was defined for commercial subsonic transport service starting in the late 1980's. Projected 1985 technologies were used and applied to compressors with an 18:1 pressure ratio having 6 to 12 stages. A matrix of 49 compressors was developed by statistical techniques. The compressors were evaluated by means of computer programs in terms of various airline economic figures of merit such as return on investment and direct-operating cost. The optimum configuration was determined to be a high speed, 8-stage compressor with an average blading aspect ratio of 1.15.

Optimization of supercritical fluid extraction and HPLC identification of wedelolactone from Wedelia calendulacea by orthogonal array design.

PubMed

Patil, Ajit A; Sachin, Bhusari S; Wakte, Pravin S; Shinde, Devanand B

2014-11-01

The purpose of this work is to provide a complete study of the influence of operational parameters of the supercritical carbon dioxide assisted extraction (SC CO2E) on yield of wedelolactone from Wedelia calendulacea Less., and to find an optimal combination of factors that maximize the wedelolactone yield. In order to determine the optimal combination of the four factors viz. operating pressure, temperature, modifier concentration and extraction time, a Taguchi experimental design approach was used: four variables (three levels) in L9 orthogonal array. Wedelolactone content was determined using validated HPLC methodology. Optimum extraction conditions were found to be as follows: extraction pressure, 25 MPa; temperature, 40 °C; modifier concentration, 10% and extraction time, 90 min. Optimum extraction conditions demonstrated wedelolactone yield of 8.01 ± 0.34 mg/100 g W. calendulacea Less. Pressure, temperature and time showed significant (p < 0.05) effect on the wedelolactone yield. The supercritical carbon dioxide extraction showed higher selectivity than the conventional Soxhlet assisted extraction method.

Optimization of supercritical fluid extraction and HPLC identification of wedelolactone from Wedelia calendulacea by orthogonal array design

PubMed Central

Patil, Ajit A.; Sachin, Bhusari S.; Wakte, Pravin S.; Shinde, Devanand B.

2013-01-01

The purpose of this work is to provide a complete study of the influence of operational parameters of the supercritical carbon dioxide assisted extraction (SC CO2E) on yield of wedelolactone from Wedelia calendulacea Less., and to find an optimal combination of factors that maximize the wedelolactone yield. In order to determine the optimal combination of the four factors viz. operating pressure, temperature, modifier concentration and extraction time, a Taguchi experimental design approach was used: four variables (three levels) in L9 orthogonal array. Wedelolactone content was determined using validated HPLC methodology. Optimum extraction conditions were found to be as follows: extraction pressure, 25 MPa; temperature, 40 °C; modifier concentration, 10% and extraction time, 90 min. Optimum extraction conditions demonstrated wedelolactone yield of 8.01 ± 0.34 mg/100 g W. calendulacea Less. Pressure, temperature and time showed significant (p < 0.05) effect on the wedelolactone yield. The supercritical carbon dioxide extraction showed higher selectivity than the conventional Soxhlet assisted extraction method. PMID:25687584

Separation of tartronic and glyceric acids by simulated moving bed chromatography.

PubMed

Coelho, Lucas C D; Filho, Nelson M L; Faria, Rui P V; Ferreira, Alexandre F P; Ribeiro, Ana M; Rodrigues, Alírio E

2018-08-17

The SMB unit developed by the Laboratory of Separation and Reaction Engineering (FlexSMB-LSRE ® ) was used to perform tartronic acid (TTA) and glyceric acid (GCA) separation and to validate the mathematical model in order to determine the optimum operating parameters of an industrial unit. The purity of the raffinate and extract streams in the experiments performed were 80% and 100%, respectively. The TTA and GCA productivities were 79 and 115 kg per liter of adsorbent per day, respectively and only 0.50 cubic meters of desorbent were required per kilogram of products. Under the optimum operating conditions, which were determined through an extensive simulation study based on the mathematical model developed to predict the performance of a real SMB unit, it was possible to achieve a productivity of 86 kg of TTA and 176 kg of GCA per cubic meter of adsorbent per day (considering the typical commercial purity value of 97% for both compounds) with an eluent consumption of 0.30 cubic meters per kilogram of products. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Analysis of geologic terrain models for determination of optimum SAR sensor configuration and optimum information extraction for exploration of global non-renewable resources. Pilot study: Arkansas Remote Sensing Laboratory, part 1, part 2, and part 3

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaupp, V. H.; Macdonald, H. C.; Waite, W. P.; Stiles, J. A.; Frost, F. S.; Shanmugam, K. S.; Smith, S. A.; Narayanan, V.; Holtzman, J. C. (Principal Investigator)

1982-01-01

Computer-generated radar simulations and mathematical geologic terrain models were used to establish the optimum radar sensor operating parameters for geologic research. An initial set of mathematical geologic terrain models was created for three basic landforms and families of simulated radar images were prepared from these models for numerous interacting sensor, platform, and terrain variables. The tradeoffs between the various sensor parameters and the quantity and quality of the extractable geologic data were investigated as well as the development of automated techniques of digital SAR image analysis. Initial work on a texture analysis of SEASAT SAR imagery is reported. Computer-generated radar simulations are shown for combinations of two geologic models and three SAR angles of incidence.

Optimization of solid content, carbon/nitrogen ratio and food/inoculum ratio for biogas production from food waste.

PubMed

Dadaser-Celik, Filiz; Azgin, Sukru Taner; Yildiz, Yalcin Sevki

2016-12-01

Biogas production from food waste has been used as an efficient waste treatment option for years. The methane yields from decomposition of waste are, however, highly variable under different operating conditions. In this study, a statistical experimental design method (Taguchi OA 9 ) was implemented to investigate the effects of simultaneous variations of three parameters on methane production. The parameters investigated were solid content (SC), carbon/nitrogen ratio (C/N) and food/inoculum ratio (F/I). Two sets of experiments were conducted with nine anaerobic reactors operating under different conditions. Optimum conditions were determined using statistical analysis, such as analysis of variance (ANOVA). A confirmation experiment was carried out at optimum conditions to investigate the validity of the results. Statistical analysis showed that SC was the most important parameter for methane production with a 45% contribution, followed by F/I ratio with a 35% contribution. The optimum methane yield of 151 l kg -1 volatile solids (VS) was achieved after 24 days of digestion when SC was 4%, C/N was 28 and F/I were 0.3. The confirmation experiment provided a methane yield of 167 l kg -1 VS after 24 days. The analysis showed biogas production from food waste may be increased by optimization of operating conditions. © The Author(s) 2016.

Enhancement of 2,3-Butanediol Production by Klebsiella oxytoca PTCC 1402

PubMed Central

Anvari, Maesomeh; Safari Motlagh, Mohammad Reza

2011-01-01

Optimal operating parameters of 2,3-Butanediol production using Klebsiella oxytoca under submerged culture conditions are determined by using Taguchi method. The effect of different factors including medium composition, pH, temperature, mixing intensity, and inoculum size on 2,3-butanediol production was analyzed using the Taguchi method in three levels. Based on these analyses the optimum concentrations of glucose, acetic acid, and succinic acid were found to be 6, 0.5, and 1.0 (% w/v), respectively. Furthermore, optimum values for temperature, inoculum size, pH, and the shaking speed were determined as 37°C, 8 (g/L), 6.1, and 150 rpm, respectively. The optimal combinations of factors obtained from the proposed DOE methodology was further validated by conducting fermentation experiments and the obtained results revealed an enhanced 2,3-Butanediol yield of 44%. PMID:21318172

Effect of an InxGa1-xAs-GaAs blocking heterocathode metal contact on the GaAs TED operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arkusha, Yu. V.; Prokhorov, E. D.; Storozhenko, I. P.

2004-09-01

The frequency dependence of the generation efficiency of an mm- -nn:In:InxGaGa1-1-xAs- As-nn:GaAs-:GaAs-nn++:GaAs TED with the 2.5-mm long active region is calculated. The optimum values - which yield the diode maximum generation efficiency - for the :GaAs TED with the 2.5-mm long active region is calculated. The optimum values - which yield the diode maximum generation efficiency - for the nn:In:InxGaGa1-1-xAs cathode length, the cathode concentration of ionized impurities, and the height of the potential barrier on metal contact are determined.As cathode length, the cathode concentration of ionized impurities, and the height of the potential barrier on metal contact are determined.

Dynamic optometer. [for electronic recording of human lens anterior surface

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilson, D. C.

1974-01-01

A dynamic optometer that electronically records the position of the anterior surface of the human lens is described. The geometrical optics of the eye and optometer, and the scattering of light from the lens, are closely examined to determine the optimum conditions for adjustment of the instrument. The light detector and associated electronics are also considered, and the operating conditions for obtaining the best signal-to-noise ratio are determined.

Deep Space One High-Voltage Bus Management

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rachocki, Ken; Nieraeth, Donald

1999-01-01

The design of the High Voltage Power Converter Unit on DS1 allows both the spacecraft avionics and ion propulsion to operate in a stable manner near the PPP of the solar array. This approach relies on a fairly well-defined solar array model to determine the projected PPP. The solar array voltage set-points have to be updated every week to maintain operation near PPP. Stable operation even to the LEFT of the Peak Power Point is achievable so long as you do not change the operating power level of the ion engine. The next step for this technology is to investigate the use of onboard autonomy to determine the optimum SA voltage regulation set-point (i.e. near the PPP); this is for future missions that have one or more ion propulsion subsystems.

TiO₂ beads and TiO₂-chitosan beads for urease immobilization.

PubMed

Ispirli Doğaç, Yasemin; Deveci, Ilyas; Teke, Mustafa; Mercimek, Bedrettin

2014-09-01

The aim of the present study is to synthesize TiO2 beads for urease immobilization. Two different strategies were used to immobilize the urease on TiO2 beads. In the first method (A), urease enzyme was immobilized onto TiO2 beads by adsorption and then crosslinking. In the second method (B), TiO2 beads were coated with chitosan-urease mixture. To determine optimum conditions of immobilization, different parameters were investigated. The parameters of optimization were initial enzyme concentration (0.5; 1; 1.5; 2mg/ml), alginate concentration (1; 2; 3%), glutaraldehyde concentration (1; 2; 3% v/v) and chitosan concentration (2; 3; 4 mg/ml). The optimum enzyme concentrations were determined as 1.5mg/ml for A and 1.0mg/ml for B. The other optimum conditions were found 2.0% (w/v) for alginate concentration (both A and B); 3.0mg/ml for chitosan concentration (B) and 2.0% (v/v) for glutaraldehyde concentration (A). The optimum temperature (20-60°C), optimum pH (3.0-10.0), kinetic parameters, thermal stability (4-70°C), pH stability (4.0-9.0), operational stability (0-230 min) and reusability (20 times) were investigated for characterization. The optimum temperatures were 30°C (A), 40°C (B) and 35°C (soluble). The temperature profiles of the immobilized ureases were spread over a large area. The optimum pH values for the soluble urease and immobilized urease prepared by using methods (A) and (B) were found to be 7.5, 7.0, 7.0, respectively. The thermal stabilities of immobilized enzyme sets were studied and they maintained 50% activity at 65°C. However, at this temperature free urease protected only 15% activity. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Portable refrigerant charge meter and method for determining the actual refrigerant charge in HVAC systems

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

Gao, Zhiming; Abdelaziz, Omar; LaClair, Tim L.

A refrigerant charge meter and a method for determining the actual refrigerant charge in HVAC systems are described. The meter includes means for determining an optimum refrigerant charge from system subcooling and system component parameters. The meter also includes means for determining the ratio of the actual refrigerant charge to the optimum refrigerant charge. Finally, the meter includes means for determining the actual refrigerant charge from the optimum refrigerant charge and the ratio of the actual refrigerant charge to the optimum refrigerant charge.

Conversion of microwave signals by superconducting films in the resistive state

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yeru, I. I.; Peskovatskiy, S. A.; Sulima, V. S.

1984-01-01

The main characteristics of a superconducting thin film microwave mixer, i.e., conversion efficiency and bandwidth are analyzed. The optimum operating regime of the nonlinear element is determined. Results of calculations are compared with the experimental ones. Experimental data on the noise in the superconducting films in a wide frequency range are presented.

A computer program for the localization of small areas in roentgenological images

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keller, R. A.; Baily, N. A.

1976-01-01

A method and associated algorithm are presented which allow a simple and accurate determination to be made of the location of small symmetric areas presented in roentgenological images. The method utilizes an operator to visually spot object positions but eliminates the need for critical positioning accuracy on the operator's part. The rapidity of measurement allows results to be evaluated on-line. Parameters associated with the algorithm have been analyzed, and methods to facilitate an optimum choice for any particular experimental setup are presented.

Volume requirements for aerated mud drilling

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

Guo, B.; Rajtar, J.M.

1995-09-01

Aerated mud drilling has been recognized as having many advantages over conventional mud drilling, such ass higher penetration rate, less formation damage, minimized lost circulation, and lower drilling cost. In some areas, the use of aerated mud as a circulating medium for drilling oil and gas wells is becoming an attractive practice. Maintaining an optimum combination of liquid and air flow rates is important in aerated drilling operations. However, most drilling operators are unclear on what constitutes the ``optimum combination of the liquid and air flow rates.`` Guo et al. presented a mathematical approach to determining the flowing bottomhole pressuremore » (BHP) for aerated mud drilling. This paper addresses the use of Guo et al.`s mathematical model to determine liquid and air volume requirements considering wellbore stability, pipe sticking, and formation damage as well as the cuttings-carry capacity of the aerated mud. For a formation-damage-prevention point of view, the liquid fraction in the fluid stream should e as low as possible. However, a sufficient mud flow rate is always required to make the hole stable and to maintain the cuttings-carrying capacity of the aerated mud without injecting much air volume. This paper provides a simple approach to determining the liquid and air volume requirements for aerated mud drilling.« less

Optimum routing of freight in urban environments under normal operations and disruptions : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-12-27

The complexity and dynamics of multimodal freight transportation together with the unpredictability of incidents, disruptions and demand changes make the optimum routing of freight a challenging task. Optimum routing decisions in a multimodal transpo...

Single electron counting using a dual MCP assembly

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Yuzhen; Liu, Shulin; Zhao, Tianchi; Yan, Baojun; Wang, Peiliang; Yu, Yang; Lei, Xiangcui; Yang, Luping; Wen, Kaile; Qi, Ming; Heng, Yuekun

2016-09-01

The gain, pulse height resolution and peak-to-valley ratio of single electrons detected by using a Chevron configured Microchannel Plate (MCP) assembly are studied. The two MCPs are separated by a 280 μm gap and are biased by four electrodes. The purpose of the study is to determine the optimum bias voltage arrangements for single electron counting. By comparing the results of various bias voltage combinations, we conclude that good performance for the electron counting can be achieved by operating the MCP assembly in saturation mode. In addition, by applying a small reverse bias voltage across the gap while adjusting the bias voltages of the MCPs, optimum performance of electron counting can be obtained.

Performance monitoring for new phase dynamic optimization of instruction dispatch cluster configuration

DOEpatents

Balasubramonian, Rajeev [Sandy, UT; Dwarkadas, Sandhya [Rochester, NY; Albonesi, David [Ithaca, NY

2012-01-24

In a processor having multiple clusters which operate in parallel, the number of clusters in use can be varied dynamically. At the start of each program phase, the configuration option for an interval is run to determine the optimal configuration, which is used until the next phase change is detected. The optimum instruction interval is determined by starting with a minimum interval and doubling it until a low stability factor is reached.

Performance mapping of a 30 cm engineering model thruster

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Poeschel, R. L.; Vahrenkamp, R. P.

1975-01-01

A 30 cm thruster representative of the engineering model design has been tested over a wide range of operating parameters to document performance characteristics such as electrical and propellant efficiencies, double ion and beam divergence thrust loss, component equilibrium temperatures, operational stability, etc. Data obtained show that optimum power throttling, in terms of maximum thruster efficiency, is not highly sensitive to parameter selection. Consequently, considerations of stability, discharge chamber erosion, thrust losses, etc. can be made the determining factors for parameter selection in power throttling operations. Options in parameter selection based on these considerations are discussed.

Improving Lifetime of Quasi-CW Laser Diode Arrays for Pumping 2-Micron Solid State Lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Amzajerdian, Farzin; Meadows, Byron L.; Baker, Nathaniel R.; Barnes, Bruce W.; Singh, Upendra N.; Kavaya, Michael J.

2007-01-01

Operating high power laser diode arrays in long pulse regime of about 1 msec, which is required for pumping 2-micron thulium and holmium-based lasers, greatly limits their useful lifetime. This paper describes performance of laser diode arrays operating in long pulse mode and presents experimental data on the active region temperature and pulse-to-pulse thermal cycling that are the primary cause of their premature failure and rapid degradation. This paper will then offer a viable approach for determining the optimum design and operational parameters leading to the maximum attainable lifetime.

Commercial Impact and Optimum Capacity Determination of Pumped Storage Hydro Plant for a Practical Power System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Latha, P. G.; Anand, S. R.; Imthias, Ahamed T. P.; Sreejith, P. S., Dr.

2013-06-01

This paper attempts to study the commercial impact of pumped storage hydro plant on the operation of a stressed power system. The paper further attempts to compute the optimum capacity of the pumped storage scheme that can be provided on commercial basis for a practical power system. Unlike the analysis of commercial aspects of pumped storage scheme attempted in several papers, this paper is presented from the point of view of power system management of a practical system considering the impact of the scheme on the economic operation of the system. A realistic case study is presented as the many factors that influence the pumped storage operation vary widely from one system to another. The suitability of pumped storage for the particular generation mix of a system is well explored in the paper. To substantiate the economic impact of pumped storage on the system, the problem is formulated as a short-term hydrothermal scheduling problem involving power purchase which optimizes the quantum of power to be scheduled and the duration of operation. The optimization model is formulated using an algebraic modeling language, AMPL, which is then solved using the advanced MILP solver CPLEX.

Metal-supported solid oxide fuel cells operated in direct-flame configuration

DOE PAGES

Tucker, Michael C.; Ying, Andrew S.

2017-08-19

Metal-supported solid oxide fuel cells (MS-SOFC) with infiltrated catalysts on both anode and cathode side are operated in direct-flame configuration, with a propane flame impinging on the anode. Placing thermal insulation on the cathode dramatically increases cell temperature and performance. The optimum burner-to-cell gap height is a strong function of flame conditions. Cell performance at the optimum gap is determined within the region of stable non-coking conditions, with equivalence ratio from 1 to 1.9 and flow velocity from 100 to 300 cm s -1. In this region, performance is most strongly correlated to flow velocity and open circuit voltage. Themore » highest peak power density achieved is 633 mW cm -2 at 833°C, for equivalence ratio of 1.8 and flow velocity of 300 cm s -1. The cell starts to produce power within 10 s of being placed in the flame, and displays stable performance over 10 extremely rapid thermal cycles. The cell provides stable performance for >20 h of semi-continuous operation.« less

Design study and performance analysis of a high-speed multistage variable-geometry fan for a variable cycle engine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sullivan, T. J.; Parker, D. E.

1979-01-01

A design technology study was performed to identify a high speed, multistage, variable geometry fan configuration capable of achieving wide flow modulation with near optimum efficiency at the important operating condition. A parametric screening study of the front and rear block fans was conducted in which the influence of major fan design features on weight and efficiency was determined. Key design parameters were varied systematically to determine the fan configuration most suited for a double bypass, variable cycle engine. Two and three stage fans were considered for the front block. A single stage, core driven fan was studied for the rear block. Variable geometry concepts were evaluated to provide near optimum off design performance. A detailed aerodynamic design and a preliminary mechanical design were carried out for the selected fan configuration. Performance predictions were made for the front and rear block fans.

Scavenging a Piston-ported Two-stroke Cylinder

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rogowski, A R; Bouchard, C L

1938-01-01

An investigation was made with a specially designed engine to determine the scavenging characteristics of a large number of inlet-port shapes and arrangements and the optimum port arrangement and timing for this particular type of engine. A special cylinder construction permitted wide variations in timing for this particular type of engine. A special cylinder construction permitted wide variations in timing as well as in shape and arrangement of both the inlet and exhaust ports. The study of the effect of port shape combinations and timings on engine performance was made using illuminating gas as a fuel. Through variations in inlet-port arrangement and port timings, the value of the scavenging efficiency was increased from an original 44 percent to approximately 67 percent with a corresponding increase in power. With the optimum port arrangement and timing determined, a large number of performance runs were made under both spark-ignition and compression-ignition operation.

Optimum testing of multiple hypotheses in quantum detection theory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yuen, H. P.; Kennedy, R. S.; Lax, M.

1975-01-01

The problem of specifying the optimum quantum detector in multiple hypotheses testing is considered for application to optical communications. The quantum digital detection problem is formulated as a linear programming problem on an infinite-dimensional space. A necessary and sufficient condition is derived by the application of a general duality theorem specifying the optimum detector in terms of a set of linear operator equations and inequalities. Existence of the optimum quantum detector is also established. The optimality of commuting detection operators is discussed in some examples. The structure and performance of the optimal receiver are derived for the quantum detection of narrow-band coherent orthogonal and simplex signals. It is shown that modal photon counting is asymptotically optimum in the limit of a large signaling alphabet and that the capacity goes to infinity in the absence of a bandwidth limitation.

OPTIMAL AIRCRAFT TRAJECTORIES FOR SPECIFIED RANGE

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, H.

1994-01-01

For an aircraft operating over a fixed range, the operating costs are basically a sum of fuel cost and time cost. While minimum fuel and minimum time trajectories are relatively easy to calculate, the determination of a minimum cost trajectory can be a complex undertaking. This computer program was developed to optimize trajectories with respect to a cost function based on a weighted sum of fuel cost and time cost. As a research tool, the program could be used to study various characteristics of optimum trajectories and their comparison to standard trajectories. It might also be used to generate a model for the development of an airborne trajectory optimization system. The program could be incorporated into an airline flight planning system, with optimum flight plans determined at takeoff time for the prevailing flight conditions. The use of trajectory optimization could significantly reduce the cost for a given aircraft mission. The algorithm incorporated in the program assumes that a trajectory consists of climb, cruise, and descent segments. The optimization of each segment is not done independently, as in classical procedures, but is performed in a manner which accounts for interaction between the segments. This is accomplished by the application of optimal control theory. The climb and descent profiles are generated by integrating a set of kinematic and dynamic equations, where the total energy of the aircraft is the independent variable. At each energy level of the climb and descent profiles, the air speed and power setting necessary for an optimal trajectory are determined. The variational Hamiltonian of the problem consists of the rate of change of cost with respect to total energy and a term dependent on the adjoint variable, which is identical to the optimum cruise cost at a specified altitude. This variable uniquely specifies the optimal cruise energy, cruise altitude, cruise Mach number, and, indirectly, the climb and descent profiles. If the optimum cruise cost is specified, an optimum trajectory can easily be generated; however, the range obtained for a particular optimum cruise cost is not known a priori. For short range flights, the program iteratively varies the optimum cruise cost until the computed range converges to the specified range. For long-range flights, iteration is unnecessary since the specified range can be divided into a cruise segment distance and full climb and descent distances. The user must supply the program with engine fuel flow rate coefficients and an aircraft aerodynamic model. The program currently includes coefficients for the Pratt-Whitney JT8D-7 engine and an aerodynamic model for the Boeing 727. Input to the program consists of the flight range to be covered and the prevailing flight conditions including pressure, temperature, and wind profiles. Information output by the program includes: optimum cruise tables at selected weights, optimal cruise quantities as a function of cruise weight and cruise distance, climb and descent profiles, and a summary of the complete synthesized optimal trajectory. This program is written in FORTRAN IV for batch execution and has been implemented on a CDC 6000 series computer with a central memory requirement of approximately 100K (octal) of 60 bit words. This aircraft trajectory optimization program was developed in 1979.

Measurement of Hydrologic Resource Parameters Through Remote Sensing in the Feather River Headwaters Area

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thorley, G. A.; Draeger, W. C.; Lauer, D. T.; Lent, J.; Roberts, E.

1971-01-01

The four problem are as being investigated are: (1) determination of the feasibility of providing the resource manager with operationally useful information through the use of remote sensing techniques; (2) definition of the spectral characteristics of earth resources and the optimum procedures for calibrating tone and color characteristics of multispectral imagery (3) determination of the extent to which humans can extract useful earth resource information through remote sensing imagery; (4) determination of the extent to which automatic classification and data processing can extract useful information from remote sensing data.

Optimum Operating Conditions for PZT Actuators for Vibrotactile Wearables

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Logothetis, Irini; Matsouka, Dimitra; Vassiliadis, Savvas; Vossou, Clio; Siores, Elias

2018-04-01

Recently, vibrotactile wearables have received much attention in fields such as medicine, psychology, athletics and video gaming. The electrical components presently used to generate vibration are rigid; hence, the design and creation of ergonomical wearables are limited. Significant advances in piezoelectric components have led to the production of flexible actuators such as piezoceramic lead zirconate titanate (PZT) film. To verify the functionality of PZT actuators for use in vibrotactile wearables, the factors influencing the electromechanical conversion were analysed and tested. This was achieved through theoretical and experimental analyses of a monomorph clamped-free structure for the PZT actuator. The research performed for this article is a three-step process. First, a theoretical analysis presents the equations governing the actuator. In addition, the eigenfrequency of the film was analysed preceding the experimental section. For this stage, by applying an electric voltage and varying the stimulating electrical characteristics (i.e., voltage, electrical waveform and frequency), the optimum operating conditions for a PZT film were determined. The tip displacement was measured referring to the mechanical energy converted from electrical energy. From the results obtained, an equation for the mechanical behaviour of PZT films as actuators was deduced. It was observed that the square waveform generated larger tip displacements. In conjunction with large voltage inputs at the predetermined eigenfrequency, the optimum operating conditions for the actuator were achieved. To conclude, PZT films can be adapted to assist designers in creating comfortable vibrotactile wearables.

Optimum Operating Conditions for PZT Actuators for Vibrotactile Wearables

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Logothetis, Irini; Matsouka, Dimitra; Vassiliadis, Savvas; Vossou, Clio; Siores, Elias

2018-07-01

Recently, vibrotactile wearables have received much attention in fields such as medicine, psychology, athletics and video gaming. The electrical components presently used to generate vibration are rigid; hence, the design and creation of ergonomical wearables are limited. Significant advances in piezoelectric components have led to the production of flexible actuators such as piezoceramic lead zirconate titanate (PZT) film. To verify the functionality of PZT actuators for use in vibrotactile wearables, the factors influencing the electromechanical conversion were analysed and tested. This was achieved through theoretical and experimental analyses of a monomorph clamped-free structure for the PZT actuator. The research performed for this article is a three-step process. First, a theoretical analysis presents the equations governing the actuator. In addition, the eigenfrequency of the film was analysed preceding the experimental section. For this stage, by applying an electric voltage and varying the stimulating electrical characteristics (i.e., voltage, electrical waveform and frequency), the optimum operating conditions for a PZT film were determined. The tip displacement was measured referring to the mechanical energy converted from electrical energy. From the results obtained, an equation for the mechanical behaviour of PZT films as actuators was deduced. It was observed that the square waveform generated larger tip displacements. In conjunction with large voltage inputs at the predetermined eigenfrequency, the optimum operating conditions for the actuator were achieved. To conclude, PZT films can be adapted to assist designers in creating comfortable vibrotactile wearables.

Characteristics of switching plasma in an inverse-pinch switch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Ja H.; Choi, Sang H.; Venable, Demetrius D.; Han, Kwang S.; Nam, Sang H.

1993-01-01

Characteristics of the plasma that switches on tens of giga volt-ampere in an inverse-pinch plasma switch (INPIStron) have been made. Through optical and spectroscopic diagnostics of the current carrying plasma, the current density, the motion of current paths, dominant ionic species have been determined in order to access their effects on circuit parameters and material erosion. Also the optimum operational condition of the plasma-puff triggering method required for azimuthally uniform conduction in the INPIStron has been determined.

Intrinsic kinetic parameters of Thermococcus onnurineus NA1 strains and prediction of optimum carbon monoxide level for ideal bioreactor operation.

PubMed

Jeong, Yeseul; Jang, Nulee; Yasin, Muhammad; Park, Shinyoung; Chang, In Seop

2016-02-01

This study determines and compares the intrinsic kinetic parameters (Ks and Ki) of selected Thermococcus onnurineus NA1 strains (wild-type (WT), and mutants MC01, MC02, and WTC156T) using the substrate inhibition model. Ks and Ki values were used to find the optimum dissolved CO (CL) conditions inside the reactor. The results showed that in terms of the maximum specific CO consumption rates (qCO(max)) of WT, MC01, MC02, and WTC156T the optimum activities can be achieved by maintaining the CL levels at 0.56mM, 0.52mM, 0.58mM, and 0.75mM, respectively. The qCO(max) value of WTC156T at 0.75mM was found to be 1.5-fold higher than for the WT strain, confirming its superiority. Kinetic modeling was then used to predict the conditions required to maintain the optimum CL levels and high cell concentrations in the reactor, based on the kinetic parameters of the WTC156T strain. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Planar solid oxide fuel cell with staged indirect-internal air and fuel preheating and reformation

DOEpatents

Geisbrecht, Rodney A; Williams, Mark C

2003-10-21

A solid oxide fuel cell arrangement and method of use that provides internal preheating of both fuel and air in order to maintain the optimum operating temperature for the production of energy. The internal preheat passes are created by the addition of two plates, one on either side of the bipolar plate, such that these plates create additional passes through the fuel cell. This internal preheat fuel cell configuration and method reduce the requirements for external heat exchanger units and air compressors. Air or fuel may be added to the fuel cell as required to maintain the optimum operating temperature through a cathode control valve or an anode control valve, respectively. A control loop comprises a temperature sensing means within the preheat air and fuel passes, a means to compare the measured temperature to a set point temperature and a determination based on the comparison as to whether the control valves should allow additional air or fuel into the preheat or bypass manifolds of the fuel cell.

First-Order Altitude Effects on the Cruise Efficiency of Subsonic Transport Aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Guynn, Mark D.

2011-01-01

Aircraft fuel efficiency is a function of many different parameters, including characteristics of the engines, characteristics of the airframe, and the conditions under which the aircraft is operated. For a given vehicle, the airframe and engine characteristics are for the most part fixed quantities and efficiency is primarily a function of operational conditions. One important influence on cruise efficiency is cruise altitude. Various future scenarios have been postulated for cruise altitude, from the freedom to fly at optimum altitudes to altitude restrictions imposed for environmental reasons. This report provides background on the fundamental relationships determining aircraft cruise efficiency and examines the sensitivity of efficiency to cruise altitude. Analytical models of two current aircraft designs are used to derive quantitative results. Efficiency penalties are found to be generally less than 1% when within roughly 2000 ft of the optimum cruise altitude. Even the restrictive scenario of constant altitude cruise is found to result in a modest fuel consumption penalty if the fixed altitude is in an appropriate range.

Cellular Manufacturing System with Dynamic Lot Size Material Handling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khannan, M. S. A.; Maruf, A.; Wangsaputra, R.; Sutrisno, S.; Wibawa, T.

2016-02-01

Material Handling take as important role in Cellular Manufacturing System (CMS) design. In several study at CMS design material handling was assumed per pieces or with constant lot size. In real industrial practice, lot size may change during rolling period to cope with demand changes. This study develops CMS Model with Dynamic Lot Size Material Handling. Integer Linear Programming is used to solve the problem. Objective function of this model is minimizing total expected cost consisting machinery depreciation cost, operating costs, inter-cell material handling cost, intra-cell material handling cost, machine relocation costs, setup costs, and production planning cost. This model determines optimum cell formation and optimum lot size. Numerical examples are elaborated in the paper to ilustrate the characterictic of the model.

Design of compact long-period gratings imprinted in optimized photonic crystal fibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seraji, F. E.; Chehreghani Anzabi, L.; Farsinezhad, S.

2009-10-01

To imprint a long-period grating (LPG) in a photonic crystal fiber (PCF) with an optimum response, first the parameters of the PCF should be optimized. In this paper, by using a semi-analytical enhanced improved vectorial effective index method, the optimized PCF parameters are determined by dividing the single-mode operation of the PCF into two regions in terms of air-hole spacing Λ ( Λ>3 μm and Λ≤3 μm). For each region appropriate expressions are suggested to evaluate the PCF parameters. By calculating the effective refractive index difference between the optimized core and cladding of the PCF under a phase-matching condition, the optimum grating period in terms of the PCF parameters is obtained.

AFFF (Aqueous Film-Forming Foam) Testing of U.S. Air Force Penetrator Nozzle.

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-05-01

Aqueous Film - Forming Foam ( AFFF ), halon, or PKP) flows between this shaft... Film - Forming Foam ( AFFF ). The results showed that increasing the nozzle pressure to 150 psi from the more common fireground pressures of 50 or 100 psi... Forming Foam ( AFFF ) as the fire extinguishing agent. The test plan was designed to determine the optimum nozzle operating pressure considering its effect

Qualification Testing of Laser Diode Pump Arrays for a Space-Based 2-micron Coherent Doppler Lidar

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Amzajerdian, Farzin; Meadows, Byron L.; Baker, Nathaniel R.; Barnes, Bruce W.; Singh, Upendra N.; Kavaya, Michael J.

2007-01-01

The 2-micron thulium and holmium-based lasers being considered as the transmitter source for space-based coherent Doppler lidar require high power laser diode pump arrays operating in a long pulse regime of about 1 msec. Operating laser diode arrays over such long pulses drastically impact their useful lifetime due to the excessive localized heating and substantial pulse-to-pulse thermal cycling of their active regions. This paper describes the long pulse performance of laser diode arrays and their critical thermal characteristics. A viable approach is then offered that allows for determining the optimum operational parameters leading to the maximum attainable lifetime.

Experimental Investigation of Diffuser Pressure-ratio Control with Shock-positioning Limit on 28-inch Ram-jet Engine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dunbar, William R; Wentworth, Carl B; Crowl, Robert J

1957-01-01

The performance of a control system designed for variable thrust applications was determined in an altitude free-jet facility at various Mach numbers, altitudes and angles of attack for a wide range of engine operation. The results are presented as transient response characteristics for step disturbances in fuel flow and stability characteristics as a function of control constants and engine operating conditions. The results indicate that the control is capable of successful operation over the range of conditions tested, although variations in engine gains preclude optimum response characteristics at all conditions with fixed control constants.

Development of a fixed bed gasifier model and optimal operating conditions determination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dahmani, Manel; Périlhon, Christelle; Marvillet, Christophe; Hajjaji, Noureddine; Houas, Ammar; Khila, Zouhour

2017-02-01

The main objective of this study was to develop a fixed bed gasifier model of palm waste and to identify the optimal operating conditions to produce electricity from synthesis gas. First, the gasifier was simulated using Aspen PlusTM software. Gasification is a thermo-chemical process that has long been used, but it remains a perfectible technology. It means incomplete combustion of biomass solid fuel into synthesis gas through partial oxidation. The operating parameters (temperature and equivalence ratio (ER)) were thereafter varied to investigate their effect on the synthesis gas composition and to provide guidance for future research and development efforts in process design. The equivalence ratio is defined as the ratio of the amount of air actually supplied to the gasifier and the stoichiometric amount of air. Increasing ER decreases the production of CO and H2 and increases the production of CO2 and H2O while an increase in temperature increases the fraction of CO and H2. The results show that the optimum temperature to have a syngas able to be effectively used for power generation is 900°C and the optimum equivalence ratio is 0.1.

The cut-off values of anthropometric variables for predicting mild cognitive impairment in Malaysian older adults: a large population based cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Won, Huiloo; Abdul, Manaf Zahara; Mat Ludin, Arimi Fitri; Omar, Mohd Azahadi; Razali, Rosdinom; Shahar, Suzana

2017-01-01

Older adults are at risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and simple anthropometric measurements can be used to screen for this condition. Thus, the aim of this study was to explore the cut-off values of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) for predicting the risk of MCI in older Malaysian adults. A total of 2,240 Malaysian older adults aged ≥60 years were recruited using multistage random sampling in a population based cross-sectional study. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine the cut-off values of BMI and WC with optimum sensitivity and specificity for the detection of MCI. Age, gender, years of education, smoking habit, alcohol consumption, depression, and medical conditions were used as confounding factors in this analysis. A BMI cut-off value of 26 kg/m 2 (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC] 0.725; sensitivity 90.5%; specificity 38.8%) was appropriate in identifying the risk of getting MCI in both men and women. The optimum WC cut-offs for likelihood of MCI were 90 cm (AUC 0.745; sensitivity 78.0%; specificity 59.8%) for men and 82 cm (AUC 0.714; sensitivity 84.3%; specificity 49.7%) for women. The optimum calf circumference (CC) cut-off values for identifying MCI were 29 cm (AUC 0.731; sensitivity 72.6%; specificity 61.1%) for men and 26 cm (AUC 0.598; sensitivity 79.1%; specificity 45.3%) for women. The cut-off values could be advocated and used as part of the screening of MCI among older Malaysian adults. There is a need to further determine the predictive values of these cut-off points on outcomes through longitudinal study design.

Approaches in controllable generation of artificial pinning center in REBa2Cu3O y -coated conductor for high-flux pinning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoshida, Y.; Miura, S.; Tsuchiya, Y.; Ichino, Y.; Awaji, S.; Matsumoto, K.; Ichinose, A.

2017-10-01

This paper reviews the progress of studies to determine optimum shapes of the artificial pinning center (APC) of REBa2Cu3O y thin films and coated conductors towards superconducting magnets operating at temperatures of 77 K or less. Superconducting properties vary depending on the kind and quantity of BaMO3 materials. Therefore, we study changes in the shapes of nanorods that are due to the difference in the quality of additives and growth temperature. In addition, we aim to control the APC using an optimum shape that matches the operating temperature. In particular, we describe the shape control of nanorods in SmBCO thin films and coated conductors by employing lower temperature growth (LTG) technology using seed layers. From the cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy observations, we confirmed that using the LTG method, the BaHfO3 (BHO) nanorods, which were comparatively thin and short in length, formed a firework structure in the case of SmBCO films with coated conductors. The superconducting properties in the magnetic field of the SmBCO-coated conductor with the optimum amount of BHO showed that {F}{{p}}\\max = 1.6 TN m-3 on a single crystalline substrate and 1.5 TN m-3 on metallic substrate with a biaxially textured MgO layer fabricated by ion-beam assisted deposition method tape 4.2 K.

Optimum Repair Level Analysis (ORLA) for the Space Transportation System (STS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Henry, W. R.

1979-01-01

A repair level analysis method applied to a space shuttle scenario is presented. A determination of the most cost effective level of repair for reparable hardware, the location for the repair, and a system which will accrue minimum total support costs within operational and technical constraints over the system design are defined. The method includes cost equations for comparison of selected costs to completion for assumed repair alternates.

Report on Lithium Ion Battery Trade Studies to Support the Exploration Technology Development Program (ETDP) Energy Storage Project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Green, Robert D.; Kissock, Barbara I.; Bennett, William R.

2010-01-01

This report documents the results of two system related analyses to support the Exploration Technology Development Program (ETDP) Energy Storage Project. The first study documents a trade study to determine the optimum Li-ion battery cell capacity for the ascent stage battery for the Altair lunar lander being developed under the Constellation Systems program. The battery cell capacity for the Ultra High Energy (UHE) Li-ion battery initially chosen as the target for development was 35 A-hr; this study concludes that a 19.4 A-hr cell capacity would be more optimum from a minimum battery mass perspective. The second study in this report is an assessment of available low temperature Li-ion battery cell performance data to determine whether lowering the operating temperature range of the Li-ion battery, in a rover application, could save overall system mass by eliminating thermal control system mass normally needed to maintain battery temperature within a tighter temperature limit than electronics or other less temperature sensitive components. The preliminary assessment for this second study indicates that the reduction in the thermal control system mass is negated by an increase in battery mass to compensate for the loss in battery capacity due to lower temperature operating conditions.

Steady-state and transient analysis of a squeeze film damper bearing for rotor stability

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barrett, L. E.; Gunter, E. J.

1975-01-01

A study of the steady-state and transient response of the squeeze film damper bearing is presented. Both the steady-state and transient equations for the hydrodynamic bearing forces are derived. The bearing equivalent stiffness and damping coefficients are determined by steady-state equations. These coefficients are used to find the bearing configuration which will provide the optimum support characteristics based on a stability analysis of the rotor-bearing system. The transient analysis of rotor-bearing systems is performed by coupling the bearing and journal equations and integrating forward in time. The effects of unbalance, cavitation, and retainer springs are included in the analysis. Methods of determining the stability of a rotor-bearing system under the influence of aerodynamic forces and internal shaft friction are discussed with emphasis on solving the system characteristic frequency equation and on producing stability maps. It is shown that for optimum stability and low force transmissability the squeeze bearing should operate at an eccentricity ratio epsilon 0.4.

The Study and Application of Hydrometallurgical Gold Leaching in the Analysis of Refractory Precious Metals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, M.; Geng, X.; Wang, Y. L.; Li, D. X.

2017-05-01

Three orthogonal tests are separately designed for each hydrometallurgical gold leaching process to finding the optimum reaction conditions of melting gold and palladium in each process. Under the optimum condition, the determination amount of gold and palladium in aqua regia—hydrofluoric acid, Sodium thiosulfate, and potassium iodide reaches 2.87g/kg and 8.34 g/kg, 2.39g/kg and 8.12 g/kg, 2.51g/kg and 7.84g/kg. From the result, the content of gold and palladium using the leaching process of combining Aqua regia, hydrofluoric acid and hydrogen peroxide is relatively higher than the other processes. In addition, the experiment procedure of aqua regia digestion operates easily, using less equipment, and its period is short.

Methane production by treating vinasses from hydrous ethanol using a modified UASB reactor

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background A modified laboratory-scale upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor was used to obtain methane by treating hydrous ethanol vinasse. Vinasses or stillage are waste materials with high organic loads, and a complex composition resulting from the process of alcohol distillation. They must initially be treated with anaerobic processes due to their high organic loads. Vinasses can be considered multipurpose waste for energy recovery and once treated they can be used in agriculture without the risk of polluting soil, underground water or crops. In this sense, treatment of vinasse combines the elimination of organic waste with the formation of methane. Biogas is considered as a promising renewable energy source. The aim of this study was to determine the optimum organic loading rate for operating a modified UASB reactor to treat vinasse generated in the production of hydrous ethanol from sugar cane molasses. Results The study showed that chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency was 69% at an optimum organic loading rate (OLR) of 17.05 kg COD/m3-day, achieving a methane yield of 0.263 m3/kg CODadded and a biogas methane content of 84%. During this stage, effluent characterization presented lower values than the vinasse, except for potassium, sulfide and ammonia nitrogen. On the other hand, primers used to amplify the 16S-rDNA genes for the domains Archaea and Bacteria showed the presence of microorganisms which favor methane production at the optimum organic loading rate. Conclusions The modified UASB reactor proposed in this study provided a successful treatment of the vinasse obtained from hydrous ethanol production. Methanogen groups (Methanobacteriales and Methanosarcinales) detected by PCR during operational optimum OLR of the modified UASB reactor, favored methane production. PMID:23167984

Methane production by treating vinasses from hydrous ethanol using a modified UASB reactor.

PubMed

España-Gamboa, Elda I; Mijangos-Cortés, Javier O; Hernández-Zárate, Galdy; Maldonado, Jorge A Domínguez; Alzate-Gaviria, Liliana M

2012-11-21

A modified laboratory-scale upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor was used to obtain methane by treating hydrous ethanol vinasse. Vinasses or stillage are waste materials with high organic loads, and a complex composition resulting from the process of alcohol distillation. They must initially be treated with anaerobic processes due to their high organic loads. Vinasses can be considered multipurpose waste for energy recovery and once treated they can be used in agriculture without the risk of polluting soil, underground water or crops. In this sense, treatment of vinasse combines the elimination of organic waste with the formation of methane. Biogas is considered as a promising renewable energy source. The aim of this study was to determine the optimum organic loading rate for operating a modified UASB reactor to treat vinasse generated in the production of hydrous ethanol from sugar cane molasses. The study showed that chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency was 69% at an optimum organic loading rate (OLR) of 17.05 kg COD/m3-day, achieving a methane yield of 0.263 m3/kg CODadded and a biogas methane content of 84%. During this stage, effluent characterization presented lower values than the vinasse, except for potassium, sulfide and ammonia nitrogen. On the other hand, primers used to amplify the 16S-rDNA genes for the domains Archaea and Bacteria showed the presence of microorganisms which favor methane production at the optimum organic loading rate. The modified UASB reactor proposed in this study provided a successful treatment of the vinasse obtained from hydrous ethanol production.Methanogen groups (Methanobacteriales and Methanosarcinales) detected by PCR during operational optimum OLR of the modified UASB reactor, favored methane production.

Operating health analysis of electric power systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fotuhi-Firuzabad, Mahmud

The required level of operating reserve to be maintained by an electric power system can be determined using both deterministic and probabilistic techniques. Despite the obvious disadvantages of deterministic approaches there is still considerable reluctance to apply probabilistic techniques due to the difficulty of interpreting a single numerical risk index and the lack of sufficient information provided by a single index. A practical way to overcome difficulties is to embed deterministic considerations in the probabilistic indices in order to monitor the system well-being. The system well-being can be designated as healthy, marginal and at risk. The concept of system well-being is examined and extended in this thesis to cover the overall area of operating reserve assessment. Operating reserve evaluation involves the two distinctly different aspects of unit commitment and the dispatch of the committed units. Unit commitment health analysis involves the determination of which unit should be committed to satisfy the operating criteria. The concepts developed for unit commitment health, margin and risk are extended in this thesis to evaluate the response well-being of a generating system. A procedure is presented to determine the optimum dispatch of the committed units to satisfy the response criteria. The impact on the response wellbeing being of variations in the margin time, required regulating margin and load forecast uncertainty are illustrated. The effects on the response well-being of rapid start units, interruptible loads and postponable outages are also illustrated. System well-being is, in general, greatly improved by interconnection with other power systems. The well-being concepts are extended to evaluate the spinning reserve requirements in interconnected systems. The interconnected system unit commitment problem is decomposed into two subproblems in which unit scheduling is performed in each isolated system followed by interconnected system evaluation. A procedure is illustrated to determine the well-being indices of the overall interconnected system. Under normal operating conditions, the system may also be able to carry a limited amount of interruptible load on top of its firm load without violating the operating criterion. An energy based approach is presented to determine the optimum interruptible load carrying capability in both the isolated and interconnected systems. Composite system spinning reserve assessment and composite system well-being are also examined in this research work. The impacts on the composite well-being of operating reserve considerations such as stand-by units, interruptible loads and the physical locations of these resources are illustrated. It is expected that the well-being framework and the concepts developed in this research work will prove extremely useful in the new competitive utility environment.

Space shuttle orbit maneuvering engine, reusable thrust chamber program. Task 6: Data dump hot fuel element investigation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nurick, W. H.

1974-01-01

An evaluation of reusable thrust chambers for the space shuttle orbit maneuvering engine was conducted. Tests were conducted using subscale injector hot-fire procedures for the injector configurations designed for a regenerative cooled engine. The effect of operating conditions and fuel temperature on combustion chamber performance was determined. Specific objectives of the evaluation were to examine the optimum like-doublet element geometry for operation at conditions consistent with a fuel regeneratively cooled engine (hot fuel, 200 to 250 F) and the sensitivity of the triplet injector element to hot fuels.

Hubble Space Telescope NiH2 six battery test

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Whitt, Thomas H.; Lanier, J. Roy

1991-01-01

The primary objectives of the test are: (1) to get a better understanding of the operating characteristics of the NiH2 batteries in the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Electric Power Subsystem (EPS) by simulating every aspect of the expected operating environment; (2) to determine the optimum charge level and charge scheme for the NiH2 batteries in the HST EPS; (3) to predict the performance of the actual HST EPS; (4) to observe the aging characteristics of the batteries; and (5) to test different EPS anomalies before experiencing the anomalies on the actual HST.

Biogas by semi-continuous anaerobic digestion of food waste.

PubMed

Zhang, Cunsheng; Su, Haijia; Wang, Zhenbin; Tan, Tianwei; Qin, Peiyong

2015-04-01

The semi-continuous anaerobic digestion of food waste was investigated in 1-L and 20-L continuously stirred tank reactors (CSTRs), to identify the optimum operation condition and the methane production of the semi-continuous anaerobic process. Results from a 1-L digester indicated that the optimum organic loading rate (OLR) for semi-continuous digestion is 8 g VS/L/day. The corresponding methane yield and chemical oxygen demand (COD) reduction were 385 mL/g VS and 80.2 %, respectively. Anaerobic digestion was inhibited at high OLRs (12 and 16 g VS/L/day), due to volatile fatty acid (VFA) accumulation. Results from a 20-L digester indicated that a higher methane yield of 423 mL/g VS was obtained at this larger scale. The analysis showed that the methane production at the optimum OLR fitted well with the determined kinetics equation. An obvious decrease on the methane content was observed at the initial of digestion. The increased metabolization of microbes and the activity decrease of methanogen caused by VFA accumulation explained the lower methane content at the initial of digestion.

Cryogenic measurements of aerojet GaAs n-JFETs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goebel, John H.; Weber, Theodore T.

1993-01-01

The spectral noise characteristics of Aerojet gallium arsenide (GaAs) junction field effect transistors (JFET's) have been investigated down to liquid-helium temperatures. Noise characterization was performed with the field effect transistor (FET) in the floating-gate mode, in the grounded-gate mode to determine the lowest noise readings possible, and with an extrinsic silicon photodetector at various detector bias voltages to determine optimum operating conditions. The measurements indicate that the Aerojet GaAs JFET is a quiet and stable device at liquid helium temperatures. Hence, it can be considered a readout line driver or infrared detector preamplifier as well as a host of other cryogenic applications. Its noise performance is superior to silicon (Si) metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET's) operating at liquid helium temperatures, and is equal to the best Si n channel junction field effect transistor (n-JFET's) operating at 300 K.

Determination of the wind power systems load to achieve operation in the maximum energy area

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chioncel, C. P.; Tirian, G. O.; Spunei, E.; Gillich, N.

2018-01-01

This paper analyses the operation of the wind turbine, WT, in the maximum power point, MPP, by linking the load of the Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator, PMSG, with the wind speed value. The load control methods at wind power systems aiming an optimum performance in terms of energy are based on the fact that the energy captured by the wind turbine significantly depends on the mechanical angular speed of the wind turbine. The presented control method consists in determining the optimal mechanical angular speed, ωOPTIM, using an auxiliary low power wind turbine, WTAUX, operating without load, at maximum angular velocity, ωMAX. The method relies on the fact that the ratio ωOPTIM/ωMAX has a constant value for a given wind turbine and does not depend on the time variation of the wind speed values.

Development of TPS flight test and operational instrumentation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carnahan, K. R.; Hartman, G. J.; Neuner, G. J.

1975-01-01

Thermal and flow sensor instrumentation was developed for use as an integral part of the space shuttle orbiter reusable thermal protection system. The effort was performed in three tasks: a study to determine the optimum instruments and instrument installations for the space shuttle orbiter RSI and RCC TPS; tests and/or analysis to determine the instrument installations to minimize measurement errors; and analysis using data from the test program for comparison to analytical methods. A detailed review of existing state of the art instrumentation in industry was performed to determine the baseline for the departure of the research effort. From this information, detailed criteria for thermal protection system instrumentation were developed.

Taguchi approach for co-gasification optimization of torrefied biomass and coal.

PubMed

Chen, Wei-Hsin; Chen, Chih-Jung; Hung, Chen-I

2013-09-01

This study employs the Taguchi method to approach the optimum co-gasification operation of torrefied biomass (eucalyptus) and coal in an entrained flow gasifier. The cold gas efficiency is adopted as the performance index of co-gasification. The influences of six parameters, namely, the biomass blending ratio, oxygen-to-fuel mass ratio (O/F ratio), biomass torrefaction temperature, gasification pressure, steam-to-fuel mass ratio (S/F ratio), and inlet temperature of the carrier gas, on the performance of co-gasification are considered. The analysis of the signal-to-noise ratio suggests that the O/F ratio is the most important factor in determining the performance and the appropriate O/F ratio is 0.7. The performance is also significantly affected by biomass along with torrefaction, where a torrefaction temperature of 300°C is sufficient to upgrade eucalyptus. According to the recommended operating conditions, the values of cold gas efficiency and carbon conversion at the optimum co-gasification are 80.99% and 94.51%, respectively. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Balancing Dynamic Strength of Spur Gears Operated at Extended Center Distance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lin, Hsiang Hsi; Liou, Chuen-Huei; Oswald, Fred B.; Townsend, Dennis P.

1996-01-01

This paper presents an analytical study on using hob offset to balance the dynamic tooth strength of spur gears operated at a center distance greater than the standard value. This study is an extension of a static study by Mabie and others. The study was limited to the offset values that assure the pinion and gear teeth will neither be undercut nor become pointed. The analysis presented in this paper was performed using DANST-PC, a new version of the NASA gear dynamics code. The operating speed of the transmission influences the amount of hob offset required to equalize the dynamic stresses in the pinion and gear. The optimum hob offset for the pinion was found to vary within a small range as the speed changes. The optimum value is generally greater than the optimum value found by static procedures. For gears that must operate over a wide range of speeds, an average offset value may be used.

Statistically Based Approach to Broadband Liner Design and Assessment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, Michael G. (Inventor); Nark, Douglas M. (Inventor)

2016-01-01

A broadband liner design optimization includes utilizing in-duct attenuation predictions with a statistical fan source model to obtain optimum impedance spectra over a number of flow conditions for one or more liner locations in a bypass duct. The predicted optimum impedance information is then used with acoustic liner modeling tools to design liners having impedance spectra that most closely match the predicted optimum values. Design selection is based on an acceptance criterion that provides the ability to apply increasing weighting to specific frequencies and/or operating conditions. One or more broadband design approaches are utilized to produce a broadband liner that targets a full range of frequencies and operating conditions.

On multidisciplinary research on the application of remote sensing to water resources problems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1972-01-01

This research is directed toward development of a practical, operational remote sensing water quality monitoring system. To accomplish this, five fundamental aspects of the problem have been under investigation during the past three years. These are: (1) development of practical and economical methods of obtaining, handling and analyzing remote sensing data; (2) determination of the correlation between remote sensed imagery and actual water quality parameters; (3) determination of the optimum technique for monitoring specific water pollution parameters and for evaluating the reliability with which this can be accomplished; (4) determination of the extent of masking due to depth of penetration, bottom effects, film development effects, and angle falloff, and development of techniques to eliminate or minimize them; and (5) development of operational procedures which might be employed by a municipal, state or federal agency for the application of remote sensing to water quality monitoring, including space-generated data.

Optimal design method to minimize users' thinking mapping load in human-machine interactions.

PubMed

Huang, Yanqun; Li, Xu; Zhang, Jie

2015-01-01

The discrepancy between human cognition and machine requirements/behaviors usually results in serious mental thinking mapping loads or even disasters in product operating. It is important to help people avoid human-machine interaction confusions and difficulties in today's mental work mastered society. Improving the usability of a product and minimizing user's thinking mapping and interpreting load in human-machine interactions. An optimal human-machine interface design method is introduced, which is based on the purpose of minimizing the mental load in thinking mapping process between users' intentions and affordance of product interface states. By analyzing the users' thinking mapping problem, an operating action model is constructed. According to human natural instincts and acquired knowledge, an expected ideal design with minimized thinking loads is uniquely determined at first. Then, creative alternatives, in terms of the way human obtains operational information, are provided as digital interface states datasets. In the last, using the cluster analysis method, an optimum solution is picked out from alternatives, by calculating the distances between two datasets. Considering multiple factors to minimize users' thinking mapping loads, a solution nearest to the ideal value is found in the human-car interaction design case. The clustering results show its effectiveness in finding an optimum solution to the mental load minimizing problems in human-machine interaction design.

Optimum Multi-Impulse Rendezvous Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Glandorf, D. R.; Onley, A. G.; Rozendaal, H. L.

1970-01-01

OMIRPROGRAM determines optimal n-impulse rendezvous trajectories under the restrictions of two-body motion in free space. Lawden's primer vector theory is applied to determine optimum number of midcourse impulse applications. Global optimality is not guaranteed.

Catalyst-free, III-V nanowire photovoltaics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davies, D. G.; Lambert, N.; Fry, P. W.; Foster, A.; Krysa, A. B.; Wilson, L. R.

2014-05-01

We report on room temperature, photovoltaic operation of catalyst-free GaAs p-i-n junction nanowire arrays. Growth studies were first performed to determine the optimum conditions for controlling the vertical and lateral growth of the nanowires. Following this, devices consisting of axial p-i-n junctions were fabricated by planarising the nanowire arrays with a hard baked polymer. We discuss the photovoltaic properties of this proof-of-concept device, and significant improvements to be made during the growth.

Design considerations of a thermally stabilized continuous flow electrophoresis chamber 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jandebeur, T. S.

1982-01-01

The basic adjustable parameters of a Beckman Continouous Particle Electrophoresis (CPE) Apparatus are investigated to determine the optimum conditions for ground based operation for comparison with space experiments. The possible application of electrically insulated copper/aluminum chamber walls is evaluated as a means to thermally stabilize or equilibrate lateral temperature gradients which exist on the walls of conventional plastic chambers and which distort the rectilinear base flow of buffer through the chamber, significantly affecting sample resolution.

Atmospheric Plasma Blade for Surgical Purposes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oksuz, Lutfi; Yurdabak Karaca, Gozde; Özkaptan, Emir; Uygun, Emre; Uygun Oksuz, Aysegul

2017-10-01

Atmospheric plasma cut is a process at the minimum level due to the ions, radicals and free electrons generated by the active electrode and target tissue. Atmospheric plasma cutting devices provide significant advantages as a non-contact electrocautery system that can operate in isotonic environment. During operations where plasma cutting is applied, bleeding is controlled and the side effects that would create the isotonic environment are eliminated. In this study in vivo and in vitro studies will be carried out by producing and optimizing the atmospheric plasma blade. Once the optimum parameters of the instrument are determined, in vivo studies will be performed and the pathology results will be evaluated.

Confirmation of heavy metal ions in used lubricating oil from a passenger car using chelating self-assembled monolayer.

PubMed

Ko, Young Gun; Kim, Choong Hyun

2006-09-01

In order to prevent engine failure, the oil must be changed before it loses its protective properties. It is necessary to monitor the actual physical and chemical condition of the oil to reliably determine the optimum oil-change interval. Our study focuses on the condition of the lubricating oil in an operated car engine. Shear stress curves and viscosity curves as a function of the shear rate for fresh and used lubricating oil were examined. Metal nitrate was detected in the lubricating oil from the operated car engine through the use of a chelating self-assembled monolayer.

Method of multi-dimensional moment analysis for the characterization of signal peaks

DOEpatents

Pfeifer, Kent B; Yelton, William G; Kerr, Dayle R; Bouchier, Francis A

2012-10-23

A method of multi-dimensional moment analysis for the characterization of signal peaks can be used to optimize the operation of an analytical system. With a two-dimensional Peclet analysis, the quality and signal fidelity of peaks in a two-dimensional experimental space can be analyzed and scored. This method is particularly useful in determining optimum operational parameters for an analytical system which requires the automated analysis of large numbers of analyte data peaks. For example, the method can be used to optimize analytical systems including an ion mobility spectrometer that uses a temperature stepped desorption technique for the detection of explosive mixtures.

Optimized conditions for phytoremediation of diesel by Scirpus grossus in horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetlands (HSFCWs) using response surface methodology.

PubMed

Al-Baldawi, Israa Abdul Wahab; Sheikh Abdullah, Siti Rozaimah; Abu Hasan, Hassimi; Suja, Fatihah; Anuar, Nurina; Mushrifah, Idris

2014-07-01

This study investigated the optimum conditions for total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) removal from diesel-contaminated water using phytoremediation treatment with Scirpus grossus. In addition, TPH removal from sand was adopted as a second response. The optimum conditions for maximum TPH removal were determined through a Box-Behnken Design. Three operational variables, i.e. diesel concentration (0.1, 0.175, 0.25% Vdiesel/Vwater), aeration rate (0, 1 and 2 L/min) and retention time (14, 43 and 72 days), were investigated by setting TPH removal and diesel concentration as the maximum, retention time within the given range, and aeration rate as the minimum. The optimum conditions were found to be a diesel concentration of 0.25% (Vdiesel/Vwater), a retention time of 63 days and no aeration with an estimated maximum TPH removal from water and sand of 76.3 and 56.5%, respectively. From a validation test of the optimum conditions, it was found that the maximum TPH removal from contaminated water and sand was 72.5 and 59%, respectively, which was a 5 and 4.4% deviation from the values given by the Box-Behnken Design, providing evidence that S. grossus is a Malaysian native plant that can be used to remediate wastewater containing hydrocarbons. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Prognostic value of preoperative serum CA 242 in Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cases.

PubMed

Feng, Ji-Feng; Huang, Ying; Chen, Qi-Xun

2013-01-01

Carbohydrate antigen (CA) 242 is inversely related to prognosis in many cancers. However, few data regarding CA 242 in esophageal cancer (EC) are available. The aim of this study was to determine the prognostic value of CA 242 and propose an optimum cut-off point in predicting survival difference in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). A retrospective analysis was conducted of 192 cases. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for survival prediction was plotted to verify the optimum cuf- off point. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate prognostic parameters for survival. The positive rate for CA 242 was 7.3% (14/192). The ROC curve for survival prediction gave an optimum cut-off of 2.15 (U/ml). Patients with CA 242 ≤ 2.15 U/ml had significantly better 5-year survival than patients with CA 242 >2.15 U/ml (45.4% versus 22.6%; P=0.003). Multivariate analysis showed that differentiation (P=0.033), CA 242 (P=0.017), T grade (P=0.004) and N staging (P<0.001) were independent prognostic factors. Preoperative CA 242 is a predictive factor for long-term survival in ESCC, especially in nodal-negative patients. We conclude that 2.15 U/ml may be the optimum cuf-off point for CA 242 in predicting survival in ESCC.

Space Station Freedom electric power system availability study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Turnquist, Scott R.

1990-01-01

The results are detailed of follow-on availability analyses performed on the Space Station Freedom electric power system (EPS). The scope includes analyses of several EPS design variations, these are: the 4-photovoltaic (PV) module baseline EPS design, a 6-PV module EPS design, and a 3-solar dynamic module EPS design which included a 10 kW PV module. The analyses performed included: determining the discrete power levels that the EPS will operate at upon various component failures and the availability of each of these operating states; ranking EPS components by the relative contribution each component type gives to the power availability of the EPS; determining the availability impacts of including structural and long-life EPS components in the availability models used in the analyses; determining optimum sparing strategies, for storing space EPS components on-orbit, to maintain high average-power-capability with low lift-mass requirements; and analyses to determine the sensitivity of EPS-availability to uncertainties in the component reliability and maintainability data used.

Ultrasound assisted microextraction-nano material solid phase dispersion for extraction and determination of thymol and carvacrol in pharmaceutical samples: experimental design methodology.

PubMed

Roosta, Mostafa; Ghaedi, Mehrorang; Daneshfar, Ali; Sahraei, Reza

2015-01-15

In the present study, for the first time, a new extraction method based on "ultrasound assisted microextraction-nanomaterial solid phase dispersion (UAME-NMSPD)" was developed to preconcentrate the low quantity of thymol and carvacrol in pharmaceutical samples prior to their HPLC-UV separation/determination. The analytes were accumulated on nickel sulfide nanomaterial loaded on activated carbon (NiS-NP-AC) that with more detail identified by XRD, FESEM and UV-vis technique. Central composite design (CCD) combined with desirability function (DF) was used to search for optimum operational conditions. Working under optimum conditions specified as: 10 min ultrasonic time, pH 3, 0.011 g of adsorbent and 600 μL extraction solvent) permit achievement of high and reasonable linear range over 0.005-2.0 μg mL(-1) (r(2)>0.9993) with LOD of thymol and carvacrol as 0.23 and 0.21 μg L(-1), respectively. The relative standard deviations (RSDs) were less than 4.93% (n=3). Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Ground-based deep-space LADAR for satellite detection: A parametric study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davey, Kevin F.

1989-12-01

The minimum performance requirements are determined of a ground based infrared LADAR designed to detect deep space satellites, and a candidate sensor design is presented based on current technology. The research examines LADAR techniques and detection methods to determine the optimum LADAR configuration, and then assesses the effects of atmospheric transmission, background radiance, and turbulence across the infrared region to find the optimum laser wavelengths. Diffraction theory is then used in a parametric analysis of the transmitted laser beam and received signal, using a Cassegrainian telescope design and heterodyne detection. The effects of beam truncation and obscuration, heterodyne misalignment, off-boresight detection, and image-pixel geometry are also included in the analysis. The derived equations are then used to assess the feasibility of several candidate designs under a wide range of detection conditions including daylight operation through cirrus. The results show that successful detection is theoretically possible under most conditions by transmitting a high power frequency modulated pulse train from an isotopic 13CO2 laser radiating at 11.17 micrometers, and utilizing post-detection integration and pulse compression techniques.

SVD-aided pseudo principal-component analysis: A new method to speed up and improve determination of the optimum kinetic model from time-resolved data

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

Oang, Key Young; Yang, Cheolhee; Muniyappan, Srinivasan

Determination of the optimum kinetic model is an essential prerequisite for characterizing dynamics and mechanism of a reaction. Here, we propose a simple method, termed as singular value decomposition-aided pseudo principal-component analysis (SAPPA), to facilitate determination of the optimum kinetic model from time-resolved data by bypassing any need to examine candidate kinetic models. We demonstrate the wide applicability of SAPPA by examining three different sets of experimental time-resolved data and show that SAPPA can efficiently determine the optimum kinetic model. In addition, the results of SAPPA for both time-resolved X-ray solution scattering (TRXSS) and transient absorption (TA) data of themore » same protein reveal that global structural changes of protein, which is probed by TRXSS, may occur more slowly than local structural changes around the chromophore, which is probed by TA spectroscopy.« less

Investigations related to evaluation of ultramicrofluorometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Whitcomb, B.

1981-01-01

High resolution emission and excitation fluorescent spectra were obtained for several samples in an effort to determine the optimum operational design for the instrument. The instrument was used to determine the required nature of a sample which could be detected, and in so doing, several different sample preparation techniques were considered. Numerous experiments were performed to determine the capabilities of the instrument with regard to the detection of suitably prepared virus specimens. Significant results were obtained in several areas. The fluorescent spectra indicated that substantial changes in the laser might be used advantageously to greatly improve the performance of the instrument. In the existing configuration, the instrument was shown to be capable of detecting the presence of suitably prepared virus samples.

A meta-heuristic method for solving scheduling problem: crow search algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adhi, Antono; Santosa, Budi; Siswanto, Nurhadi

2018-04-01

Scheduling is one of the most important processes in an industry both in manufacturingand services. The scheduling process is the process of selecting resources to perform an operation on tasks. Resources can be machines, peoples, tasks, jobs or operations.. The selection of optimum sequence of jobs from a permutation is an essential issue in every research in scheduling problem. Optimum sequence becomes optimum solution to resolve scheduling problem. Scheduling problem becomes NP-hard problem since the number of job in the sequence is more than normal number can be processed by exact algorithm. In order to obtain optimum results, it needs a method with capability to solve complex scheduling problems in an acceptable time. Meta-heuristic is a method usually used to solve scheduling problem. The recently published method called Crow Search Algorithm (CSA) is adopted in this research to solve scheduling problem. CSA is an evolutionary meta-heuristic method which is based on the behavior in flocks of crow. The calculation result of CSA for solving scheduling problem is compared with other algorithms. From the comparison, it is found that CSA has better performance in term of optimum solution and time calculation than other algorithms.

Taguchi optimization of bismuth-telluride based thermoelectric cooler

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anant Kishore, Ravi; Kumar, Prashant; Sanghadasa, Mohan; Priya, Shashank

2017-07-01

In the last few decades, considerable effort has been made to enhance the figure-of-merit (ZT) of thermoelectric (TE) materials. However, the performance of commercial TE devices still remains low due to the fact that the module figure-of-merit not only depends on the material ZT, but also on the operating conditions and configuration of TE modules. This study takes into account comprehensive set of parameters to conduct the numerical performance analysis of the thermoelectric cooler (TEC) using a Taguchi optimization method. The Taguchi method is a statistical tool that predicts the optimal performance with a far less number of experimental runs than the conventional experimental techniques. Taguchi results are also compared with the optimized parameters obtained by a full factorial optimization method, which reveals that the Taguchi method provides optimum or near-optimum TEC configuration using only 25 experiments against 3125 experiments needed by the conventional optimization method. This study also shows that the environmental factors such as ambient temperature and cooling coefficient do not significantly affect the optimum geometry and optimum operating temperature of TECs. The optimum TEC configuration for simultaneous optimization of cooling capacity and coefficient of performance is also provided.

A determination of the optimum time of year for remotely classifying marsh vegetation from LANDSAT multispectral scanner data. [Louisiana

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Butera, M. K. (Principal Investigator)

1978-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. A technique was used to determine the optimum time for classifying marsh vegetation from computer-processed LANDSAT MSS data. The technique depended on the analysis of data derived from supervised pattern recognition by maximum likelihood theory. A dispersion index, created by the ratio of separability among the class spectral means to variability within the classes, defined the optimum classification time. Data compared from seven LANDSAT passes acquired over the same area of Louisiana marsh indicated that June and September were optimum marsh mapping times to collectively classify Baccharis halimifolia, Spartina patens, Spartina alterniflora, Juncus roemericanus, and Distichlis spicata. The same technique was used to determine the optimum classification time for individual species. April appeared to be the best month to map Juncus roemericanus; May, Spartina alterniflora; June, Baccharis halimifolia; and September, Spartina patens and Distichlis spicata. This information is important, for instance, when a single species is recognized to indicate a particular environmental condition.

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

Hanthorn, H.E.; Jaech, J.L.

Results are given of a study to determine the optimum testing scheme consisting of drawing a group of optimum size from the population being tested, and retesting it, if required, in subgroups of optimum size. An exact computation of optimum grouping and subgrouping was made. Results are also given to indicate how much loss inefficiency occurs when physical limitations restrict the size of the original group. (J.R.D.)

Systems and methods for autonomously controlling agricultural machinery

DOEpatents

Hoskinson, Reed L.; Bingham, Dennis N.; Svoboda, John M.; Hess, J. Richard

2003-07-08

Systems and methods for autonomously controlling agricultural machinery such as a grain combine. The operation components of a combine that function to harvest the grain have characteristics that are measured by sensors. For example, the combine speed, the fan speed, and the like can be measured. An important sensor is the grain loss sensor, which may be used to quantify the amount of grain expelled out of the combine. The grain loss sensor utilizes the fluorescence properties of the grain kernels and the plant residue to identify when the expelled plant material contains grain kernels. The sensor data, in combination with historical and current data stored in a database, is used to identify optimum operating conditions that will result in increased crop yield. After the optimum operating conditions are identified, an on-board computer can generate control signals that will adjust the operation of the components identified in the optimum operating conditions. The changes result in less grain loss and improved grain yield. Also, because new data is continually generated by the sensor, the system has the ability to continually learn such that the efficiency of the agricultural machinery is continually improved.

Optimisation of air cooled, open-cathode fuel cells: Current of lowest resistance and electro-thermal performance mapping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meyer, Quentin; Ronaszegi, Krisztian; Pei-June, Gan; Curnick, Oliver; Ashton, Sean; Reisch, Tobias; Adcock, Paul; Shearing, Paul R.; Brett, Daniel J. L.

2015-09-01

Selecting the ideal operating point for a fuel cell depends on the application and consequent trade-off between efficiency, power density and various operating considerations. A systematic methodology for determining the optimal operating point for fuel cells is lacking; there is also the need for a single-value metric to describe and compare fuel cell performance. This work shows how the 'current of lowest resistance' can be accurately measured using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and used as a useful metric of fuel cell performance. This, along with other measures, is then used to generate an 'electro-thermal performance map' of fuel cell operation. A commercial air-cooled open-cathode fuel cell is used to demonstrate how the approach can be used; in this case leading to the identification of the optimum operating temperature of ∼45 °C.

Glucose biosensor based on the immobilization of glucose oxidase on electrochemically synthesized polypyrrole-poly(vinyl sulphonate) composite film by cross-linking with glutaraldehyde.

PubMed

Colak, Ozlem; Yaşar, Ahmet; Cete, Servet; Arslan, Fatma

2012-10-01

In this study, a novel amperometric glucose biosensor was developed by immobilizing glucose oxidase (GOX) by cross-linking via glutaraldehyde on electrochemically polymerized polypyrrole-poly(vinyl sulphonate) (PPy-PVS) films on the surface of a platinum (Pt) electrode. Electropolymerization of pyrrole and poly(vinyl sulphonate) on the Pt surface was carried out with an electrochemical cell containing pyrrole and poly(vinyl sulphonate) by cyclic voltammetry between -1.0 and + 2.0 V (vs.Ag/AgCl) at a scan rate of 50 mV/s upon the Pt electrode. The amperometric determination was based on the electrochemical detection of H(2)O(2) generated in enzymatic reaction of glucose. Determination of glucose was carried out by the oxidation of enzymatically produced H(2)O(2) at 0.4 V vs. Ag/AgCl. The effects of pH and temperature were investigated and optimum parameters were found to be 7.5 and 65°C, respectively. The effect of working potential was investigated and optimum potential was determined to be 0.4 V. The operational stability of the enzyme electrode was also studied. The response of the PPy/PVS-GOX glucose biosensor exhibited good reproducibility with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 2.48%. The glucose biosensor retained 63% of initial activity after 93 days when stored in 0.1 M phosphate buffer solution of pH 7.5 at 4°C. With the low operating potential, the biosensor demonstrated little interference from the possible interferants.

Equivalent circuit and optimum design of a multilayer laminated piezoelectric transformer.

PubMed

Dong, Shuxiang; Carazo, Alfredo Vazquez; Park, Seung Ho

2011-12-01

A multilayer laminated piezoelectric Pb(Zr(1-x)Ti(x))O(3) (PZT) ceramic transformer, operating in a half- wavelength longitudinal resonant mode (λ/2 mode), has been analyzed. This piezoelectric transformer is composed of one thickness-polarized section (T-section) for exciting the longitudinal mechanical vibrations, two longitudinally polarized sections (L-section) for generating high-voltage output, and two insulating layers laminated between the T-section and L-section layers to provide insulation between the input and output sections. Based on the piezoelectric constitutive and motion equations, an electro-elasto-electric (EEE) equivalent circuit has been developed, and correspondingly, an effective EEE coupling coefficient was proposed for optimum design of this multilayer transformer. Commercial finite element analysis software is used to determine the validity of the developed equivalent circuit. Finally, a prototype sample was manufactured and experimental data was collected to verify the model's validity.

Entanglement-enhanced Neyman-Pearson target detection using quantum illumination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhuang, Quntao; Zhang, Zheshen; Shapiro, Jeffrey H.

2017-08-01

Quantum illumination (QI) provides entanglement-based target detection---in an entanglement-breaking environment---whose performance is significantly better than that of optimum classical-illumination target detection. QI's performance advantage was established in a Bayesian setting with the target presumed equally likely to be absent or present and error probability employed as the performance metric. Radar theory, however, eschews that Bayesian approach, preferring the Neyman-Pearson performance criterion to avoid the difficulties of accurately assigning prior probabilities to target absence and presence and appropriate costs to false-alarm and miss errors. We have recently reported an architecture---based on sum-frequency generation (SFG) and feedforward (FF) processing---for minimum error-probability QI target detection with arbitrary prior probabilities for target absence and presence. In this paper, we use our results for FF-SFG reception to determine the receiver operating characteristic---detection probability versus false-alarm probability---for optimum QI target detection under the Neyman-Pearson criterion.

A modified sulfate process to lunar oxygen

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sullivan, Thomas A.

1992-01-01

A modified sulfate process which produces oxygen from iron oxide-bearing minerals in lunar soil is under development. Reaction rates of ilmenite in varying strength sulfuric acid have been determined. Quantitative conversion of ilmenite to ferrous sulfate was observed over a range of temperatures and concentrations. Data has also been developed on the calcination of by-product sulfates. System engineering for overall operability and simplicity has begun, suggesting that a process separating the digestion and sulfate dissolution steps may offer an optimum process.

The cut-off values of anthropometric variables for predicting mild cognitive impairment in Malaysian older adults: a large population based cross-sectional study

PubMed Central

Won, Huiloo; Abdul, Manaf Zahara; Mat Ludin, Arimi Fitri; Omar, Mohd Azahadi; Razali, Rosdinom; Shahar, Suzana

2017-01-01

Purpose Older adults are at risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and simple anthropometric measurements can be used to screen for this condition. Thus, the aim of this study was to explore the cut-off values of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) for predicting the risk of MCI in older Malaysian adults. Methods A total of 2,240 Malaysian older adults aged ≥60 years were recruited using multistage random sampling in a population based cross-sectional study. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine the cut-off values of BMI and WC with optimum sensitivity and specificity for the detection of MCI. Age, gender, years of education, smoking habit, alcohol consumption, depression, and medical conditions were used as confounding factors in this analysis. Results A BMI cut-off value of 26 kg/m2 (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC] 0.725; sensitivity 90.5%; specificity 38.8%) was appropriate in identifying the risk of getting MCI in both men and women. The optimum WC cut-offs for likelihood of MCI were 90 cm (AUC 0.745; sensitivity 78.0%; specificity 59.8%) for men and 82 cm (AUC 0.714; sensitivity 84.3%; specificity 49.7%) for women. The optimum calf circumference (CC) cut-off values for identifying MCI were 29 cm (AUC 0.731; sensitivity 72.6%; specificity 61.1%) for men and 26 cm (AUC 0.598; sensitivity 79.1%; specificity 45.3%) for women. Conclusion The cut-off values could be advocated and used as part of the screening of MCI among older Malaysian adults. There is a need to further determine the predictive values of these cut-off points on outcomes through longitudinal study design. PMID:28223785

Determining the Optimum Power Load in Jump Squat Using the Mean Propulsive Velocity

PubMed Central

Loturco, Irineu; Nakamura, Fabio Yuzo; Tricoli, Valmor; Kobal, Ronaldo; Cal Abad, Cesar Cavinato; Kitamura, Katia; Ugrinowitsch, Carlos; Gil, Saulo; Pereira, Lucas Adriano; González-Badillo, Juan José

2015-01-01

The jump squat is one of the exercises most frequently used to improve lower body power production, which influences sports performance. However, the traditional determination of the specific workload at which power production is maximized (i.e., optimum power load) is time-consuming and requires one-repetition maximum tests. Therefore, the aim of this study was to verify whether elite athletes from different sports would produce maximum mean propulsive power values at a narrow range of mean propulsive velocities, resulting in similar jump heights. One hundred and nine elite athletes from several individual/team sport disciplines underwent repetitions at maximal velocity with progressive loads, starting at 40% of their body mass with increments of 10% to determine the individual optimum power zone. Results indicated that regardless of sport discipline, the athletes’ optimum mean propulsive power was achieved at a mean propulsive velocity close to 1.0 m.s−1 (1.01 ± 0.07 m.s−1) and at a jump height close to 20 cm (20.47 ± 1.42 cm). Data were narrowly scattered around these values. Therefore, jump squat optimum power load can be determined simply by means of mean propulsive velocity or jump height determination in training/testing settings, allowing it to be implemented quickly in strength/power training. PMID:26444293

Optimization of finite difference forward modeling for elastic waves based on optimum combined window functions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jian, Wang; Xiaohong, Meng; Hong, Liu; Wanqiu, Zheng; Yaning, Liu; Sheng, Gui; Zhiyang, Wang

2017-03-01

Full waveform inversion and reverse time migration are active research areas for seismic exploration. Forward modeling in the time domain determines the precision of the results, and numerical solutions of finite difference have been widely adopted as an important mathematical tool for forward modeling. In this article, the optimum combined of window functions was designed based on the finite difference operator using a truncated approximation of the spatial convolution series in pseudo-spectrum space, to normalize the outcomes of existing window functions for different orders. The proposed combined window functions not only inherit the characteristics of the various window functions, to provide better truncation results, but also control the truncation error of the finite difference operator manually and visually by adjusting the combinations and analyzing the characteristics of the main and side lobes of the amplitude response. Error level and elastic forward modeling under the proposed combined system were compared with outcomes from conventional window functions and modified binomial windows. Numerical dispersion is significantly suppressed, which is compared with modified binomial window function finite-difference and conventional finite-difference. Numerical simulation verifies the reliability of the proposed method.

Computer model to simulate testing at the National Transonic Facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mineck, Raymond E.; Owens, Lewis R., Jr.; Wahls, Richard A.; Hannon, Judith A.

1995-01-01

A computer model has been developed to simulate the processes involved in the operation of the National Transonic Facility (NTF), a large cryogenic wind tunnel at the Langley Research Center. The simulation was verified by comparing the simulated results with previously acquired data from three experimental wind tunnel test programs in the NTF. The comparisons suggest that the computer model simulates reasonably well the processes that determine the liquid nitrogen (LN2) consumption, electrical consumption, fan-on time, and the test time required to complete a test plan at the NTF. From these limited comparisons, it appears that the results from the simulation model are generally within about 10 percent of the actual NTF test results. The use of actual data acquisition times in the simulation produced better estimates of the LN2 usage, as expected. Additional comparisons are needed to refine the model constants. The model will typically produce optimistic results since the times and rates included in the model are typically the optimum values. Any deviation from the optimum values will lead to longer times or increased LN2 and electrical consumption for the proposed test plan. Computer code operating instructions and listings of sample input and output files have been included.

Challenges of small-pixel infrared detectors: a review.

PubMed

Rogalski, A; Martyniuk, P; Kopytko, M

2016-04-01

In the last two decades, several new concepts for improving the performance of infrared detectors have been proposed. These new concepts particularly address the drive towards the so-called high operating temperature focal plane arrays (FPAs), aiming to increase detector operating temperatures, and as a consequence reduce the cost of infrared systems. In imaging systems with the above megapixel formats, pixel dimension plays a crucial role in determining critical system attributes such as system size, weight and power consumption (SWaP). The advent of smaller pixels has also resulted in the superior spatial and temperature resolution of these systems. Optimum pixel dimensions are limited by diffraction effects from the aperture, and are in turn wavelength-dependent. In this paper, the key challenges in realizing optimum pixel dimensions in FPA design including dark current, pixel hybridization, pixel delineation, and unit cell readout capacity are outlined to achieve a sufficiently adequate modulation transfer function for the ultra-small pitches involved. Both photon and thermal detectors have been considered. Concerning infrared photon detectors, the trade-offs between two types of competing technology-HgCdTe material systems and III-V materials (mainly barrier detectors)-have been investigated.

Investigation of mitomycin-C-treated fibroblasts in 3-D collagen gel and conditioned medium for keratinocyte proliferation.

PubMed

Huang, Yi-Chau; Wang, Tzu-Wei; Sun, Jui-Sheng; Lin, Feng-Huei

2006-03-01

Fibroblasts produce a spectrum of necessary growth factors essential for growth and proliferation of a variety of cell types. In this study, the paracrine effect of mitomycin-C-treated fibroblasts with various densities in collagen gel for keratinocyte proliferation was investigated from which an optimum cell density and optimum conditioned medium would be determined to expand keratinocyte without further differentiation for skin equivalent tissue engineering. The optimum cell density in collagen feeder gel for optimum collected medium preparation will be determined by checking the level of keratinocyte growth factor and granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor in conventional medium. The results showed that the cell density of 1 x 10(5) cells/gel in the feeder gel is better to produce optimum collected medium. The conditioned medium is prepared by mixing together the optimum collected medium and molecular cellular and developmental biology (MCDB) 153 medium in different ratios for keratinocyte growth. The keratinocyte viability will be measured by 3-(4,5-dimethyl-thiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay to determine the optimum conditioned medium. From the study, 67% conditioned medium was supposed as the better medium for keratinocyte proliferation. In this experiment, the optimum cell density in feeder gel to coculture with keratinocytes is also determined as 1 x 10(5) cells/gel. Keratin 10 (K10) and Terminal Deoxynucleotidyl Transferase Mediated dUTP Nick End Labeling stain will be used to check the cell differentiation and apoptosis, respectively. The results suggest that keratinocytes should not be cultured in postconfluent conditions due to undesired apoptosis and differentiation. The result of cell viability from passages to passages shows that the optimum feeder gel plays a more important role to the keratinocyte proliferation than that of optimum conditioned medium. Keratinocytes cultured with optimum feeder gel in 67% conditioned medium could effectively promote proliferation, inhibit apoptosis, and prevent differentiation. The combination of conditioned media and feeder gel to culture keratinocytes without external supplements can provide an inexpensive way for keratinocyte proliferation and construct an environment for real-time communication between the two cells. The results conclude that keratinocyte cultivation in feeder gel with modified medium should be feasible in the production of high quality keratinocytes for skin equivalents preparation.

Probe-fed semi circular microstrip antenna vis-à-vis circular microstrip antenna: a necessary revisit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghosh, S. K.; Varshney, S. K.; Chakraborty, S.; Singh, L. L. K.; Chattopadhyay, S.

2018-03-01

Microstrip patch antenna of semicircular geometry has been investigated in view of miniaturization of conventional circular geometry. The precise operating frequency of the semicircular microstrip patch antenna is the most significant parameter to be determined in order to design such antenna system to achieve the optimum performance. In the present investigation an improved formulation is presented for accurate determination of the resonant frequency of semicircular patch. Also, the radiation property of such patch is thoroughly investigated. Through comparisons are documented amongst the circular and semicircular patches. It is revealed that, the semicircular patch offers more better radiation performance compared to circular.

Preliminary development of digital signal processing in microwave radiometers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stanley, W. D.

1980-01-01

Topics covered involve a number of closely related tasks including: the development of several control loop and dynamic noise model computer programs for simulating microwave radiometer measurements; computer modeling of an existing stepped frequency radiometer in an effort to determine its optimum operational characteristics; investigation of the classical second order analog control loop to determine its ability to reduce the estimation error in a microwave radiometer; investigation of several digital signal processing unit designs; initiation of efforts to develop required hardware and software for implementation of the digital signal processing unit; and investigation of the general characteristics and peculiarities of digital processing noiselike microwave radiometer signals.

Virtual strain gage size study

DOE PAGES

Reu, Phillip L.

2015-09-22

DIC is a non-linear low-pass spatial filtering operation; whether we consider the effect of the subset and shape function, the strain window used in the strain calculation, of other post-processing of the results, each decision will impact the spatial resolution, of the measurement. More fundamentally, the speckle size limits, the spatial resolution by dictating the smallest possible subset. After this decision the processing settings are controlled by the allowable noise level balanced by possible bias errors created by the data filtering. This article describes a process to determine optimum DIC software settings to determine if the peak displacements or strainsmore » are being found.« less

Plasma gasification of municipal solid waste

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

Carter, G.W.; Tsangaris, A.V.

1995-12-31

Resorption Canada Limited (RCL) has conducted extensive operational testing with plasma technology in their plasma facility near Ottawa, Ontario, Canada to develop an environmentally friendly waste disposal process. Plasma technology, when utilized in a reactor vessel with the exclusion of oxygen, provides for the complete gasification of all combustibles in source materials with non-combustibles being converted to a non-hazardous slag. The energy and environmental characteristics of the plasma gasification of carbonaceous waste materials were studied over a period of eight years during which RCL completed extensive experimentation with MSW. A plasma processing system capable of processing 200--400 lbs/hr of MSWmore » was designed and built. The experimentation on MSW concentrated on establishing the optimum operating parameters and determining the energy and environmental characteristics at these operating parameters.« less

[The evaluation and prognosis of the psychophysiological status of a human operator].

PubMed

Sukhov, A E; Chaĭchenko, G M

1989-01-01

In experiments on 56 healthy subjects (18-20 years old) the quality of their activity was determined during compensatory watching the mark at complicating regimes of work. Depending on the difficulty of the task five groups of subjects were singled out with optimum working capacity in one of four working conditions: normal, ordinary and strenuous work, model of stress situation. It is established that the change of the number of significant correlative connections between main parameters of psychophysiological state of man-operator reflects the condition of his functional systems. On the basis of computation of total range of organization values of both R-R intervals of the ECG and duration of expiration, the success of the man-operator work in complex conditions of activity is predicted.

Selection of Wavelengths for Optimum Precision in Simultaneous Spectrophotometric Determinations.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

DiTusa, Michael R.; Schilt, Alfred A.

1985-01-01

Although many textbooks include a description of simultaneous determinations employing absorption spectrophotometry and treat the mathematics necessary for analytical quantitations, treatment of analytical wavelength selection has been mostly qualitative. Therefore, a general method for selecting wavelengths for optimum precision in simultaneous…

Design of a Versatile, Teleoperable, Towable Lifting Machine with Robotic Capabilities for Use in Nasa's Lunar Base Operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harris, Elizabeth; Ogle, James; Schoppe, Dean

1989-01-01

The lifting machine will assist in lifting cargo off of landers sent to the Moon and in the construction of a lunar base. Three possible designs were considered for the overall configuration of the lifting machine: the variable angle crane, the tower crane, and the gantry crane. Alternate designs were developed for the major components of the lifting machine. A teleoperable, variable angle crane was chosen as its final design. The design consists of a telescoping boom mounted to a chassis that is supported by two conical wheels for towing and four outriggers for stability. Attached to the end of the boom is a seven degree of freedom robot arm for light, dexterous, lifting operations. A cable and hook suspends from the end of the boom for heavy, gross, lifting operations. Approximate structural sizes were determined for the lifter and its components. However, further analysis is needed to determine the optimum design dimensions. The design team also constructed a model of the design which demonstrates its features and operating principals.

Broadband Liner Optimization for the Source Diagnostic Test Fan

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nark, Douglas M.; Jones, Michael G.

2012-01-01

The broadband component of fan noise has grown in relevance with the utilization of increased bypass ratio and advanced fan designs. Thus, while the attenuation of fan tones remains paramount, the ability to simultaneously reduce broadband fan noise levels has become more appealing. This paper describes a broadband acoustic liner optimization study for the scale model Source Diagnostic Test fan. Specifically, in-duct attenuation predictions with a statistical fan source model are used to obtain optimum impedance spectra over a number of flow conditions for three liner locations in the bypass duct. The predicted optimum impedance information is then used with acoustic liner modeling tools to design liners aimed at producing impedance spectra that most closely match the predicted optimum values. Design selection is based on an acceptance criterion that provides the ability to apply increased weighting to specific frequencies and/or operating conditions. Typical tonal liner designs targeting single frequencies at one operating condition are first produced to provide baseline performance information. These are followed by multiple broadband design approaches culminating in a broadband liner targeting the full range of frequencies and operating conditions. The broadband liner is found to satisfy the optimum impedance objectives much better than the tonal liner designs. In addition, the broadband liner is found to provide better attenuation than the tonal designs over the full range of frequencies and operating conditions considered. Thus, the current study successfully establishes a process for the initial design and evaluation of novel broadband liner concepts for complex engine configurations.

Optimum testing intervals of building emergency power supply systems in tall buildings in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kwok, Yu Fat

The main objective of this study is to develop a model for the determination of optimum testing interval (OTI) of non-redundant standby plants. This study focuses on the emergency power generators in tall buildings in Hong Kong. The model for the reliability, which is developed, is applicable to any non-duplicated standby plant. In a tall building, the mobilisation of occupants is constrained by its height and the building internal layout. Occupant's safety, amongst other safety considerations, highly depends on the reliability of the fire detection and protection system, which in turn is dependent on the reliability of the emergency power generation plants. A thorough literature survey shows that the practice used in determining OTI in nuclear plants is generally applicable. Historically, the OTI in these plants is determined by balancing the testing downtime and reliability gained from frequent testing. However, testing downtime does not exist in plants like emergency power generator. Subsequently, sophisticated models have taken repairing downtime into consideration. In this study, the algorithms for the determination of OTI, and hence reliability of standby plants, are reconsidered. A new concept is introduced into the subject. A new model is developed for such purposes which embraces more realistic factors found in practice. System aging and the finite life cycle of the standby plant are considered. Somewhat more pragmatic is that the Optimum Overhauling Interval can also be determined from this new model. System unavailability grow with time, but can be reset by test or overhaul. Contrary to fixed testing intervals, OTI is determined whenever system point unavailability exceeds certain level, which depends on the reliability requirement of the standby system. An optimum testing plan for lowering this level to the 'minimum useful unavailability' level (see section 9.1 for more elaboration) can be determined by the new model presented. Cost effectiveness is accounted for by a new parameter 'tau min', the minimum testing interval (MTI). The MTI optimises the total number of tests and the total number of overhauls, when the costs for each are available. The model sets up criteria for test and overhaul and to 'announce' end of system life. The usefulness of the model is validated by a detailed analysis of the operating parameters from 8,500 maintenance records collected for emergency power generation plants in high rise buildings in Hong Kong. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

Optimization of the Use of Selected Non-Phosphate Water Retention Additives in Minced Beef Using Response Surface Methodology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shang, Xiaolan; Qiao, Jie; Liu, Yujie

2017-12-01

This study looked to determine what the optimum cooking loss for minced beef was when three different non-phosphate water retention additives (L-Arginine, sodium carbonate, and sodium citrate) were combined; the optimum value was determined using a Box-Behnken response surface design method. The optimum value was found to be 8.26%, and it was obtained when 0.29% L-Arginine, 0.45% sodium carbonate, and 0.24% sodium citrate were added to the beef.

Optimum design calculations for detectors based on ZnSe(Те,О) scintillators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Katrunov, K.; Ryzhikov, V.; Gavrilyuk, V.; Naydenov, S.; Lysetska, O.; Litichevskyi, V.

2013-06-01

Light collection in scintillators ZnSe(X), where X is an isovalent dopant, was studied using Monte Carlo calculations. Optimum design was determined for detectors of "scintillator—Si-photodiode" type, which can involve either one scintillation element or scintillation layers of large area made of small-crystalline grains. The calculations were carried out both for determination of the optimum scintillator shape and for design optimization of light guides, on the surface of which the layer of small-crystalline grains is formed.

Noise and frequency response of silicon photodiode operational amplifier combination.

PubMed

Hamstra, R H; Wendland, P

1972-07-01

The noise in dark and illuminated Schottky barrier and diffused PIN non-guard-ring photodiodes has been measured between 0.1 Hz and 10 kHz and compared to theory with an excellent fit. It is shown that diodes used photovoltaically are free of 1/f noise in the dark. It is also demonstrated that there is an optimum bias (ca. 100 mV) for minimum noise equivalent power. When only a resistive load is used with a detector, it often determines the frequency response and noise of the detector circuit. We develop and demonstrate equations for the major improvements in both noise and frequency response that can be obtained using a current mode (inverting) operational amplifier.

A generalized concept for cost-effective structural design. [Statistical Decision Theory applied to aerospace systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thomas, J. M.; Hawk, J. D.

1975-01-01

A generalized concept for cost-effective structural design is introduced. It is assumed that decisions affecting the cost effectiveness of aerospace structures fall into three basic categories: design, verification, and operation. Within these basic categories, certain decisions concerning items such as design configuration, safety factors, testing methods, and operational constraints are to be made. All or some of the variables affecting these decisions may be treated probabilistically. Bayesian statistical decision theory is used as the tool for determining the cost optimum decisions. A special case of the general problem is derived herein, and some very useful parametric curves are developed and applied to several sample structures.

Material property for designing, analyzing, and fabricating space structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kolkailah, Faysal A.

1991-01-01

An analytical study was made of plasma assisted bullet projectile. The finite element analysis and the micro-macromechanic analysis was applied to an optimum design technique for the multilayered graphite-epoxy composite projectile that will achieve hypervelocity of 6 to 10 Km/s. The feasibility was determined of dialectics to monitor cure of graphite-epoxies. Several panels were fabricated, cured, and tested with encouraging results of monitoring the cure of graphite-epoxies. The optimum cure process for large structures was determined. Different orientation were used and three different curing cycles were employed. A uniaxial tensile test was performed on all specimens. The optimum orientation with the optimum cure cycle were concluded.

Optimization of fed-batch fermentation for xylitol production by Candida tropicalis.

PubMed

Kim, J-H; Han, K-C; Koh, Y-H; Ryu, Y-W; Seo, J-H

2002-07-01

Xylitol, a functional sweetener, was produced from xylose by biological conversion using Candida tropicalis ATCC 13803. Based on a two-substrate fermentation using glucose for cell growth and xylose for xylitol production, fed-batch fermentations were undertaken to increase the final xylitol concentration. The effects of xylose and xylitol on xylitol production rate were studied to determine the optimum concentrations for fed-batch fermentation. Xylose concentration in the medium (100 g l(-1)) and less than 200 g l(-1) total xylose plus xylitol concentration were determined as optimum for maximum xylitol production rate and xylitol yield. Increasing the concentrations of xylose and xylitol decreased the rate and yield of xylitol production and the specific cell growth rate, probably because of an increase in osmotic stress that would interfere with xylose transport, xylitol flux to secretion to cell metabolism. The feeding rate of xylose solution during the fed-batch mode of operation was determined by using the mass balance equations and kinetic parameters involved in the equations in order to increase final xylitol concentration without affecting xylitol and productivity. The optimized fed-batch fermentation resulted in 187 g l(-1) xylitol concentration, 0.75 g xylitol g xylose(-1) xylitol yield and 3.9 g xylitol l(-1) h(-1) volumetric productivity.

Maximally efficient two-stage screening: Determining intellectual disability in Taiwanese military conscripts.

PubMed

Chien, Chia-Chang; Huang, Shu-Fen; Lung, For-Wey

2009-01-27

The purpose of this study was to apply a two-stage screening method for the large-scale intelligence screening of military conscripts. We collected 99 conscripted soldiers whose educational levels were senior high school level or lower to be the participants. Every participant was required to take the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) and the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised (WAIS-R) assessments. Logistic regression analysis showed the conceptual level responses (CLR) index of the WCST was the most significant index for determining intellectual disability (ID; FIQ ≤ 84). We used the receiver operating characteristic curve to determine the optimum cut-off point of CLR. The optimum one cut-off point of CLR was 66; the two cut-off points were 49 and 66. Comparing the two-stage window screening with the two-stage positive screening, the area under the curve and the positive predictive value increased. Moreover, the cost of the two-stage window screening decreased by 59%. The two-stage window screening is more accurate and economical than the two-stage positive screening. Our results provide an example for the use of two-stage screening and the possibility of the WCST to replace WAIS-R in large-scale screenings for ID in the future.

Maximally efficient two-stage screening: Determining intellectual disability in Taiwanese military conscripts

PubMed Central

Chien, Chia-Chang; Huang, Shu-Fen; Lung, For-Wey

2009-01-01

Objective: The purpose of this study was to apply a two-stage screening method for the large-scale intelligence screening of military conscripts. Methods: We collected 99 conscripted soldiers whose educational levels were senior high school level or lower to be the participants. Every participant was required to take the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) and the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised (WAIS-R) assessments. Results: Logistic regression analysis showed the conceptual level responses (CLR) index of the WCST was the most significant index for determining intellectual disability (ID; FIQ ≤ 84). We used the receiver operating characteristic curve to determine the optimum cut-off point of CLR. The optimum one cut-off point of CLR was 66; the two cut-off points were 49 and 66. Comparing the two-stage window screening with the two-stage positive screening, the area under the curve and the positive predictive value increased. Moreover, the cost of the two-stage window screening decreased by 59%. Conclusion: The two-stage window screening is more accurate and economical than the two-stage positive screening. Our results provide an example for the use of two-stage screening and the possibility of the WCST to replace WAIS-R in large-scale screenings for ID in the future. PMID:21197345

Development of a cloud point extraction and spectrophotometry-based microplate method for the determination of nitrite in human urine and blood.

PubMed

Zhao, Jiao; Lu, Yunhui; Fan, Chongyang; Wang, Jun; Yang, Yaling

2015-02-05

A novel and simple method for the sensitive determination of trace amounts of nitrite in human urine and blood has been developed by combination of cloud point extraction (CPE) and microplate assay. The method is based on the Griess reaction and the reaction product is extracted into nonionic surfactant Triton-X114 using CPE technique. In this study, decolorization treatment of urine and blood was applied to overcome the interference of matrix and enhance the sensitivity of nitrite detection. Multi-sample can be simultaneously detected thanks to a 96-well microplate technique. The effects of different operating parameters such as type of decolorizing agent, concentration of surfactant (Triton X-114), addition of (NH4)2SO4, extraction temperature and time, interfering elements were studied and optimum conditions were obtained. Under the optimum conditions, a linear calibration graph was obtained in the range of 10-400 ng mL(-1) of nitrite with limit of detection (LOD) of 2.5 ng mL(-1). The relative standard deviation (RSD) for determination of 100 ng mL(-1) of nitrite was 2.80%. The proposed method was successfully applied for the determination of nitrite in the urine and blood samples with recoveries of 92.6-101.2%. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The behavior of gain and saturation characteristics versus temperature in a copper bromide laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohammadpour Lima, S.; Behrouzinia, S.; Salem, M. K.; Elahei, M.; Khorasani, K.; Dorranian, D.

2017-05-01

A pair of copper bromide lasers in an oscillator-amplifier configuration was used to investigate the temperature dependence of the small-signal gain, saturation intensity, and output power of the laser. The observations were explained in terms of the electron temperature and energy levels of transition. An optimum electrical input power of 1.6 kW and a corresponding operational temperature of 510 °C were determined for the maximum values of these parameters. The balance between the microscopic parameters, such as stimulated emission cross-section, laser upper-level lifetime, and population inversion, which determine the behavior of the amplifying parameters and laser output power with respect to the operational temperature, has been investigated. We used the steady-state rate equation from the Hargrove model to determine the amplifying parameters, instead of the Frantz-Nodvik formula. The power extracted from the amplifier exceeds that achieved with the same device as the oscillator by more than 60%.

Complete Non-Radioactive Operability Tests for Cladding Hull Chlorination

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

Collins, Emory D; Johnson, Jared A.; Hylton, Tom D.

2016-04-01

Non-radioactive operability tests were made to test the metal chlorination reactor and condenser and their accessories using batch chlorinations of non-radioactive cladding samples and to identify optimum operating practices and components that need further modifications prior to installation of the equipment into the hot cell for tests on actual used nuclear fuel (UNF) cladding. The operability tests included (1) modifications to provide the desired heating and reactor temperature profile; and (2) three batch chlorination tests using, respectively, 100, 250, and 500 g of cladding. During the batch chlorinations, metal corrosion of the equipment was assessed, pressurization of the gas inletmore » was examined and the best method for maintaining solid salt product transfer through the condenser was determined. Also, additional accessing equipment for collection of residual ash and positioning of the unit within the hot cell were identified, designed, and are being fabricated.« less

Optimization of EB plant by constraint control

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

Hummel, H.K.; de Wit, G.B.C.; Maarleveld, A.

1991-03-01

Optimum plant operation can often be achieved by means of constraint control instead of model- based on-line optimization. This is because optimum operation is seldom at the top of the hill but usually at the intersection of constraints. This article describes the development of a constraint control system for a plant producing ethylbenzene (EB) by the Mobil/Badger Ethylbenzene Process. Plant optimization can be defined as the maximization of a profit function describing the economics of the plant. This function contains terms with product values, feedstock prices and operational costs. Maximization of the profit function can be obtained by varying relevantmore » degrees of freedom in the plant, such as a column operating pressure or a reactor temperature. These degrees of freedom can be varied within the available operating margins of the plant.« less

An analytical investigation of a conceptual design for the station transverse boom rotary joint structure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lake, M. S.; Bush, H. G.

1986-01-01

A study was conducted to define an annular ring, discrete roller assembly concept for the space station transverse boom rotary joint. The concept was analyzed using closed-form and finite element techniques, to size structural members for a range of joint diameters and to determine necessary equivalent stiffnesses for the roller assemblies. Also, a mass study of the system was conducted to determine its practicality, and maximum loads in the joint were identified. To obtain the optimum balance between high stiffness and low structural mass in the design of the rotary joint, it is necessary to maximize the diameter of the annular ring within operational constraints (i.e., shuttle cargo bay size). Further, a rotary joint designed with the largest possible ring diameter will result in minimum operational loads in both the roller assemblies and the transition truss members while also allowing minimum design stiffnesses for the roller assemblies.

Modeling and Simulation of a Nuclear Fuel Element Test Section

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moran, Robert P.; Emrich, William

2011-01-01

"The Nuclear Thermal Rocket Element Environmental Simulator" test section closely simulates the internal operating conditions of a thermal nuclear rocket. The purpose of testing is to determine the ideal fuel rod characteristics for optimum thermal heat transfer to their hydrogen cooling/working fluid while still maintaining fuel rod structural integrity. Working fluid exhaust temperatures of up to 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit can be encountered. The exhaust gas is rendered inert and massively reduced in temperature for analysis using a combination of water cooling channels and cool N2 gas injectors in the H2-N2 mixer portion of the test section. An extensive thermal fluid analysis was performed in support of the engineering design of the H2-N2 mixer in order to determine the maximum "mass flow rate"-"operating temperature" curve of the fuel elements hydrogen exhaust gas based on the test facilities available cooling N2 mass flow rate as the limiting factor.

Optimum poultry litter rates for maximum profit vs. yield in cotton production

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Cotton lint yield responds well to increasing rates of poultry litter fertilization, but little is known of how optimum rates for yield compare with optimum rates for profit. The objectives of this study were to analyze cotton lint yield response to poultry litter application rates, determine and co...

Threshold detection in an on-off binary communications channel with atmospheric scintillation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Webb, W. E.; Marino, J. T., Jr.

1974-01-01

The optimum detection threshold in an on-off binary optical communications system operating in the presence of atmospheric turbulence was investigated assuming a poisson detection process and log normal scintillation. The dependence of the probability of bit error on log amplitude variance and received signal strength was analyzed and semi-emperical relationships to predict the optimum detection threshold derived. On the basis of this analysis a piecewise linear model for an adaptive threshold detection system is presented. Bit error probabilities for non-optimum threshold detection system were also investigated.

A method for optimum PSA setting in the absence of a pure α or β emitter and its application in the determination of (237)Np/(233)Pa.

PubMed

Feng, Xiao-gui; He, Qian-ge; Wang, Jian-chen; Chen, Jing

2014-11-01

In the application of liquid scintillation counting (LSC), the α/β discrimination is carried out with the function of pulse shape analysis (PSA), which requires the setting of the optimum PSA level. The optimum PSA are usually determined by the generation of cross-over plots, whereby a pair of vials, one containing a pure α emitter and the other a pure β emitter, is counted. However, in some cases such as the determination of (237)Np/(233)Pa, a pure α emitter or a pure β emitter is not available. Therefore, we have developed a new approach to set the optimum PSA by measuring the sample itself of mixed α/β emitters. The count rate of the sample in the α-multi-channel analyzer changes monotonically with the increase of the PSA, and there is always an inflection point which is related to the optimum PSA. By fitting the data near the inflection point with the function y=ax(3)+bx(2)+cx+d, we can obtain the optimum PSA as -b/(3a), which can be used to determine the radioactivity of (237)Np/(233)Pa. The results obtained with this new approach were in good agreement with those obtained by HPGe γ spectrometry that was calibrated with an LSC sample of (237)Np/(233)Pa under a radioactive secular equilibrium. The new approach is promising to be used in simultaneous determination of gross α and β emitters, especially in the absence of a pure α or β emitter. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

New method to enhance the extraction yield of rutin from Sophora japonica using a novel ultrasonic extraction system by determining optimum ultrasonic frequency.

PubMed

Liao, Jianqing; Qu, Baida; Liu, Da; Zheng, Naiqin

2015-11-01

A new method has been proposed for enhancing extraction yield of rutin from Sophora japonica, in which a novel ultrasonic extraction system has been developed to perform the determination of optimum ultrasonic frequency by a two-step procedure. This study has systematically investigated the influence of a continuous frequency range of 20-92 kHz on rutin yields. The effects of different operating conditions on rutin yields have also been studied in detail such as solvent concentration, solvent to solid ratio, ultrasound power, temperature and particle size. A higher extraction yield was obtained at the ultrasonic frequency of 60-62 kHz which was little affected under other extraction conditions. Comparative studies between existing methods and the present method were done to verify the effectiveness of this method. Results indicated that the new extraction method gave a higher extraction yield compared with existing ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and soxhlet extraction (SE). Thus, the potential use of this method may be promising for extraction of natural materials on an industrial scale in the future. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Measurements of hip-bone distortions caused by the stress of inserted prosthesis by means of the speckle photography method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gajda, Jerzy K.; Niesterowicz, Andrzej; Mazurkiewicz, Henryk

1995-03-01

A high number of osseous diseases, particularly of the backbone and hip-joint regions, result in a need for their overall treatment and prevention. Two basic treatment methods are used: physical exercises at an early stage of the illness, and surgical treatment in an advanced stage. Recently, in operational treatment of coxarthrosis the elements of the joint (acetabulum and capitellum) were replaced by their artificial counterparts, despite some drawbacks and unknowns related to this kind of treatment. In order to check the effectiveness of this treatment and to eliminate its drawbacks we have tested the joint by means of speckle photography method. The objective of this paper is an attempt to evaluate stress and displacement distributions in a system consisting of artificial acetabulum and capitellum and a natural bone in order to determine an optimum fitting of artificial acetabulum and capitellum and a natural bone in order to determine an optimum fitting of artificial elements that guarantees uniform distribution of stresses corresponding to anatomical and physiological parameters of the hip-joint. Speckle photographs have been analyzed point by point with the help of the algorithm for striped images processing.

Prototyping of Dental Structures Using Laser Milling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andreev, A. O.; Kosenko, M. S.; Petrovskiy, V. N.; Mironov, V. D.

2016-02-01

The results of experimental studies of the effect of an ytterbium fiber laser radiation parameters on processing efficiency and quality of ZrO2 ceramics widely used in stomatology are presented. Laser operating conditions with optimum characteristics for obtaining high quality final surfaces and rapid material removal of dental structures are determined. The ability of forming thin-walled ceramic structures by laser milling technology (a minimum wall thickness of 50 μm) is demonstrated. The examples of three-dimensional dental structures created in computer 3D-models of human teeth using laser milling are shown.

Protection coordination of the Kennedy Space Center electric distribution network

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1976-01-01

A computer technique is described for visualizing the coordination and protection of any existing system of devices and settings by plotting the tripping characteristics of the involved devices on a common basis. The program determines the optimum settings of a given set of protective devices and configuration in the sense of the best expected coordinated operation of these devices. Subroutines are given for simulating time versus current characteristics of the different relays, circuit breakers, and fuses in the system; coordination index computation; protection checks; plotting; and coordination optimation.

A methodology for small scale rural land use mapping in semi-arid developing countries using orbital imagery. Part 6: A low-cost method for land use mapping using simple visual techniques of interpretation. [Spain

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vangenderen, J. L. (Principal Investigator); Lock, B. F.

1976-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. It was found that color composite transparencies and monocular magnification provided the best base for land use interpretation. New methods for determining optimum sample sizes and analyzing interpretation accuracy levels were developed. All stages of the methodology were assessed, in the operational sense, during the production of a 1:250,000 rural land use map of Murcia Province, Southeast Spain.

Optimum Onager: The Classical Mechanics of a Classical Siege Engine

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Denny, Mark

2009-01-01

The onager is a throwing weapon of classical antiquity, familiar to both the ancient Greeks and Romans. Here we analyze the dynamics of onager operation and derive the optimum angle for launching a projectile to its maximum range. There is plenty of scope for further considerations about increasing onager range, and so by thinking about how this…

Programmed Controls for an All-Electric School.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Novak, W.J.

1965-01-01

Heating and ventilating equipment used in the all-electric upper Elementary School in Bedford, New Hampshire, is controlled to insure optimum comfort while the school is occupied and optimum economy of standby operation while it is not in use. A master clock programs all control functions while its mechanism drives two types of tapes--(1) a 365…

Chlorophyll extraction from suji leaf (Pleomele angustifolia Roxb.) with ZnCl2 stabilizer.

PubMed

Rahayuningsih, Edia; Pamungkas, Mukmin Sapto; Olvianas, Muhammad; Putera, Andreas Diga Pratama

2018-03-01

Suji ( Pleomele angustifolia Roxb .) leaves are a prominent source of chlorophyll and well-known for their ability to produce green color for food ingredients. However, chlorophyll is suspectible to color degradation at high temperature. Color degradation occurred because porphyrin loses magnesium in its ring and it can be avoided by adding zinc. The aim of this work was to investigate the combined effect of independent variables on chlorophyll extraction process using ZnCl 2 as a stabilizer. Suji leaves were blanched with boiling water for 2 min, Zn-chlorophyll synthesis was done by varying concentration of ZnCl 2 , Zn-chlorophyll extraction with ethanol, and UV-Vis spectrophotometry analysis of the final extracted solutions. A full three-level factorial design under response surface methodology was used to obtain the optimum condition of extraction process. The experimental data were analyzed by analysis of variance and fitted with second order polynomial equation. The coefficient of determination (R 2 ) was found to be 81.99%. The optimum operating conditions were obtained at pH 7, ZnCl 2 concentration of 700 ppm and temperature of 85 °C with desirability value of 1.0000. At the optimum conditions, the total chlorophyll content (TCC) was found to be 47.2975 mg/100 g fresh weight.

Effect of volumetric organic loading rate (OLR) on H2 and CH4 production by two-stage anaerobic co-digestion of food waste and brown water.

PubMed

Paudel, Sachin; Kang, Youngjun; Yoo, Yeong-Seok; Seo, Gyu Tae

2017-03-01

Two-stage anaerobic digestion system consisting of two continuously stirred tank reactors (CSTRs) operating at mesophillic conditions (37°C) were studied. The aim of this study is to determine optimum Hydraulic Retention Time (HRT) of the two-stage anaerobic digester system for hydrogen and methane production. This paper also discusses the effect of OLR with change in HRT on the system. Four different HRTs of 48, 24, 12, 8h were monitored for acidogenic reactor, which provided OLR of 17.7, 34.8, 70.8, 106gVS/L·d respectively. Two HRTs of 15days and 20days were studied with OLR of 1.24 and 1.76gVS/L·d respectively in methanogenic reactor. Hydrogen production at higher OLR and shorter HRT seemed favorable 106gVS/L·d (8h) in acidogenic reactor system. In methanogenic reactor system HRT of 20day with OLR of 1.24gVS/L·d was found optimum in terms of methane production and organic removal. The result of this study illustrated the optimum HRT of 8h and 20days in acidogenic stage and methanogenic stage for maximum hydrogen and methane production. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Influence of operating conditions on the air gasification of dry refinery sludge in updraft gasifier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmed, R.; Sinnathambi, C. M.

2013-06-01

In the present work, details of the equilibrium modeling of dry refinery sludge (DRS) are presented using ASPEN PLUS Simulator in updraft gasifier. Due to lack of available information in the open journal on refinery sludge gasification using updraft gasifier, an evaluate for its optimum conditions on gasification is presented in this paper. For this purpose a Taguchi Orthogonal array design, statistical software is applied to find optimum conditions for DRS gasification. The goal is to identify the most significant process variable in DRS gasification conditions. The process variables include; oxidation zone temperature, equivalent ratio, operating pressure will be simulated and examined. Attention was focused on the effect of optimum operating conditions on the gas composition of H2 and CO (desirable) and CO2 (undesirable) in terms of mass fraction. From our results and finding it can be concluded that the syngas (H2 & CO) yield in term of mass fraction favors high oxidation zone temperature and at atmospheric pressure while CO2 acid gas favor at a high level of equivalent ratio as well as air flow rate favoring towards complete combustion.

Gamma ray irradiated AgFeO{sub 2} nanoparticles with enhanced gas sensor properties

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

Wang, Xiuhua, E-mail: xhwang@mail.ahnu.edu.cn; Shi, Zhijie; Yao, Shangwu

2014-11-15

AgFeO{sub 2} nanoparticles were synthesized via a facile hydrothermal method and irradiated by various doses of gamma ray. The products were characterized with X-ray powder diffraction, UV–vis absorption spectrum and transmission electron microscope. The results revealed that the crystal structure, morphology and size of the samples remained unchanged after irradiation, while the intensity of UV–Vis spectra increased with irradiation dose increasing. In addition, gamma ray irradiation improved the performance of gas sensor based on the AgFeO{sub 2} nanoparticles including the optimum operating temperature and sensitivity, which might be ascribed to the generation of defects. - Graphical abstract: Gamma ray irradiationmore » improved the performance of gas sensor based on the AgFeO{sub 2} nanoparticles including sensitivity and optimum operating temperature, which might be ascribed to the generation of defects. - Highlights: • AgFeO{sub 2} nanoparticles were synthesized and irradiated with gamma ray. • AgFeO{sub 2} nanoparticles were employed to fabricate gas sensors to detect ethanol. • Gamma ray irradiation improved the sensitivity and optimum operating temperature.« less

Operating characteristics of a new ion source for KSTAR neutral beam injection system.

PubMed

Kim, Tae-Seong; Jeong, Seung Ho; Chang, Doo-Hee; Lee, Kwang Won; In, Sang-Ryul

2014-02-01

A new positive ion source for the Korea Superconducting Tokamak Advanced Research neutral beam injection (KSTAR NBI-1) system was designed, fabricated, and assembled in 2011. The characteristics of the arc discharge and beam extraction were investigated using hydrogen and helium gas to find the optimum operating parameters of the arc power, filament voltage, gas pressure, extracting voltage, accelerating voltage, and decelerating voltage at the neutral beam test stand at the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute in 2012. Based on the optimum operating condition, the new ion source was then conditioned, and performance tests were primarily finished. The accelerator system with enlarged apertures can extract a maximum 65 A ion beam with a beam energy of 100 keV. The arc efficiency and optimum beam perveance, at which the beam divergence is at a minimum, are estimated to be 1.0 A/kW and 2.5 uP, respectively. The beam extraction tests show that the design goal of delivering a 2 MW deuterium neutral beam into the KSTAR Tokamak plasma is achievable.

Critical analysis of the condensation of water vapor at external surface of the duct

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Dileep; Memon, Rizwan Ahmed; Memon, Abdul Ghafoor; Ali, Intizar; Junejo, Awais

2018-01-01

In this paper, the effects of contraction of the insulation of the air duct of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is investigated. The compression of the insulation contracts it at joint, turn and other points of the duct. The energy loss and the condensation resulted from this contraction are also estimated. A mathematical model is developed to simulate the effects of this contraction on the heat gain, supply air temperature and external surface temperature of the duct. The simulation uses preliminary data obtained from an HVAC system installed in a pharmaceutical company while varying the operating conditions. The results reveal that insulation thickness should be kept greater than 30 mm and the volume flow rate of the selected air distribution system should be lower than 1.4m3/s to subside condensation on the external surface of the duct. Additionally, the optimum insulation thickness was determined by considering natural gas as an energy source and fiberglass as an insulation material. The optimum insulation thickness determined for different duct sizes varies from 28 to 45 mm, which is greater than the critical insulation thickness. Therefore, the chances of condensation on the external surface of the duct could be avoided at an optimum insulation thickness. Moreover, the effect of pressure loss coefficient of the duct fitting of air distribution system is estimated. The electricity consumption in air handling unit (AHU) decreases from 2.1 to 1.5 kW by decreasing the pressure loss coefficient from 1.5 to 0.5.

Critical analysis of the condensation of water vapor at external surface of the duct

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Dileep; Memon, Rizwan Ahmed; Memon, Abdul Ghafoor; Ali, Intizar; Junejo, Awais

2018-07-01

In this paper, the effects of contraction of the insulation of the air duct of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is investigated. The compression of the insulation contracts it at joint, turn and other points of the duct. The energy loss and the condensation resulted from this contraction are also estimated. A mathematical model is developed to simulate the effects of this contraction on the heat gain, supply air temperature and external surface temperature of the duct. The simulation uses preliminary data obtained from an HVAC system installed in a pharmaceutical company while varying the operating conditions. The results reveal that insulation thickness should be kept greater than 30 mm and the volume flow rate of the selected air distribution system should be lower than 1.4m3/s to subside condensation on the external surface of the duct. Additionally, the optimum insulation thickness was determined by considering natural gas as an energy source and fiberglass as an insulation material. The optimum insulation thickness determined for different duct sizes varies from 28 to 45 mm, which is greater than the critical insulation thickness. Therefore, the chances of condensation on the external surface of the duct could be avoided at an optimum insulation thickness. Moreover, the effect of pressure loss coefficient of the duct fitting of air distribution system is estimated. The electricity consumption in air handling unit (AHU) decreases from 2.1 to 1.5 kW by decreasing the pressure loss coefficient from 1.5 to 0.5.

Multi-KW dc distribution system technology research study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dawson, S. G.

1978-01-01

The Multi-KW DC Distribution System Technology Research Study is the third phase of the NASA/MSFC study program. The purpose of this contract was to complete the design of the integrated technology test facility, provide test planning, support test operations and evaluate test results. The subjet of this study is a continuation of this contract. The purpose of this continuation is to study and analyze high voltage system safety, to determine optimum voltage levels versus power, to identify power distribution system components which require development for higher voltage systems and finally to determine what modifications must be made to the Power Distribution System Simulator (PDSS) to demonstrate 300 Vdc distribution capability.

Advanced definition study for the determination of atmospheric ozone using the satellite eclipse technique

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Emmons, R.; Preski, R. J.; Kierstead, F. H., Jr.; Doll, F. C.; Wight, D. T.; Romick, D. C.

1973-01-01

A study was made to evaluate the potential for remote ground-based measurement of upper atmospheric ozone by determining the absorption ratio of selected narrow bands of sunlight as reflected by satellites while passing into eclipse, using the NASA Mobile Satellite Photometric Observatory (MOSPO). Equipment modifications to provide optimum performance were analyzed and recommendations were made for improvements to the system to accomplish this. These included new sensor tubes, pulse counting detection circuitry, filters, beam splitters and associated optical revision, along with an automatic tracking capability plus corresponding operational techniques which should extend the overall measurement capability to include use of satellites down to 5th magnitude.

Effect of double air injection on performance characteristics of centrifugal compressor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hirano, Toshiyuki; Takano, Mizuki; Tsujita, Hoshio

2015-02-01

In the operation of a centrifugal compressor of turbocharger, instability phenomena such as rotating stall and surge are induced at a lower flow rate close to the maximum pressure ratio. In this study, for the suppression of surge phenomenon resulting in the extension of the stable operating range of centrifugal compressor to lower flow rate, the compressed air at the compressor exit was re-circulated and injected into the impeller inlet by using the double injection nozzle system. The experiments were performed to find out the optimum circumferential position of the second nozzle relative to the fixed first one and the optimum inner diameter of the injection nozzles, which are able to most effectively reduce the flow rate of surge inception. Moreover, in order to examine the universality of these optimum values, the experiments were carried out for two types of compressors.

Tungsten-Doped TiO2 Nanolayers with Improved CO2 Gas Sensing Properties for Environmental Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saberi, Maliheh; Ashkarran, Ali Akbar

Tungsten-doped TiO2 gas sensors were successfully synthesized using sol-gel process and spin coating technique. The fabricated sensor was characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), ultraviolet visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-Ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Gas sensing properties of pristine and tungsten-doped TiO2 nanolayers (NLs) were probed by detection of CO2 gas. A series of experiments were conducted in order to find the optimum operating temperature of the prepared sensors and also the optimum value of tungsten concentration in TiO2 matrix. It was found that introducing tungsten into the TiO2 matrix enhanced the gas sensing performance. The maximum response was found to be (1.37) for 0.001g tungsten-doped TiO2 NLs at 200∘C as an optimum operating temperature.

Provision of wear resistance and fatigue strength of surfaces during electroerosive processing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fedonin, O. N.; Syanov, S. Yu; Papikyan, A. M.

2018-03-01

This article is a generalization of the results of theoretical studies of the effect of erosion control regimes on the operational properties of mold-forming parts of molds. The main problem is the provision of wear resistance and fatigue strength in the electroerosion processing of these types of products. The analysis showed that the fatigue strength is affected by the processing regimes and the coefficient after the erosion treatment. The index of wear resistance is determined both by the treatment modes and by the physical-mechanical properties of the billet materials. To ensure the operational performance of products, it is necessary to establish the physical picture of the processing of complex profile parts by finding the optimum eroding regime.

Removal of suspended solids and turbidity from marble processing wastewaters by electrocoagulation: comparison of electrode materials and electrode connection systems.

PubMed

Solak, Murat; Kiliç, Mehmet; Hüseyin, Yazici; Sencan, Aziz

2009-12-15

In this study, removal of suspended solids (SS) and turbidity from marble processing wastewaters by electrocoagulation (EC) process were investigated by using aluminium (Al) and iron (Fe) electrodes which were run in serial and parallel connection systems. To remove these pollutants from the marble processing wastewater, an EC reactor including monopolar electrodes (Al/Fe) in parallel and serial connection system, was utilized. Optimization of differential operation parameters such as pH, current density, and electrolysis time on SS and turbidity removal were determined in this way. EC process with monopolar Al electrodes in parallel and serial connections carried out at the optimum conditions where the pH value was 9, current density was approximately 15 A/m(2), and electrolysis time was 2 min resulted in 100% SS removal. Removal efficiencies of EC process for SS with monopolar Fe electrodes in parallel and serial connection were found to be 99.86% and 99.94%, respectively. Optimum parameters for monopolar Fe electrodes in both of the connection types were found to be for pH value as 8, for electrolysis time as 2 min. The optimum current density value for Fe electrodes used in serial and parallel connections was also obtained at 10 and 20 A/m(2), respectively. Based on the results obtained, it was found that EC process running with each type of the electrodes and the connections was highly effective for the removal of SS and turbidity from marble processing wastewaters, and that operating costs with monopolar Al electrodes in parallel connection were the cheapest than that of the serial connection and all the configurations for Fe electrode.

An operation support expert system based on on-line dynamics simulation and fuzzy reasoning for startup schedule optimization in fossil power plants

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

Matsumoto, H.; Eki, Y.; Kaji, A.

1993-12-01

An expert system which can support operators of fossil power plants in creating the optimum startup schedule and executing it accurately is described. The optimum turbine speed-up and load-up pattern is obtained through an iterative manner which is based on fuzzy resonating using quantitative calculations as plant dynamics models and qualitative knowledge as schedule optimization rules with fuzziness. The rules represent relationships between stress margins and modification rates of the schedule parameters. Simulations analysis proves that the system provides quick and accurate plant startups.

Experimental investigation of optimum beam size for FSO uplink

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaushal, Hemani; Kaddoum, Georges; Jain, Virander Kumar; Kar, Subrat

2017-10-01

In this paper, the effect of transmitter beam size on the performance of free space optical (FSO) communication has been determined experimentally. Irradiance profile for varying turbulence strength is obtained using optical turbulence generating (OTG) chamber inside laboratory environment. Based on the results, an optimum beam size is investigated using the semi-analytical method. Moreover, the combined effects of atmospheric scintillation and beam wander induced pointing errors are considered in order to determine the optimum beam size that minimizes the bit error rate (BER) of the system for a fixed transmitter power and link length. The results show that the optimum beam size for FSO uplink depends upon Fried parameter and outer scale of the turbulence. Further, it is observed that the optimum beam size increases with the increase in zenith angle but has negligible effect with the increase in fade threshold level at low turbulence levels and has a marginal effect at high turbulence levels. Finally, the obtained outcome is useful for FSO system design and BER performance analysis.

Optimum aggregation of geographically distributed flexible resources in strategic smart-grid/microgrid locations

DOE PAGES

Bhattarai, Bishnu P.; Myers, Kurt S.; Bak-Jensen, Brigitte; ...

2017-05-17

This paper determines optimum aggregation areas for a given distribution network considering spatial distribution of loads and costs of aggregation. An elitist genetic algorithm combined with a hierarchical clustering and a Thevenin network reduction is implemented to compute strategic locations and aggregate demand within each area. The aggregation reduces large distribution networks having thousands of nodes to an equivalent network with few aggregated loads, thereby significantly reducing the computational burden. Furthermore, it not only helps distribution system operators in making faster operational decisions by understanding during which time of the day will be in need of flexibility, from which specificmore » area, and in which amount, but also enables the flexibilities stemming from small distributed resources to be traded in various power/energy markets. A combination of central and local aggregation scheme where a central aggregator enables market participation, while local aggregators materialize the accepted bids, is implemented to realize this concept. The effectiveness of the proposed method is evaluated by comparing network performances with and without aggregation. Finally, for a given network configuration, steady-state performance of aggregated network is significantly accurate (≈ ±1.5% error) compared to very high errors associated with forecast of individual consumer demand.« less

Optimum aggregation of geographically distributed flexible resources in strategic smart-grid/microgrid locations

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

Bhattarai, Bishnu P.; Myers, Kurt S.; Bak-Jensen, Brigitte

This paper determines optimum aggregation areas for a given distribution network considering spatial distribution of loads and costs of aggregation. An elitist genetic algorithm combined with a hierarchical clustering and a Thevenin network reduction is implemented to compute strategic locations and aggregate demand within each area. The aggregation reduces large distribution networks having thousands of nodes to an equivalent network with few aggregated loads, thereby significantly reducing the computational burden. Furthermore, it not only helps distribution system operators in making faster operational decisions by understanding during which time of the day will be in need of flexibility, from which specificmore » area, and in which amount, but also enables the flexibilities stemming from small distributed resources to be traded in various power/energy markets. A combination of central and local aggregation scheme where a central aggregator enables market participation, while local aggregators materialize the accepted bids, is implemented to realize this concept. The effectiveness of the proposed method is evaluated by comparing network performances with and without aggregation. Finally, for a given network configuration, steady-state performance of aggregated network is significantly accurate (≈ ±1.5% error) compared to very high errors associated with forecast of individual consumer demand.« less

Isolation and characterization of hydrophobic compounds from carbohydrate matrix of Pistacia atlantica.

PubMed

Samavati, Vahid; Adeli, Mostafa

2014-01-30

The present work is focused on the optimization of hydrophobic compounds extraction process from the carbohydrate matrix of Iranian Pistacia atlantica seed at laboratory level using ultrasonic-assisted extraction. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize oil seed extraction yield. Independent variables were extraction temperature (30, 45, 60, 75 and 90°C), extraction time (10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 min) and power of ultrasonic (20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 W). A second order polynomial equation was used to express the oil extraction yield as a function of independent variables. The responses and variables were fitted well to each other by multiple regressions. The optimum extraction conditions were as follows: extraction temperature of 75°C, extraction time of 25 min, and power of ultrasonic of 80 W. A comparison between seed oil composition extracted by ultrasonic waves under the optimum operating conditions determined by RSM for oil yield and by organic solvent was reported. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Determination of effect factor for effective parameter on saccharification of lignocellulosic material by concentrated acid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aghili, Sina; Nodeh, Ali Arasteh

2015-12-01

Tamarisk usage as a new group of lignocelluloses material to produce fermentable sugars in bio ethanol process was studied. The overall aim of this work was to establish the optimum condition for acid hydrolysis of this new material and a mathematical model predicting glucose release as a function of operation variable. Sulfuric acid concentration in the range of 20 to 60%(w/w), process temperature between 60 to 95oC, hydrolysis time from 120 to 240 min and solid content 5,10,15%(w/w) were used as hydrolysis conditions. HPLC was used to analysis of the product. This analysis indicated that glucose was the main fermentable sugar and was increase with time, temperature and solid content and acid concentration was a parabola influence in glucose production. The process was modeled by a quadratic equation. Curve study and model were found that 42% acid concentration, 15 % solid content and 90oC were optimum condition.

Studies with sample conductivity, insertion rates, and particle deflection in a continuous flow electrophoresis system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, G., Jr.

1982-01-01

The continuous flow electrophoresis system makes electrophoresis possible in a free-flowing film of aqueous electrolyte medium. The sample continuously enters the electrolyte at the top of the chamber and is subjected to the action of a lateral dc field. This divides the sample into fractions since each component has a distinctive electrophoretic mobility. Tests were made using monodisperse polystyrene latex microspheres to determine optimum sample conductivity, insertion rates and optimum electric field applications as baseline data for future STS flight experiments. Optimum sample flow rates for the selected samples were determined to be approximately 26 micro-liters/min. Experiments with samples in deionized water yielded best results and voltages in the 20 V/cm to 30 V/cm range were optimum. Deflections of formaldehyde fixed turkey and bovine erythrocytes were determined using the continuous flow electrophoresis system. The effects of particle interactions on sample resolution and migration in the chamber was also evaluated.

Design of slurry bubble column reactors: novel technique for optimum catalyst size selection contractual origin of the invention

DOEpatents

Gamwo, Isaac K [Murrysville, PA; Gidaspow, Dimitri [Northbrook, IL; Jung, Jonghwun [Naperville, IL

2009-11-17

A method for determining optimum catalyst particle size for a gas-solid, liquid-solid, or gas-liquid-solid fluidized bed reactor such as a slurry bubble column reactor (SBCR) for converting synthesis gas into liquid fuels considers the complete granular temperature balance based on the kinetic theory of granular flow, the effect of a volumetric mass transfer coefficient between the liquid and the gas, and the water gas shift reaction. The granular temperature of the catalyst particles representing the kinetic energy of the catalyst particles is measured and the volumetric mass transfer coefficient between the gas and liquid phases is calculated using the granular temperature. Catalyst particle size is varied from 20 .mu.m to 120 .mu.m and a maximum mass transfer coefficient corresponding to optimum liquid hydrocarbon fuel production is determined. Optimum catalyst particle size for maximum methanol production in a SBCR was determined to be in the range of 60-70 .mu.m.

Research on the treatment of oily wastewater by coalescence technology.

PubMed

Li, Chunbiao; Li, Meng; Zhang, Xiaoyan

2015-01-01

Recently, oily wastewater treatment has become a hot research topic across the world. Among the common methods for oily wastewater treatment, coalescence is one of the most promising technologies because of its high efficiency, easy operation, smaller land coverage, and lower investment and operational costs. In this research, a new type of ceramic filter material was chosen to investigate the effects of some key factors including particle size of coarse-grained materials, temperature, inflow direction and inflow velocity of the reactor. The aim was to explore the optimum operating conditions for coarse-graining. Results of a series of tests showed that the optimum operating conditions were a combination of grain size 1-3 mm, water temperature 35 °C and up-flow velocity 8 m/h, which promised a maximum oil removal efficiency of 93%.

Method for Determining Optimum Injector Inlet Geometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Myers, W. Neill (Inventor); Trinh, Huu P. (Inventor)

2015-01-01

A method for determining the optimum inlet geometry of a liquid rocket engine swirl injector includes obtaining a throttleable level phase value, volume flow rate, chamber pressure, liquid propellant density, inlet injector pressure, desired target spray angle and desired target optimum delta pressure value between an inlet and a chamber for a plurality of engine stages. The method calculates the tangential inlet area for each throttleable stage. The method also uses correlation between the tangential inlet areas and delta pressure values to calculate the spring displacement and variable inlet geometry of a liquid rocket engine swirl injector.

Optimum shape of a blunt forebody in hypersonic flow

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Maestrello, L.; Ting, L.

1989-01-01

The optimum shape of a blunt forebody attached to a symmetric wedge or cone is determined. The length of the forebody, its semi-thickness or base radius, the nose radius and the radius of the fillet joining the forebody to the wedge or cone are specified. The optimum shape is composed of simple curves. Thus experimental models can be built readily to investigate the utilization of aerodynamic heating for boundary layer control. The optimum shape based on the modified Newtonian theory can also serve as the preliminary shape for the numerical solution of the optimum shape using the governing equations for a compressible inviscid or viscous flow.

Optimum-AIV: A planning and scheduling system for spacecraft AIV

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Arentoft, M. M.; Fuchs, Jens J.; Parrod, Y.; Gasquet, Andre; Stader, J.; Stokes, I.; Vadon, H.

1991-01-01

A project undertaken for the European Space Agency (ESA) is presented. The project is developing a knowledge based software system for planning and scheduling of activities for spacecraft assembly, integration, and verification (AIV). The system extends into the monitoring of plan execution and the plan repair phase. The objectives are to develop an operational kernel of a planning, scheduling, and plan repair tool, called OPTIMUM-AIV, and to provide facilities which will allow individual projects to customize the kernel to suit its specific needs. The kernel shall consist of a set of software functionalities for assistance in initial specification of the AIV plan, in verification and generation of valid plans and schedules for the AIV activities, and in interactive monitoring and execution problem recovery for the detailed AIV plans. Embedded in OPTIMUM-AIV are external interfaces which allow integration with alternative scheduling systems and project databases. The current status of the OPTIMUM-AIV project, as of Jan. 1991, is that a further analysis of the AIV domain has taken place through interviews with satellite AIV experts, a software requirement document (SRD) for the full operational tool was approved, and an architectural design document (ADD) for the kernel excluding external interfaces is ready for review.

Analysis and Experimental Investigation of Optimum Design of Thermoelectric Cooling/Heating System for Car Seat Climate Control (CSCC)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elarusi, Abdulmunaem; Attar, Alaa; Lee, HoSung

2018-02-01

The optimum design of a thermoelectric system for application in car seat climate control has been modeled and its performance evaluated experimentally. The optimum design of the thermoelectric device combining two heat exchangers was obtained by using a newly developed optimization method based on the dimensional technique. Based on the analytical optimum design results, commercial thermoelectric cooler and heat sinks were selected to design and construct the climate control heat pump. This work focuses on testing the system performance in both cooling and heating modes to ensure accurate analytical modeling. Although the analytical performance was calculated using the simple ideal thermoelectric equations with effective thermoelectric material properties, it showed very good agreement with experiment for most operating conditions.

Determine Neuronal Tuning Curves by Exploring Optimum Firing Rate Distribution for Information Efficiency

PubMed Central

Han, Fang; Wang, Zhijie; Fan, Hong

2017-01-01

This paper proposed a new method to determine the neuronal tuning curves for maximum information efficiency by computing the optimum firing rate distribution. Firstly, we proposed a general definition for the information efficiency, which is relevant to mutual information and neuronal energy consumption. The energy consumption is composed of two parts: neuronal basic energy consumption and neuronal spike emission energy consumption. A parameter to model the relative importance of energy consumption is introduced in the definition of the information efficiency. Then, we designed a combination of exponential functions to describe the optimum firing rate distribution based on the analysis of the dependency of the mutual information and the energy consumption on the shape of the functions of the firing rate distributions. Furthermore, we developed a rapid algorithm to search the parameter values of the optimum firing rate distribution function. Finally, we found with the rapid algorithm that a combination of two different exponential functions with two free parameters can describe the optimum firing rate distribution accurately. We also found that if the energy consumption is relatively unimportant (important) compared to the mutual information or the neuronal basic energy consumption is relatively large (small), the curve of the optimum firing rate distribution will be relatively flat (steep), and the corresponding optimum tuning curve exhibits a form of sigmoid if the stimuli distribution is normal. PMID:28270760

Interpreting cost of ownership for mix-and-match lithography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Levine, Alan L.; Bergendahl, Albert S.

1994-05-01

Cost of ownership modeling is a critical and emerging tool that provides significant insight into the ways to optimize device manufacturing costs. The development of a model to deal with a particular application, mix-and-match lithography, was performed in order to determine the level of cost savings and the optimum ways to create these savings. The use of sensitivity analysis with cost of ownership allows the user to make accurate trade-offs between technology and cost. The use and interpretation of the model results are described in this paper. Parameters analyzed include several manufacturing considerations -- depreciation, maintenance, engineering and operator labor, floorspace, resist, consumables and reticles. Inherent in this study is the ability to customize this analysis for a particular operating environment. Results demonstrate the clear advantages of a mix-and-match approach for three different operating environments. These case studies also demonstrate various methods to efficiently optimize cost savings strategies.

Far infrared maser communications technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Claspy, P. C.; Pao, Y. H.

1975-01-01

An optically pumped FIR laser was constructed and tested. Optimum operating conditions were determined with CH3OH as the lasing medium. The laser was found to operate equally well with flowing gas or in a sealed off configuration. The FIR cavity stability and pump laser stability were found to have significant problems. The absorption coefficient per unit pressure of 1-1 difluoroethylene at the P(22) and P(24) lines of the 10.4 micron CO2 band was measured. The FIR line pumped by P(22) occurs at approximately 890 microns, which may be in an atmospheric transmission window. It was found that significant Stark tuning of absorption lines of methanol and 1-1 difluoroethylene can be accomplished, even at the usual 100 to 300 mTorr operating pressures of FIR lasers. This means that the use of Stark tuning may enable more effective use of pump laser output.

Detail design of empennage of an unmanned aerial vehicle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarker, Md. Samad; Panday, Shoyon; Rasel, Md; Salam, Md. Abdus; Faisal, Kh. Md.; Farabi, Tanzimul Hasan

2017-12-01

In order to maintain the operational continuity of air defense systems, unmanned autonomous or remotely controlled unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) plays a great role as a target for the anti-aircraft weapons. The aerial vehicle must comply with the requirements of high speed, remotely controlled tracking and navigational aids, operational sustainability and sufficient loiter time. It can also be used for aerial reconnaissance, ground surveillance and other intelligence operations. This paper aims to develop a complete tail design of an unmanned aerial vehicle using Systems Engineering approach. The design fulfils the requirements of longitudinal and directional trim, stability and control provided by the horizontal and vertical tail. Tail control surfaces are designed to provide sufficient control of the aircraft in critical conditions. Design parameters obtained from wing design are utilized in the tail design process as required. Through chronological calculations and successive iterations, optimum values of 26 tail design parameters are determined.

Piezoceramic Actuator Placement for Acoustic Control of Panels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bevan, Jeffrey S.; Turner, Travis L. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

Optimum placement of multiple traditional piezoceramic actuators is determined for active structural acoustic control of flat panels. The structural acoustic response is determined using acoustic radiation filters and structural surface vibration characteristics. Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) control is utilized to determine the optimum state feedback gain for active structural acoustic control. The optimum actuator location is determined by minimizing the structural acoustic radiated noise using a modified genetic algorithm. Experimental tests are conducted and compared to analytical results. Anisotropic piezoceramic actuators exhibits enhanced performance when compared to traditional isotropic piezoceramic actuators. As a result of the inherent isotropy, these advanced actuators develop strain along the principal material axis. The orientation of anisotropic actuators is investigated on the effect of structural vibration and acoustic control of curved and flat panels. A fully coupled shallow shell finite element formulation is developed to include anisotropic piezoceramic actuators for shell structures.

Piezoceramic Actuator Placement for Acoustic Control of Panels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bevan, Jeffrey S.

2000-01-01

Optimum placement of multiple traditional piezoceramic actuators is determined for active structural acoustic control of flat panels. The structural acoustic response is determined using acoustic radiation filters and structural surface vibration characteristics. Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) control is utilized to determine the optimum state feedback gain for active structural acoustic control. The optimum actuator location is determined by minimizing the structural acoustic radiated noise using a modified genetic algorithm. Experimental tests are conducted and compared to analytical results. Anisotropic piezoceramic actuators exhibit enhanced performance when compared to traditional isotropic piezoceramic actuators. As a result of the inherent isotropy, these advanced actuators develop strain along the principal material axis. The orientation of anisotropic actuators is investigated on the effect of structural vibration and acoustic control of curved and flat panels. A fully coupled shallow shell finite element formulation is developed to include anisotropic piezoceramic actuators for shell structures.

The Treatment of the Incompletely Descended Testis

PubMed Central

Wilson, D. S. Poole

1939-01-01

(1) Under three years of age the diagnosis of the incompletely descended testis is uncertain. (2) The policy of awaiting spontaneous descent may be pursued until 10 years of age but, unless the testis lies in the superior scrotal position, this policy should not be persisted in thereafter. (3) Hormonal therapy may be employed before operative treatment as a means of determining testes which will descend spontaneously. It should only be used in the prepuberty period. (4) Operative treatment may be safely carried out at any age after 3 years and should be completed before puberty. The optimum period is between 8 and 11 years. The Bevan operation may be successful when the testis is very mobile but the most consistent results are obtained by the septal transposition or Keetley-Torek operations. ImagesFig. 1Fig. 2Fig. 3Fig. 4Fig. 5Fig. 8Fig. 9Fig. 10Fig. 13Fig. 14Fig. 15Fig. 16Fig. 18Fig. 19Fig. 20Fig. 21Fig. 22 PMID:19991991

Investigation of 2.1-micron lasing properties of Ho:Tm:Cr:YAG crystals under flash-lamp pumping at various operating conditions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, Kyong H.; Choi, Young S.; Barnes, Norman P.; Hess, Robert V.; Bair, Clayton H.; Brockman, Philip

1993-01-01

Flash-lamp-pumped normal-mode and Q-switched 2.1-micron laser operations of Ho:Tm:Cr:YAG crystals have been evaluated under a wide variety of experimental conditions in order to determine an optimum lasing condition and to characterize the laser outputs. Q-switched laser-output energies equal to, or in some cases exceeding the normal-mode laser energies, were obtained in the form of a strong single spike through an optimization of the opening time of a lithium niobate Q switch. The increase of the normal-mode laser slope efficiency was observed with the increase of the Tm concentration from 2.5 to 4.5 at. pct at operating temperatures from 120 K to near room temperature. Laser transitions were observed only at 2.098 and 2.091 microns under various conditions. The 2.091-micron laser transition appeared to be dominant at high-temperature operations with low-reflective-output couplers.

Regenerative flywheel storage system, volume 2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

1980-06-01

A vehicle propulsion system was simulated on a digital computer in order to determine the optimum system operating strategies and to establish a calculated range improvement over a nonregenerative, all electric vehicle. Fabrication of the inductor motor, the flywheel, the power conditioner, and the system control are described. Test results of the system operating over the SAE J227a Schedule D driving cycle are given and are compared to the calculated value. The flywheel energy storage system consists of a solid rotor, synchronous, inductor type, flywheel drive machine electrically coupled to a dc battery electric propulsion system through a load commutated inverter. The motor/alternator unit is coupled mechanically to a small steel flywheel which provides a portion of the vehicle's accelerating energy and regenerates the vehicle's braking energy.

Study of genetic direct search algorithms for function optimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zeigler, B. P.

1974-01-01

The results are presented of a study to determine the performance of genetic direct search algorithms in solving function optimization problems arising in the optimal and adaptive control areas. The findings indicate that: (1) genetic algorithms can outperform standard algorithms in multimodal and/or noisy optimization situations, but suffer from lack of gradient exploitation facilities when gradient information can be utilized to guide the search. (2) For large populations, or low dimensional function spaces, mutation is a sufficient operator. However for small populations or high dimensional functions, crossover applied in about equal frequency with mutation is an optimum combination. (3) Complexity, in terms of storage space and running time, is significantly increased when population size is increased or the inversion operator, or the second level adaptation routine is added to the basic structure.

Thermoelectric-Driven Autonomous Sensors for a Biomass Power Plant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodríguez, A.; Astrain, D.; Martínez, A.; Gubía, E.; Sorbet, F. J.

2013-07-01

This work presents the design and development of a thermoelectric generator intended to harness waste heat in a biomass power plant, and generate electric power to operate sensors and the required electronics for wireless communication. The first objective of the work is to design the optimum thermoelectric generator to harness heat from a hot surface, and generate electric power to operate a flowmeter and a wireless transmitter. The process is conducted by using a computational model, presented in previous papers, to determine the final design that meets the requirements of electric power consumption and number of transmissions per minute. Finally, the thermoelectric generator is simulated to evaluate its performance. The final device transmits information every 5 s. Moreover, it is completely autonomous and can be easily installed, since no electric wires are required.

An emulator for minimizing finite element analysis implementation resources

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Melosh, R. J.; Utku, S.; Salama, M.; Islam, M.

1982-01-01

A finite element analysis emulator providing a basis for efficiently establishing an optimum computer implementation strategy when many calculations are involved is described. The SCOPE emulator determines computer resources required as a function of the structural model, structural load-deflection equation characteristics, the storage allocation plan, and computer hardware capabilities. Thereby, it provides data for trading analysis implementation options to arrive at a best strategy. The models contained in SCOPE lead to micro-operation computer counts of each finite element operation as well as overall computer resource cost estimates. Application of SCOPE to the Memphis-Arkansas bridge analysis provides measures of the accuracy of resource assessments. Data indicate that predictions are within 17.3 percent for calculation times and within 3.2 percent for peripheral storage resources for the ELAS code.

Validation of the self-reporting questionnaire (SRQ 20) in British Pakistani and White European population in the United Kingdom.

PubMed

Husain, Nusrat; Chaudhry, Nasim; Rhouma, Abdulhakim; Sumra, Altaf; Tomenson, Barbara; Waheed, Waquas

2016-01-01

The incidence of depression is difficult to determine because of low clinical depression detection rates in the primary care setting. This low level of detection is a significantly greater problem in people from ethnic minority communities. The availability of culturally validated screening questionnaires might help to improve the detection and treatment of depression. The aim of the study was to assess the validity of the self-reporting questionnaire SRQ 20, (English and Urdu versions) in white Europeans and British Pakistanis and to determine the optimum cut-off scores for detecting depression. Validation of the English and Urdu versions of the SRQ was conducted with a sample of white Europeans and British Pakistani participants. The semi-structured Schedule for Clinical Assessment in Neuropsychiatry (SCAN) was used as the gold standard diagnostic interview, and receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to evaluate SRQ test performance. The SRQ was completed by 1856 participants out of whom 651 completed the SCAN interview. The SRQ sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values versus SCAN indicated a cut-off score of 7 as optimum for white Europeans and a cut-off score of 6 for British Pakistanis. This study focused on depression alone and did not take into consideration comorbid conditions such as anxiety which might have affected the way respondents answered the questions and contributed to comparatively lower optimum cut-off scores in British Pakistanis. The findings of this validation study provide evidence for high sensitivity and specificity of SRQ amongst both white Europeans and British Pakistanis. The SRQ can be used as a routine screening questionnaire for depression in English and Urdu speaking populations in the UK. Crown Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dynamics of microbial growth and metabolic activity and their control by aeration.

PubMed

Kalina, V

1993-01-01

The optimization of fermentation processes depends to a large extent on the modelling of microbial activity under complex environmental conditions where aeration is an important limiting and control factor. Simple relationships are used to establish the sensitivity of cultures to oxygen stress. Specific limitation coefficients which can be determined in laboratory reactors allow a projection to industrial operation and the definition of appropriate aeration and agitation profiles. Optimum control can be assured on the basis of directly measurable process parameters. This is shown for the case of ethanol production using S. cerevisiae at high cell dry weight concentrations.

An amperometric biosensor for glucose detection from glucose oxidase immobilized in polyaniline-polyvinylsulfonate-potassium ferricyanide film.

PubMed

Arslan, Fatma; Beskan, Umut

2014-08-01

In this study, a novel amperometric glucose biosensor with immobilization of glucose oxidase on electrochemically polymerized polyaniline-polyvinylsulphonate-potassium ferricyanide (Pani-Pvs-Fc) films has been accomplished via the entrapment technique. Potassium ferricyanide was used as the mediator. Determination of glucose was carried out by the oxidation of potassium ferrocyanide at 0.3 V vs. Ag/AgCl. The effects of pH and temperature were investigated, and the optimum pH value was found to be 7.5. The storage stability and the operational stability of the enzyme electrode were also studied.

Electrocoagulation using a rotated anode: A novel reactor design for textile wastewater treatment.

PubMed

Naje, Ahmed Samir; Chelliapan, Shreeshivadasan; Zakaria, Zuriati; Abbas, Saad A

2016-07-01

This paper investigates the optimum operational conditions of a novel rotated bed electrocoagulation (EC) reactor for the treatment of textile wastewater. The effect of various operational parameters such as rotational speed, current density (CD), operational time (RT), pH, temperature, and inter-electrode distance (IED) on the pollutant removal efficiency were examined. In addition, the consumption of aluminum (Al) and electrical energy, as well as operating costs at optimum conditions were also calculated. The results indicated that the optimum conditions for the treatment of textile wastewater were achieved at CD = 4 mA/cm(2), RT = 10 min, rotational speed = 150 rpm, pH = 4.57, temperature = 25 °C, and IED = 1 cm. The electrode consumption, energy consumption, and operating costs were 0.038 kg/m(3), 4.66 kWh/m(3) and 0.44 US$/m(3), respectively. The removal efficiencies of chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD), total suspended solid (TSS), turbidity and color were 97.10%, 95.55%, 98%, 96% and 98.50%, respectively, at the first 10 min of reaction time, while the phenol compound of the wastewater was almost entirely removed (99.99%). The experimental results confirm that the new reactor design with rotated anode impellers and cathode rings provided high treatment efficiency at a reduced reaction time and with lower energy consumption. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Optimum profit model considering production, quality and sale problem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Chung-Ho; Lu, Chih-Lun

2011-12-01

Chen and Liu ['Procurement Strategies in the Presence of the Spot Market-an Analytical Framework', Production Planning and Control, 18, 297-309] presented the optimum profit model between the producers and the purchasers for the supply chain system with a pure procurement policy. However, their model with a simple manufacturing cost did not consider the used cost of the customer. In this study, the modified Chen and Liu's model will be addressed for determining the optimum product and process parameters. The authors propose a modified Chen and Liu's model under the two-stage screening procedure. The surrogate variable having a high correlation with the measurable quality characteristic will be directly measured in the first stage. The measurable quality characteristic will be directly measured in the second stage when the product decision cannot be determined in the first stage. The used cost of the customer will be measured by adopting Taguchi's quadratic quality loss function. The optimum purchaser's order quantity, the producer's product price and the process quality level will be jointly determined by maximising the expected profit between them.

Optimum Design of LLC Resonant Converter using Inductance Ratio (Lm/Lr)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palle, Kowstubha; Krishnaveni, K.; Ramesh Reddy, Kolli

2017-06-01

The main benefits of LLC resonant dc/dc converter over conventional series and parallel resonant converters are its light load regulation, less circulating currents, larger bandwidth for zero voltage switching, and less tuning of switching frequency for controlled output. An unique analytical tool, called fundamental harmonic approximation with peak gain adjustment is used for designing the converter. In this paper, an optimum design of the converter is proposed by considering three different design criterions with different values of inductance ratio (Lm/Lr) to achieve good efficiency at high input voltage. The optimum design includes the analysis in operating range, switching frequency range, primary side losses of a switch and stability. The analysis is carried out with simulation using the software tools like MATLAB and PSIM. The performance of the optimized design is demonstrated for a design specification of 12 V, 5 A output operating with an input voltage range of 300-400 V using FSFR 2100 IC of Texas instruments.

Cell Separations in Microgravity and Development of a Space Bioreactor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, D. R.

1985-01-01

A bioreactor optimized for operations in space is now being developed. The current research is focused on determining the optimum cell-bead ratios, medium content and proper maintenance conditions required to keep living cell specimens alive and healthy for the entire flight. The bioreactor development project has recently added a microprocessor/computer to the JSC prototype for control and data analysis. Appropriate new technology is being combined with the current bioreactor designs and tested to determine what specific features must be included in the fabrication of a bioreactor designed to operate for STS demonstration tests. Considerations include: (1) circulation and resupply of culture media; (2) sensors required to monitor temperature, cell growth, mass transport, and oxygen consumption; and (3) inflight control of shear stress on cells, gas transfer in microgravity, diffusion, and intracellular transport. These data and results from the JSC prototype bioreactor test will be used for the design and construction of a small space bioreactor for the Orbiter middeck.

Design study for a high reliability five-year spacecraft tape transport

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Benn, G. S. L.; Eshleman, R. L.

1971-01-01

Following the establishment of the overall transport concept, a study of all of the life limiting constraints associated with the transport were analyzed using modeling techniques. These design techniques included: (1) a response analysis from which the performance of the transport could be determined under operating conditions for a variety of conceptual variations both in a new and aged condition; (2) an analysis of a double cone guidance technique which yielded an optimum design for maximum guidance with minimum tape degradation; (3) an analysis of the tape pack design to eliminate spoking caused by negative tangential stress within the pack; (4) an evaluation of the stress levels experienced by the magnetic tape throughout the system; (5) a general review of the bearing and lubrication technology as applied to satellite recorders and hence the recommendation for using standard load carrying antifriction ball bearings; and (6) a kinetic analysis to determine the change in kinetic properties of the transport during operation.

Effects of nanoscale vacuum gap on photon-enhanced thermionic emission devices

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

Wang, Yuan; Liao, Tianjun; Zhang, Yanchao

2016-01-28

A new model of the photon-enhanced thermionic emission (PETE) device with a nanoscale vacuum gap is established by introducing the quantum tunneling effect and the image force correction. Analytic expressions for both the thermionic emission and tunneling currents are derived. The electron concentration and the temperature of the cathode are determined by the particle conservation and energy balance equations. The effects of the operating voltage on the maximum potential barrier, cathode temperature, electron concentration and equilibrium electron concentration of the conduction band, and efficiency of the PETE device are discussed in detail for different given values of the vacuum gapmore » length. The influence of the band gap of the cathode and flux concentration on the efficiency is further analyzed. The maximum efficiency of the PETE and the corresponding optimum values of the band gap and the operating voltage are determined. The results obtained here show that the efficiency of the PETE device can be significantly improved by employing a nanoscale vacuum gap.« less

Development Optimization and Uncertainty Analysis Methods for Oil and Gas Reservoirs

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

Ettehadtavakkol, Amin, E-mail: amin.ettehadtavakkol@ttu.edu; Jablonowski, Christopher; Lake, Larry

Uncertainty complicates the development optimization of oil and gas exploration and production projects, but methods have been devised to analyze uncertainty and its impact on optimal decision-making. This paper compares two methods for development optimization and uncertainty analysis: Monte Carlo (MC) simulation and stochastic programming. Two example problems for a gas field development and an oilfield development are solved and discussed to elaborate the advantages and disadvantages of each method. Development optimization involves decisions regarding the configuration of initial capital investment and subsequent operational decisions. Uncertainty analysis involves the quantification of the impact of uncertain parameters on the optimum designmore » concept. The gas field development problem is designed to highlight the differences in the implementation of the two methods and to show that both methods yield the exact same optimum design. The results show that both MC optimization and stochastic programming provide unique benefits, and that the choice of method depends on the goal of the analysis. While the MC method generates more useful information, along with the optimum design configuration, the stochastic programming method is more computationally efficient in determining the optimal solution. Reservoirs comprise multiple compartments and layers with multiphase flow of oil, water, and gas. We present a workflow for development optimization under uncertainty for these reservoirs, and solve an example on the design optimization of a multicompartment, multilayer oilfield development.« less

Shear Strength of Remoulding Clay Samples Using Different Methods of Moulding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Norhaliza, W.; Ismail, B.; Azhar, A. T. S.; Nurul, N. J.

2016-07-01

Shear strength for clay soil was required to determine the soil stability. Clay was known as a soil with complex natural formations and very difficult to obtain undisturbed samples at the site. The aim of this paper was to determine the unconfined shear strength of remoulded clay on different methods in moulding samples which were proctor compaction, hand operated soil compacter and miniature mould methods. All the samples were remoulded with the same optimum moisture content (OMC) and density that were 18% and 1880 kg/m3 respectively. The unconfined shear strength results of remoulding clay soils for proctor compaction method was 289.56kPa with the strain 4.8%, hand operated method was 261.66kPa with the strain 4.4% and miniature mould method was 247.52kPa with the strain 3.9%. Based on the proctor compaction method, the reduction percentage of unconfined shear strength of remoulded clay soil of hand operated method was 9.66%, and for miniature mould method was 14.52%. Thus, because there was no significant difference of reduction percentage of unconfined shear strength between three different methods, so it can be concluded that remoulding clay by hand operated method and miniature mould method were accepted and suggested to perform remoulding clay samples by other future researcher. However for comparison, the hand operated method was more suitable to form remoulded clay sample in term of easiness, saving time and less energy for unconfined shear strength determination purposes.

Requirements management for Gemini Observatory: a small organization with big development projects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Close, Madeline; Serio, Andrew; Cordova, Martin; Hardie, Kayla

2016-08-01

Gemini Observatory is an astronomical observatory operating two premier 8m-class telescopes, one in each hemisphere. As an operational facility, a majority of Gemini's resources are spent on operations however the observatory undertakes major development projects as well. Current projects include new facility science instruments, an operational paradigm shift to full remote operations, and new operations tools for planning, configuration and change control. Three years ago, Gemini determined that a specialized requirements management tool was needed. Over the next year, the Gemini Systems Engineering Group investigated several tools, selected one for a trial period and configured it for use. Configuration activities including definition of systems engineering processes, development of a requirements framework, and assignment of project roles to tool roles. Test projects were implemented in the tool. At the conclusion of the trial, the group determined that the Gemini could meet its requirements management needs without use of a specialized requirements management tool, and the group identified a number of lessons learned which are described in the last major section of this paper. These lessons learned include how to conduct an organizational needs analysis prior to pursuing a tool; caveats concerning tool criteria and the selection process; the prerequisites and sequence of activities necessary to achieve an optimum configuration of the tool; the need for adequate staff resources and staff training; and a special note regarding organizations in transition and archiving of requirements.

Development of flashlamp-pumped Q-switched Ho:Tm:Cr:YAG lasers for mid-infrared LIDAR application

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Choi, Young S.; Kim, Kyong H.; Whitney, Donald A.; Hess, Robert V.; Barnes, Norman P.; Bair, Clayton H.; Brockman, Philip

1989-01-01

A flashlamp-pumped 2.1 micron Ho:Tm:Cr:YAG laser was studied for both normal mode and Q-switched operations under a wide variety of experimental conditions in order to optimize performance. Laser output energy, slope efficiency, threshold and pulselength were determined as a function of operating temperature, output mirror reflectivity, input electrical energy and Q-switch opening time. The measured normal-mode laser thresholds of a Ho(3+) (0.45 atomic percent):Tm(3+) (2.5 atomic percent):Cr(3+) (0.8 atomic percent):YAG crystal ranged form 26 to 50 J between 120 and 200 K with slope efficiencies up to 0.36 percent with a 60 percent reflective output mirror. Under Q-switched operation the slope efficiency was 90 percent of the normal-mode result. Development of solid state lasers with Ho(3+), Tm(3+) and/or Er(3+) doped crystals has been pursued by NASA for eye-dafe mid-infrared LIDAR (light detection and ranging) application. As a part of the project, the authors have been working on evaluating Ho(3+):Tm(3+):Cr(3+):YAG crystals for normal-mode and Q-switched 2.1 micron laser operations in order to determine an optimum Tm(3+) concentration under flashlamp pumping conditions. Lasing properties of the Ho(3+) in the mid-infrared region have been studied by many research groups since the early 1960's. However, the technology of those lasers is still premature for lidar application. In order to overcome the inefficiency related to narrow absorption bands of the Ho(3+), Tm(3+) and Er(3+), the erbium has been replaced by chromium. The improvement in flashlamp-pumped Ho(3+) laser efficiency has been demonstrated recently by several research groups by utilizing the broad absorption spectrum of Cr(3+) which covers the flashlamp's emission spectrum. Efficient energy transfer to the Tm(3+) and then the Ho(3+) occurs subsequently. It is known that high Tm(3+) concentration and low Ho(3+) concentration are preferred to achieve a quantum efficiency approaching two and to avoid large reabsorption losses. However, determination of the optimum Tm(3+) concentration required to ensure efficient energy transfer from Cr(3+) to Tm(3+) and from Tm(3+) to Ho(3+) has not been made in the Ho:Tm:CR:YAG crystal. The results obtained so far are given.

Emittance measurements for optimum operation of the J-PARC RF-driven H{sup −} ion source

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

Ueno, A., E-mail: akira.ueno@j-parc.jp; Ohkoshi, K.; Ikegami, K.

2015-04-08

In order to satisfy the Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex (J-PARC) second stage requirements of an H{sup −} ion beam of 60mA within normalized emittances of 1.5πmm•mrad both horizontally and vertically, a flat top beam duty factor of 1.25% (500μs×25Hz) and a life-time of longer than 1month, the J-PARC cesiated RF-driven H{sup −} ion source was developed by using an internal-antenna developed at the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS). The transverse emittances of the source were measured with various conditions to find out the optimum operation conditions minimizing the horizontal and vertical rms normalized emittances. The transverse emittances were most effectivelymore » reduced by operating the source with the plasma electrode temperature lower than 70°C. The optimum value of the cesium (Cs) density around the beam hole of the plasma electrode seems to be proportional to the plasma electrode temperature. The fine control of the Cs density is indispensable, since the emittances seem to increase proportionally to the excessiveness of the Cs density. Furthermore, the source should be operated with the Cs density beyond a threshold value, since the plasma meniscus shape and the ellipse parameters of the transverse emittances seem to be changed step-function-likely on the threshold Cs value.« less

European Science Notes Information Bulletin Reports on Current European/Middle Eastern Science

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-02-01

Exploitation and Optimum Use of discussed the relationship of the Framework program to Biological Resources the 1992 single European market. This...operation: Shared-cost contracts]. hancement of food quality; (2) food hygiene, safety, and D. The Exploitation and optimum use or Biological toxicology...Table 9), and dis- bracing the biological sciences, agriculture, geologi- semination of research results (see Table 10). cal, and marine and deep sea

Optimization control of LNG regasification plant using Model Predictive Control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wahid, A.; Adicandra, F. F.

2018-03-01

Optimization of liquified natural gas (LNG) regasification plant is important to minimize costs, especially operational costs. Therefore, it is important to choose optimum LNG regasification plant design and maintaining the optimum operating conditions through the implementation of model predictive control (MPC). Optimal tuning parameter for MPC such as P (prediction horizon), M (control of the horizon) and T (sampling time) are achieved by using fine-tuning method. The optimal criterion for design is the minimum amount of energy used and for control is integral of square error (ISE). As a result, the optimum design is scheme 2 which is developed by Devold with an energy savings of 40%. To maintain the optimum conditions, required MPC with P, M and T as follows: tank storage pressure: 90, 2, 1; product pressure: 95, 2, 1; temperature vaporizer: 65, 2, 2; and temperature heater: 35, 6, 5, with ISE value at set point tracking respectively 0.99, 1792.78, 34.89 and 7.54, or improvement of control performance respectively 4.6%, 63.5%, 3.1% and 58.2% compared to PI controller performance. The energy savings that MPC controllers can make when there is a disturbance in temperature rise 1°C of sea water is 0.02 MW.

Performance analysis and optimization of power plants with gas turbines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Besharati-Givi, Maryam

The gas turbine is one of the most important applications for power generation. The purpose of this research is performance analysis and optimization of power plants by using different design systems at different operation conditions. In this research, accurate efficiency calculation and finding optimum values of efficiency for design of chiller inlet cooling and blade cooled gas turbine are investigated. This research shows how it is possible to find the optimum design for different operation conditions, like ambient temperature, relative humidity, turbine inlet temperature, and compressor pressure ratio. The simulated designs include the chiller, with varied COP and fogging cooling for a compressor. In addition, the overall thermal efficiency is improved by adding some design systems like reheat and regenerative heating. The other goal of this research focuses on the blade-cooled gas turbine for higher turbine inlet temperature, and consequently, higher efficiency. New film cooling equations, along with changing film cooling effectiveness for optimum cooling air requirement at the first-stage blades, and an internal and trailing edge cooling for the second stage, are innovated for optimal efficiency calculation. This research sets the groundwork for using the optimum value of efficiency calculation, while using inlet cooling and blade cooling designs. In the final step, the designed systems in the gas cycles are combined with a steam cycle for performance improvement.

Stably operating pulse combustor and method

DOEpatents

Zinn, Ben T.; Reiner, David

1990-01-01

A pulse combustor apparatus adapted to burn either a liquid fuel or a pulverized solid fuel within a preselected volume of the combustion chamber. The combustion process is substantially restricted to an optimum combustion zone in order to attain effective pulse combustion operation.

Experimental Comparison of Speed : Fuel-flow and Speed-area Controls on a Turbojet Engine for Small Step Disturbances

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wenzel, L M; Hart, C E; Craig, R T

1957-01-01

Optimum proportional-plus-integral control settings for speed - fuel-flow control, determined by minimization of integral criteria, correlated well with analytically predicted optimum settings. Engine response data are given for a range of control settings around the optimum. An inherent nonlinearity in the speed-area loop necessitated the use of nonlinear controls. Response data for two such nonlinear control schemes are presented.

Simulation of ethane steam cracking with severity evaluation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rosli, M. N.; Aziz, N.

2016-11-01

Understanding the influence of operating parameters towards cracking severity is paramount in ensuring optimum operation of an ethylene plant. However, changing the parameters in an actual plant for data collection can be dangerous. Thus, a simulation model for ethane steam cracking furnace is developed using ASPEN Plus for the assessment. The process performance is evaluated with cracking severity factors and main product yields. Three severity factors are used for evaluation due to their ease of measurement, which are methane yield (Ymet), Ethylene-Ethane Ratio (EER) and Propylene-Ethylene Ratio (PER). The result shows that cracking severity is primarily influenced by reactor temperature. Operating the furnace with coil outlet temperature ranging between 850°C to 950°C and steam-to-hydrocarbon ratio of 0.3 to 0.5 has led to optimum main product yield.

Mobile and replicated alignment of arrays in data-parallel programs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chatterjee, Siddhartha; Gilbert, John R.; Schreiber, Robert

1993-01-01

When a data-parallel language like FORTRAN 90 is compiled for a distributed-memory machine, aggregate data objects (such as arrays) are distributed across the processor memories. The mapping determines the amount of residual communication needed to bring operands of parallel operations into alignment with each other. A common approach is to break the mapping into two stages: first, an alignment that maps all the objects to an abstract template, and then a distribution that maps the template to the processors. We solve two facets of the problem of finding alignments that reduce residual communication: we determine alignments that vary in loops, and objects that should have replicated alignments. We show that loop-dependent mobile alignment is sometimes necessary for optimum performance, and we provide algorithms with which a compiler can determine good mobile alignments for objects within do loops. We also identify situations in which replicated alignment is either required by the program itself (via spread operations) or can be used to improve performance. We propose an algorithm based on network flow that determines which objects to replicate so as to minimize the total amount of broadcast communication in replication. This work on mobile and replicated alignment extends our earlier work on determining static alignment.

CO 2 laser treatment system of tinea pedis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ueda, Masahiro

The CO 2 laser treatment system 'Melase 1000' has been developed for the treatment of Tinea pedis and the efficacy of the treatment using the system and its optimum irradiation condition are studied. The present system enables us to make the healing time of Tinea pedis treatment far shorter than conventional pharmaceuticals. This is in spite of using heat levels low enough for patients not to feel discomfort. Features offered by the system are a safe-and-easy operation and a stable laser power for a prolonged use. The efficacy of the present therapy is excellent; only two treatments a week for three weeks, i.e. six consecutive treatments, attained an improvement rate of 71.8% in the skin findings and a 'usefulness' of 66.2% determined from cases rated as 'useful' or 'better'. The optimum laser irradiation condition for a single treatment found in this experiment is a light fluence of about 3 J/cm 2 and four laser pulses with a time interval between pulses of 1 s for a typical horny layer thinner than 0.5 mm.

The catalytic oxidation of malachite green by the microwave-Fenton processes.

PubMed

Zheng, Huaili; Zhang, Huiqin; Sun, Xiaonan; Zhang, Peng; Tshukudu, Tiroyaone; Zhu, Guocheng

2010-01-01

Catalytic oxidation of malachite green using the microwave-Fenton process was investigated. 0% of malachite green de-colorization using the microwave process and 23.5% of malachite green de-colorization using the Fenton process were observed within 5 minutes. In contrast 95.4% of malachite green de-colorization using the microwave-Fenton was observed in 5 minutes. During the microwave-Fenton process, the optimum operating conditions for malachite green de-colorization were found to be 3.40 of initial pH, 0.08 mmol/L of Fe2+ concentration and 12.5 mmol/L of H2O2 concentration. Confirmatory tests were carried out under the optimum conditions and the COD removal rate of 82.0% and the de-colorization rate of 99.0% were observed in 5 minutes. The apparent kinetics equation of -dC/dt=0.0337 [malachite green]0.9860[Fe2+)]0.8234[H2O2]0.1663 for malachite green de-colorization was calculated, which implied that malachite green was the dominant factor in determining the removal efficiency of malachite green based on microwave-Fenton process.

Integrated photovoltaic (PV) monitoring system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahinder Singh, Balbir Singh; Husain, NurSyahidah; Mohamed, Norani Muti

2012-09-01

The main aim of this research work is to design an accurate and reliable monitoring system to be integrated with solar electricity generating system. The performance monitoring system is required to ensure that the PVEGS is operating at an optimum level. The PV monitoring system is able to measure all the important parameters that determine an optimum performance. The measured values are recorded continuously, as the data acquisition system is connected to a computer, and data is stored at fixed intervals. The data can be locally used and can also be transmitted via internet. The data that appears directly on the local monitoring system is displayed via graphical user interface that was created by using Visual basic and Apache software was used for data transmission The accuracy and reliability of the developed monitoring system was tested against the data that captured simultaneously by using a standard power quality analyzer device. The high correlation which is 97% values indicates the level of accuracy of the monitoring system. The aim of leveraging on a system for continuous monitoring system is achieved, both locally, and can be viewed simultaneously at a remote system.

Production of biofuel from waste cooking palm oil using nanocrystalline zeolite as catalyst: process optimization studies.

PubMed

Taufiqurrahmi, Niken; Mohamed, Abdul Rahman; Bhatia, Subhash

2011-11-01

The catalytic cracking of waste cooking palm oil to biofuel was studied over different types of nano-crystalline zeolite catalysts in a fixed bed reactor. The effect of reaction temperature (400-500 °C), catalyst-to-oil ratio (6-14) and catalyst pore size of different nanocrystalline zeolites (0.54-0.80 nm) were studied over the conversion of waste cooking palm oil, yields of Organic Liquid Product (OLP) and gasoline fraction in the OLP following central composite design (CCD). The response surface methodology was used to determine the optimum value of the operating variables for maximum conversion as well as maximum yield of OLP and gasoline fraction, respectively. The optimum reaction temperature of 458 °C with oil/catalyst ratio=6 over the nanocrystalline zeolite Y with pore size of 0.67 nm gave 86.4 wt% oil conversion, 46.5 wt% OLP yield and 33.5 wt% gasoline fraction yield, respectively. The experimental results were in agreement with the simulated values within an experimental error of less than 5%. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evaluation and simultaneous optimization of bio-hydrogen production using 3 2 factorial design and the desirability function

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cuetos, M. J.; Gómez, X.; Escapa, A.; Morán, A.

Various mixtures incorporating a simulated organic fraction of municipal solid wastes and blood from a poultry slaughterhouse were used as substrate in a dark fermentation process for the production of hydrogen. The individual and interactive effects of hydraulic retention time (HRT), solid content in the feed (%TS) and proportion of residues (%Blood) on bio-hydrogen production were studied in this work. A central composite design and response surface methodology were employed to determine the optimum conditions for the hydrogen production process. Experimental results were approximated to a second-order model with the principal effects of the three factors considered being statistically significant (P < 0.05). The production of hydrogen obtained from the experimental point at conditions close to best operability was 0.97 L Lr -1 day -1. Moreover, a desirability function was employed in order to optimize the process when a second, methanogenic, phase is coupled with it. In this last case, the optimum conditions lead to a reduction in the production of hydrogen when the optimization process involves the maximization of intermediary products.

[The studies on the Ku Huang granula technology].

PubMed

Qian, Kun; Kuang, Qi; Dong, Wei; Shen, Jun

2008-02-01

To determine the optimum technology of the Ku Huang granula. Making Emodin and Chrysophanol for index, using HPLC, extracturm softening point data and orthogonal design experiment to research the preparatory technology of the Ku Huang granula to screen the optimum technology. The Ku Huang granula was pelletized at 100% dextrin, 170 degrees C- 175 degrees C spray drying and at the conditions of 75% ethylalcohol, 85 degrees C, 4 Hz, 3 hours fluidizing pelletization. The optimum condition is reasonable.

Impact of Sedimentation hazard at Jor Reservoir, Batang Padang Hydroelectric Scheme in Malaysia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luis, Jansen; Mohd Sidek, Lariyah; Jajarmizadeh, Milad

2016-03-01

Sedimentation in reservoir can be treated as a hazard because it affects the overall safety of the dam. It is a growing concern for reservoir operators throughout the world as it impacts the operability of the hydropower plant and its function as flood control. The objective of the study is to carry out reservoir bathymetric survey to determine the storage volume available at Jor reservoir. The paper intends to discuss the results of two successive surveys carried out in year 2007 and 2010 and comparison with historical data in1968 owing to analyse of sedimentation trend. The result showed that the total storage loss is approximately 43% with an estimated deposited sediment volume of 1.4 million m3 in year 2010. The sedimentation rate is estimated at 3.3% for the years surveyed which is greater than the world average of 0.93%. The findings from the survey are used to develop a revised elevation-storage curve which could be used by the operator and engineers to carry out future power generation planning and flood study predictions. The findings are also expected to be used to determine the optimum method for sediment management and hydro-mechanical protection.

Gasification of empty fruit bunch with carbon dioxide in an entrained flow gasifier for syngas production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rahmat, N. F. H.; Rasid, R. A.

2017-06-01

The main objectives of this work are to study the gasification of EFB in an atmospheric entrained flow gasifier, using carbon dioxide (CO2) as its gasifying agent and to determine the optimum gasification operating conditions, which includes temperature and the oxidant to fuel (OTF) ratio. These were evaluated in terms of important gasification parameters such as the concentration of hydrogen (H2) and carbon monoxide (CO) produced the syngas ratio H2/CO and carbon conversion. The gasification reactions take place in the presence of CO2 at very high reaction rate because of the high operating temperature (700°C - 900°C). The use of CO2 as the oxidant for gasification process can improve the composition of syngas produced as in the Boudouard reaction. Rise of reaction temperature which is 900°C will increase the concentration of both H2 & CO by up to 81 and 30 respectively, though their production were decreased after the OTF ratio of 0.6 for temperature 700°C & 800°C and OTF ratio 0.8 for temperature 750°C. The operating temperature must be higher than 850°C to ensure the Boudouard reaction become the more prominent reaction for the biomass gasification. The syngas ratio obtained was in the range of ≈ 0.6 - 2.4 which is sufficient for liquid fuel synthesis. For the carbon conversion, the highest fuel conversion recorded at temperature 850°C for all OTF ratios. As the OTF ratio increases, it was found that there was an increase in the formation of CO and H2. This suggests that to achieve higher carbon conversion, high operating temperature and OTF ratio are preferable. This study provides information on the optimum operating conditions for the gasification of biomass, especially the EFB, hence may upsurge the utilization of biomass waste as an energy source.

Multi-objective Optimization of Departure Procedures at Gimpo International Airport

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Junghyun; Lim, Dongwook; Monteiro, Dylan Jonathan; Kirby, Michelle; Mavris, Dimitri

2018-04-01

Most aviation communities have increasing concerns about the environmental impacts, which are directly linked to health issues for local residents near the airport. In this study, the environmental impact of different departure procedures using the Aviation Environmental Design Tool (AEDT) was analyzed. First, actual operational data were compiled at Gimpo International Airport (March 20, 2017) from an open source. Two modifications were made in the AEDT to model the operational circumstances better and the preliminary AEDT simulations were performed according to the acquired operational procedures. Simulated noise results showed good agreements with noise measurement data at specific locations. Second, a multi-objective optimization of departure procedures was performed for the Boeing 737-800. Four design variables were selected and AEDT was linked to a variety of advanced design methods. The results showed that takeoff thrust had the greatest influence and it was found that fuel burn and noise had an inverse relationship. Two points representing each fuel burn and noise optimum on the Pareto front were parsed and run in AEDT to compare with the baseline. The results showed that the noise optimum case reduced Sound Exposure Level 80-dB noise exposure area by approximately 5% while the fuel burn optimum case reduced total fuel burn by 1% relative to the baseline for aircraft-level analysis.

The first clinical application of planning software for laparoscopic microwave thermosphere ablation of malignant liver tumours.

PubMed

Berber, Eren

2015-07-01

Liver tumour ablation is an operator-dependent procedure. The determination of the optimum needle trajectory and correct ablation parameters could be challenging. The aim of this study was to report the utility of a new, procedure planning software for microwave ablation (MWA) of liver tumours. This was a feasibility study in a pilot group of five patients with nine metastatic liver tumours who underwent laparoscopic MWA. Pre-operatively, parameters predicting the desired ablation zones were calculated for each tumour. Intra-operatively, this planning strategy was followed for both antenna placement and energy application. Post-operative 2-week computed tomography (CT) scans were performed to evaluate complete tumour destruction. The patients had an average of two tumours (range 1-4), measuring 1.9 ± 0.4 cm (range 0.9-4.4 cm). The ablation time was 7.1 ± 1.3 min (range 2.5-10 min) at 100W. There were no complications or mortality. The patients were discharged home on post-operative day (POD) 1. At 2-week CT scans, there were no residual tumours, with a complete ablation demonstrated in all lesions. This study describes and validates pre-treatment planning software for MWA of liver tumours. This software was found useful to determine precisely the ablation parameters and needle placement to create a predicted zone of ablation. © 2015 International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association.

Content based image retrieval using local binary pattern operator and data mining techniques.

PubMed

Vatamanu, Oana Astrid; Frandeş, Mirela; Lungeanu, Diana; Mihalaş, Gheorghe-Ioan

2015-01-01

Content based image retrieval (CBIR) concerns the retrieval of similar images from image databases, using feature vectors extracted from images. These feature vectors globally define the visual content present in an image, defined by e.g., texture, colour, shape, and spatial relations between vectors. Herein, we propose the definition of feature vectors using the Local Binary Pattern (LBP) operator. A study was performed in order to determine the optimum LBP variant for the general definition of image feature vectors. The chosen LBP variant is then subsequently used to build an ultrasound image database, and a database with images obtained from Wireless Capsule Endoscopy. The image indexing process is optimized using data clustering techniques for images belonging to the same class. Finally, the proposed indexing method is compared to the classical indexing technique, which is nowadays widely used.

Optimization of antibacterial activity by Gold-Thread (Coptidis Rhizoma Franch) against Streptococcus mutans using evolutionary operation-factorial design technique.

PubMed

Choi, Ung-Kyu; Kim, Mi-Hyang; Lee, Nan-Hee

2007-11-01

This study was conducted to find the optimum extraction condition of Gold-Thread for antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans using The evolutionary operation-factorial design technique. Higher antibacterial activity was achieved in a higher extraction temperature (R2 = -0.79) and in a longer extraction time (R2 = -0.71). Antibacterial activity was not affected by differentiation of the ethanol concentration in the extraction solvent (R2 = -0.12). The maximum antibacterial activity of clove against S. mutans determined by the EVOP-factorial technique was obtained at 80 degrees C extraction temperature, 26 h extraction time, and 50% ethanol concentration. The population of S. mutans decreased from 6.110 logCFU/ml in the initial set to 4.125 logCFU/ml in the third set.

An operational global-scale ocean thermal analysis system

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

Clancy, R. M.; Pollak, K.D.; Phoebus, P.A.

1990-04-01

The Optimum Thermal Interpolation System (OTIS) is an ocean thermal analysis system designed for operational use at FNOC. It is based on the optimum interpolation of the assimilation technique and functions in an analysis-prediction-analysis data assimilation cycle with the TOPS mixed-layer model. OTIS provides a rigorous framework for combining real-time data, climatology, and predictions from numerical ocean prediction models to produce a large-scale synoptic representation of ocean thermal structure. The techniques and assumptions used in OTIS are documented and results of operational tests of global scale OTIS at FNOC are presented. The tests involved comparisons of OTIS against an existingmore » operational ocean thermal structure model and were conducted during February, March, and April 1988. Qualitative comparison of the two products suggests that OTIS gives a more realistic representation of subsurface anomalies and horizontal gradients and that it also gives a more accurate analysis of the thermal structure, with improvements largest below the mixed layer. 37 refs.« less

Assessing green waste route by using Network Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hasmantika, I. H.; Maryono, M.

2018-02-01

Green waste, such as waste from park need treat proper. One of the main problems of green waste management is how to design optimum collection. This research aims to determine the optimum green waste collection by determining optimum route among park. The route optimum was assessed by using network analysis method. And the region five of Semarang city’s park within 20 parks in chose as case study. To enhancing recycle of green waste, three scenarios of treatment are proposed. Scenario 1 used one integrated treatment facility as terminal for enhancing recycle of green waste, Scenario 2 used two sites and scenario 3 used three sites. According to the assessment, the length of route of scenario 1 is 36.126 km and the time for collection estimated is 46 minutes. In scenario 2, the length of route is 36.471 km with a travel time is 47 minutes. The length of scenario three is 46.934 km and the time of collection is 60 minutes.

GEOS-2 C-band radar system project. Spectral analysis as related to C-band radar data analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1972-01-01

Work performed on spectral analysis of data from the C-band radars tracking GEOS-2 and on the development of a data compaction method for the GEOS-2 C-band radar data is described. The purposes of the spectral analysis study were to determine the optimum data recording and sampling rates for C-band radar data and to determine the optimum method of filtering and smoothing the data. The optimum data recording and sampling rate is defined as the rate which includes an optimum compromise between serial correlation and the effects of frequency folding. The goal in development of a data compaction method was to reduce to a minimum the amount of data stored, while maintaining all of the statistical information content of the non-compacted data. A digital computer program for computing estimates of the power spectral density function of sampled data was used to perform the spectral analysis study.

Design of helicopter rotor blades for optimum dynamic characteristics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Peters, D. A.; Ko, T.; Korn, A. E.; Rossow, M. P.

1982-01-01

The possibilities and the limitations of tailoring blade mass and stiffness distributions to give an optimum blade design in terms of weight, inertia, and dynamic characteristics are investigated. Changes in mass or stiffness distribution used to place rotor frequencies at desired locations are determined. Theoretical limits to the amount of frequency shift are established. Realistic constraints on blade properties based on weight, mass moment of inertia size, strength, and stability are formulated. The extent hub loads can be minimized by proper choice of EL distribution is determined. Configurations that are simple enough to yield clear, fundamental insights into the structural mechanisms but which are sufficiently complex to result in a realistic result for an optimum rotor blade are emphasized.

Drilling of Hybrid Titanium Composite Laminate (HTCL) with Electrical Discharge Machining.

PubMed

Ramulu, M; Spaulding, Mathew

2016-09-01

An experimental investigation was conducted to determine the application of die sinker electrical discharge machining (EDM) as it applies to a hybrid titanium thermoplastic composite laminate material. Holes were drilled using a die sinker EDM. The effects of peak current, pulse time, and percent on-time on machinability of hybrid titanium composite material were evaluated in terms of material removal rate (MRR), tool wear rate, and cut quality. Experimental models relating each process response to the input parameters were developed and optimum operating conditions with a short cutting time, achieving the highest workpiece MRR, with very little tool wear were determined to occur at a peak current value of 8.60 A, a percent on-time of 36.12%, and a pulse time of 258 microseconds. After observing data acquired from experimentation, it was determined that while use of EDM is possible, for desirable quality it is not fast enough for industrial application.

Drilling of Hybrid Titanium Composite Laminate (HTCL) with Electrical Discharge Machining

PubMed Central

Ramulu, M.; Spaulding, Mathew

2016-01-01

An experimental investigation was conducted to determine the application of die sinker electrical discharge machining (EDM) as it applies to a hybrid titanium thermoplastic composite laminate material. Holes were drilled using a die sinker EDM. The effects of peak current, pulse time, and percent on-time on machinability of hybrid titanium composite material were evaluated in terms of material removal rate (MRR), tool wear rate, and cut quality. Experimental models relating each process response to the input parameters were developed and optimum operating conditions with a short cutting time, achieving the highest workpiece MRR, with very little tool wear were determined to occur at a peak current value of 8.60 A, a percent on-time of 36.12%, and a pulse time of 258 microseconds. After observing data acquired from experimentation, it was determined that while use of EDM is possible, for desirable quality it is not fast enough for industrial application. PMID:28773866

Removal of iron interferences by solvent extraction for geochemical analysis by atomic-absorption spectrophotometry

USGS Publications Warehouse

Zhou, L.; Chao, T.T.; Sanzolone, R.F.

1985-01-01

Iron is a common interferent in the determination of many elements in geochemical samples. Two approaches for its removal have been taken. The first involves removal of iron by extraction with methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) from hydrochloric acid medium, leaving the analytes in the aqueous phase. The second consists of reduction of iron(III) to iron(II) by ascorbic acid to minimize its extraction into MIBK, so that the analytes may be isolated by extraction. Elements of interest can then be determined using the aqueous solution or the organic extract, as appropriate. Operating factors such as the concentration of hydrochloric acid, amounts of iron present, number of extractions, the presence or absence of a salting-out agent, and the optimum ratio of ascorbic acid to iron have been determined. These factors have general applications in geochemical analysis by atomic-absorption spectrophotometry. ?? 1985.

Rotorcraft convertible engine study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gill, J. C.; Earle, R. V.; Mar, H. M.

1982-01-01

The objective of the Rotorcraft Convertible Engine Study was to define future research and technology effort required for commercial development by 1988 of convertible fan/shaft gas turbine engines for unconventional rotorcraft transports. Two rotorcraft and their respective missions were defined: a Fold Tilt Rotor aircraft and an Advancing Blade Concept (ABC) rotorcraft. Sensitivity studies were conducted with these rotorcraft to determine parametrically the influence of propulsion characteristics on aircraft size, mission fuel requirements, and direct operating costs (DOC). The two rotorcraft were flown with conventional propulsion systems (separate lift/cruise engines) and with convertible propulsion systems to determine the benefits to be derived from convertible engines. Trade-off studies were conducted to determine the optimum engine cycle and staging arrangement for a convertible engine. Advanced technology options applicable to convertible engines were studied. Research and technology programs were identified which would ensure technology readiness for commercial development of convertible engines by 1988.

Wood Combustion Behaviour in a Fixed Bed Combustor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tokit, Ernie Mat; Aziz, Azhar Abdul; Ghazali, Normah Mohd

2010-06-01

Waste wood is used as feedstock for Universiti Teknologi Malaysia's newly-developed two-stage incinerator system. The research goals are to optimize the operation of the thermal system to the primary chamber, to improve its combustion efficiency and to minimize its pollutants formation. The combustion process is evaluated with the variation of fuel's moisture content. For optimum operating condition, where the gasification efficiency is 95.53%, the moisture content of the fuel is best set at 17%; giving outlet operating temperature of 550°C and exhaust gas concentrations with 1213 ppm of CO, 6% of CO2 and 14% of O2 respectively. In line to the experimental work, a computational fluid dynamics software, Fluent is used to simulate the performance of the primary chamber. Here the predicted optimum gasification efficiency stands at 95.49% with CO, CO2 and O2 concentrations as 1301 ppm, 6.5% and 13.5% respectively.

Performance optimization of an MHD generator with physical constraints

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pian, C. C. P.; Seikel, G. R.; Smith, J. M.

1979-01-01

A technique has been described which optimizes the power out of a Faraday MHD generator operating under a prescribed set of electrical and magnetic constraints. The method does not rely on complicated numerical optimization techniques. Instead the magnetic field and the electrical loading are adjusted at each streamwise location such that the resultant generator design operates at the most limiting of the cited stress levels. The simplicity of the procedure makes it ideal for optimizing generator designs for system analysis studies of power plants. The resultant locally optimum channel designs are, however, not necessarily the global optimum designs. The results of generator performance calculations are presented for an approximately 2000 MWe size plant. The difference between the maximum power generator design and the optimal design which maximizes net MHD power are described. The sensitivity of the generator performance to the various operational parameters are also presented.

Near optimum digital phase locked loops.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Polk, D. R.; Gupta, S. C.

1972-01-01

Near optimum digital phase locked loops are derived utilizing nonlinear estimation theory. Nonlinear approximations are employed to yield realizable loop structures. Baseband equivalent loop gains are derived which under high signal to noise ratio conditions may be calculated off-line. Additional simplifications are made which permit the application of the Kalman filter algorithms to determine the optimum loop filter. Performance is evaluated by a theoretical analysis and by simulation. Theoretical and simulated results are discussed and a comparison to analog results is made.

[Study on extraction technology of soyasaponins from residual of bean ware].

PubMed

Lu, Rumei; Zhang, Yizhen; Bi, Yi

2003-04-01

To find out the optimum extraction technology of soyasaponins from residual of bean ware. The optimum extraction conditions were investigated by the orthogonal design, and the content of soyasaponins was determined by UV-spectro-pho-tometry. The optimum extraction technology was A3B1C1, that is adding 7 times and 6 times amount of 70% alcohol and refluxing for two times and each time for 1.0 h. The selected technology showed higher yield of soyasaponins, good stability and high efficient.

Investigation of ultra wideband multi-channel dichroic beamsplitters from 0.3 to 52 microns

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zhang, K. Q.; Hunneman, R.; Seeley, J. S.; Hawkins, G. J.

1990-01-01

The development of a set of multi-channel dichroics which includes a 6 channel dichroic operating over the wavelength region from 0.3 to 52 microns is described. In order to achieve the optimum performance, the optical constraints of PbTe, Ge, and CdTe coatings in the strongly absorptive region have been determined by use of a new iterative method using normal incidence reflectance measurement of the multilayer together with initial values of energy gap and infinite refractive index for the semiconductor model. The design and manufacture of the dichroics is discussed and the final results are presented.

Trade-off study of data storage technologies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kadyszewski, R. V.

1977-01-01

The need to store and retrieve large quantities of data at modest cost has generated the need for an economical, compact, archival mass storage system. Very significant improvements in the state-of-the-art of mass storage systems have been accomplished through the development of a number of magnetic, electro-optical, and other related devices. This study was conducted in order to do a trade-off between these data storage devices and the related technologies in order to determine an optimum approach for an archival mass data storage system based upon a comparison of the projected capabilities and characteristics of these devices to yield operational systems in the early 1980's.

Optimization of process factors for self-healing vanadium-based conversion coating on AZ31 magnesium alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Kun; Liu, Junyao; Lei, Ting; Xiao, Tao

2015-10-01

A self-healing vanadium-based conversion coating was prepared on AZ31 magnesium alloy. The optimum operating conditions including vanadia solution concentration, pH and treating temperature for obtaining the best corrosion protective vanadia coatings and improved localized corrosion resistance to the magnesium substrate were determined by an orthogonal experiment design. Surface morphology and composition of the resultant conversion coatings were investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The self-healing behavior of the coating was investigated by cross-cut immersion test and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements in 3.5% NaCl solution.

Investigation of effects of temperature, salinity, and electrode design on the performance of an electrochemical coliform detector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grana, D. C.

1979-01-01

The results of two research programs to determine the optimum detector design for measuring fecal coliforms in saline waters for operational systems are presented. One program was concerned with the effects of temperature and salinity on endpoint response time, and the other, the interaction between electrode configurations and the test organisms. Test results show that the endpoint response time is related to salinity and seawater temperature; however, these results can be minimized by the correct choice of growth media. Electrode configurations were developed from stainless steel, Parlodion-coated stainless steel, and platinum that circumvented problems associated with the commercial redox electrodes.

Investigations to improve carbon dioxide control with amine and molecular sieve type sorbers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bertrand, J. F.; Brose, H. F.; Kester, F. L.; Lunde, P. J.

1972-01-01

The optimization trends and operating parameters of an integral molecular sieve bed heat exchanger were investigated. The optimum combination of substrate and coating for the HS-B porous polymer was determined based on the CO2 dynamic capacity in the presence of water vapor. Full size HS-B canister performance was evaluated. An Amine CO2 Concentrator utilizing IR-45 sorber material and available Manned Orbiting Laboratory hardware was designed, fabricated and tested for use as an experiment in the NASA 90-day space simulator test of 1970. It supported four men in the simulator for 71 days out of the 90-day test duration.

Evaluation of thermodynamically favourable operating conditions for production of hydrogen in three different reforming technologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seo, Y.-S.; Shirley, A.; Kolaczkowski, S. T.

With the aid of thermodynamic analysis using AspenPlus™, the characteristics of three different types of reforming process are investigated. These include: steam-methane reforming (SMR), partial oxidation (POX) and autothermal reforming (ATR). Thereby, favourable operating conditions are identified for each process. The optimum steam-to-carbon (S:C) ratio of the SMR reactor is found to be 1.9. The optimum air ratio of the POX reactor is 0.3 at a preheat temperature of 312 °C. The optimum air ratio and S:C ratio of the ATR reactor are 0.29 and 0.35, respectively at a preheat temperature of 400 °C. Simulated material and energy balances show that the CH 4 flow rates required to generate 1 mol s -1 of hydrogen are 0.364 mol s -1 for POX, 0.367 mol s -1 for ATR and 0.385 mol s -1 for the SMR. These results demonstrate that the POX reforming system has the lowest energy cost to produce the same amount of hydrogen from CH 4.

Scheduling multirobot operations in manufacturing by truncated Petri nets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Qin; Luh, J. Y.

1995-08-01

Scheduling of operational sequences in manufacturing processes is one of the important problems in automation. Methods of applying Petri nets to model and analyze the problem with constraints on precedence relations, multiple resources allocation, etc. have been available in literature. Searching for an optimum schedule can be implemented by combining the branch-and-bound technique with the execution of the timed Petri net. The process usually produces a large Petri net which is practically not manageable. This disadvantage, however, can be handled by a truncation technique which divides the original large Petri net into several smaller size subnets. The complexity involved in the analysis of each subnet individually is greatly reduced. However, when the locally optimum schedules of the resulting subnets are combined together, it may not yield an overall optimum schedule for the original Petri net. To circumvent this problem, algorithms are developed based on the concepts of Petri net execution and modified branch-and-bound process. The developed technique is applied to a multi-robot task scheduling problem of the manufacturing work cell.

Survival analysis: A consumer-friendly method to estimate the optimum sucrose level in probiotic petit suisse.

PubMed

Esmerino, E A; Paixão, J A; Cruz, A G; Garitta, L; Hough, G; Bolini, H M A

2015-11-01

For years, just-about-right (JAR) scales have been among the most used techniques to obtain sensory information about consumer perception, but recently, some researchers have harshly criticized the technique. The present study aimed to apply survival analysis to estimate the optimum sucrose concentration in probiotic petit suisse cheese and compare the survival analysis to JAR scales to verify which technique more accurately predicted the optimum sucrose concentration according to consumer acceptability. Two panels of consumers (total=170) performed affective tests to determine the optimal concentration of sucrose in probiotic petit suisse using 2 different methods of analysis: JAR scales (n=85) and survival analysis (n=85). Then an acceptance test was conducted using naïve consumers (n=100) between 18 and 60 yr old, with 2 samples of petit suisse, one with the ideal sucrose determined by JAR scales and the other with the ideal sucrose content determined by survival analysis, to determine which formulation was in accordance with consumer acceptability. The results indicate that the 2 sensory methods were equally effective in predicting the optimum sucrose level in probiotic petit suisse cheese, and no significant differences were detected in any of the characteristics related to liking evaluated. However, survival analysis has important advantages over the JAR scales. Survival analysis has shown the potential to be an advantageous tool for dairy companies because it was able to accurately predict the optimum sucrose content in a consumer-friendly way and was also practical for researchers because experimental sensory work is simpler and has been shown to be more cost effective than JAR scales without losses of consumer acceptability. Copyright © 2015 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Stably operating pulse combustor and method

DOEpatents

Zinn, B.T.; Reiner, D.

1990-05-29

A pulse combustor apparatus is described which is adapted to burn either a liquid fuel or a pulverized solid fuel within a preselected volume of the combustion chamber. The combustion process is substantially restricted to an optimum combustion zone in order to attain effective pulse combustion operation. 4 figs.

OPDOT: A computer program for the optimum preliminary design of a transport airplane

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sliwa, S. M.; Arbuckle, P. D.

1980-01-01

A description of a computer program, OPDOT, for the optimal preliminary design of transport aircraft is given. OPDOT utilizes constrained parameter optimization to minimize a performance index (e.g., direct operating cost per block hour) while satisfying operating constraints. The approach in OPDOT uses geometric descriptors as independent design variables. The independent design variables are systematically iterated to find the optimum design. The technical development of the program is provided and a program listing with sample input and output are utilized to illustrate its use in preliminary design. It is not meant to be a user's guide, but rather a description of a useful design tool developed for studying the application of new technologies to transport airplanes.

Compression-ignition engine tests of several fuels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spanogle, J A

1932-01-01

The tests reported in this paper were made to devise simple engine tests which would rate fuels as to their comparative value and their suitability for the operating conditions of the individual engine on which the tests are made. Three commercial fuels were used in two test engines having combustion chambers with and without effective air flow. Strictly comparative performance tests gave almost identical results for the three fuels. Analysis of indicator cards allowed a differentiation between fuels on a basis of rates of combustion. The same comparative ratings were obtained by determining the consistent operating range of injection advance angle for the three fuels. The difference in fuels is more pronounced in a quiescent combustion chamber than in one with high-velocity air flow. A fuel is considered suitable for the operating conditions of an engine with a quiescent combustion chamber if it permits the injection of the fuel to be advanced beyond the optimum without exceeding allowable knock or allowable maximum cylinder pressures.

Cost and performance model for redox flow batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Viswanathan, Vilayanur; Crawford, Alasdair; Stephenson, David; Kim, Soowhan; Wang, Wei; Li, Bin; Coffey, Greg; Thomsen, Ed; Graff, Gordon; Balducci, Patrick; Kintner-Meyer, Michael; Sprenkle, Vincent

2014-02-01

A cost model is developed for all vanadium and iron-vanadium redox flow batteries. Electrochemical performance modeling is done to estimate stack performance at various power densities as a function of state of charge and operating conditions. This is supplemented with a shunt current model and a pumping loss model to estimate actual system efficiency. The operating parameters such as power density, flow rates and design parameters such as electrode aspect ratio and flow frame channel dimensions are adjusted to maximize efficiency and minimize capital costs. Detailed cost estimates are obtained from various vendors to calculate cost estimates for present, near-term and optimistic scenarios. The most cost-effective chemistries with optimum operating conditions for power or energy intensive applications are determined, providing a roadmap for battery management systems development for redox flow batteries. The main drivers for cost reduction for various chemistries are identified as a function of the energy to power ratio of the storage system. Levelized cost analysis further guide suitability of various chemistries for different applications.

Wing Shaping and Gust Load Controls of Flexible Aircraft: An LPV Approach

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hammerton, Jared R.; Su, Weihua; Zhu, Guoming; Swei, Sean Shan-Min

2018-01-01

In the proposed paper, the optimum wing shape of a highly flexible aircraft under varying flight conditions will be controlled by a linear parameter-varying approach. The optimum shape determined under multiple objectives, including flight performance, ride quality, and control effort, will be determined as well. This work is an extension of work done previously by the authors, and updates the existing optimization and utilizes the results to generate a robust flight controller.

Determination of optimum process parameters for peroxidase-catalysed treatment of bisphenol A and application to the removal of bisphenol derivatives.

PubMed

Yamada, Kazunori; Ikeda, Naoya; Takano, Yoko; Kashiwada, Ayumi; Matsuda, Kiyomi; Hirata, Mitsuo

2010-03-01

Systematic investigations were carried out to determine the optimum process parameters such as the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) concentration, concentration and molar mass of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) as an additive, pH value, temperature and enzyme dose for treatment of bisphenol A (BPA) with horseradish peroxidase (HRP). The HRP-catalysed treatment of BPA was effectively enhanced by adding PEG, and BPA was completely converted into phenoxy radicals by HRP dose of 0.10 U/cm3. The optimum conditions for HRP-catalysed treatment of BPA at 0.3 mM was determined to be 0.3 mM for H2O2 and 0.10 mg/cm3 for PEG with a molar mass of 1.0 x 10(4) in a pH 6.0 buffer at 30 degrees C. Different kinds of bisphenol derivatives were completely or effectively treated by HRP under the optimum conditions determined for treatment of BPA, although the HRP dose was further increased as necessary for some of them. The aggregation of water-insoluble oligomers generated by the enzymatic radicalization and radical coupling reaction was enhanced by decreasing the pH values to 4.0 with HCl after the enzymatic treatment, and BPA and bisphenol derivatives were removed from aqueous solutions by filtering out the oligomer precipitates.

Study of optimum methods of optical communication

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harger, R. O.

1972-01-01

Optimum methods of optical communication accounting for the effects of the turbulent atmosphere and quantum mechanics, both by the semi-classical method and the full-fledged quantum theoretical model are described. A concerted effort to apply the techniques of communication theory to the novel problems of optical communication by a careful study of realistic models and their statistical descriptions, the finding of appropriate optimum structures and the calculation of their performance and, insofar as possible, comparing them to conventional and other suboptimal systems are discussed. In this unified way the bounds on performance and the structure of optimum communication systems for transmission of information, imaging, tracking, and estimation can be determined for optical channels.

A network for continuous monitoring of water quality in the Sabine River basin, Texas and Louisiana

USGS Publications Warehouse

Blakey, J.F.; Skinner, P.W.

1973-01-01

Level I operations at a proposed site would monitor current and potential problems, water-quality changes in subreaches of streams, and water-quality trends in time and place. Level II operations would monitor current or potential problems only. An optimum system would require Level I operations at all nine stations. A minimum system would require Level II operations at most of the stations.

Optimum operation of restoration techniques for eutrophic water bodies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hagen, N. M.; Kleeberg, H.-B.

1994-05-01

Operating rules have been applied in water resources management for a long time in order to control and supply a required quantity (volume) of water. The operating rules have to guarantee the optimum management of the reservoir(s). The quality of the stored water has been satisfactory for the desired utilization up to the sixties. Due to the deterioration of reservoir water quality through human impacts, however, increased attention had to be paid since. Eutrophication of stagnant waters is still an unsolved problem. Through means of various restoration techniques, i.e., dilution/flushing or hypolimnetic withdrawal, the quality of the stored water can be improved. Continuous operation or appropriate time or depth variant operating rules are required to achieve this goal. The paper presents such rules for long-term operation. They have been established for the first time and can he represented in two or three-dimensional graphs depending on the number of included components (e.g., actual water storage and quality). The ‘quality operating rules’ take into account the dynamics of the processes in aquatic ecosystems. Simplifications with regard to application and acceptance (e.g., clarity) are developed and tested. The general validity and efficiency of the operating rules have been proved in a case study (a multi-purpose reservoir) and a fictitious lake.

Physical constraints, fundamental limits, and optimal locus of operating points for an inverted pendulum based actuated dynamic walker.

PubMed

Patnaik, Lalit; Umanand, Loganathan

2015-10-26

The inverted pendulum is a popular model for describing bipedal dynamic walking. The operating point of the walker can be specified by the combination of initial mid-stance velocity (v0) and step angle (φm) chosen for a given walk. In this paper, using basic mechanics, a framework of physical constraints that limit the choice of operating points is proposed. The constraint lines thus obtained delimit the allowable region of operation of the walker in the v0-φm plane. A given average forward velocity vx,avg can be achieved by several combinations of v0 and φm. Only one of these combinations results in the minimum mechanical power consumption and can be considered the optimum operating point for the given vx,avg. This paper proposes a method for obtaining this optimal operating point based on tangency of the power and velocity contours. Putting together all such operating points for various vx,avg, a family of optimum operating points, called the optimal locus, is obtained. For the energy loss and internal energy models chosen, the optimal locus obtained has a largely constant step angle with increasing speed but tapers off at non-dimensional speeds close to unity.

Proper Edging and Trimming Will Help Improve Lumber Value

Treesearch

Philip A. Araman

1991-01-01

Decisions on where to edge and trim waning edged boards, or to trim other boards, can have a major effect on the performance of a sawmill. Optimum decisions are difficult for a number of reasons, including: complexity of grading rules; operator skills; operator fatigue or lack of interest at times; and, the inability of operators to include lumber prices in decisions....

Optimization of operating parameters in polysilicon chemical vapor deposition reactor with response surface methodology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

An, Li-sha; Liu, Chun-jiao; Liu, Ying-wen

2018-05-01

In the polysilicon chemical vapor deposition reactor, the operating parameters are complex to affect the polysilicon's output. Therefore, it is very important to address the coupling problem of multiple parameters and solve the optimization in a computationally efficient manner. Here, we adopted Response Surface Methodology (RSM) to analyze the complex coupling effects of different operating parameters on silicon deposition rate (R) and further achieve effective optimization of the silicon CVD system. Based on finite numerical experiments, an accurate RSM regression model is obtained and applied to predict the R with different operating parameters, including temperature (T), pressure (P), inlet velocity (V), and inlet mole fraction of H2 (M). The analysis of variance is conducted to describe the rationality of regression model and examine the statistical significance of each factor. Consequently, the optimum combination of operating parameters for the silicon CVD reactor is: T = 1400 K, P = 3.82 atm, V = 3.41 m/s, M = 0.91. The validation tests and optimum solution show that the results are in good agreement with those from CFD model and the deviations of the predicted values are less than 4.19%. This work provides a theoretical guidance to operate the polysilicon CVD process.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN STRATEGY FOR THE WEIBULL DOSE RESPONSE MODEL (JOURNAL VERSION)

EPA Science Inventory

The objective of the research was to determine optimum design point allocation for estimation of relative yield losses from ozone pollution when the true and fitted yield-ozone dose response relationship follows the Weibull. The optimum design is dependent on the values of the We...

Mathematical modeling of hydromechanical extrusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Agapitova, O. Yu.; Byvaltsev, S. V.; Zalazinsky, A. G.

2017-12-01

The mathematical modeling of the hydromechanical extrusion of metals through two sequentially installed cone dies is carried out. The optimum parameters of extrusion tools are determined to minimize the extrusion force. A software system has been developed to solve problems of plastic deformation of metals and to provide an optimum design of extrusion tools.

Photocatalytic pretreatment of oily wastewater from the restaurant by a vacuum ultraviolet/TiO2 system.

PubMed

Kang, Jian-xiong; Lu, Lu; Zhan, Wei; Li, Bo; Li, Dao-sheng; Ren, Yong-zheng; Liu, Dong-qi

2011-02-15

The present study aims at investigating the performance of a vacuum ultraviolet (VUV, 185 nm) and TiO(2) oxidation system for the pretreatment of oily wastewater from restaurant. The influence of irradiation time, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), the dosage of TiO(2) and the initial chemical oxygen demand (COD) concentration on COD removal efficiency was ascertained and optimum process conditions for stable and effective operation were determined. Under the optimum conditions of irradiation 10 min, initial COD 3981 mg/L, TiO(2) 150 mg/L, pH 7.0 and flow rate of air 40 L/h, the process of VUV and TiO(2)/VUV achieved removal efficiencies of COD, BOD(5) and oil as 50±3%, 37±2%, 86±3%, and 63±3%, 43±2%, 70±3%, respectively. The biodegradability factor f(B) of the wastewater was determined as 1.56 which indicated that the VUV/TiO(2) process improved the biodegradability of the oily wastewater significantly. Results clearly indicate that VUV/TiO(2) photolysis tends to destruct parts of COD, BOD(5), and ammonia, as well as enhances the biodegradability of the oily wastewater simultaneously. Thus, this technique could be used as a pretreatment step for conventional biological treatment of oily wastewater. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Electrochemical Oxidation of Resorcinol in Aqueous Medium Using Boron-Doped Diamond Anode: Reaction Kinetics and Process Optimization with Response Surface Methodology

PubMed Central

Körbahti, Bahadır K.; Demirbüken, Pelin

2017-01-01

Electrochemical oxidation of resorcinol in aqueous medium using boron-doped diamond anode (BDD) was investigated in a batch electrochemical reactor in the presence of Na2SO4 supporting electrolyte. The effect of process parameters such as resorcinol concentration (100–500 g/L), current density (2–10 mA/cm2), Na2SO4 concentration (0–20 g/L), and reaction temperature (25–45°C) was analyzed on electrochemical oxidation using response surface methodology (RSM). The optimum operating conditions were determined as 300 mg/L resorcinol concentration, 8 mA/cm2 current density, 12 g/L Na2SO4 concentration, and 34°C reaction temperature. One hundred percent of resorcinol removal and 89% COD removal were obtained in 120 min reaction time at response surface optimized conditions. These results confirmed that the electrochemical mineralization of resorcinol was successfully accomplished using BDD anode depending on the process conditions, however the formation of intermediates and by-products were further oxidized at much lower rate. The reaction kinetics were evaluated at optimum conditions and the reaction order of electrochemical oxidation of resorcinol in aqueous medium using BDD anode was determined as 1 based on COD concentration with the activation energy of 5.32 kJ/mol that was supported a diffusion-controlled reaction. PMID:29082225

The use of ECDIS equipment to achieve an optimum value for energy efficiency operation index

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Acomi, N.; Acomi, O. C.; Stanca, C.

2015-11-01

To reduce air pollution produced by ships, the International Maritime Organization has developed a set of technical, operational and management measures. The subject of our research addresses the operational measures for minimizing CO2 air emissions and the way how the emission value could be influenced by external factors regardless of ship-owners’ will. This study aims to analyse the air emissions for a loaded voyage leg performed by an oil tanker. The formula that allows us to calculate the predicted Energy Efficiency Operational Index involves the estimation of distance and fuel consumption, while the quantity of cargo is known. The electronic chart display and information system, ECDIS Simulation Software, will be used for adjusting the passage plan in real time, given the predicted severe environmental conditions. The distance will be determined using ECDIS, while the prediction of the fuel consumption will consider the sea trial and the vessel experience records. That way it will be possible to compare the estimated EEOI value in the case of great circle navigation in adverse weather condition with the estimated EEOI value for weather navigation.

Geiger mode avalanche photodiodes for microarray systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Phelan, Don; Jackson, Carl; Redfern, R. Michael; Morrison, Alan P.; Mathewson, Alan

2002-06-01

New Geiger Mode Avalanche Photodiodes (GM-APD) have been designed and characterized specifically for use in microarray systems. Critical parameters such as excess reverse bias voltage, hold-off time and optimum operating temperature have been experimentally determined for these photon-counting devices. The photon detection probability, dark count rate and afterpulsing probability have been measured under different operating conditions. An active- quench circuit (AQC) is presented for operating these GM- APDs. This circuit is relatively simple, robust and has such benefits as reducing average power dissipation and afterpulsing. Arrays of these GM-APDs have already been designed and together with AQCs open up the possibility of having a solid-state microarray detector that enables parallel analysis on a single chip. Another advantage of these GM-APDs over current technology is their low voltage CMOS compatibility which could allow for the fabrication of an AQC on the same device. Small are detectors have already been employed in the time-resolved detection of fluorescence from labeled proteins. It is envisaged that operating these new GM-APDs with this active-quench circuit will have numerous applications for the detection of fluorescence in microarray systems.

Cable Economics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cable Television Information Center, Washington, DC.

A guide to the economic factors that influence cable television systems is presented. Designed for local officials who must have some familiarity with cable operations in order to make optimum decisions, the guide analyzes the financial framework of a cable system, not only from the operators viewpoint, but also from the perspective of the…

Comparison of various error functions in predicting the optimum isotherm by linear and non-linear regression analysis for the sorption of basic red 9 by activated carbon.

PubMed

Kumar, K Vasanth; Porkodi, K; Rocha, F

2008-01-15

A comparison of linear and non-linear regression method in selecting the optimum isotherm was made to the experimental equilibrium data of basic red 9 sorption by activated carbon. The r(2) was used to select the best fit linear theoretical isotherm. In the case of non-linear regression method, six error functions namely coefficient of determination (r(2)), hybrid fractional error function (HYBRID), Marquardt's percent standard deviation (MPSD), the average relative error (ARE), sum of the errors squared (ERRSQ) and sum of the absolute errors (EABS) were used to predict the parameters involved in the two and three parameter isotherms and also to predict the optimum isotherm. Non-linear regression was found to be a better way to obtain the parameters involved in the isotherms and also the optimum isotherm. For two parameter isotherm, MPSD was found to be the best error function in minimizing the error distribution between the experimental equilibrium data and predicted isotherms. In the case of three parameter isotherm, r(2) was found to be the best error function to minimize the error distribution structure between experimental equilibrium data and theoretical isotherms. The present study showed that the size of the error function alone is not a deciding factor to choose the optimum isotherm. In addition to the size of error function, the theory behind the predicted isotherm should be verified with the help of experimental data while selecting the optimum isotherm. A coefficient of non-determination, K(2) was explained and was found to be very useful in identifying the best error function while selecting the optimum isotherm.

Hybrid maize breeding with doubled haploids: I. One-stage versus two-stage selection for testcross performance.

PubMed

Longin, C Friedrich H; Utz, H Friedrich; Reif, Jochen C; Schipprack, Wolfgang; Melchinger, Albrecht E

2006-03-01

Optimum allocation of resources is of fundamental importance for the efficiency of breeding programs. The objectives of our study were to (1) determine the optimum allocation for the number of lines and test locations in hybrid maize breeding with doubled haploids (DHs) regarding two optimization criteria, the selection gain deltaG(k) and the probability P(k) of identifying superior genotypes, (2) compare both optimization criteria including their standard deviations (SDs), and (3) investigate the influence of production costs of DHs on the optimum allocation. For different budgets, number of finally selected lines, ratios of variance components, and production costs of DHs, the optimum allocation of test resources under one- and two-stage selection for testcross performance with a given tester was determined by using Monte Carlo simulations. In one-stage selection, lines are tested in field trials in a single year. In two-stage selection, optimum allocation of resources involves evaluation of (1) a large number of lines in a small number of test locations in the first year and (2) a small number of the selected superior lines in a large number of test locations in the second year, thereby maximizing both optimization criteria. Furthermore, to have a realistic chance of identifying a superior genotype, the probability P(k) of identifying superior genotypes should be greater than 75%. For budgets between 200 and 5,000 field plot equivalents, P(k) > 75% was reached only for genotypes belonging to the best 5% of the population. As the optimum allocation for P(k)(5%) was similar to that for deltaG(k), the choice of the optimization criterion was not crucial. The production costs of DHs had only a minor effect on the optimum number of locations and on values of the optimization criteria.

Optimization of radar imaging system parameters for geological analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Waite, W. P.; Macdonald, H. C.; Kaupp, V. H.

1981-01-01

The use of radar image simulation to model terrain variation and determine optimum sensor parameters for geological analysis is described. Optimum incidence angle is determined by the simulation, which evaluates separately the discrimination of surface features possible due to terrain geometry and that due to terrain scattering. Depending on the relative relief, slope, and scattering cross section, optimum incidence angle may vary from 20 to 80 degrees. Large incident angle imagery (more than 60 deg) is best for the widest range of geological applications, but in many cases these large angles cannot be achieved by satellite systems. Low relief regions require low incidence angles (less than 30 deg), so a satellite system serving a broad range of applications should have at least two selectable angles of incidence.

Single-junction solar cells with the optimum band gap for terrestrial concentrator applications

DOEpatents

Wanlass, M.W.

1994-12-27

A single-junction solar cell is described having the ideal band gap for terrestrial concentrator applications. Computer modeling studies of single-junction solar cells have shown that the presence of absorption bands in the direct spectrum has the effect of ''pinning'' the optimum band gap for a wide range of operating conditions at a value of 1.14[+-]0.02 eV. Efficiencies exceeding 30% may be possible at high concentration ratios for devices with the ideal band gap. 7 figures.

Single-junction solar cells with the optimum band gap for terrestrial concentrator applications

DOEpatents

Wanlass, Mark W.

1994-01-01

A single-junction solar cell having the ideal band gap for terrestrial concentrator applications. Computer modeling studies of single-junction solar cells have shown that the presence of absorption bands in the direct spectrum has the effect of "pinning" the optimum band gap for a wide range of operating conditions at a value of 1.14.+-.0.02 eV. Efficiencies exceeding 30% may be possible at high concentration ratios for devices with the ideal band gap.

Frequency stability of maser oscillators operated with cavity Q. [hydrogen and rubidium masers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tetu, M.; Tremblay, P.; Lesage, P.; Petit, P.; Audoin, C.

1982-01-01

The short term frequency stability of masers equipped with an external feedback loop to increase the cavity quality factor was studied. The frequency stability of a hydrogen and a rubidium maser were measured and compared with theoretical evaluation. It is shown that the frequency stability passes through an optimum when the cavity Q is varied. Long term fluctuations are discussed and the optimum mid term frequency stability achievably by small size active and passive H-masers is considered.

Solar Heating And Cooling Of Buildings (SHACOB): Requirements definition and impact analysis-2. Volume 3: Customer load management systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cretcher, C. K.; Rountredd, R. C.

1980-11-01

Customer Load Management Systems, using off-peak storage and control at the residences, are analyzed to determine their potential for capacity and energy savings by the electric utility. Areas broadly representative of utilities in the regions around Washington, DC and Albuquerque, NM were of interest. Near optimum tank volumes were determined for both service areas, and charging duration/off-time were identified as having the greatest influence on tank performance. The impacts on utility operations and corresponding utility/customer economics were determined in terms of delta demands used to estimate the utilities' generating capacity differences between the conventional load management, (CLM) direct solar with load management (DSLM), and electric resistive systems. Energy differences are also determined. These capacity and energy deltas are translated into changes in utility costs due to penetration of the CLM or DSLM systems into electric resistive markets in the snapshot years of 1990 and 2000.

On-board data management study for EOPAP

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davisson, L. D.

1975-01-01

The requirements, implementation techniques, and mission analysis associated with on-board data management for EOPAP were studied. SEASAT-A was used as a baseline, and the storage requirements, data rates, and information extraction requirements were investigated for each of the following proposed SEASAT sensors: a short pulse 13.9 GHz radar, a long pulse 13.9 GHz radar, a synthetic aperture radar, a multispectral passive microwave radiometer facility, and an infrared/visible very high resolution radiometer (VHRR). Rate distortion theory was applied to determine theoretical minimum data rates and compared with the rates required by practical techniques. It was concluded that practical techniques can be used which approach the theoretically optimum based upon an empirically determined source random process model. The results of the preceding investigations were used to recommend an on-board data management system for (1) data compression through information extraction, optimal noiseless coding, source coding with distortion, data buffering, and data selection under command or as a function of data activity, (2) for command handling, (3) for spacecraft operation and control, and (4) for experiment operation and monitoring.

Flexible Cryogenic Heat Pipe Development Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1976-01-01

A heat pipe was designed for operation in the 100 - 200 K temperature range with maximum heat transport as a primary design goal; another designed for operation in the 15 - 100 K temperature range with maximum flexibility as a design goal. Optimum geometry and materials for the container and wicking systems were determined. The high power (100 - 200 K) heat pipe was tested with methane at 100 - 140 K, and test data indicated only partial priming with a performance limit of less than 50 percent of theoretical. A series of tests were conducted with ammonia at approximately 280 K to determine the performance under varying fluid charge and test conditions. The low temperature heat pipe was tested with oxygen at 85 - 95 K and with methanol at 295 - 315 K. Performance of the low temperature heat pipe was below theoretical predictions. Results of the completed testing are presented and possible performance limitation mechanisms are discussed. The lower-than-expected performance was felt to be due to small traces of non-condensible gases which prevented the composite wick from priming.

Experimental Design For Photoresist Characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luckock, Larry

1987-04-01

In processing a semiconductor product (from discrete devices up to the most complex products produced) we find more photolithographic steps in wafer fabrication than any other kind of process step. Thus, the success of a semiconductor manufacturer hinges on the optimization of their photolithographic processes. Yet, we find few companies that have taken the time to properly characterize this critical operation; they are sitting in the "passenger's seat", waiting to see what will come out, hoping that the yields will improve someday. There is no "black magic" involved in setting up a process at its optimum conditions (i.e. minimum sensitivity to all variables at the same time). This paper gives an example of a real world situation for optimizing a photolithographic process by the use of a properly designed experiment, followed by adequate multidimensional analysis of the data. Basic SPC practices like plotting control charts will not, by themselves, improve yields; the control charts are, however, among the necessary tools used in the determination of the process capability and in the formulation of the problems to be addressed. The example we shall consider is the twofold objective of shifting the process average, while tightening the variance, of polysilicon line widths. This goal was identified from a Pareto analysis of yield-limiting mechanisms, plus inspection of the control charts. A key issue in a characterization of this type of process is the number of interactions between variables; this example rules out two-level full factorial and three-level fractional factorial designs (which cannot detect all of the interactions). We arrive at an experiment with five factors at five levels each. A full factorial design for five factors at three levels would require 3125 wafers. Instead, we will use a design that allows us to run this experiment with only 25 wafers, for a significant reduction in time, materials and manufacturing interruption in order to complete the experiment. An optimum solution is then determined via response surface analysis and a series of 3-D and contour plots are shown. The offset between the mask dimensions and poly CD at the optimum operating conditions is discussed with respect to yield, profits and return-on-investment. The expert system used for process optimization covers all types of process steps, producing the best custom designed experiment based on the actual equipment used. The knowledge base contains parameter lists, by machine make and model, ranked by sensitivity and controllability. One option allows 3-D spatial characterization of equipment. For the purpose of this presentation, we will assume that we want to optimize a photo-lithographic process used for polysilicon pattern definition and that we have determined minimum and maximum line widths, based on electrical yield requirements of the product. For this MOS process, the minimum critical dimension (CD) for the poly gate was determined by punchthrough voltage, threshold voltage, etc., while the maximum CD was determined from other performance factors like access time. We will start with the product engineer's analysis.

Development of Improved Design and 3D Printing Manufacture of Cross-Flow Fan Rotor

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-01

the design study, each solver run was monitored. Plotting the value of the mass flows, as well as the torque on the rotor blades , allowed a simple...DISTRIBUTION CODE A 13. ABSTRACT (maximum 200 words) This study determined the optimum blade stagger angle for a cross-flow fan rotor and evaluated the...parametric study determined optimum blade stagger angle using thrust, power, and thrust-to-power ratio as desired output variables. A MarkForged Mark One 3D

Influence of Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) Addition on Silica Membrane Performance Prepared from Rice Straw

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wahyuningsih, S.; Ramelan, A. H.; Wardoyo, D. T.; Ichsan, S.; Kristiawan, Y. R.

2018-03-01

The utilization and modification of silica from rice straw as the main ingredient of adsorbent has been studied. The aim of this study was to determine the optimum composition of PVA (polyvinyl alcohol): silica to produce adsorbents with excellent pore characteristics, optimum adsorption efficiency and optimum pH for methyl yellow adsorptions. X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis results showed that straw ash contains 82.12 % of silica (SiO2). SAA (Surface Area Analyzer) analysis showed optimum composition ratio 5:5 of PVA: silica with surface area of 1.503 m2/g. Besides, based on the pore size distribution of PVA: silica (5:5) showed the narrow pore size distribution with the largest pore cumulative volume of 2.8 x 10-3 cc/g. The optimum pH for Methanyl Yellow adsorption is pH 2 with adsorption capacity = 72.1346%.

Simultaneous Optimization of Tooth Flank Form of Involute Helical Gears in Terms of Both Vibration and Load Carrying Capacity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Komori, Masaharu; Kubo, Aizoh; Suzuki, Yoshitomo

The alignment condition of automotive gears changes considerably during operation due to the deformation of shafts, bearings, and gear box by transmission of load. Under such conditions, the gears are required to satisfy not only reliability in strength and durability under maximum loading conditions, but also low vibrational characteristics under light loading conditions during the cruising of a car. In this report, the characteristics of the optimum tooth flank form of gears in terms of both vibration and load carrying capacity are clarified. The local optimum tooth flank form appears in each excitation valley, where the vibrational excitation is low and the actual contact ratio takes a specific value. The influence of the choice of different local optimum solutions on the vibrational performance of the optimized gears is investigated. The practical design algorithm for the optimum tooth flank form of a gear set in terms of both vibration and load carrying capacity is then proposed and its result is evaluated by field experience.

Evaluating photo-degradation of COD and TOC in petroleum refinery wastewater by using TiO2/ZnO photo-catalyst.

PubMed

Aljuboury, Dheeaa Al Deen Atallah; Palaniandy, Puganeshwary; Abdul Aziz, Hamidi Bin; Feroz, Shaik; Abu Amr, Salem S

2016-09-01

The aim of this study is to investigate the performance of combined solar photo-catalyst of titanium oxide/zinc oxide (TiO 2 /ZnO) with aeration processes to treat petroleum wastewater. Central composite design with response surface methodology was used to evaluate the relationships between operating variables for TiO 2 dosage, ZnO dosage, air flow, pH, and reaction time to identify the optimum operating conditions. Quadratic models for chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total organic carbon (TOC) removals prove to be significant with low probabilities (<0.0001). The obtained optimum conditions included a reaction time of 170 min, TiO 2 dosage (0.5 g/L), ZnO dosage (0.54 g/L), air flow (4.3 L/min), and pH 6.8 COD and TOC removal rates of 99% and 74%, respectively. The TOC and COD removal rates correspond well with the predicted models. The maximum removal rate for TOC and COD was 99.3% and 76%, respectively at optimum operational conditions of TiO 2 dosage (0.5 g/L), ZnO dosage (0.54 g/L), air flow (4.3 L/min), reaction time (170 min) and pH (6.8). The new treatment process achieved higher degradation efficiencies for TOC and COD and reduced the treatment time comparing with other related processes.

A Real Options Approach to Quantity and Cost Optimization for Lifetime and Bridge Buys of Parts

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-04-30

fixed EOS of 40 years and a fixed WACC of 3%, decreases to a minimum and then increases. The minimum of this curve gives the optimum buy size for...considered in both analyses. For a 3% WACC , as illustrated in Figure 9(a), the DES method gives an optimum buy size range of 2,923–3,191 with an average...Hence, both methods are consistent in determining the optimum lifetime/bridge buy size. To further verify this consistency, other WACC values

Application of EREP, LANDSAT, and aircraft image data to environmental problems related to coal mining

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Amato, R. V.; Russell, O. R.; Martin, K. R.; Wier, C. E.

1975-01-01

Remote sensing techniques were used to study coal mining sites within the Eastern Interior Coal Basin (Indiana, Illinois, and western Kentucky), the Appalachian Coal Basin (Ohio, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania) and the anthracite coal basins of northeastern Pennsylvania. Remote sensor data evaluated during these studies were acquired by LANDSAT, Skylab and both high and low altitude aircraft. Airborne sensors included multispectral scanners, multiband cameras and standard mapping cameras loaded with panchromatic, color and color infrared films. The research conducted in these areas is a useful prerequisite to the development of an operational monitoring system that can be peridically employed to supply state and federal regulatory agencies with supportive data. Further research, however, must be undertaken to systematically examine those mining processes and features that can be monitored cost effectively using remote sensors and for determining what combination of sensors and ground sampling processes provide the optimum combination for an operational system.

Li + -Desolvation Dictating Lithium-Ion Battery’s Low-Temperature Performances

DOE PAGES

Li, Qiuyan; Lu, Dongping; Zheng, Jianming; ...

2017-11-17

Lithium (Li) ion battery (LIB) has penetrated almost every aspects of human life, from portable electronics, vehicles to grids, and its operation stability in extreme environments becomes increasingly important. Among these, sub-zero temperature presents a kinetic challenge to the electrochemical reactions required to deliver the stored energy. Here, in this work, we attempted to identify the rate-determining process for Li + migration under such low temperatures, so that an optimum electrolyte formulation could be designed to maximize the energy output. Substantial increase in available capacities from graphite||LiNi 0.80Co 0.15Al 0.05O 2 chemistry down to -40°C is achieved by reducing themore » solvent molecule that more tightly binds to Li + and thus constitutes high desolvation energy barrier. Lastly, the fundamental understanding is applicable universally to a wide spectrum of electrochemical devices that have to operate in similar environments.« less

Effect and interaction study of acetamiprid photodegradation using experimental design.

PubMed

Tassalit, Djilali; Chekir, Nadia; Benhabiles, Ouassila; Mouzaoui, Oussama; Mahidine, Sarah; Merzouk, Nachida Kasbadji; Bentahar, Fatiha; Khalil, Abbas

2016-10-01

The methodology of experimental research was carried out using the MODDE 6.0 software to study the acetamiprid photodegradation depending on the operating parameters, such as the initial concentration of acetamiprid, concentration and type of the used catalyst and the initial pH of the medium. The results showed the importance of the pollutant concentration effect on the acetamiprid degradation rate. On the other hand, the amount and type of the used catalyst have a considerable influence on the elimination kinetics of this pollutant. The degradation of acetamiprid as an environmental pesticide pollutant via UV irradiation in the presence of titanium dioxide was assessed and optimized using response surface methodology with a D-optimal design. The acetamiprid degradation ratio was found to be sensitive to the different studied factors. The maximum value of discoloration under the optimum operating conditions was determined to be 99% after 300 min of UV irradiation.

Strategies for concurrent processing of complex algorithms in data driven architectures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stoughton, John W.; Mielke, Roland R.

1988-01-01

The purpose is to document research to develop strategies for concurrent processing of complex algorithms in data driven architectures. The problem domain consists of decision-free algorithms having large-grained, computationally complex primitive operations. Such are often found in signal processing and control applications. The anticipated multiprocessor environment is a data flow architecture containing between two and twenty computing elements. Each computing element is a processor having local program memory, and which communicates with a common global data memory. A new graph theoretic model called ATAMM which establishes rules for relating a decomposed algorithm to its execution in a data flow architecture is presented. The ATAMM model is used to determine strategies to achieve optimum time performance and to develop a system diagnostic software tool. In addition, preliminary work on a new multiprocessor operating system based on the ATAMM specifications is described.

Li+-Desolvation Dictating Lithium-Ion Battery's Low-Temperature Performances.

PubMed

Li, Qiuyan; Lu, Dongping; Zheng, Jianming; Jiao, Shuhong; Luo, Langli; Wang, Chong-Min; Xu, Kang; Zhang, Ji-Guang; Xu, Wu

2017-12-13

Lithium (Li) ion battery has penetrated almost every aspect of human life, from portable electronics, vehicles, to grids, and its operation stability in extreme environments is becoming increasingly important. Among these, subzero temperature presents a kinetic challenge to the electrochemical reactions required to deliver the stored energy. In this work, we attempted to identify the rate-determining process for Li + migration under such low temperatures, so that an optimum electrolyte formulation could be designed to maximize the energy output. Substantial increase in the available capacities from graphite∥LiNi 0.80 Co 0.15 Al 0.05 O 2 chemistry down to -40 °C is achieved by reducing the solvent molecule that more tightly binds to Li + and thus constitutes a high desolvation energy barrier. The fundamental understanding is applicable universally to a wide spectrum of electrochemical devices that have to operate in similar environments.

Li + -Desolvation Dictating Lithium-Ion Battery’s Low-Temperature Performances

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

Li, Qiuyan; Lu, Dongping; Zheng, Jianming

Lithium (Li) ion battery (LIB) has penetrated almost every aspects of human life, from portable electronics, vehicles to grids, and its operation stability in extreme environments becomes increasingly important. Among these, sub-zero temperature presents a kinetic challenge to the electrochemical reactions required to deliver the stored energy. In this work, we attempted to identify the rate-determining process for Li+ migration under such low temperatures, so that an optimum electrolyte formulation could be designed to maximize the energy output. Substantial increase in available capacities from graphite||LiNi0.80Co0.15Al0.05O2 chemistry down to -40°C is achieved by reducing the solvent molecule that more tightly bindsmore » to Li+ and thus constitutes high desolvation energy barrier. The fundamental understanding is applicable universally to all electrochemical devices that have to operate in similar environments.« less

Li + -Desolvation Dictating Lithium-Ion Battery’s Low-Temperature Performances

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

Li, Qiuyan; Lu, Dongping; Zheng, Jianming

Lithium (Li) ion battery (LIB) has penetrated almost every aspects of human life, from portable electronics, vehicles to grids, and its operation stability in extreme environments becomes increasingly important. Among these, sub-zero temperature presents a kinetic challenge to the electrochemical reactions required to deliver the stored energy. Here, in this work, we attempted to identify the rate-determining process for Li + migration under such low temperatures, so that an optimum electrolyte formulation could be designed to maximize the energy output. Substantial increase in available capacities from graphite||LiNi 0.80Co 0.15Al 0.05O 2 chemistry down to -40°C is achieved by reducing themore » solvent molecule that more tightly binds to Li + and thus constitutes high desolvation energy barrier. Lastly, the fundamental understanding is applicable universally to a wide spectrum of electrochemical devices that have to operate in similar environments.« less

Experimental investigations of helium cryotrapping by argon frost

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

Mack, A.; Perinic, D.; Murdoch, D.

1992-03-01

At the Karlsruhe Nuclear Research Centre (KfK) cryopumping techniques are being investigated by which the gaseous exhausts from the NET/ITER reactor can be pumped out during the burn-and dwell-times. Cryosorption and cryotrapping are techniques which are suitable for this task. It is the target of the investigations to test the techniques under NET/ITER conditions and to determine optimum design data for a prototype. They involve measurement of the pumping speed as a function of the gas composition, gas flow and loading condition of the pump surfaces. The following parameters are subjected to variations: Ar/He ratio, specific helium volume flow rate,more » cryosurface temperature, process gas composition, impurities in argon trapping gas, three-stage operation and two-stage operation. This paper is a description of the experiments on argon trapping techniques started in 1990. Eleven tests as well as the results derived from them are described.« less

A conceptual study of the rotor systems research aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1972-01-01

The analytical comparison of the two candidate Rotor Systems Research Aircraft (RSRA) configurations selected by the Government at the completion of Part 1 of the RSRA Conceptual Predesign Study is presented. The purpose of the comparison was to determine the relative suitability of both vehicles for the RSRA missions described in the Government Statement of Work, and to assess their versatility in the testing of new rotor concepts. The analytical comparison was performed primarily with regard to performance and stability and control. A weights, center-of-gravity, and inertia computation was performed for each iteration in the analysis process. The dynamics investigation was not concerned so much with a comparison of the two vehicles, but explored the dynamic problems attending operation of any RSRA operating with large rotor RPM and diameter ranges over large forward speed ranges. Several means of isolating in- and out-of-plane rotor vibrations were analyzed. An optimum isolation scheme was selected.

User's manual for the BNW-II optimization code for dry/wet-cooled power plants

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

Braun, D.J.; Bamberger, J.A.; Braun, D.J.

1978-05-01

The User's Manual describes how to operate BNW-II, a computer code developed by the Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNL) as a part of its activities under the Department of Energy (DOE) Dry Cooling Enhancement Program. The computer program offers a comprehensive method of evaluating the cost savings potential of dry/wet-cooled heat rejection systems. Going beyond simple ''figure-of-merit'' cooling tower optimization, this method includes such items as the cost of annual replacement capacity, and the optimum split between plant scale-up and replacement capacity, as well as the purchase and operating costs of all major heat rejection components. Hence the BNW-II code ismore » a useful tool for determining potential cost savings of new dry/wet surfaces, new piping, or other components as part of an optimized system for a dry/wet-cooled plant.« less

Study optimizes gas lift in Gulf of Suez field

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

Abdel-Waly, A.A.; Darwish, T.A.; Osman Salama, A.

1996-06-24

A study using PVT data combined with fluid and multiphase flow correlations optimized gas lift in the Ramadan field, Nubia C, oil wells, in the Gulf of Suez. Selection of appropriate correlations followed by multiphase flow calculations at various points of injection (POI) were the first steps in the study. After determining the POI for each well from actual pressure and temperature surveys, the study constructed lift gas performance curves for each well. Actual and optimum operating conditions were compared to determine the optimal gas lift. The study indicated a net 2,115 bo/d could be gained from implementing its recommendations.more » The actual net oil gained as a result of this optimization and injected gas reallocation was 2,024 bo/d. The paper discusses the Ramadan field, fluid properties, multiphase flow, production optimization, and results.« less

Evaluation of the operation efficiency of solar panels in winter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burakova, A. D.; Burakova, L. N.; Anisimov, I. A.; Burakova, O. D.

2017-06-01

The article deals with the issue of increasing the comfort and safety of life in cities by applying an alternative energy source for power supply of transport infrastructure facilities. Due to the peculiarity of the Russian Federation territory location, most cities are characterized by a long winter period, which makes it necessary to consider the features of using solar panels under these conditions. It has been established that the efficiency of solar panels depends on their type and location, the presence of snow cover on their surface, and the ambient air temperature. It has been revealed that flexible solar panels have some advantages that determine their ability to be used for power supply of transport infrastructure facilities. In the paper, the optimum angle of inclination of rigid solar panels in the winter period of the year is determined.

Development of a Computerised Method of Determining Aircraft Maintenance Intervals.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-09-01

Reliability. Vol.17. 1978. pp461-464. 23. , and Shunji Osaki. "Optimum Preventive Maintenance Policies for a 2-Unit Redundant System." IEEE...Transactions on Reliability. Vol.R-23. No.2. June 1974. pp86-91. 24. _ _, and Shunji Osaki. "A Summary of Optimum Preventive Maintenance Policies for a Two-Unit

Optimum fiber distribution in singlewall corrugated fiberboard

Treesearch

Millard W. Johnson; Thomas J. Urbanik; William E. Denniston

1979-01-01

Determining optimum distribution of fiber through rational design of corrugated fiberboard could result in significant reductions in fiber required to meet end-use conditions, with subsequent reductions in price pressure and extension of the softwood timber supply. A theory of thin plates under large deformations is developed that is both kinematically and physically...

Site survey for optimum location of Optical Communication Experimental Facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1968-01-01

Site survey was made to determine the optimum location for an Optical Communication Experimental Facility /OCEF/ and to recommend several sites, graded according to preference. A site was desired which could perform two-way laser communication with a spacecraft and laser tracking with a minimum of interruption by weather effects.

Optimization of multi-element airfoils for maximum lift

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Olsen, L. E.

1979-01-01

Two theoretical methods are presented for optimizing multi-element airfoils to obtain maximum lift. The analyses assume that the shapes of the various high lift elements are fixed. The objective of the design procedures is then to determine the optimum location and/or deflection of the leading and trailing edge devices. The first analysis determines the optimum horizontal and vertical location and the deflection of a leading edge slat. The structure of the flow field is calculated by iteratively coupling potential flow and boundary layer analysis. This design procedure does not require that flow separation effects be modeled. The second analysis determines the slat and flap deflection required to maximize the lift of a three element airfoil. This approach requires that the effects of flow separation from one or more of the airfoil elements be taken into account. The theoretical results are in good agreement with results of a wind tunnel test used to corroborate the predicted optimum slat and flap positions.

Evaluation and application of static headspace-multicapillary column-gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry for complex sample analysis.

PubMed

Denawaka, Chamila J; Fowlis, Ian A; Dean, John R

2014-04-18

An evaluation of static headspace-multicapillary column-gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (SHS-MCC-GC-IMS) has been undertaken to assess its applicability for the determination of 32 volatile compounds (VCs). The key experimental variables of sample incubation time and temperature have been evaluated alongside the MCC-GC variables of column polarity, syringe temperature, injection temperature, injection volume, column temperature and carrier gas flow rate coupled with the IMS variables of temperature and drift gas flow rate. This evaluation resulted in six sets of experimental variables being required to separate the 32 VCs. The optimum experimental variables for SHS-MCC-GC-IMS, the retention time and drift time operating parameters were determined; to normalise the operating parameters, the relative drift time and normalised reduced ion mobility for each VC were determined. In addition, a full theoretical explanation is provided on the formation of the monomer, dimer and trimer of a VC. The optimum operating condition for each VC calibration data was obtained alongside limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) values. Typical detection limits ranged from 0.1ng bis(methylthio)methane, ethylbutanoate and (E)-2-nonenal to 472ng isovaleric acid with correlation coefficient (R(2)) data ranging from 0.9793 (for the dimer of octanal) through to 0.9990 (for isobutyric acid). Finally, the developed protocols were applied to the analysis of malodour in sock samples. Initial work involved spiking an inert matrix and sock samples with appropriate concentrations of eight VCs. The average recovery from the inert matrix was 101±18% (n=8), while recoveries from the sock samples were lower, that is, 54±30% (n=8) for sock type 1 and 78±24% (n=6) for sock type 2. Finally, SHS-MCC-GC-IMS was applied to sock malodour in a field trial based on 11 volunteers (mixed gender) over a 3-week period. By applying the SHS-MCC-GC-IMS database, four VCs were identified and quantified: ammonia, dimethyl disulphide, dimethyl trisulphide and butyric acid. A link was identified between the presence of high ammonia and dimethyl disulphide concentrations and a high malodour odour grading, that is, ≥ 6. Statistical analysis did not find any correlation between the occurrence of dimethyl disulphide and participant gender. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The first clinical application of planning software for laparoscopic microwave thermosphere ablation of malignant liver tumours

PubMed Central

Berber, Eren

2015-01-01

Background Liver tumour ablation is an operator-dependent procedure. The determination of the optimum needle trajectory and correct ablation parameters could be challenging. The aim of this study was to report the utility of a new, procedure planning software for microwave ablation (MWA) of liver tumours. Methods This was a feasibility study in a pilot group of five patients with nine metastatic liver tumours who underwent laparoscopic MWA. Pre-operatively, parameters predicting the desired ablation zones were calculated for each tumour. Intra-operatively, this planning strategy was followed for both antenna placement and energy application. Post-operative 2-week computed tomography (CT) scans were performed to evaluate complete tumour destruction. Results The patients had an average of two tumours (range 1–4), measuring 1.9 ± 0.4 cm (range 0.9–4.4 cm). The ablation time was 7.1 ± 1.3 min (range 2.5–10 min) at 100W. There were no complications or mortality. The patients were discharged home on post-operative day (POD) 1. At 2-week CT scans, there were no residual tumours, with a complete ablation demonstrated in all lesions. Conclusions This study describes and validates pre-treatment planning software for MWA of liver tumours. This software was found useful to determine precisely the ablation parameters and needle placement to create a predicted zone of ablation. PMID:25980481

Joint Command and Control of Cyber Operations: The Joint Force Cyber Component Command (JFCCC)

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-05-04

relies so heavily on complex command and control systems and interconnectivity in general, cyber warfare has become a serious topic of interest at the...defensive cyber warfare into current and future operations and plans. In particular, Joint Task Force (JTF) Commanders must develop an optimum method to

Set up and Operation of Video Cassette Recorders or "...How Do I Work This Thing???"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alaska State Dept. of Education, Juneau.

Designed to assist Alaskans in making optimum use of the LearnAlaska TV transmitter network, this booklet provides instructions for the operation and maintenance of videocassette recorders (VCRs). After a brief introduction, which lists state film library addresses for ordering an accompanying videocassette entitled "Set Up & Operation…

Measurements of the cesium flow from a surface-plasma H/sup -/ ion source

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

Smith, H.V.; Allison, P.W.

1979-01-01

A surface ionization gauge (SIG) was constructed and used to measure the Cs/sup 0/ flow rate through the emission slit of a surface-plasma source (SPS) of H/sup -/ ions with Penning geometry. The equivalent cesium density in the SPS discharge is deduced from these flow measurements. For dc operation the optimum H/sup -/ current occurs at an equivalent cesium density of approx. 7 x 10/sup 12/ cm/sup -3/ (corresponding to an average cesium consumption rate of 0.5 mg/h). For pulsed operation the optimum H/sup -/ current occurs at an equivalent cesium density of approx. 2 x 10/sup 13/ cm/sup -3/more » (1-mg/h average cesium consumption rate). Cesium trapping by the SPS discharge was observed for both dc and pulsed operation. A cesium energy of approx. 0.1 eV is deduced from the observed time of flight to the SIG. In addition to providing information on the physics of the source, the SIG is a useful diagnostic tool for source startup and operation.« less

Inactivation disinfection property of Moringa Oleifera seed extract: optimization and kinetic studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Idris, M. A.; Jami, M. S.; Hammed, A. M.

2017-05-01

This paper presents the statistical optimization study of disinfection inactivation parameters of defatted Moringa oleifera seed extract on Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacterial cells. Three level factorial design was used to estimate the optimum range and the kinetics of the inactivation process was also carried. The inactivation process involved comparing different disinfection models of Chicks-Watson, Collins-Selleck and Homs models. The results from analysis of variance (ANOVA) of the statistical optimization process revealed that only contact time was significant. The optimum disinfection range of the seed extract was 125 mg/L, 30 minutes and 120rpm agitation. At the optimum dose, the inactivation kinetics followed the Collin-Selleck model with coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.6320. This study is the first of its kind in determining the inactivation kinetics of pseudomonas aeruginosa using the defatted seed extract.

Applications of Optimal Building Energy System Selection and Operation

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

Marnay, Chris; Stadler, Michael; Siddiqui, Afzal

2011-04-01

Berkeley Lab has been developing the Distributed Energy Resources Customer Adoption Model (DER-CAM) for several years. Given load curves for energy services requirements in a building microgrid (u grid), fuel costs and other economic inputs, and a menu of available technologies, DER-CAM finds the optimum equipment fleet and its optimum operating schedule using a mixed integer linear programming approach. This capability is being applied using a software as a service (SaaS) model. Optimisation problems are set up on a Berkeley Lab server and clients can execute their jobs as needed, typically daily. The evolution of this approach is demonstrated bymore » description of three ongoing projects. The first is a public access web site focused on solar photovoltaic generation and battery viability at large commercial and industrial customer sites. The second is a building CO2 emissions reduction operations problem for a University of California, Davis student dining hall for which potential investments are also considered. And the third, is both a battery selection problem and a rolling operating schedule problem for a large County Jail. Together these examples show that optimization of building u grid design and operation can be effectively achieved using SaaS.« less

Optimization of fixed-range trajectories for supersonic transport aircraft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Windhorst, Robert Dennis

1999-11-01

This thesis develops near-optimal guidance laws that generate minimum fuel, time, or direct operating cost fixed-range trajectories for supersonic transport aircraft. The approach uses singular perturbation techniques to time-scale de-couple the equations of motion into three sets of dynamics, two of which are analyzed in the main body of this thesis and one of which is analyzed in the Appendix. The two-point-boundary-value-problems obtained by application of the maximum principle to the dynamic systems are solved using the method of matched asymptotic expansions. Finally, the two solutions are combined using the matching principle and an additive composition rule to form a uniformly valid approximation of the full fixed-range trajectory. The approach is used on two different time-scale formulations. The first holds weight constant, and the second allows weight and range dynamics to propagate on the same time-scale. Solutions for the first formulation are only carried out to zero order in the small parameter, while solutions for the second formulation are carried out to first order. Calculations for a HSCT design were made to illustrate the method. Results show that the minimum fuel trajectory consists of three segments: a minimum fuel energy-climb, a cruise-climb, and a minimum drag glide. The minimum time trajectory also has three segments: a maximum dynamic pressure ascent, a constant altitude cruise, and a maximum dynamic pressure glide. The minimum direct operating cost trajectory is an optimal combination of the two. For realistic costs of fuel and flight time, the minimum direct operating cost trajectory is very similar to the minimum fuel trajectory. Moreover, the HSCT has three local optimum cruise speeds, with the globally optimum cruise point at the highest allowable speed, if range is sufficiently long. The final range of the trajectory determines which locally optimal speed is best. Ranges of 500 to 6,000 nautical miles, subsonic and supersonic mixed flight, and varying fuel efficiency cases are analyzed. Finally, the payload-range curve of the HSCT design is determined.

A selective molecularly imprinted polymer for immobilization of acetylcholinesterase (AChE): an active enzyme targeted and efficient method.

PubMed

Demirci, Gökhan; Doğaç, Yasemin İspirli; Teke, Mustafa

2015-11-01

In the present study, we immobilized acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme onto acetylcholine removed imprinted polymer and acetylcholine containing polymer. First, the polymers were produced with acetylcholine, substrate of AChE, by dispersion polymerization. Then, the enzyme was immobilized onto the polymers by using two different methods: In the first method (method A), acetylcholine was removed from the polymer, and then AChE was immobilized onto this polymer (acetylcholine removed imprinted polymer). In the second method (method B), AChE was immobilized onto acetylcholine containing polymer by affinity. In method A, enzyme-specific species (binding sites) occurred by removing acetylcholine from the polymer. The immobilized AChE reached 240% relative specific activity comparison with free AChE because the active enzyme molecules bounded onto the polymer. Transmission electron microscopy results were taken before and after immobilization of AChE for the assessment of morphological structure of polymer. Also, the experiments, which include optimum temperature (25-65 °C), optimum pH (3-10), thermal stability (4-70 °C), kinetic parameters, operational stability and reusability, were performed to determine the characteristic of the immobilized AChE. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Synthesis and Characterisation of Biocompatible Polymer-Conjugated Magnetic Beads for Enhancement Stability of Urease.

PubMed

Doğaç, Yasemin Ispirli; Teke, Mustafa

2016-04-01

We reported natural polymer-conjugated magnetic featured urease systems for removal of urea effectively. The optimum temperature (20-60 °C), optimum pH (3.0-10.0), kinetic parameters, thermal stability (4-70 °C), pH stability (4.0-9.0), operational stability (0-250 min), reusability (18 times) and storage stability (24 weeks) were studied for characterisation of the urease-encapsulated biocompatible polymer-conjugated magnetic beads. Also, the surface groups and chemical structure of the magnetic beads were determined by using attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). The all urease-encapsulated magnetic beads protected their stability of 30-45 % relative activity at 70 °C. A significant increase was observed at their pH stability compared with the free urease for both acidic and alkaline medium. Besides this, their repeatability activity were approximately 100 % during 4(th) run. They showed residual activity of 50 % after 16 weeks. The importance of this work is enhancement stability of immobilised urease by biocompatible polymer-conjugated magnetic beads for the industrial application based on removal of urea.

An extension of the receiver operating characteristic curve and AUC-optimal classification.

PubMed

Takenouchi, Takashi; Komori, Osamu; Eguchi, Shinto

2012-10-01

While most proposed methods for solving classification problems focus on minimization of the classification error rate, we are interested in the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, which provides more information about classification performance than the error rate does. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) is a natural measure for overall assessment of a classifier based on the ROC curve. We discuss a class of concave functions for AUC maximization in which a boosting-type algorithm including RankBoost is considered, and the Bayesian risk consistency and the lower bound of the optimum function are discussed. A procedure derived by maximizing a specific optimum function has high robustness, based on gross error sensitivity. Additionally, we focus on the partial AUC, which is the partial area under the ROC curve. For example, in medical screening, a high true-positive rate to the fixed lower false-positive rate is preferable and thus the partial AUC corresponding to lower false-positive rates is much more important than the remaining AUC. We extend the class of concave optimum functions for partial AUC optimality with the boosting algorithm. We investigated the validity of the proposed method through several experiments with data sets in the UCI repository.

Direct solar-pumped iodine laser amplifier

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Han, Kwang S.; Hwang, In Heon

1990-01-01

The optimum conditions of a solar pumped iodine laser are found in this research for the case of a continuous wave operation and a pulsed operation. The optimum product of the pressure(p) inside the laser tube and the tube diameter(d) was pd=40 approx. 50 torr-cm on the contrary to the case of a high intensity flashlamp pumped iodine laser where the optimum value of the product is known to be pd=150 torr-cm. The pressure-diameter product is less than 1/3 of that of the high power iodine laser. During the research period, various laser materials were also studied for solar pumping. Among the laser materials, Nd:YAG is found to have the lowest laser threshold pumping intensity of about 200 solar constant. The Rhodamine 6G was also tested as the solar pumped laser material. The threshold pumping power was measured to be about 20,000 solar constant. The amplification experiment for a continuously pumped iodine laser amplifier was performed using Vortek solar simulator and the amplification factors were measured for single pass amplification and triple pass amplification of the 15 cm long amplifier tube. The amplification of 5 was obtained for the triple pass amplification.

APPR-1 RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM DECONTAMINATION PROGRAM. TASK II. VOLUME II. EVALUATION OF CHEMICAL AGENTS FOR NUCLEAR REACTOR DECONTAMINATION

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

Zegger, J.L.; Pancer, G.P.

1959-02-15

The caustic permanganante-rinse decontamination studies were performed to determine optimum operating conditions as well as the metallurgical effects of the treatment. A treatment with 10% NaOH and 5% potassium by a rinse with a 5% ammorium citrate, 2% citric acid and 1/2% Versene solution was chosen for the decontamination of a stainless steel steam generator, Decontamination factors of greater than 50 were obtained in loop tests using the above treatment. Corrosion and metallurgical results indicated a total penetration of less than 0.01 mil on annealed type 304 stainless steel with no evidence of any deleterious effects. (auth)

[The "bright spot of consciousness"].

PubMed

Simonov, P V

1990-01-01

I.P. Pavlov considered consciousness as an area of optimum excitability moving over the human cerebral cortex depending on the character of performed mental activity. Contemporary methods of computer analysis of electrical activity and brain thermal production have allowed to turn this metaphor into experimentally observed reality. It is shown that preservation of connections of cortical gnostic zones with verbal structures of the left hemisphere is the obligatory condition for consciousness functioning. These data reinforce the determination of consciousness as operation with knowledge, which by means of words, mathematic symbols and art images can be transmitted to other people. Communicative origin of consciousness creates possibility of mental dialogue with oneself, i.e. leads to the appearance of self-consciousness of the personality.

Processing data, for improved, accuracy, from device for measuring speed of sound in a gas

DOEpatents

Owen, Thomas E.

2006-09-19

A method, used in connection with a pulse-echo type sensor for determining the speed of sound in a gas, for improving the accuracy of speed of sound measurements. The sensor operates on the principle that speed of sound can be derived from the difference between the two-way travel time of signals reflected from two different target faces of the sensor. This time difference is derived by computing the cross correlation between the two reflections. The cross correlation function may be fitted to a parabola whose vertex represents the optimum time coordinate of the coherence peak, thereby providing an accurate measure of the two-way time diffference.

Simultaneous film and convection cooling of a plate inserted in the exhaust stream of a gas turbine combustor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marek, C. J.; Juhasz, A. J.

1973-01-01

Data were obtained on a parallel-flow film- and convection-cooled test section placed in the exhaust stream of a rectangular-sector combustor. The combustor was operated at atmospheric pressure and at exhaust temperatures of 589 and 1033 K (600 and 1400 F). The cooling air was at ambient pressure and temperature. Test results indicate that it is better to use combined film and convection cooling rather than either film or convection cooling alone for a fixed total coolant flow. An optimum ratio of film to convection cooling flow rates was determined for the particular geometry tested. The experimental results compared well with calculated results.

AMTEC cell testing, optimization of rhodium/tungsten electrodes, and tests of other components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, Roger M.; Ryan, Margaret A.; Jeffries-Nakamura, Barbara; Underwood, Mark L.; O'Connor, Dennis; Kikkert, Stan

1991-01-01

Electrodes, current collectors, ceramic to metal braze seals, and metallic components exposed to the high 'hot side' temperatures and sodium liquid and vapor environment have been tested and evaluated in laboratory cells running for hundreds of hours at 1100-1200 K. Rhodium/tungsten electrodes have been selected as the optimum electrodes based on performance parameters and durability. Current collectors have been evaluated under simulated and actual operating conditions. The microscopic effects of metal migration between electrode and current collector alloys as well as their thermal and electrical properties determined the suitability of current collector and lead materials. Braze seals suitable for long term application to AMTEC devices are being developed.

STS propellant scavenging systems study. Part 2, volume 1: Executive summary and study results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, Frank L.

1987-01-01

The major objective of the STS Propellant Scavenging Study is to define the hardware, operations, and life cycle costs for recovery of unused Space Transportation System propellants. Earlier phases were concerned exclusively with the recovery of cryogenic propellants from the main propulsion system of the manned STS. The phase of the study covered by this report (Part II Extension) modified the objectives to include cryogenic propellants delivered to orbit by the unmanned cargo vehicle. The Part II Extension had the following objectives: (1) predict OTV propellant requirements from 1995 to 2010; investigate scavenging/transport tank reuse; determine optimum tank sizing and arrangement; and develop hardware concepts for tanks.

The Living with a Star Program: NASA's Role in Assuring Performance in Space and Atmospheric Environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barth, Janet L.; LaBel, Kenneth; Brewer, Dana; Withbroe, George; Kauffman, Billy

2001-01-01

NASA has initiated the Living with a Star (LWS) Program to develop the scientific understanding to address the aspects of the Connected Sun-Earth system that affect life and society. A goal of the program is to bridge the gap between science, engineering, and user application communities. This will enable future science, operational, and commercial objectives in space and atmospheric environments by improving engineering approaches to the accommodation and/or mitigation of the effects of solar variability on technological systems. A pre-formulation study determined the optimum combination of science missions, modeling, and technology infusion elements to accomplish this goal. The results of the study are described.

Using Classical Reliability Models and Single Event Upset (SEU) Data to Determine Optimum Implementation Schemes for Triple Modular Redundancy (TMR) in SRAM-Based Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) Devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Berg, M.; Kim, H.; Phan, A.; Seidleck, C.; LaBel, K.; Pellish, J.; Campola, M.

2015-01-01

Space applications are complex systems that require intricate trade analyses for optimum implementations. We focus on a subset of the trade process, using classical reliability theory and SEU data, to illustrate appropriate TMR scheme selection.

The feasibility study of crude palm oil transesterification at 30 °C operation.

PubMed

Sim, Jia Huey; Kamaruddin, Azlina Harun; Bhatia, Subhash

2010-12-01

The objective of this research is to investigate the potential of transesterification of crude palm oil (CPO) to biodiesel at 30 degrees C. The mass transfer limitations problem crucial at 30 degrees C due to the viscosity of CPO has been addressed. The process parameters that are closely related to mass transfer effects like enzyme loading, agitation speed and reaction time were optimized. An optimum methanol to oil substrate molar ratio at 6.5:1 was observed and maintained throughout the experiments. The optimum operating condition for the transesterification process was found at 6.67 wt% of enzyme loading and at 150 rpm of agitation speed. The corresponding initial reaction and FAME yield obtained at 6 h were 89.29% FAME yield/hr and 85.01%, respectively. The 85% FAME yield obtained at 30 degrees C operation of CPO transesterification shows that the process is potentially feasible for the biodiesel synthesis. 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Study of statistical coding for digital TV

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gardenhire, L. W.

1972-01-01

The results are presented for a detailed study to determine a pseudo-optimum statistical code to be installed in a digital TV demonstration test set. Studies of source encoding were undertaken, using redundancy removal techniques in which the picture is reproduced within a preset tolerance. A method of source encoding, which preliminary studies show to be encouraging, is statistical encoding. A pseudo-optimum code was defined and the associated performance of the code was determined. The format was fixed at 525 lines per frame, 30 frames per second, as per commercial standards.

Analytical study of electrical disconnect system for use on manned and unmanned missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rosener, A. A.; Lenda, J. A.; Trummer, R. O.; Jonkoniec, T. G.

1977-01-01

The program to survey existing electrical connector availability, and establish an optimum connector design for maintainable spacecraft substation interfaces is reported. Functional and operational requirements are given along with the results of the documentation survey, which disclosed that the MSFC series connectors have the preferred features of current connector technology. Optimum design concepts for EVA tasks, modules serviced by manipulators, and for manipulators independent of other servicing units are presented. It is concluded that separate connector designs are required for spacecraft replaceable modules, and for crewman EVA.

Threshold detection in an on-off binary communications channel with atmospheric scintillation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Webb, W. E.

1975-01-01

The optimum detection threshold in an on-off binary optical communications system operating in the presence of atmospheric turbulence was investigated assuming a poisson detection process and log normal scintillation. The dependence of the probability of bit error on log amplitude variance and received signal strength was analyzed and semi-empirical relationships to predict the optimum detection threshold derived. On the basis of this analysis a piecewise linear model for an adaptive threshold detection system is presented. The bit error probabilities for nonoptimum threshold detection systems were also investigated.

Standardized ileal digestible tryptophan-to-lysine ratios in growing pigs fed corn-based and non-corn-based diets.

PubMed

Quant, A D; Lindemann, M D; Kerr, B J; Payne, R L; Cromwell, G L

2012-04-01

Two 21-d experiments were conducted to determine the optimum standardized ileal digestible (SID) Trp:Lys in growing pigs fed corn-based diets compared with non-corn-based diets. The primary response variables in both experiments were ADG and plasma urea N (PUN) concentrations with the optimum SID Trp:Lys determined using broken-line analysis. Experiment 1 evaluated the optimum SID Trp:Lys in growing pigs fed corn-based diets consisting primarily of corn with minor inclusion of Canadian field peas and corn gluten meal to keep the SID Trp:Lys low. This experiment used 120 crossbred pigs (initial BW: 25.73 ± 2.46 kg) that were blocked by sex and initial BW and allotted to 5 SID Trp:Lys with 5 pens each for the first 4 treatments and 4 pens for the last treatment and 5 pigs/pen. Diets were formulated by the addition of supplemental Trp to create various SID Trp:Lys (12.77, 14.07, 15.50, 16.91, and 17.94%) with a constant SID Lys of 0.66%, which was determined to be 83% of the Lys requirement for pigs at this location. As the SID Trp:Lys increased from 12.77 to 17.94%, ADG increased (0.562, 0.648, 0.788, 0.787, and 0.815 kg/d) linearly (P < 0.001) and quadratically (P = 0.009), resulting in an optimum SID Trp:Lys of 15.73% (P < 0.001). Plasma urea N decreased (10.43, 9.30, 8.21, 8.55, and 9.25 mg/dL) linearly (P = 0.069) and quadratically (P = 0.015), resulting in an optimum SID Trp:Lys of 15.83% (P = 0.007). Experiment 2 evaluated the optimum SID Trp:Lys in growing pigs fed non-corn-based diets consisting primarily of barley and Canadian field peas, with smaller proportions of corn and wheat. Experiment 2 used 120 crossbred pigs (initial BW: 28.49 ± 2.92 kg) that were allotted to 5 increasing SID Trp:Lys (13.05, 14.32, 15.59, 16.85, and 18.11%; 0.66% SID Lys) in the same manner as Exp. 1. As SID Trp:Lys increased in Exp. 2, ADG increased linearly (P = 0.007) with the optimum SID Trp:Lys of 15.99% (P = 0.048). Plasma urea N concentrations decreased linearly (P = 0.056) and quadratically (P = 0.067) as SID Trp:Lys increased, resulting in an optimum SID Trp:Lys of 15.29% (P = 0.009). Averaging the break point values for ADG and PUN obtained from broken-line analysis for Exp. 1 and 2 produced optimum SID Trp:Lys of 15.78 and 15.64%, respectively. Based on the results from these 2 experiments, it seems that the optimum SID Trp:Lys is virtually unaffected by the dietary feedstuffs used as long as the diets are formulated on an SID AA basis.

[Studies on the extraction process of total saponins from Paris polyphylla Smith].

PubMed

Sun, Zhi-Guo; Zhang, Lin; Li, Ling-Jun; Tian, Jing-Kui

2007-06-01

To optimize the extraction process of total saopnins from Paris polyphylla Smith. The single factor test and orthogonal experiment were used to determine the optimum extraction process. The optimum extraction process was obtained as follows: the plant materials were extracted with 70% ethanol twice, respectively with 10BV for 2 hours and then with 8BV the solvents for 1.5 hours. The yield of total saponins could be up to 4.24% and the total extraction rate of Paris polyphylla I and Paris polyphylla II was 93.28%. The optimum process obtained is steady, reasonable and feasible.

Optimization of fermentation conditions for alcohol production.

PubMed

Bowman, L; Geiger, E

1984-12-01

The quantitative effects of carbohydrate levels, degree of initial saccharification, glucoamylase dosage, temperature, and fermentation time were investigated using a Box-Wilson central composite design protocol. With Saccharomyces cerevisiae ATCC 4126, it was found that the use of a partially saccharified starch substrate markedly increased yields and attainable alcohol levels. Balancing the degree of initial saccharification with the level of glucoamylase used to complete hydrolysis was found necessary to obtain optimum yields. The temperature optimum was found to be 36 degrees C. The regression equations obtained were used to model the fermentation in order to determine optimum fermentation conditions.

Optimum pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis value can be determined by individual pelvic incidence.

PubMed

Inami, Satoshi; Moridaira, Hiroshi; Takeuchi, Daisaku; Shiba, Yo; Nohara, Yutaka; Taneichi, Hiroshi

2016-11-01

Adult spinal deformity (ASD) classification showing that ideal pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis (PI-LL) value is within 10° has been received widely. But no study has focused on the optimum level of PI-LL value that reflects wide variety in PI among patients. This study was conducted to determine the optimum PI-LL value specific to an individual's PI in postoperative ASD patients. 48 postoperative ASD patients were recruited. Spino-pelvic parameters and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were measured at the final follow-up. Factors associated with good clinical results were determined by stepwise multiple regression model using the ODI. The patients with ODI under the 75th percentile cutoff were designated into the "good" health related quality of life (HRQOL) group. In this group, the relationship between the PI-LL and PI was assessed by regression analysis. Multiple regression analysis revealed PI-LL as significant parameters associated with ODI. Thirty-six patients with an ODI <22 points (75th percentile cutoff) were categorized into a good HRQOL group, and linear regression models demonstrated the following equation: PI-LL = 0.41PI-11.12 (r = 0.45, P = 0.0059). On the basis of this equation, in the patients with a PI = 50°, the PI-LL is 9°. Whereas in those with a PI = 30°, the optimum PI-LL is calculated to be as low as 1°. In those with a PI = 80°, PI-LL is estimated at 22°. Consequently, an optimum PI-LL is inconsistent in that it depends on the individual PI.

Optimum Wing Shape Determination of Highly Flexible Morphing Aircraft for Improved Flight Performance.

PubMed

Su, Weihua; Swei, Sean Shan-Min; Zhu, Guoming G

2016-09-01

In this paper, optimum wing bending and torsion deformations are explored for a mission adaptive, highly flexible morphing aircraft. The complete highly flexible aircraft is modeled using a strain-based geometrically nonlinear beam formulation, coupled with unsteady aerodynamics and 6-dof rigid-body motions. Since there are no conventional discrete control surfaces for trimming the flexible aircraft, the design space for searching the optimum wing geometries is enlarged. To achieve high performance flight, the wing geometry is best tailored according to the specific flight mission needs. In this study, the steady level flight and the coordinated turn flight are considered, and the optimum wing deformations with the minimum drag at these flight conditions are searched by utilizing a modal-based optimization procedure, subject to the trim and other constraints. The numerical study verifies the feasibility of the modal-based optimization approach, and shows the resulting optimum wing configuration and its sensitivity under different flight profiles.

Optimum Wing Shape Determination of Highly Flexible Morphing Aircraft for Improved Flight Performance

PubMed Central

Su, Weihua; Swei, Sean Shan-Min; Zhu, Guoming G.

2018-01-01

In this paper, optimum wing bending and torsion deformations are explored for a mission adaptive, highly flexible morphing aircraft. The complete highly flexible aircraft is modeled using a strain-based geometrically nonlinear beam formulation, coupled with unsteady aerodynamics and 6-dof rigid-body motions. Since there are no conventional discrete control surfaces for trimming the flexible aircraft, the design space for searching the optimum wing geometries is enlarged. To achieve high performance flight, the wing geometry is best tailored according to the specific flight mission needs. In this study, the steady level flight and the coordinated turn flight are considered, and the optimum wing deformations with the minimum drag at these flight conditions are searched by utilizing a modal-based optimization procedure, subject to the trim and other constraints. The numerical study verifies the feasibility of the modal-based optimization approach, and shows the resulting optimum wing configuration and its sensitivity under different flight profiles. PMID:29348697

Modeling cooperative driving behavior in freeway merges.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-11-01

Merging locations are major sources of freeway bottlenecks and are therefore important for freeway operations analysis. Microscopic simulation tools have been successfully used to analyze merging bottlenecks and to design optimum geometric configurat...

Developing a vacuum cooking equipment prototype to produce strawberry jam and optimization of vacuum cooking conditions.

PubMed

Okut, Dilara; Devseren, Esra; Koç, Mehmet; Ocak, Özgül Özdestan; Karataş, Haluk; Kaymak-Ertekin, Figen

2018-01-01

Purpose of this study was to develop prototype cooking equipment that can work at reduced pressure and to evaluate its performance for production of strawberry jam. The effect of vacuum cooking conditions on color soluble solid content, reducing sugars total sugars HMF and sensory properties were investigated. Also, the optimum vacuum cooking conditions for strawberry jam were optimized for Composite Rotatable Design. The optimum cooking temperature and time were determined targeting maximum soluble solid content and sensory attributes (consistency) and minimum Hue value and HMF content. The optimum vacuum cooking conditions determined were 74.4 °C temperature and 19.8 time. The soluble solid content strawberry jam made by vacuum process were similar to those prepared by traditional method. HMF contents of jams produced with vacuum cooking method were well within limit of standards.

Determination of the optimum concentration cellulose baggase in making film bioplastic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chadijah, S.; Rustiah, W. O.; Munir, M. I. D.

2018-03-01

The hoarding rubbish synthetic plastic caused pollution and demage in life circles, to cope it can be done with synthesizing the plastic from agriculture substance or called biopolymer (bioplastic). It was that potentially as bioplastic was biopolymer from agriculture substance baggase that contain cellulose 40 %. This research aimed to determine the optimum concentration cellulose baggase in making bioplastic film with adding chitosan and sorbitol plasticizer and also to know the result of characterization film bioplastic. The steps in this research were; the extraction of cellulose, making film bioplastic, tensile strenght test and used characterization spectrofotometer FTIR. In this research showed that optimum concentration cellulose baggase in making film bioplastic was 2% with adding chitosan and sorbitol plasticizer. The optimal result of tensile strenght test was 0,089 Kgf/cm2 with elongation percent 15,90 %. The analyzing FTIR in all of variation that looked almost same with characterization with tapes -OH, -NH and C-O.

Mass resolution of linear quadrupole ion traps with round rods.

PubMed

Douglas, D J; Konenkov, N V

2014-11-15

Auxiliary dipole excitation is widely used to eject ions from linear radio-frequency quadrupole ion traps for mass analysis. Linear quadrupoles are often constructed with round rod electrodes. The higher multipoles introduced to the electric potential by round rods might be expected to change the ion ejection process. We have therefore investigated the optimum ratio of rod radius, r, to field radius, r0, for excitation and ejection of ions. Trajectory calculations are used to determine the excitation contour, S(q), the fraction of ions ejected when trapped at q values close to the ejection (or excitation) q. Initial conditions are randomly selected from Gaussian distributions of the x and y coordinates and a thermal distribution of velocities. The N = 6 (12 pole) and N = 10 (20 pole) multipoles are added to the quadrupole potential. Peak shapes and resolution were calculated for ratios r/r0 from 1.09 to 1.20 with an excitation time of 1000 cycles of the trapping radio-frequency. Ratios r/r0 in the range 1.140 to 1.160 give the highest resolution and peaks with little tailing. Ratios outside this range give lower resolution and peaks with tails on either the low-mass side or the high-mass side of the peaks. This contrasts with the optimum ratio of 1.126-1.130 for a quadrupole mass filter operated conventionally at the tip of the first stability region. With the optimum geometry the resolution is 2.7 times greater than with an ideal quadrupole field. Adding only a 2.0% hexapole field to a quadrupole field increases the resolution by a factor of 1.6 compared with an ideal quadrupole field. Addition of a 2.0% octopole lowers resolution and degrades peak shape. With the optimum value of r/r0 , the resolution increases with the ejection time (measured in cycles of the trapping rf, n) approximately as R0.5 = 6.64n, in contrast to a pure quadrupole field where R0.5 = 1.94n. Adding weak nonlinear fields to a quadrupole field can improve the resolution with mass-selective ejection of ions by up to a factor of 2.7. The optimum ratio r/r0 is 1.14 to 1.16, which differs from the optimum ratio for a mass filter of 1.128-1.130. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

MT's algorithm: A new algorithm to search for the optimum set of modulation indices for simultaneous range, command, and telemetry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nguyen, Tien Manh

1989-01-01

MT's algorithm was developed as an aid in the design of space telecommunications systems when utilized with simultaneous range/command/telemetry operations. This algorithm provides selection of modulation indices for: (1) suppression of undesired signals to achieve desired link performance margins and/or to allow for a specified performance degradation in the data channel (command/telemetry) due to the presence of undesired signals (interferers); and (2) optimum power division between the carrier, the range, and the data channel. A software program using this algorithm was developed for use with MathCAD software. This software program, called the MT program, provides the computation of optimum modulation indices for all possible cases that are recommended by the Consultative Committee on Space Data System (CCSDS) (with emphasis on the squarewave, NASA/JPL ranging system).

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

Kar, Durga P.; Nayak, Praveen P.; Bhuyan, Satyanarayan

In order to power or charge electronic devices wirelessly, a bi-directional wireless power transfer method has been proposed and experimentally investigated. In the proposed design, two receiving coils are used on both sides of a transmitting coil along its central axis to receive the power wirelessly from the generated magnetic fields through strongly coupled magnetic resonance. It has been observed experimentally that the maximum power transfer occurs at the operating resonant frequency for optimum electric load connected across the receiving coils on both side. The optimum wireless power transfer efficiency is 88% for the bi-directional power transfer technique compared 84%more » in the one side receiver system. By adopting the developed bi-directional power transfer method, two electronic devices can be powered up or charged simultaneously instead of a single device through usual one side receiver system without affecting the optimum power transfer efficiency.« less

Improving fault image by determination of optimum seismic survey parameters using ray-based modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saffarzadeh, Sadegh; Javaherian, Abdolrahim; Hasani, Hossein; Talebi, Mohammad Ali

2018-06-01

In complex structures such as faults, salt domes and reefs, specifying the survey parameters is more challenging and critical owing to the complicated wave field behavior involved in such structures. In the petroleum industry, detecting faults has become crucial for reservoir potential where faults can act as traps for hydrocarbon. In this regard, seismic survey modeling is employed to construct a model close to the real structure, and obtain very realistic synthetic seismic data. Seismic modeling software, the velocity model and parameters pre-determined by conventional methods enable a seismic survey designer to run a shot-by-shot virtual survey operation. A reliable velocity model of structures can be constructed by integrating the 2D seismic data, geological reports and the well information. The effects of various survey designs can be investigated by the analysis of illumination maps and flower plots. Also, seismic processing of the synthetic data output can describe the target image using different survey parameters. Therefore, seismic modeling is one of the most economical ways to establish and test the optimum acquisition parameters to obtain the best image when dealing with complex geological structures. The primary objective of this study is to design a proper 3D seismic survey orientation to achieve fault zone structures through ray-tracing seismic modeling. The results prove that a seismic survey designer can enhance the image of fault planes in a seismic section by utilizing the proposed modeling and processing approach.

Preparation of biosensors by immobilization of polyphenol oxidase in conducting copolymers and their use in determination of phenolic compounds in red wine.

PubMed

Böyükbayram, A Elif; Kiralp, Senem; Toppare, Levent; Yağci, Yusuf

2006-10-01

Electrochemically produced graft copolymers of thiophene capped polytetrahydofuran (TPTHF1 and TPTHF2) and pyrrole were achieved by constant potential electrolysis using sodium dodecylsulfate (SDS) as the supporting electrolyte. Characterizations were based on Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Electrical conductivities were measured by the four-probe technique. Novel biosensors for phenolic compounds were constructed by immobilizing polyphenol oxidase (PPO) into conducting copolymers prepared by electropolymerization of pyrrole with thiophene capped polytetrahydrofuran. Kinetic parameters, maximum reaction rate (V(max)) and Michaelis-Menten constant (K(m)) and optimum conditions regarding temperature and pH were determined for the immobilized enzyme. Operational stability and shelf-life of the enzyme electrodes were investigated. Enzyme electrodes of polyphenol oxidase were used to determine the amount of phenolic compounds in two brands of Turkish red wines and found very useful owing to their high kinetic parameters and wide pH working range.

Determination of dopamine in pharmaceutical formulation using enhanced luminescence from europium complex

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wabaidur, Saikh Mohammad; ALOthman, Zeid Abdullah; Naushad, Mu.

Biologically important compound dopamine plays an important role in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Insufficient dopamine level due to the loss of dopamine producing cells may lead to disease called Schizophrenia and Parkinson's disease. Hence, a simple and fast detection of dopamine is necessary to study in the fields of neurophysiology and clinical medicine. An enhanced fluorimetric determination of dopamine in the presence of ascorbic acid is achieved using photoluminescence of europium complex, Eu(III)-dipicolinic acid. In order to obtain better responses, several operational parameters have been investigated. Under the optimum conditions, the method showed good stability and reproducibility. The application of this method for the determination of dopamine neurotransmitters was satisfactory. Linear response was found down to 3.0 × 10-7 M with limit of detection 1.0 × 10-8 M. The relative standard deviation was found to be 3.33% from 20 independent measurements for 1.0 × 10-5 M of dopamine.

Exploration of robust operating conditions in inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tromp, John W.; Pomares, Mario; Alvarez-Prieto, Manuel; Cole, Amanda; Ying, Hai; Salin, Eric D.

2003-11-01

'Robust' conditions, as defined by Mermet and co-workers for inductively coupled plasma (ICP)-atomic emission spectrometry, minimize matrix effects on analyte signals, and are obtained by increasing power and reducing nebulizer gas flow. In ICP-mass spectrometry (MS), it is known that reduced nebulizer gas flow usually leads to more robust conditions such that matrix effects are reduced. In this work, robust conditions for ICP-MS have been determined by optimizing for accuracy in the determination of analytes in a multi-element solution with various interferents (Al, Ba, Cs, K, Na), by varying power, nebulizer gas flow, sample introduction rate and ion lens voltage. The goal of the work was to determine which operating parameters were the most important in reducing matrix effects, and whether different interferents yielded the same robust conditions. Reduction in nebulizer gas flow and in sample input rate led to a significantly decreased interference, while an increase in power seemed to have a lesser effect. Once the other parameters had been adjusted to their robust values, there was no additional improvement in accuracy attainable by adjusting the ion lens voltage. The robust conditions were universal, since, for all the interferents and analytes studied, the optimum was found at the same operating conditions. One drawback to the use of robust conditions was the slightly reduced sensitivity; however, in the context of 'intelligent' instruments, the concept of 'robust conditions' is useful in many cases.

Optimal shield mass distribution for space radiation protection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Billings, M. P.

1972-01-01

Computational methods have been developed and successfully used for determining the optimum distribution of space radiation shielding on geometrically complex space vehicles. These methods have been incorporated in computer program SWORD for dose evaluation in complex geometry, and iteratively calculating the optimum distribution for (minimum) shield mass satisfying multiple acute and protected dose constraints associated with each of several body organs.

Optimum design of a Lanchester damper for a viscously damped single degree of freedom system subjected to inertial excitation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bapat, V. A.; Prabhu, P.

1980-11-01

The problem of designing an optimum Lanchester damper for a viscously damped single degree of freedom system subjected to inertial harmonic excitation is investigated. Two criteria are used for optimizing the performance of the damper: (i) minimum motion transmissibility; (ii) minimum force transmissibility. Explicit expressions are developed for determining the absorber parameters.

Calculating Optimum sowing factor: A tool to evaluate sowing strategies and minimize seedling production cost

Treesearch

Eric van Steenis

2013-01-01

This paper illustrates how to use an excel spreadsheet as a decision-making tool to determine optimum sowing factor to minimize seedling production cost. Factors incorporated into the spreadsheet calculations include germination percentage, seeder accuracy, cost per seed, cavities per block, costs of handling, thinning, and transplanting labor, and more. In addition to...

Optimal angle of polycrystalline silicon solar panels placed in a building using the ant colony optimization algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saouane, I.; Chaker, A.; Zaidi, B.; Shekhar, C.

2017-03-01

This paper describes the mathematical model used to determine the amount of solar radiation received on an inclined solar photovoltaic panel. The optimum slope angles for each month, season, and year have also been calculated for a solar photovoltaic panel. The optimization of the procedure to maximize the solar energy collected by the solar panel by varying the tilt angle is also presented. As a first step, the global solar radiation on the horizontal surface of a thermal photovoltaic panel during clear sky is estimated. Thereafter, the Muneer model, which provides the most accurate estimation of the total solar radiation at a given geographical point has been used to determine the optimum collector slope. Also, the Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) algorithm was applied to obtain the optimum tilt angle settings for PV collector to improve the PV collector efficiency. The results show good agreement between calculated and predicted results. Additionally, this paper presents studies carried out on the polycrystalline silicon solar panels for electrical energy generation in the city of Ghardaia. The electrical energy generation has been studied as a function of amount of irradiation received and the angle of optimum orientation of the solar panels.

Design of experiments with four-factors for a PEM fuel cell optimization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olteanu, V.; Pǎtularu, L.; Popescu, C. L.; Popescu, M. O.; Crǎciunescu, A.

2017-07-01

Nowadays, many research efforts are allocated for the development of fuel cells, since they constitute a carbon-free electrical energy generator which can be used for stationary, mobile and portable applications. The maximum value of the delivered power of a fuel cell depends on many factors as: the height of plates' channels, the stoichiometry level of the air flow, the air pressure for the cathode, and of the actual operating electric current density. In this paper, two levels, full four-factors factorial experiment has been designed in order to obtain the appropriate response surface which approximates the maximum delivered power dependence of the above-mentioned factors. The optimum set of the fuel-cell factors which determine the maximum value of the delivered power was determined and a comparison between simulated and measured optimal Power versus Current Density characteristics is given.

Studies of long-life pulsed CO2 laser with Pt/SnO2 catalyst

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sidney, Barry D.

1987-01-01

Closed-cycle CO2 laser testing with and without a catalyst and with and without CO addition indicate that a catalyst is necessary for long-term operation. Initial results indicate that CO addition with a catalyst may prove optimal, but a precise gas mix has not yet been determined. A long-term run of 10 to the 6th power pulses using 1.3% added CO and a 2% Pt on SnO2 catalyst yields an efficiency of about 95% of open-cycle steady-state power. A simple mathematical analysis yields results which may be sufficient for determining optimum running conditions. Future plans call for testing various catalysts in the laser and longer tests, 10 to the 7th power pulses. A Gas Chromatograph will be installed to measure gas species concentration and the analysis will be slightly modified to include neglected but possibly important parameters.

Experiment S-213 selenocentric geodetic reference system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Doyle, F. J.; Elassal, A. A.; Lucas, J. R.

1976-01-01

Development and implementation of a photogrammetric system was undertaken to provide accurate selenodetic positions and topographic mapping of all areas overflown by orbital spacecraft. The system was installed in the scientific instrument module (SIM) bay of the Apollo command service module (CSM). In theory, this system provided everything a photogrammetrist could want: the position of each exposure station would be obtained from Earth-based tracking; the orientation of each photograph could be computed from the synchronized stellar exposure and the lock-angles determined by preflight calibration; and the scale of each stereomodel would be obtained directly from the altimeter data. Operationally, the data acquisition was adequate, but less than optimum. Systematic errors are believed to be the result of the primitive orbit determination procedures in use at the time of the Apollo 15 mission, inadequate models of the lunar gravity field, and spacecraft oscillations induced by uncoupled thrusting and various activities of the astronauts.

Comparison between dispersive solid-phase and dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction combined with spectrophotometric determination of malachite green in water samples based on ultrasound-assisted and preconcentration under multi-variable experimental design optimization.

PubMed

Alipanahpour Dil, Ebrahim; Ghaedi, Mehrorang; Asfaram, Arash; Zare, Fahimeh; Mehrabi, Fatemeh; Sadeghfar, Fardin

2017-11-01

The ultrasound-assisted dispersive solid-phase microextraction (USA-DSPME) and the ultrasound-assisted dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (USA-DLLME) developed for as an ultra preconcentration and/or technique for the determination of malachite green (MG) in water samples. Central composite design based on analysis of variance and desirability function guide finding best operational conditions and represent dependency of response to variables viz. volume of extraction, eluent and disperser solvent, pH, adsorbent mass and ultrasonication time has significant influence on methods efficiency. Optimum conditions was set for USA-DSPME as: 1mg CNTs/Zn:ZnO@Ni 2 P-NCs; 4min sonication time and 130μL eluent at pH 6.0. Meanwhile optimum point for USA-DLLME conditions were fixed at pH 6.0; 4min sonication time and 130, 650μL and 10mL of extraction solvent (CHCl 3 ), disperser solvent (ethanol) and sample volume, respectively. Under the above specified best operational conditions, the enrichment factors for the USA-DSPME and USA-DLLME were 88.89 and 147.30, respectively. The methods has linear response in the range of 20.0 to 4000.0ngmL -1 with the correlation coefficients (r) between 0.9980 to 0.9995, while its reasonable detection limits viz. 1.386 to 2.348ngmL -1 and good relative standard deviations varied from 1.1% to 2.8% (n=10) candidate this method for successful monitoring of analyte from various media. The relative recoveries of the MG dye from water samples at spiking level of 500ngmL -1 were in the range between 94.50% and 98.86%. The proposed methods has been successfully applied to the analysis of the MG dye in water samples, and a satisfactory result was obtained. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Methodology for the determination of optimum power of a Thermal Power Plant (TPP) by biogas from sanitary landfill.

PubMed

Silva, Tiago Rodrigo; Barros, Regina Mambeli; Tiago Filho, Geraldo Lúcio; Dos Santos, Ivan Felipe Silva

2017-07-01

This study aimed to determine theoretically, the electrical optimum power of LFG using the maximum net benefit (MNB) methodology, and taking into consideration the economic, demographic, and regional aspects of the Inter municipal Consortium of the Micro-region of the High Sapucaí for Sanitary Landfill (CIMASAS, as acronym in Portuguese), that is located in the southern part of the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. To this end, the prognosis for a 20-year period of household solid waste generation in this region was estimated and quantified based on population data, in order to estimate the LFG production and the energy that can be generated. From this point, the optimum power for thermal power plant (TPP) by LFG was determined. The results indicated that the landfill in this region could produce more 66,293,282m 3 CH 4 (with maximum power of 997kW in 2036) in twenty years and that there would be no economic viability to generate energy from LFG, because the Net Present Value (NPV) would not be positive. The smallest population to that can achieve a minimum attractiveness rate (MAR) of 15% should be 3,700,000 inhabitants under the conditions studied. Considering the Brazilian National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL) Resolutions, it would be 339,000 inhabitants with an installed power of 440kW. In addition, the outcome of the CIMASAS case-study demonstrated the applicability of MNB methodology for the determination of TPP optimum power. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Optimum design of structures subject to general periodic loads

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reiss, Robert; Qian, B.

1989-01-01

A simplified version of Icerman's problem regarding the design of structures subject to a single harmonic load is discussed. The nature of the restrictive conditions that must be placed on the design space in order to ensure an analytic optimum are discussed in detail. Icerman's problem is then extended to include multiple forcing functions with different driving frequencies. And the conditions that now must be placed upon the design space to ensure an analytic optimum are again discussed. An important finding is that all solutions to the optimality condition (analytic stationary design) are local optima, but the global optimum may well be non-analytic. The more general problem of distributing the fixed mass of a linear elastic structure subject to general periodic loads in order to minimize some measure of the steady state deflection is also considered. This response is explicitly expressed in terms of Green's functional and the abstract operators defining the structure. The optimality criterion is derived by differentiating the response with respect to the design parameters. The theory is applicable to finite element as well as distributed parameter models.

The Improvement of Particle Swarm Optimization: a Case Study of Optimal Operation in Goupitan Reservoir

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Haichen; Qin, Tao; Wang, Weiping; Lei, Xiaohui; Wu, Wenhui

2018-02-01

Due to the weakness in holding diversity and reaching global optimum, the standard particle swarm optimization has not performed well in reservoir optimal operation. To solve this problem, this paper introduces downhill simplex method to work together with the standard particle swarm optimization. The application of this approach in Goupitan reservoir optimal operation proves that the improved method had better accuracy and higher reliability with small investment.

DFT algorithms for bit-serial GaAs array processor architectures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcmillan, Gary B.

1988-01-01

Systems and Processes Engineering Corporation (SPEC) has developed an innovative array processor architecture for computing Fourier transforms and other commonly used signal processing algorithms. This architecture is designed to extract the highest possible array performance from state-of-the-art GaAs technology. SPEC's architectural design includes a high performance RISC processor implemented in GaAs, along with a Floating Point Coprocessor and a unique Array Communications Coprocessor, also implemented in GaAs technology. Together, these data processors represent the latest in technology, both from an architectural and implementation viewpoint. SPEC has examined numerous algorithms and parallel processing architectures to determine the optimum array processor architecture. SPEC has developed an array processor architecture with integral communications ability to provide maximum node connectivity. The Array Communications Coprocessor embeds communications operations directly in the core of the processor architecture. A Floating Point Coprocessor architecture has been defined that utilizes Bit-Serial arithmetic units, operating at very high frequency, to perform floating point operations. These Bit-Serial devices reduce the device integration level and complexity to a level compatible with state-of-the-art GaAs device technology.

Surface Nuclear Power for Human Mars Missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mason, Lee S.

1999-01-01

The Design Reference Mission for NASA's human mission to Mars indicates the desire for in-situ propellant production and bio-regenerative life systems to ease Earth launch requirements. These operations, combined with crew habitation and science, result in surface power requirements approaching 160 kilowatts. The power system, delivered on an early cargo mission, must be deployed and operational prior to crew departure from Earth. The most mass efficient means of satisfying these requirements is through the use of nuclear power. Studies have been performed to identify a potential system concept using a mobile cart to transport the power system away from the Mars lander and provide adequate separation between the reactor and crew. The studies included an assessment of reactor and power conversion technology options, selection of system and component redundancy, determination of optimum separation distance, and system performance sensitivity to some key operating parameters. The resulting system satisfies the key mission requirements including autonomous deployment, high reliability, and cost effectiveness at a overall system mass of 12 tonnes and a stowed volume of about 63 cu m.

Sequential nitrification and denitrification in a novel palm shell granular activated carbon twin-chamber upflow bio-electrochemical reactor for treating ammonium-rich wastewater.

PubMed

Mousavi, Seyyedalireza; Ibrahim, Shaliza; Aroua, Mohamed Kheireddine

2012-12-01

In this study, a twin-chamber upflow bio-electrochemical reactor packed with palm shell granular activated carbon as biocarrier and third electrode was used for sequential nitrification and denitrification of nitrogen-rich wastewater under different operating conditions. The experiments were performed at a constant pH value for the denitrification compartment. The effect of variables, namely, electric current (I) and hydraulic retention time (HRT), on the pH was considered in the nitrification chamber. The response surface methodology was used based on three levels to develop empirical models for the study on the effects of HRT and current values as independent operating variables on NH(4)(+)-N removal. The results showed that ammonium was reduced within the function of an extensive operational range of electric intensity (20-50 mA) and HRT (6-24h). The optimum condition for ammonium oxidation (90%) was determined with an I of 32 mA and HRT of 19.2h. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The acetone bandpass detector for inverse photoemission: operation in proportional and Geiger–Müller modes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thiede, Christian; Niehues, Iris; Schmidt, Anke B.; Donath, Markus

2018-06-01

Inverse photoemission is the most versatile experimental tool to study the unoccupied electronic structure at surfaces of solids. Typically, the experiments are performed in the isochromat mode with bandpass photon detectors. For gas-filled counters, the bandpass behavior is realized by the combination of the photoionization threshold of the counting gas as the high-pass filter and the ultraviolet transmission cutoff of an alkaline earth fluoride entrance window as the low-pass filter. The transmission characteristics of the entrance window determine the optical bandpass. The performance of the counter depends on the composition of the detection gas and the fill-gas pressure, the readout electronics and the counter geometry. For the well-known combination of acetone and CaF2, the detector can be operated in proportional and Geiger–Müller modes. In this work, we review aspects concerning the working principles, the counter construction and the read-out electronics. We identify optimum working parameters and provide a step-by-step recipe how to build, install and operate the device.

Optimization of refractive liquid crystal lenses using an efficient multigrid simulation.

PubMed

Milton, Harry; Brimicombe, Paul; Morgan, Philip; Gleeson, Helen; Clamp, John

2012-05-07

A multigrid computational model has been developed to assess the performance of refractive liquid crystal lenses, which is up to 40 times faster than previous techniques. Using this model, the optimum geometries producing an ideal parabolic voltage distribution were deduced for refractive liquid crystal lenses with diameters from 1 to 9 mm. The ratio of insulation thickness to lens diameter was determined to be 1:2 for small diameter lenses, tending to 1:3 for larger lenses. The model is used to propose a new method of lens operation with lower operating voltages needed to induce specific optical powers. The operating voltages are calculated for the induction of optical powers between + 1.00 D and + 3.00 D in a 3 mm diameter lens, with the speed of the simulation facilitating the optimization of the refractive index profile. We demonstrate that the relationship between additional applied voltage and optical power is approximately linear for optical powers under + 3.00 D. The versatility of the computational simulation has also been demonstrated by modeling of in-plane electrode liquid crystal devices.

Optimisation of the supercritical extraction of toxic elements in fish oil.

PubMed

Hajeb, P; Jinap, S; Shakibazadeh, Sh; Afsah-Hejri, L; Mohebbi, G H; Zaidul, I S M

2014-01-01

This study aims to optimise the operating conditions for the supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) of toxic elements from fish oil. The SFE operating parameters of pressure, temperature, CO2 flow rate and extraction time were optimised using a central composite design (CCD) of response surface methodology (RSM). High coefficients of determination (R²) (0.897-0.988) for the predicted response surface models confirmed a satisfactory adjustment of the polynomial regression models with the operation conditions. The results showed that the linear and quadratic terms of pressure and temperature were the most significant (p < 0.05) variables affecting the overall responses. The optimum conditions for the simultaneous elimination of toxic elements comprised a pressure of 61 MPa, a temperature of 39.8ºC, a CO₂ flow rate of 3.7 ml min⁻¹ and an extraction time of 4 h. These optimised SFE conditions were able to produce fish oil with the contents of lead, cadmium, arsenic and mercury reduced by up to 98.3%, 96.1%, 94.9% and 93.7%, respectively. The fish oil extracted under the optimised SFE operating conditions was of good quality in terms of its fatty acid constituents.

A tradeoff study of determine the optimum approach to a wash/rinse capability to support future space flight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilson, D. A.

1976-01-01

Specific requirements for a wash/rinse capability to support Spacelab biological experimentation and to identify various concepts for achieving this capability were determined. This included the examination of current state-of-the-art and emerging technology designs that would meet the wash/rinse requirements. Once several concepts were identified, including the disposable utensils, tools and gloves or other possible alternatives, a tradeoff analysis involving system cost, weight, volume utilization, functional performance, maintainability, reliability, power utilization, safety, complexity, etc., was performed so as to determine an optimum approach for achieving a wash/rinse capability to support future space flights. Missions of varying crew size and durations were considered.

Determination of optimum oven cooking procedures for lean beef products.

PubMed

Rodas-González, Argenis; Larsen, Ivy L; Uttaro, Bethany; Juárez, Manuel; Parslow, Joyce; Aalhus, Jennifer L

2015-11-01

In order to determine optimum oven cooking procedures for lean beef, the effects of searing at 232 or 260°C for 0, 10, 20 or 30 min, and roasting at 160 or 135°C on semimembranosus (SM) and longissimus lumborum (LL) muscles were evaluated. In addition, the optimum determined cooking method (oven-seared for 10 min at 232°C and roasted at 135°C) was applied to SM roasts varying in weight from 0.5 to 2.5 kg. Mainly, SM muscles seared for 0 or 10 min at 232°C followed by roast at 135°C had lower cooking loss, higher external browning color, more uniform internal color, and were more tender and flavorful (P < 0.05). Roast weights ≥1 kg had lesser cooking loss, more uniform internal color and tender compared to 0.5 kg (P < 0.05). Consequently, roasting at low temperature without searing is the recommended oven cooking procedure; with best response from muscle roast weight ≥1 kg.

Probabilistic determination of probe locations from distance data

PubMed Central

Xu, Xiao-Ping; Slaughter, Brian D.; Volkmann, Niels

2013-01-01

Distance constraints, in principle, can be employed to determine information about the location of probes within a three-dimensional volume. Traditional methods for locating probes from distance constraints involve optimization of scoring functions that measure how well the probe location fits the distance data, exploring only a small subset of the scoring function landscape in the process. These methods are not guaranteed to find the global optimum and provide no means to relate the identified optimum to all other optima in scoring space. Here, we introduce a method for the location of probes from distance information that is based on probability calculus. This method allows exploration of the entire scoring space by directly combining probability functions representing the distance data and information about attachment sites. The approach is guaranteed to identify the global optimum and enables the derivation of confidence intervals for the probe location as well as statistical quantification of ambiguities. We apply the method to determine the location of a fluorescence probe using distances derived by FRET and show that the resulting location matches that independently derived by electron microscopy. PMID:23770585

Azocasein Substrate for Determination of Proteolytic Activity: Reexamining a Traditional Method Using Bromelain Samples.

PubMed

Coêlho, Diego F; Saturnino, Thais Peron; Fernandes, Fernanda Freitas; Mazzola, Priscila Gava; Silveira, Edgar; Tambourgi, Elias Basile

2016-01-01

Given the importance of protease's worldwide market, the determination of optimum conditions and the development of a standard protocol are critical during selection of a reliable method to determine its bioactivity. This paper uses quality control theory to validate a modified version of a method proposed by Charney and Tomarelli in 1947. The results obtained showed that using azocasein substrate bromelain had its optimum at 45°C and pH 9 (Glycine-NaOH 100 mM). We also quantified the limit of detection (LoD) and limit of quantification (LoQ) in the above-mentioned optimum (0.072 and 0.494 mg·mL(-1) of azocasein, resp.) and a calibration curve that correlates optical density with the amount of substrate digested. In all analysed samples, we observed a significant decrease in response after storage (around 17%), which suggests its use must be immediately after preparation. Thus, the protocol presented in this paper offers a significant improvement, given that subjective definitions are commonly used in the literature and this simple mathematical approach makes it clear and concise.

Azocasein Substrate for Determination of Proteolytic Activity: Reexamining a Traditional Method Using Bromelain Samples

PubMed Central

Mazzola, Priscila Gava

2016-01-01

Given the importance of protease's worldwide market, the determination of optimum conditions and the development of a standard protocol are critical during selection of a reliable method to determine its bioactivity. This paper uses quality control theory to validate a modified version of a method proposed by Charney and Tomarelli in 1947. The results obtained showed that using azocasein substrate bromelain had its optimum at 45°C and pH 9 (Glycine-NaOH 100 mM). We also quantified the limit of detection (LoD) and limit of quantification (LoQ) in the above-mentioned optimum (0.072 and 0.494 mg·mL−1 of azocasein, resp.) and a calibration curve that correlates optical density with the amount of substrate digested. In all analysed samples, we observed a significant decrease in response after storage (around 17%), which suggests its use must be immediately after preparation. Thus, the protocol presented in this paper offers a significant improvement, given that subjective definitions are commonly used in the literature and this simple mathematical approach makes it clear and concise. PMID:26925415

Inlet noise suppressor design method based upon the distribution of acoustic power with mode cutoff ratio

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rice, E. J.

1976-01-01

A liner design for noise suppressors with outer wall treatment such as in an engine inlet is presented which potentially circumvents the problems of resolution in modal measurement. The method is based on the fact that the modal optimum impedance and the maximum possible sound power attenuation at this optimum can be expressed as functions of cutoff ratio alone. Modes with similar cutoff ratios propagate similarly in the duct and in addition propagate similarly to the far field. Thus there is no need to determine the acoustic power carried by these modes individually, and they can be grouped together as one entity. With the optimum impedance and maximum attenuation specified as functions of cutoff ratio, the off-optimum liner performance can be estimated using an approximate attenuation equation.

Optimum load distribution between heat sources based on the Cournot model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Penkovskii, A. V.; Stennikov, V. A.; Khamisov, O. V.

2015-08-01

One of the widespread models of the heat supply of consumers, which is represented in the "Single buyer" format, is considered. The methodological base proposed for its description and investigation presents the use of principles of the theory of games, basic propositions of microeconomics, and models and methods of the theory of hydraulic circuits. The original mathematical model of the heat supply system operating under conditions of the "Single buyer" organizational structure provides the derivation of a solution satisfying the market Nash equilibrium. The distinctive feature of the developed mathematical model is that, along with problems solved traditionally within the bounds of bilateral relations of heat energy sources-heat consumer, it considers a network component with its inherent physicotechnical properties of the heat network and business factors connected with costs of the production and transportation of heat energy. This approach gives the possibility to determine optimum levels of load of heat energy sources. These levels provide the given heat energy demand of consumers subject to the maximum profit earning of heat energy sources and the fulfillment of conditions for formation of minimum heat network costs for a specified time. The practical realization of the search of market equilibrium is considered by the example of a heat supply system with two heat energy sources operating on integrated heat networks. The mathematical approach to the solution search is represented in the graphical form and illustrates computations based on the stepwise iteration procedure for optimization of levels of loading of heat energy sources (groping procedure by Cournot) with the corresponding computation of the heat energy price for consumers.

Validation of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale in patients with epilepsy.

PubMed

Wiglusz, Mariusz S; Landowski, Jerzy; Michalak, Lidia; Cubała, Wiesław J

2016-05-01

Despite the fact that depressive disorders are the most common comorbidities among patients with epilepsy (PWEs), they often go unrecognized and untreated. The availability of validated screening instruments to detect depression in PWEs is limited. The aim of the present study was to validate the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) in adult PWEs. A consecutive group of 118 outpatient PWEs was invited to participate in the study. Ninety-six patients met inclusion criteria, completed HADS, and were examined by a trained psychiatrist using Structured Clinical Interview (SCID-I) for DSM-IV-TR. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to determine the optimal threshold scores for the HADS depression subscale (HADS-D). Receiver operating characteristic analyses showed areas under the curve at approximately 84%. For diagnoses of MDD, the HADS-D demonstrated the best psychometric properties for a cutoff score ≥7 with sensitivity of 90.5%, specificity of 70.7%, positive predictive value of 46.3%, and negative predictive value of 96.4%. In the case of the group with 'any depressive disorder', the HADS-D optimum cutoff score was ≥6 with sensitivity of 82.5%, specificity of 73.2%, positive predictive value of 68.8%, and negative predictive value of 85.4%. The HADS-D proved to be a valid and reliable psychometric instrument in terms of screening for depressive disorders in PWEs. In the epilepsy setting, HADS-D maintains adequate sensitivity, acceptable specificity, and high NPV but low PPV for diagnosing MDD with an optimum cutoff score ≥7. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

PREDICTION OF PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS OF HICKMAN-BADGER CENTRIFUGAL BOILER COMPRESSION STILL

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

Bromley, L.A.

1958-02-01

Equations are derived to predict the operating characteristics of the Hickman-Badger still and the optimum conditions of opertion. Included are tables of values for use in performance calculations. (J.R.D.)

Investigation of roughing machining simulation by using visual basic programming in NX CAM system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hafiz Mohamad, Mohamad; Nafis Osman Zahid, Muhammed

2018-03-01

This paper outlines a simulation study to investigate the characteristic of roughing machining simulation in 4th axis milling processes by utilizing visual basic programming in NX CAM systems. The selection and optimization of cutting orientation in rough milling operation is critical in 4th axis machining. The main purpose of roughing operation is to approximately shape the machined parts into finished form by removing the bulk of material from workpieces. In this paper, the simulations are executed by manipulating a set of different cutting orientation to generate estimated volume removed from the machine parts. The cutting orientation with high volume removal is denoted as an optimum value and chosen to execute a roughing operation. In order to run the simulation, customized software is developed to assist the routines. Operations build-up instructions in NX CAM interface are translated into programming codes via advanced tool available in the Visual Basic Studio. The codes is customized and equipped with decision making tools to run and control the simulations. It permits the integration with any independent program files to execute specific operations. This paper aims to discuss about the simulation program and identifies optimum cutting orientations for roughing processes. The output of this study will broaden up the simulation routines performed in NX CAM systems.

Optimum process design of packed bed type thermal storage systems and other applications

DOEpatents

Bindra, Hitesh; Bueno, Pablo

2016-10-25

Methods and systems for optimizing the process of heat and/or mass transfer operations in packed beds and embodiments of applications of the methods are disclosed herein below. In one instance, the method results in the profile of the quantity representative of the heat and/or mass transfer operation having a propagating substantially sharp front.

Effect of flow-pressure phase on performance of regenerators in the range of 4 K to 20 K

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lewis, M. A.; Taylor, R. P.; Bradley, P. E.; Radebaugh, R.

2014-01-01

Modeling with REGEN3.3 has shown that the phase between flow and pressure at the cold end of 4 K regenerators has a large effect on their second-law efficiency. The use of inertance tubes in small 4 K pulse tube cryocoolers has limited phase-shifting ability, and their phase shift cannot be varied unless their dimensions are varied. We report here on the use of a miniature linear compressor, operating at the pulse tube warm end of about 30 K, as a controllable expander that can be used to vary the phase over 360°. We also use the back EMF of the linear motor to measure the acoustic power, flow rate amplitude, and phase between flow and pressure at the piston face. We discuss the measurements of the linear motor parameters that are required to determine the piston velocity from the back EMF as well as the measurement procedures to determine the back EMF when the expander is operating at a temperature around 30 K. Our experimental results on the performance of a regenerator/pulse tube stage operating below 30 K show an optimum performance when the flow at the phase shifter lags the pressure by about 65° to 80°, which is close to the model results of about 60°. Temperatures below 10 K were achieved at the cold end in these measurements. The efficiency of the compressor operating as an expander is also discussed.

Determination of optimum allocation and pricing of distributed generation using genetic algorithm methodology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mwakabuta, Ndaga Stanslaus

Electric power distribution systems play a significant role in providing continuous and "quality" electrical energy to different classes of customers. In the context of the present restrictions on transmission system expansions and the new paradigm of "open and shared" infrastructure, new approaches to distribution system analyses, economic and operational decision-making need investigation. This dissertation includes three layers of distribution system investigations. In the basic level, improved linear models are shown to offer significant advantages over previous models for advanced analysis. In the intermediate level, the improved model is applied to solve the traditional problem of operating cost minimization using capacitors and voltage regulators. In the advanced level, an artificial intelligence technique is applied to minimize cost under Distributed Generation injection from private vendors. Soft computing techniques are finding increasing applications in solving optimization problems in large and complex practical systems. The dissertation focuses on Genetic Algorithm for investigating the economic aspects of distributed generation penetration without compromising the operational security of the distribution system. The work presents a methodology for determining the optimal pricing of distributed generation that would help utilities make a decision on how to operate their system economically. This would enable modular and flexible investments that have real benefits to the electric distribution system. Improved reliability for both customers and the distribution system in general, reduced environmental impacts, increased efficiency of energy use, and reduced costs of energy services are some advantages.

The Radio Plasma Imager Investigation on the IMAGE Spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reinisch, Bodo W.; Haines, D. M.; Bibl, K.; Cheney, G.; Galkin, I. A.; Huang, X.; Myers, S. H.; Sales, G. S.; Benson, R. F.; Fung, S. F.

1999-01-01

Radio plasma imaging uses total reflection of electromagnetic waves from plasmas whose plasma frequencies equal the radio sounding frequency and whose electron density gradients are parallel to the wave normals. The Radio Plasma Imager (RPI) has two orthogonal 500-m long dipole antennas in the spin plane for near omni-directional transmission. The third antenna is a 20-m dipole. Echoes from the magnetopause, plasmasphere and cusp will be received with three orthogonal antennas, allowing the determination of their angle-of-arrival. Thus it will be possible to create image fragments of the reflecting density structures. The instrument can execute a large variety of programmable measuring programs operating at frequencies between 3 kHz and 3 MHz. Tuning of the transmit antennas provides optimum power transfer from the 10 W transmitter to the antennas. The instrument can operate in three active sounding modes: (1) remote sounding to probe magnetospheric boundaries, (2) local (relaxation) sounding to probe the local plasma, and (3) whistler stimulation sounding. In addition, there is a passive mode to record natural emissions, and to determine the local electron density and temperature by using a thermal noise spectroscopy technique.

Altimeter error sources at the 10-cm performance level

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Martin, C. F.

1977-01-01

Error sources affecting the calibration and operational use of a 10 cm altimeter are examined to determine the magnitudes of current errors and the investigations necessary to reduce them to acceptable bounds. Errors considered include those affecting operational data pre-processing, and those affecting altitude bias determination, with error budgets developed for both. The most significant error sources affecting pre-processing are bias calibration, propagation corrections for the ionosphere, and measurement noise. No ionospheric models are currently validated at the required 10-25% accuracy level. The optimum smoothing to reduce the effects of measurement noise is investigated and found to be on the order of one second, based on the TASC model of geoid undulations. The 10 cm calibrations are found to be feasible only through the use of altimeter passes that are very high elevation for a tracking station which tracks very close to the time of altimeter track, such as a high elevation pass across the island of Bermuda. By far the largest error source, based on the current state-of-the-art, is the location of the island tracking station relative to mean sea level in the surrounding ocean areas.

Study of blood flow sensing with microwave radiometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Porter, R. A.; Wentz, F. J., III

1973-01-01

A study and experimental investigation has been performed to determine the feasibility of measuring regional blood flow and volume in man by means of microwave radiometry. An indication was expected of regional blood flow from measurement of surface and subsurface temperatures with a sensitive radiometer. Following theoretical modeling of biological tissue, to determine the optimum operating frequency for adequate sensing depth, a sensitive microwave radiometer was designed for operation at 793 MHz. A temperature sensitivity of of 0.06 K rms was realized in this equipment. Measurements performed on phantom tissue models, consisting of beef fat and lean beefsteak showed that the radiometer was capable of sensing temperatures from a depth between 3.8 and 5.1 cm. Radiometric and thermodynamic temperature measurements were also performed on the hind thighs of large dogs. These showed that the radiometer could sense subsurface temperatures from a depth of, at least, 1.3 cm. Delays caused by externally-generated RF interference, coupled with the lack of reliable blood flow measurement equipment, prevented correlation of radiometer readings with reginal blood flow. For the same reasons, it was not possible to extend the radiometric observations to human subjects.

Ti:Pt:Au:Ni thin-film CVD diamond sensor ability for charged particle detection.

PubMed

Kasiwattanawut, Haruetai; Tchouaso, Modeste Tchakoua; Prelas, Mark A

2018-05-22

This work demonstrates the development of diamond sensors with reliable contacts using a new metallization formula, which can operate under high-pressure gas environment. The metallization was created using thin film layers of titanium, platinum, gold and nickel deposited on a single crystal electronic grade CVD diamond chip. The contacts were 2 mm in diameter with thickness of 50/5/20/150 nm of Ti:Pt:Au:Ni. The optimum operating voltage of the sensor was determined from the current-voltage measurements. The sensor was calibrated with 239 Pu and 241 Am alpha radiation sources at 300 V. The energy resolution of the Ti:Pt:Au:Ni diamond sensor was determined to be 7.6% at 5.2 MeV of 239 Pu and 2.2% at 5.48 MeV of 241 Am. The high-pressure gas loading environment under which this sensor was used is discussed. Specifically, experimental observations are described using hydrogen loading of nickel as a means of initiating low energy nuclear reactions. No neutrons, electrons, ions or other ionizing radiations were observed in these experiments. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Analysis of spacecraft battery charger systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Seong J.; Cho, Bo H.

In spacecraft battery charger systems, switching regulators are widely used for bus voltage regulation, charge current regulation, and peak power tracking. Small-signal dynamic characteristics of the battery charging subsystem of direct energy transfer (DET) and peak power tracking (PPT) systems are analyzed to facilitate design of the control loop for optimum performance and stability. Control loop designs of the charger in various modes of operation are discussed. Analyses are verified through simulations. It is shown that when the charger operates in the bus voltage regulation mode, the control-to-voltage transfer function has a negative DC gain and two LHP zeros in both the DET and PPT systems. The control-to-inductor current transfer function also has a negative DC gain and a RHP zero. Thus, in the current-mode control, the current loop can no longer be used to stabilize the system. When the system operates in the charge current regulation mode, the charger operates with a fixed duty cycle which is determined by the regulated bus voltage and the battery voltage. Without an input filter, the converter becomes a first-order system. When the peak power tracker is inactive, the operating point of the solar array output moves to the voltage source region. Thus, the solar array behaves as a stiff voltage source to a constant power load.

Model-based Assessment for Balancing Privacy Requirements and Operational Capabilities

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

Knirsch, Fabian; Engel, Dominik; Frincu, Marc

2015-02-17

The smart grid changes the way energy is produced and distributed. In addition both, energy and information is exchanged bidirectionally among participating parties. Therefore heterogeneous systems have to cooperate effectively in order to achieve a common high-level use case, such as smart metering for billing or demand response for load curtailment. Furthermore, a substantial amount of personal data is often needed for achieving that goal. Capturing and processing personal data in the smart grid increases customer concerns about privacy and in addition, certain statutory and operational requirements regarding privacy aware data processing and storage have to be met. An increasemore » of privacy constraints, however, often limits the operational capabilities of the system. In this paper, we present an approach that automates the process of finding an optimal balance between privacy requirements and operational requirements in a smart grid use case and application scenario. This is achieved by formally describing use cases in an abstract model and by finding an algorithm that determines the optimum balance by forward mapping privacy and operational impacts. For this optimal balancing algorithm both, a numeric approximation and – if feasible – an analytic assessment are presented and investigated. The system is evaluated by applying the tool to a real-world use case from the University of Southern California (USC) microgrid.« less

Improved PFB operations: 400-hour turbine test results. [coal combustion products and hot corrosion in gas turbines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rollbuhler, R. J.; Benford, S. M.; Zellars, G. R.

1980-01-01

A pressurized fluidized bed (PFB) coal-burning reactor was used to provide hot effluent gases for operation of a small gas turbine. Preliminary tests determined the optimum operating conditions that would result in minimum bed particle carryover in the combustion gases. Solids were removed from the gases before they could be transported into the test turbine by use of a modified two stage cyclone separator. Design changes and refined operation procedures resulted in a significant decrease in particle carryover, from 2800 to 93 ppm (1.5 to 0.05 grains/std cu ft), with minimal drop in gas temperature and pressure. The achievement of stable burn conditions and low solids loadings made possible a 400 hr test of small superalloy rotor, 15 cm (6 in.) in diameter, operating in the effluent. Blades removed and examined metallographically after 200 hr exhibited accelerated oxidation over most of the blade surface, with subsurface alumina penetration to 20 micron m. After 400 hours, average erosion loss was about 25 micron m (1 mil). Sulfide particles, indicating hot corrosion, were present in depletion zones, and their presence corresponded in general to the areas of adherent solids deposit. Sulfidation appears to be a materials problem equal in importance to erosion.

Ligandless dispersive liquid--liquid microextraction of iron in biological and foodstuff samples and its determination by Electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry.

PubMed

Madadizadeh, Mohadeseh; Taher, Mohammad Ali; Ashkenani, Hamid

2013-01-01

A new, simple, and efficient method comprising ligandless dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction combined with electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry is reported for the preconcentration and determination of ultratrace amounts of Fe(III). Carbon tetrachloride and acetone were used as the extraction and disperser solvents, respectively. Some effective parameters of the microextraction such as choice of extraction and disperser solvents, their volume, extraction time and temperature, salt and surfactant effect, and pH were optimized. Under the optimum conditions, the calibration curve was linear in the range of 0.02 to 0.46 microg/L of Fe(III), with LOD and LOQ of 5.2 and 17.4 ng/L, respectively. The RSD for seven replicated determinations of Fe(IIl) ion at 0.1 microg/L concentration level was 5.2%. Operational simplicity, rapidity, low cost, good repeatability, and low consumption of extraction solvent are the main advantages of the proposed method. The method was successfully applied to the determination of iron in biological, food, and certified reference samples.

The Magnetospheric Multiscale Mission: New Data on Magnetic Reconnection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burch, James

2015-11-01

The Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission was launched on March 12, 2015 into its Phase 1 elliptical orbit with apogee at 12 Earth radii (RE) . The baseline science goal for MMS is to Understand the microphysics of magnetic reconnection by determining the kinetic processes occurring in the electron diffusion region that are responsible for collisionless magnetic reconnection, especially how reconnection is initiated.In priority order, MMS will address three specific objectives: (1) Determine the role played by electron inertial effects and turbulent dissipation in driving magnetic reconnection in the electron diffusion region; (2) Determine the rate of magnetic reconnection and the parameters that control it. (3) Determine the role played by ion inertial effects in the physics of magnetic reconnection. During the six months of commissioning following launch, all of the instruments on the four spacecraft were made fully operational. Beginning on September 1, 2015 the spacecraft began their first scan of the dayside magnetopause in a tetrahedral formation with separations of 160 km. During Phase 1 the separation will be reduced in steps to 10 km and then adjusted to the separation that is judged to be optimum for reconnection studies. A second scan of the dayside magnetopause will be conducted at this optimum separation. Then apogee will be raised to 25 RE for a scan of the magnetotail with separations variable from 30 km to 400 km. Throughout the mission the payload will be operated at its maximum data rate, which is sufficient to investigate reconnection down to approximately the electron diffusion length scale with full 3D plasma electron distributions obtained in 30 ms, ion distributions at 150 ms, and magnetic and electric fields at 1 ms resolution. 3D plasma and energetic ion composition an energetic electron measurements along with plasma waves will also be made. The spacecraft potential is maintained below +4V by an ion emitter. Because of the large amount of data and the downlink limitations, only a few per cent of data at the highest rates can be sent to the ground. An on-board data selection system, supplemented by a Scientist-in-the Loop (SITL) system will be used to obtain the best segments of high-rate data for reconnection studies. Results from the first three months of Phase 1 will be presented in this paper.

Process optimization via response surface methodology in the treatment of metal working industry wastewater with electrocoagulation.

PubMed

Guvenc, Senem Yazici; Okut, Yusuf; Ozak, Mert; Haktanir, Birsu; Bilgili, Mehmet Sinan

2017-02-01

In this study, process parameters in chemical oxygen demand (COD) and turbidity removal from metal working industry (MWI) wastewater were optimized by electrocoagulation (EC) using aluminum, iron and steel electrodes. The effects of process variables on COD and turbidity were investigated by developing a mathematical model using central composite design method, which is one of the response surface methodologies. Variance analysis was conducted to identify the interaction between process variables and model responses and the optimum conditions for the COD and turbidity removal. Second-order regression models were developed via the Statgraphics Centurion XVI.I software program to predict COD and turbidity removal efficiencies. Under the optimum conditions, removal efficiencies obtained from aluminum electrodes were found to be 76.72% for COD and 99.97% for turbidity, while the removal efficiencies obtained from iron electrodes were found to be 76.55% for COD and 99.9% for turbidity and the removal efficiencies obtained from steel electrodes were found to be 65.75% for COD and 99.25% for turbidity. Operational costs at optimum conditions were found to be 4.83, 1.91 and 2.91 €/m 3 for aluminum, iron and steel electrodes, respectively. Iron electrode was found to be more suitable for MWI wastewater treatment in terms of operational cost and treatment efficiency.

Alternative communication network designs for an operational Plato 4 CAI system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mobley, R. E., Jr.; Eastwood, L. F., Jr.

1975-01-01

The cost of alternative communications networks for the dissemination of PLATO IV computer-aided instruction (CAI) was studied. Four communication techniques are compared: leased telephone lines, satellite communication, UHF TV, and low-power microwave radio. For each network design, costs per student contact hour are computed. These costs are derived as functions of student population density, a parameter which can be calculated from census data for one potential market for CAI, the public primary and secondary schools. Calculating costs in this way allows one to determine which of the four communications alternatives can serve this market least expensively for any given area in the U.S. The analysis indicates that radio distribution techniques are cost optimum over a wide range of conditions.

Dynamically Timed Electric Motor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Casper, Ann M. (Inventor)

1997-01-01

A brushless DC motor including a housing having an end cap secured thereto. The housing encloses a rotor. a stator and a rotationally displaceable commutation board having sensors secured thereon and spaced around the periphery of the rotor. An external rotational force is applied to the commutation board for displacement of the sensors to various positions whereby varying feedback signals are generated by the positioning of the sensors relative to the rotating rotor. The commutation board is secured in a fixed position in response to feedback signals indicative of optimum sensor position being determined. The rotation of the commutation board and the securing of the sensors in the desired fixed position is accomplished without requiring the removal of the end cap and with the DC motor operating.

Estimated Performance of Radial-Flow Exit Nozzles for Air in Chemical Equilibrium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Englert, Gerald W.; Kochendorfer, Fred D.

1959-01-01

The thrust, boundary-layer, and heat-transfer characteristics were computed for nozzles having radial flow in the divergent part. The working medium was air in chemical equilibrium, and the boundary layer was assumed to be all turbulent. Stagnation pressure was varied from 1 to 32 atmospheres, stagnation temperature from 1000 to 6000 R, and wall temperature from 1000 to 3000 R. Design pressure ratio was varied from 5 to 320, and operating pressure ratio was varied from 0.25 to 8 times the design pressure ratio. Results were generalized independent of divergence angle and were also generalized independent of stagnation pressure in the temperature range of 1000 to 3000 R. A means of determining the aerodynamically optimum wall angle is provided.

Method of realizing catalytic processes under unsteady state conditions

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

Noskov, A.S.; Lakhmostov, V.S.; Matros, Yu.S.

1988-07-01

The operation of a system with the catalyst bed divided into three parts was investigated theoretically and experimentally. The conditions under which the system will efficiently convert a reaction mixture with a low inlet temperature in an unsteady state regime are determined. Calculations were performed for the industrially typical process of afterburning CO on a copper-chrome catalyst in the form of Raschig rings. A flow sheet of the unit with the catalyst divided into three is shown with temperature profiles along the bed at various moments in time. The method can be used for processing large volumes of gaseous wastesmore » on very active catalysts and for catalytic reactions with optimum temperature profiles close to those presented.« less

Development of microwave assisted spectrophotometric method for the determination of glucose

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ali, Asif; Hussain, Zahid; Arain, Muhammad Balal; Shah, Nasrullah; Khan, Khalid Mohammad; Gulab, Hussain; Zada, Amir

2016-01-01

A spectrophotometric method was developed based on the microwave assisted synthesis of Maillard product. Various conditions of the reaction were optimized by varying the relative concentration of the reagents, operating temperature and volume of solutions used in the reaction in the microwave synthesizer. The absorbance of the microwave synthesized Maillard product was measured in the range of 360-740 nm using UV-Visible spectrophotometer. Based on the maximum absorbance, 370 nm was selected as the optimum wave length for further studies. The LOD and LOQ of glucose was found 3.08 μg mL- 1 and 9.33 μg mL- 1 with standard deviation of ± 0.05. The developed method was also applicable to urine sample.

[Calculating the optimum size of a hemodialysis unit based on infrastructure potential].

PubMed

Avila-Palomares, Paula; López-Cervantes, Malaquías; Durán-Arenas, Luis

2010-01-01

To estimate the optimum size for hemodialysis units to maximize production given capital constraints. A national study in Mexico was conducted in 2009. Three possible methods for estimating a units optimum size were analyzed: hemodialysis services production under monopolistic market, under a perfect competitive market and production maximization given capital constraints. The third method was considered best based on the assumptions made in this paper; an optimal size unit should have 16 dialyzers (15 active and one back up dialyzer) and a purifier system able to supply all. It also requires one nephrologist, five nurses per shift, considering four shifts per day. Empirical evidence shows serious inefficiencies in the operation of units throughout the country. Most units fail to maximize production due to not fully utilizing equipment and personnel, particularly their water purifier potential which happens to be the most expensive asset for these units.

Design synthesis and optimization of joined-wing transports

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gallman, John W.; Smith, Stephen C.; Kroo, Ilan M.

1990-01-01

A computer program for aircraft synthesis using a numerical optimizer was developed to study the application of the joined-wing configuration to transport aircraft. The structural design algorithm included the effects of secondary bending moments to investigate the possibility of tail buckling and to design joined wings resistant to buckling. The structural weight computed using this method was combined with a statistically-based method to obtain realistic estimates of total lifting surface weight and aircraft empty weight. A variety of 'optimum' joined-wing and conventional aircraft designs were compared on the basis of direct operating cost, gross weight, and cruise drag. The most promising joined-wing designs were found to have a joint location at about 70 percent of the wing semispan. The optimum joined-wing transport is shown to save 1.7 percent in direct operating cost and 11 percent in drag for a 2000 nautical mile transport mission.

Comparative analysis of operational forecasts versus actual weather conditions in airline flight planning, volume 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keitz, J. F.

1982-01-01

The impact of more timely and accurate weather data on airline flight planning with the emphasis on fuel savings is studied. This volume of the report discusses the results of Task 1 of the four major tasks included in the study. Task 1 compares flight plans based on forecasts with plans based on the verifying analysis from 33 days during the summer and fall of 1979. The comparisons show that: (1) potential fuel savings conservatively estimated to be between 1.2 and 2.5 percent could result from using more timely and accurate weather data in flight planning and route selection; (2) the Suitland forecast generally underestimates wind speeds; and (3) the track selection methodology of many airlines operating on the North Atlantic may not be optimum resulting in their selecting other than the optimum North Atlantic Organized Track about 50 percent of the time.

Dual-drive Mach-Zehnder modulator-based reconfigurable and transparent spectral conversion for dense wavelength division multiplexing transmissions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mao, Mingzhi; Qian, Chen; Cao, Bingyao; Zhang, Qianwu; Song, Yingxiong; Wang, Min

2017-09-01

A digital signal process enabled dual-drive Mach-Zehnder modulator (DD-MZM)-based spectral converter is proposed and extensively investigated to realize dynamically reconfigurable and high transparent spectral conversion. As another important innovation point of the paper, to optimize the converter performance, the optimum operation conditions of the proposed converter are deduced, statistically simulated, and experimentally verified. The optimum conditions supported-converter performances are verified by detail numerical simulations and experiments in intensity-modulation and direct-detection-based network in terms of frequency detuning range-dependent conversion efficiency, strict operation transparency for user signal characteristics, impact of parasitic components on the conversion performance, as well as the converted component waveform are almost nondistortion. It is also found that the converter has the high robustness to the input signal power, optical signal-to-noise ratio variations, extinction ratio, and driving signal frequency.

Simulating on water storage and pump capacity of "Kencing" river polder system in Kudus regency, Central Java, Indonesia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wahyudi, Slamet Imam; Adi, Henny Pratiwi; Santoso, Esti; Heikoop, Rick

2017-03-01

Settlement in the Jati District, Kudus Regency, Central Java Province, Indonesia, is growing rapidly. Previous paddy fields area turns into new residential, industrial and office buildings. The rain water collected in small Kencing river that flows into big Wulan River. But the current condition, during high rain intensity Wulan river water elevation higher than the Kencing river, so that water can not flow gravity and the area inundated. To reduce the flooding, required polder drainage system by providing a long channel as water storage and pumping water into Wulan river. How to get optimal value of water storage volume, drainage system channels and the pump capacity? The result used to be efficient in the operation and maintenance of the polder system. The purpose of this study is to develop some scenarios water storage volume, water gate operation and to get the optimal value of operational pumps removing water from the Kencing River to Wulan River. Research Method is conducted by some steps. The first step, it is done field orientation in detail, then collecting secondary data including maps and rainfall data. The map is processed into Watershed or catchment area, while the rainfall data is processed into runoff discharge. Furthermore, the team collects primary data by measuring topography to determine the surface and volume of water storage. The analysis conducted to determine of flood discharge, water channel hydraulics, water storage volume and pump capacity corresponding. Based on the simulating of long water storage volume and pump capacity with some scenario trying, it can be determined optimum values. The results used to be guideline in to construction proses, operation and maintenance of the drainage polder system.

Optimization of solar cell contacts by system cost-per-watt minimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Redfield, D.

1977-01-01

New, and considerably altered, optimum dimensions for solar-cell metallization patterns are found using the recently developed procedure whose optimization criterion is the minimum cost-per-watt effect on the entire photovoltaic system. It is also found that the optimum shadow fraction by the fine grid is independent of metal cost and resistivity as well as cell size. The optimum thickness of the fine grid metal depends on all these factors, and in familiar cases it should be appreciably greater than that found by less complete analyses. The optimum bus bar thickness is much greater than those generally used. The cost-per-watt penalty due to the need for increased amounts of metal per unit area on larger cells is determined quantitatively and thereby provides a criterion for the minimum benefits that must be obtained in other process steps to make larger cells cost effective.

Digital Parallel Processor Array for Optimum Path Planning

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kremeny, Sabrina E. (Inventor); Fossum, Eric R. (Inventor); Nixon, Robert H. (Inventor)

1996-01-01

The invention computes the optimum path across a terrain or topology represented by an array of parallel processor cells interconnected between neighboring cells by links extending along different directions to the neighboring cells. Such an array is preferably implemented as a high-speed integrated circuit. The computation of the optimum path is accomplished by, in each cell, receiving stimulus signals from neighboring cells along corresponding directions, determining and storing the identity of a direction along which the first stimulus signal is received, broadcasting a subsequent stimulus signal to the neighboring cells after a predetermined delay time, whereby stimulus signals propagate throughout the array from a starting one of the cells. After propagation of the stimulus signal throughout the array, a master processor traces back from a selected destination cell to the starting cell along an optimum path of the cells in accordance with the identity of the directions stored in each of the cells.

The effect of crumb rubber particle size to the optimum binder content for open graded friction course.

PubMed

Ibrahim, Mohd Rasdan; Katman, Herda Yati; Karim, Mohamed Rehan; Koting, Suhana; Mashaan, Nuha S

2014-01-01

The main objective of this paper is to investigate the relations of rubber size, rubber content, and binder content in determination of optimum binder content for open graded friction course (OGFC). Mix gradation type B as specified in Specification for Porous Asphalt produced by the Road Engineering Association of Malaysia (REAM) was used in this study. Marshall specimens were prepared with four different sizes of rubber, namely, 20 mesh size [0.841 mm], 40 mesh [0.42 mm], 80 mesh [0.177 mm], and 100 mesh [0.149 mm] with different concentrations of rubberised bitumen (4%, 8%, and 12%) and different percentages of binder content (4%-7%). The appropriate optimum binder content is then selected according to the results of the air voids, binder draindown, and abrasion loss test. Test results found that crumb rubber particle size can affect the optimum binder content for OGFC.

Diagnoses and Factors Associated With Medical Evacuation and Return to Duty for Service Members Participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom: A Prospective Cohort Study

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-23

effect of non-battle-related injuries and disease on military readiness. Funding John P Murtha Neuroscience and Pain Institute, and US Army Regional...doctor visits and medical evacuation.5,6 To achieve optimum use of medical resources and effectively plan military operations, medical and...Operation Iraqi Freedom who returned to duty increased substantially from a low of 8% in 2004 to 37% in 2007, an effect partly attributable to the

Development of Non-Optimum Factors for Launch Vehicle Propellant Tank Bulkhead Weight Estimation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wu, K. Chauncey; Wallace, Matthew L.; Cerro, Jeffrey A.

2012-01-01

Non-optimum factors are used during aerospace conceptual and preliminary design to account for the increased weights of as-built structures due to future manufacturing and design details. Use of higher-fidelity non-optimum factors in these early stages of vehicle design can result in more accurate predictions of a concept s actual weights and performance. To help achieve this objective, non-optimum factors are calculated for the aluminum-alloy gores that compose the ogive and ellipsoidal bulkheads of the Space Shuttle Super-Lightweight Tank propellant tanks. Minimum values for actual gore skin thicknesses and weld land dimensions are extracted from selected production drawings, and are used to predict reference gore weights. These actual skin thicknesses are also compared to skin thicknesses predicted using classical structural mechanics and tank proof-test pressures. Both coarse and refined weights models are developed for the gores. The coarse model is based on the proof pressure-sized skin thicknesses, and the refined model uses the actual gore skin thicknesses and design detail dimensions. To determine the gore non-optimum factors, these reference weights are then compared to flight hardware weights reported in a mass properties database. When manufacturing tolerance weight estimates are taken into account, the gore non-optimum factors computed using the coarse weights model range from 1.28 to 2.76, with an average non-optimum factor of 1.90. Application of the refined weights model yields non-optimum factors between 1.00 and 1.50, with an average non-optimum factor of 1.14. To demonstrate their use, these calculated non-optimum factors are used to predict heavier, more realistic gore weights for a proposed heavy-lift launch vehicle s propellant tank bulkheads. These results indicate that relatively simple models can be developed to better estimate the actual weights of large structures for future launch vehicles.

Chaotic genetic algorithm and Adaboost ensemble metamodeling approach for optimum resource planning in emergency departments.

PubMed

Yousefi, Milad; Yousefi, Moslem; Ferreira, Ricardo Poley Martins; Kim, Joong Hoon; Fogliatto, Flavio S

2018-01-01

Long length of stay and overcrowding in emergency departments (EDs) are two common problems in the healthcare industry. To decrease the average length of stay (ALOS) and tackle overcrowding, numerous resources, including the number of doctors, nurses and receptionists need to be adjusted, while a number of constraints are to be considered at the same time. In this study, an efficient method based on agent-based simulation, machine learning and the genetic algorithm (GA) is presented to determine optimum resource allocation in emergency departments. GA can effectively explore the entire domain of all 19 variables and identify the optimum resource allocation through evolution and mimicking the survival of the fittest concept. A chaotic mutation operator is used in this study to boost GA performance. A model of the system needs to be run several thousand times through the GA evolution process to evaluate each solution, hence the process is computationally expensive. To overcome this drawback, a robust metamodel is initially constructed based on an agent-based system simulation. The simulation exhibits ED performance with various resource allocations and trains the metamodel. The metamodel is created with an ensemble of the adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), feedforward neural network (FFNN) and recurrent neural network (RNN) using the adaptive boosting (AdaBoost) ensemble algorithm. The proposed GA-based optimization approach is tested in a public ED, and it is shown to decrease the ALOS in this ED case study by 14%. Additionally, the proposed metamodel shows a 26.6% improvement compared to the average results of ANFIS, FFNN and RNN in terms of mean absolute percentage error (MAPE). Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Use of HbA1c to diagnose type 2 diabetes mellitus among high risk Sri Lankan adults.

PubMed

Herath, H M M; Weerarathna, T P; Dahanayake, M U; Weerasinghe, N P

Even though, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was found to be effective in predicting diabetes especially in Caucasians there is limited evidence of its diagnostic utility in high risk Sri Lankan adults. This study aimed to determine the optimal HbA1c cut-off points for detecting diabetes in a high risk population in Sri Lanka. This community based study consisted of 254 previously healthy adults with history of diabetes in one or more first-degree relatives. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) , glucose tolerance test (GTT) and HbA1c were measured in all and GTT was used as a reference to diagnose diabetes. Receiver operating characteristic curve was created to find the optimum HbA1c cut-off value to predict diabetes. Prevalence of diabetes was 12.2% (n=31) with FPG and 16.1% (n=41) with GTT. Prevalence rose to 27.6% (P<0.01) when HbA1c with cut-off of ≥6.5% was used as the diagnostic test. The ROC curves showed the HbA1c threshold of 6.3% provided the optimum balance between sensitivity (80.5%) and specificity (79%). In compared to GTT, FPG had only a modest sensitivity (65%) in diagnosing diabetes in this high risk population. Our study showed that optimum HbA1C cut-off for detecting diabetes was 6.3% and it had better sensitivity, but lower specificity than FPG. This study further showed that the prevalence of diabetes would become double if HbA1c is used over FPG to screen this high risk population. Copyright © 2016 Diabetes India. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Buckling and weight optimization for non-coupled antisymmetric laminates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhatnagar, Aditi

This research work describes the application of genetic algorithms to weight minimization and buckling load maximization of the non-coupled antisymmetric composite laminated plates. Previous studies of composite tailoring were limited to symmetric and balanced laminates. With the availability of many methodologies for composite tailoring, genetic algorithm is preferably used because of its ability to handle discrete design variable and attain multiple near optimum design solutions. A comparative study is made between optimum symmetric-balanced laminate designs and optimum non-coupled antisymmetric laminate designs, both of which are subjected to biaxial in-plane compressive loads. With the implementation of various genetic algorithm operators such as selection, crossover and mutation, critical buckling load factors are obtained for the optimum stacking sequence for both types of laminates. The mechanical properties for non-coupled antisymmetric laminates is independent of all types of coupling effects such as bending-twisting coupling, bending-extension coupling, and shear-extension coupling, thus giving the laminate a non-coupling behavior. This is in contrast to that of symmetric-balanced laminates where finite bending-twisting coupling terms are present. Optimized laminate layups satisfying the constraints of balance, buckling and adjoining were obtained for two types of graphite epoxy rectangular composite laminated plates. The current research augments the laminate thickness minimization designs with both odd and even number of layers, and the optimum buckling load maximization designs by the introduction of non-coupled antisymmetric laminates.

A pragmatic decision model for inventory management with heterogeneous suppliers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakandala, Dilupa; Lau, Henry; Zhang, Jingjing; Gunasekaran, Angappa

2018-05-01

For enterprises, it is imperative that the trade-off between the cost of inventory and risk implications is managed in the most efficient manner. To explore this, we use the common example of a wholesaler operating in an environment where suppliers demonstrate heterogeneous reliability. The wholesaler has partial orders with dual suppliers and uses lateral transshipments. While supplier reliability is a key concern in inventory management, reliable suppliers are more expensive and investment in strategic approaches that improve supplier performance carries a high cost. Here we consider the operational strategy of dual sourcing with reliable and unreliable suppliers and model the total inventory cost where the likely scenario lead-time of the unreliable suppliers extends beyond the scheduling period. We then develop a Customized Integer Programming Optimization Model to determine the optimum size of partial orders with multiple suppliers. In addition to the objective of total cost optimization, this study takes into account the volatility of the cost associated with the uncertainty of an inventory system.

Space shuttle/food system study. Volume 2, Appendix A: Active heating system-screening analysis. Appendix B: Reconstituted food heating techniques analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1974-01-01

Technical data are presented which were used to evaluate active heating methods to be incorporated into the space shuttle food system design, and also to evaluate the relative merits and penalties associated with various approaches to the heating of rehydrated food during space flight. Equipment heating candidates were subject to a preliminary screening performed by a selection rationale process which considered the following parameters; (1) gravitational effect; (2) safety; (3) operability; (4) system compatibility; (5) serviceability; (6) crew acceptability; (7) crew time; (8) development risk; and (9) operating cost. A hot air oven, electrically heated food tray, and microwave oven were selected for further consideration and analysis. Passive, semi-active, and active food preparation approaches were also studied in an effort to determine the optimum method for heating rehydrated food. Potential complexity, cost, vehicle impact penalties, and palatability were considered in the analysis. A summary of the study results is provided along with cost estimates for each of the potential sytems

The influenced of PAC, zeolite, and Moringa oleifera as biofouling reducer (BFR) on hybrid membrane bioreactor of palm oil mill effluent (POME).

PubMed

Damayanti, A; Ujang, Z; Salim, M R

2011-03-01

The main objective of this work was to determine the effectiveness of various biofouling reducers (BFRs) to operational condition in hybrid membrane bioreactor (MBR) of palm oil mill effluent (POME). A series of tests involving three bench scale (100 L) hybrid MBR were operated at sludge retention times (SRTs) of 30 days with biofouling reducer (BFR). Three different biofouling reducers (BFRs) were powdered actived carbon (PAC), zeolite (Ze), and Moringa oleifera (Mo) with doses of 4, 8 and 12 g L(-1) respectively were used. Short-term filtration trials and critical flux tests were conducted. Results showed that, all BFRs successfully removed soluble microbial products (SMP), for PAC, Ze, and Mo at 58%, 42%, and 48%, respectively. At their optimum dosages, PAC provided above 70% reductions and 85% in fouling rates during the short-term filtration and critical flux tests. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A portable anaerobic microbioreactor reveals optimum growth conditions for the methanogen Methanosaeta concilii.

PubMed

Steinhaus, Benjamin; Garcia, Marcelo L; Shen, Amy Q; Angenent, Largus T

2007-03-01

Conventional studies of the optimum growth conditions for methanogens (methane-producing, obligate anaerobic archaea) are typically conducted with serum bottles or bioreactors. The use of microfluidics to culture methanogens allows direct microscopic observations of the time-integrated response of growth. Here, we developed a microbioreactor (microBR) with approximately 1-microl microchannels to study some optimum growth conditions for the methanogen Methanosaeta concilii. The microBR is contained in an anaerobic chamber specifically designed to place it directly onto an inverted light microscope stage while maintaining a N2-CO2 environment. The methanogen was cultured for months inside microchannels of different widths. Channel width was manipulated to create various fluid velocities, allowing the direct study of the behavior and responses of M. concilii to various shear stresses and revealing an optimum shear level of approximately 20 to 35 microPa. Gradients in a single microchannel were then used to find an optimum pH level of 7.6 and an optimum total NH4-N concentration of less than 1,100 mg/liter (<47 mg/liter as free NH3-N) for M. concilii under conditions of the previously determined ideal shear stress and pH and at a temperature of 35 degrees C.

Optimization of lightweight structure and supporting bipod flexure for a space mirror.

PubMed

Chen, Yi-Cheng; Huang, Bo-Kai; You, Zhen-Ting; Chan, Chia-Yen; Huang, Ting-Ming

2016-12-20

This article presents an optimization process for integrated optomechanical design. The proposed optimization process for integrated optomechanical design comprises computer-aided drafting, finite element analysis (FEA), optomechanical transfer codes, and an optimization solver. The FEA was conducted to determine mirror surface deformation; then, deformed surface nodal data were transferred into Zernike polynomials through MATLAB optomechanical transfer codes to calculate the resulting optical path difference (OPD) and optical aberrations. To achieve an optimum design, the optimization iterations of the FEA, optomechanical transfer codes, and optimization solver were automatically connected through a self-developed Tcl script. Two examples of optimization design were illustrated in this research, namely, an optimum lightweight design of a Zerodur primary mirror with an outer diameter of 566 mm that is used in a spaceborne telescope and an optimum bipod flexure design that supports the optimum lightweight primary mirror. Finally, optimum designs were successfully accomplished in both examples, achieving a minimum peak-to-valley (PV) value for the OPD of the deformed optical surface. The simulated optimization results showed that (1) the lightweight ratio of the primary mirror increased from 56% to 66%; and (2) the PV value of the mirror supported by optimum bipod flexures in the horizontal position effectively decreased from 228 to 61 nm.

Random vibrations of quadratic damping systems. [optimum damping analysis for automobile suspension system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sireteanu, T.

1974-01-01

An oscillating system with quadratic damping subjected to white noise excitation is replaced by a nonlinear, statistically equivalent system for which the associated Fokker-Planck equation can be exactly solved. The mean square responses are calculated and the optimum damping coefficient is determined with respect to the minimum mean square acceleration criteria. An application of these results to the optimization of automobile suspension damping is given.

Optimum Particle Size for Gold-Catalyzed CO Oxidation

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

The structure sensitivity of gold-catalyzed CO oxidation is presented by analyzing in detail the dependence of CO oxidation rate on particle size. Clusters with less than 14 gold atoms adopt a planar structure, whereas larger ones adopt a three-dimensional structure. The CO and O2 adsorption properties depend strongly on particle structure and size. All of the reaction barriers relevant to CO oxidation display linear scaling relationships with CO and O2 binding strengths as main reactivity descriptors. Planar and three-dimensional gold clusters exhibit different linear scaling relationship due to different surface topologies and different coordination numbers of the surface atoms. On the basis of these linear scaling relationships, first-principles microkinetics simulations were conducted to determine CO oxidation rates and possible rate-determining step of Au particles. Planar Au9 and three-dimensional Au79 clusters present the highest CO oxidation rates for planar and three-dimensional clusters, respectively. The planar Au9 cluster is much more active than the optimum Au79 cluster. A common feature of optimum CO oxidation performance is the intermediate binding strengths of CO and O2, resulting in intermediate coverages of CO, O2, and O. Both these optimum particles present lower performance than maximum Sabatier performance, indicating that there is sufficient room for improvement of gold catalysts for CO oxidation. PMID:29707098

Active Control of Engine Dynamics (Le controle actif pour la dynamique des moteurs)

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-11-01

optimum operating conditions, avoiding, for example, inadvertent operation when the pulsations can cause unacceptable rates of surface heat transfer or...such as shipboard incineration, and power and heat generation in the field. Because the practical problem of suppressing combustion instabilities has...aforementioned physical processes are essentially completed prior to entering the combustor. One consequence of fuel-air premixing is that the heat

Optimum illumination for nighttime flagger operations : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2005-08-01

Highway maintenance and construction undertaken by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) can involve the use of flaggers to control the work zone. When the work is undertaken at night, illumination of flaggers is needed to ensure the safety ...

Treatment of high salt oxidized modified starch waste water using micro-electrolysis, two-phase anaerobic aerobic and electrolysis for reuse

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yi, Xuenong; Wang, Yulin

2017-06-01

A combined process of micro-electrolysis, two-phase anaerobic, aerobic and electrolysis was investigated for the treatment of oxidized modified starch wastewater (OMSW). Optimum ranges for important operating variables were experimentally determined and the treated water was tested for reuse in the production process of corn starch. The optimum hydraulic retention time (HRT) of micro-electrolysis, methanation reactor, aerobic process and electrolysis process were 5, 24, 12 and 3 h, respectively. The addition of iron-carbon fillers to the acidification reactor was 200 mg/L while the best current density of electrolysis was 300 A/m2. The biodegradability was improved from 0.12 to 0.34 by micro-electrolysis. The whole treatment was found to be effective with removal of 96 % of the chemical oxygen demand (COD), 0.71 L/day of methane energy recovery. In addition, active chlorine production (15,720 mg/L) was obtained by electrolysis. The advantage of this hybrid process is that, through appropriate control of reaction conditions, effect from high concentration of salt on the treatment was avoided. Moreover, the process also produced the material needed in the production of oxidized starch while remaining emission-free and solved the problem of high process cost.

Optimal subsystem approach to multi-qubit quantum state discrimination and experimental investigation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xue, ShiChuan; Wu, JunJie; Xu, Ping; Yang, XueJun

2018-02-01

Quantum computing is a significant computing capability which is superior to classical computing because of its superposition feature. Distinguishing several quantum states from quantum algorithm outputs is often a vital computational task. In most cases, the quantum states tend to be non-orthogonal due to superposition; quantum mechanics has proved that perfect outcomes could not be achieved by measurements, forcing repetitive measurement. Hence, it is important to determine the optimum measuring method which requires fewer repetitions and a lower error rate. However, extending current measurement approaches mainly aiming at quantum cryptography to multi-qubit situations for quantum computing confronts challenges, such as conducting global operations which has considerable costs in the experimental realm. Therefore, in this study, we have proposed an optimum subsystem method to avoid these difficulties. We have provided an analysis of the comparison between the reduced subsystem method and the global minimum error method for two-qubit problems; the conclusions have been verified experimentally. The results showed that the subsystem method could effectively discriminate non-orthogonal two-qubit states, such as separable states, entangled pure states, and mixed states; the cost of the experimental process had been significantly reduced, in most circumstances, with acceptable error rate. We believe the optimal subsystem method is the most valuable and promising approach for multi-qubit quantum computing applications.

OFF-DESIGN PERFORMANCE OF RADIAL INFLOW TURBINES

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wasserbauer, C. A.

1994-01-01

This program calculates off design performance of radial inflow turbines. The program uses a one dimensional solution of flow conditions through the turbine along the main streamline. The loss model accounts for stator, rotor, incidence, and exit losses. Program features include consideration of stator and rotor trailing edge blockage and computation of performance to limiting load. Stator loss (loss in kinetic energy across the stator) is proportional to the average kinetic energy in the blade row and is represented in the program by an equation which includes a stator loss coefficient determined from design point performance and then assumed to be constant for the off design calculations. Minimum incidence loss does not occur at zero incidence angle with respect to the rotor blade, but at some optimum flow angle. At high pressure ratios the level of rotor inlet velocity seemed to have an excessive influence on the loss. Using the component of velocity in the direction of the optimum flow angle gave better correlations with experimental results. Overall turbine geometry and design point values of efficiency, pressure ratio, and mass flow are needed as input information. The output includes performance and velocity diagram parameters for any number of given speeds over a range of turbine pressure ratio. The program has been implemented on the IBM 7094 and operates in batch mode.

Composition optimization of chromium carbide based solid lubricant coatings for foil gas bearings at temperatures to 650 C

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dellacorte, Christopher

1987-01-01

A test program to determine the optimum composition of chromium carbide based solid lubricant coatings for compliant gas bearings is described. The friction and wear properties of the coatings are evaluated using a foil gas bearing test apparatus. The various coatings were prepared by powder blending, then plasma sprayed onto Inconel 718 test journals and diamond ground to the desired coating thickness and surface finish. The journals were operated against preoxidized nickel-chromium alloy foils. The test bearings were subjected to repeated start/stop cycles under a 14 kPa (2 psi) bearing unit load. The bearings were tested for 9000 start/stop cycles or until the specimen wear reached a predetermined failure level. In general, the addition of silver and eutectic to the chromium carbide base stock significantly reduced foil wear and increased journal coating wear. The optimum coating composition, PS212 (70 wt% metal bonded Cr3C2, 15 wt% Ag, 15% BaF2/CaF2 eutectic), reduced foil wear by a factor of two and displayed coating wear well within acceptable limits. The load capacity of the bearing using the plasma-sprayed coating prior to and after a run-in period was ascertained and compared to polished Inconel 718 specimens.

Data Homogenization of the NOAA Long-Term Ozonesonde Records

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, B.; Cullis, P.; Sterling, C. W.; Jordan, A. F.; Hall, E. G.; Petropavlovskikh, I. V.; Oltmans, S. J.; Mcconville, G.

2015-12-01

The NOAA long term balloon-borne ozonesonde sites at Boulder, Colorado; Hilo, Hawaii; and South Pole Station, Antarctica have measured weekly ozone profiles for more than 3 decades. The ozonesonde consists of an electrochemical concentration cell (ECC) sensor interfaced with a weather radiosonde which transmits high resolution ozone and meteorological data during ascent from the surface to 30-35 km altitude. During this 30 year time period there have been several model changes in the commercially available ECC ozonesondes and radiosondes as well as three adjustments in the ozone sensor solution composition at NOAA. These changes were aimed at optimizing the ozonesonde performance. Organized intercomparison campaigns conducted at the environmental simulation facility at the Research Centre Juelich, Germany and international field site testing have been the primary process for assessing new designs, instruments, or sensor solution changes and developing standard operating procedures. NOAA has also performed in-house laboratory tests and launched 28 dual ozonesondes at various sites since 1994 to provide further comparison data to determine the optimum homogenized data set. The final homogenization effort involved reviewing and editing several thousand individual ozonesonde profiles followed by applying the optimum correction algorithms for changes in type of sensor solution composition. The results of improved data sets will be shown with long term trends and uncertainties at various altitude levels.

Analysis of needed forest in Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES) based on calculation of carbon dioxide emissions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rahayuningsih, M.; Kartijono, N. E.; Arifin, M. S.

2018-03-01

Increasing number of staffs and academicians as a result of UNNES's popularity becoming a favourite university in Indonesia has demanded more facilities to support the learning process, student activities and campus operations. This condition has declined forest covered area in the campus, even though. Optimum extent must be prevented to support ecological function in campus areas. This research is conducted to determine the optimum areas of needed campus's forest based on CO2 emissions in the UNNES area in Sekaran sub-district. The results showed that forest need for campus of UNNES in 2017 is 14.25 ha, but the existing area is only 13.103 ha. Campus forest in western campus area is sufficient to absorb CO2 emissions with forest availability is about 8,147 ha while forest requirement is about 4.47 ha. Campus forest in eastern campus area is not sufficient to absorb CO2 emissions. The need of campus forest in eastern campus area is much bigger that is 9,78 ha from campus forest which available is about 4,956 ha. The results of this study can be used as a reference in the development of green space both on campus and in the city of UNNES Semarang.

An evolutionary algorithm for large traveling salesman problems.

PubMed

Tsai, Huai-Kuang; Yang, Jinn-Moon; Tsai, Yuan-Fang; Kao, Cheng-Yan

2004-08-01

This work proposes an evolutionary algorithm, called the heterogeneous selection evolutionary algorithm (HeSEA), for solving large traveling salesman problems (TSP). The strengths and limitations of numerous well-known genetic operators are first analyzed, along with local search methods for TSPs from their solution qualities and mechanisms for preserving and adding edges. Based on this analysis, a new approach, HeSEA is proposed which integrates edge assembly crossover (EAX) and Lin-Kernighan (LK) local search, through family competition and heterogeneous pairing selection. This study demonstrates experimentally that EAX and LK can compensate for each other's disadvantages. Family competition and heterogeneous pairing selections are used to maintain the diversity of the population, which is especially useful for evolutionary algorithms in solving large TSPs. The proposed method was evaluated on 16 well-known TSPs in which the numbers of cities range from 318 to 13509. Experimental results indicate that HeSEA performs well and is very competitive with other approaches. The proposed method can determine the optimum path when the number of cities is under 10,000 and the mean solution quality is within 0.0074% above the optimum for each test problem. These findings imply that the proposed method can find tours robustly with a fixed small population and a limited family competition length in reasonable time, when used to solve large TSPs.

Continuous bind-and-elute protein A capture chromatography: Optimization under process scale column constraints and comparison to batch operation.

PubMed

Kaltenbrunner, Oliver; Diaz, Luis; Hu, Xiaochun; Shearer, Michael

2016-07-08

Recently, continuous downstream processing has become a topic of discussion and analysis at conferences while no industrial applications of continuous downstream processing for biopharmaceutical manufacturing have been reported. There is significant potential to increase the productivity of a Protein A capture step by converting the operation to simulated moving bed (SMB) mode. In this mode, shorter columns are operated at higher process flow and corresponding short residence times. The ability to significantly shorten the product residence time during loading without appreciable capacity loss can dramatically increase productivity of the capture step and consequently reduce the amount of Protein A resin required in the process. Previous studies have not considered the physical limitations of how short columns can be packed and the flow rate limitations due to pressure drop of stacked columns. In this study, we are evaluating the process behavior of a continuous Protein A capture column cycling operation under the known pressure drop constraints of a compressible media. The results are compared to the same resin operated under traditional batch operating conditions. We analyze the optimum system design point for a range of feed concentrations, bed heights, and load residence times and determine achievable productivity for any feed concentration and any column bed height. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 32:938-948, 2016. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

An automatic and effective parameter optimization method for model tuning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, T.; Li, L.; Lin, Y.; Xue, W.; Xie, F.; Xu, H.; Huang, X.

2015-05-01

Physical parameterizations in General Circulation Models (GCMs), having various uncertain parameters, greatly impact model performance and model climate sensitivity. Traditional manual and empirical tuning of these parameters is time consuming and ineffective. In this study, a "three-step" methodology is proposed to automatically and effectively obtain the optimum combination of some key parameters in cloud and convective parameterizations according to a comprehensive objective evaluation metrics. Different from the traditional optimization methods, two extra steps, one determines parameter sensitivity and the other chooses the optimum initial value of sensitive parameters, are introduced before the downhill simplex method to reduce the computational cost and improve the tuning performance. Atmospheric GCM simulation results show that the optimum combination of these parameters determined using this method is able to improve the model's overall performance by 9%. The proposed methodology and software framework can be easily applied to other GCMs to speed up the model development process, especially regarding unavoidable comprehensive parameters tuning during the model development stage.

Response Surface Methodology for the Optimization of Preparation of Biocomposites Based on Poly(lactic acid) and Durian Peel Cellulose

PubMed Central

Penjumras, Patpen; Abdul Rahman, Russly; Talib, Rosnita A.; Abdan, Khalina

2015-01-01

Response surface methodology was used to optimize preparation of biocomposites based on poly(lactic acid) and durian peel cellulose. The effects of cellulose loading, mixing temperature, and mixing time on tensile strength and impact strength were investigated. A central composite design was employed to determine the optimum preparation condition of the biocomposites to obtain the highest tensile strength and impact strength. A second-order polynomial model was developed for predicting the tensile strength and impact strength based on the composite design. It was found that composites were best fit by a quadratic regression model with high coefficient of determination (R 2) value. The selected optimum condition was 35 wt.% cellulose loading at 165°C and 15 min of mixing, leading to a desirability of 94.6%. Under the optimum condition, the tensile strength and impact strength of the biocomposites were 46.207 MPa and 2.931 kJ/m2, respectively. PMID:26167523

Fresh broad (Vicia faba) tissue homogenate-based biosensor for determination of phenolic compounds.

PubMed

Ozcan, Hakki Mevlut; Sagiroglu, Ayten

2014-08-01

In this study, a novel fresh broad (Vicia faba) tissue homogenate-based biosensor for determination of phenolic compounds was developed. The biosensor was constructed by immobilizing tissue homogenate of fresh broad (Vicia faba) on to glassy carbon electrode. For the stability of the biosensor, general immobilization techniques were used to secure the fresh broad tissue homogenate in gelatin-glutaraldehyde cross-linking matrix. In the optimization and characterization studies, the amount of fresh broad tissue homogenate and gelatin, glutaraldehyde percentage, optimum pH, optimum temperature and optimum buffer concentration, thermal stability, interference effects, linear range, storage stability, repeatability and sample applications (Wine, beer, fruit juices) were also investigated. Besides, the detection ranges of thirteen phenolic compounds were obtained with the help of the calibration graphs. A typical calibration curve for the sensor revealed a linear range of 5-60 μM catechol. In reproducibility studies, variation coefficient (CV) and standard deviation (SD) were calculated as 1.59%, 0.64×10(-3) μM, respectively.

Fast Missile Boat Project Planning using CPM and What If Analysis Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Silvianita; Firmansyah, R.; Rosyid, D. M.; Suntoyo; Chamelia, D. M.

2018-03-01

This paper discusses analysis of fast ship missile project planning with CPM and What If analysis.The poor performance can cause project delay and cost overruns, these two things often occur in a project management. Scheduling has an important role to control the project. Good scheduling is required because it will affect the product quality. Scheduling is useful to manage the activities so that the project completion time can be as short as possible and it is used to determine the costs of the project are in optimum condition. The alternatives that can be used to overcome the delay project namely increasing labor and equipment.Project planning can be done to determine whether the project is already in an optimum condition. Alternatives that can be used to overcome the delay in the project is to increase labor and equipment, the next is to look for the optimum solution taking into account the duration and gain of each alternative.

Effect of ultrasound on the dissolution of copper from copper converter slag by acid leaching.

PubMed

Beşe, Ayşe Vildan

2007-09-01

This work presents the optimum conditions of dissolution of copper in copper converter slag in sulphuric acid ferric sulphate mixtures in the presence and absence of ultrasound. The Taguchi method was used to determine the optimum conditions. The parameters investigated were the reaction temperature, acid concentration, ferric sulphate concentration and reaction time. The optimum conditions for the maximum dissolution of copper were determined as follows: reaction temperature, 65 degrees C; acid concentration, 0.2M; ferric sulphate concentration, 0.15M; reaction time 180 min. Under these conditions, extraction efficiency of copper, zinc, cobalt, and iron from slag were 89.28%, 51.32%, 69.87%, and 13.73%, respectively, in the presence of ultrasound, while they are 80.41%, 48.28%, 64.52%, and 12.16%, respectively, in the absence of ultrasound. As seen from the above results, it is clear that ultrasound enhances on the dissolution of Cu, Zn, Co and Fe in the slag.

Enhanced THz extinction in arrays of resonant semiconductor particles.

PubMed

Schaafsma, Martijn C; Georgiou, Giorgos; Rivas, Jaime Gómez

2015-09-21

We demonstrate experimentally the enhanced THz extinction by periodic arrays of resonant semiconductor particles. This phenomenon is explained in terms of the radiative coupling of localized resonances with diffractive orders in the plane of the array (Rayleigh anomalies). The experimental results are described by numerical calculations using a coupled dipole model and by Finite-Difference in Time-Domain simulations. An optimum particle size for enhancing the extinction efficiency of the array is found. This optimum is determined by the frequency detuning between the localized resonances in the individual particles and the Rayleigh anomaly. The extinction calculations and measurements are also compared to near-field simulations illustrating the optimum particle size for the enhancement of the near-field.

Application of multi response optimization with grey relational analysis and fuzzy logic method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Winarni, Sri; Wahyu Indratno, Sapto

2018-01-01

Multi-response optimization is an optimization process by considering multiple responses simultaneously. The purpose of this research is to get the optimum point on multi-response optimization process using grey relational analysis and fuzzy logic method. The optimum point is determined from the Fuzzy-GRG (Grey Relational Grade) variable which is the conversion of the Signal to Noise Ratio of the responses involved. The case study used in this research are case optimization of electrical process parameters in electrical disharge machining. It was found that the combination of treatments resulting to optimum MRR and SR was a 70 V gap voltage factor, peak current 9 A and duty factor 0.8.

Optimization of power generating thermoelectric modules utilizing LNG cold energy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeong, Eun Soo

2017-12-01

A theoretical investigation to optimize thermoelectric modules, which convert LNG cold energy into electrical power, is performed using a novel one-dimensional analytic model. In the model the optimum thermoelement length and external load resistance, which maximize the energy conversion ratio, are determined by the heat supplied to the cold heat reservoir, the hot and cold side temperatures, the thermal and electrical contact resistances and the properties of thermoelectric materials. The effects of the thermal and electrical contact resistances and the heat supplied to the cold heat reservoir on the maximum energy conversion ratio, the optimum thermoelement length and the optimum external load resistance are shown.

Life cycle assessment for optimising the level of separated collection in integrated MSW management systems.

PubMed

Rigamonti, L; Grosso, M; Giugliano, M

2009-02-01

This life cycle assessment study analyses material and energy recovery within integrated municipal solid waste (MSW) management systems, and, in particular, the recovery of the source-separated materials (packaging and organic waste) and the energy recovery from the residual waste. The recovery of materials and energy are analysed together, with the final aim to evaluate possible optimum levels of source-separated collection that lead to the most favourable energetic and environmental results; this method allows identification of an optimum configuration of the MSW management system. The results show that the optimum level of source-separated collection is about 60%, when all the materials are recovered with high efficiency; it decreases to about 50%, when the 60% level is reached as a result of a very high recovery efficiency for organic fractions at the expense of the packaging materials, or when this implies an appreciable reduction of the quality of collected materials. The optimum MSW management system is thus characterized by source-separated collection levels as included in the above indicated range, with subsequent recycling of the separated materials and energy recovery of the residual waste in a large-scale incinerator operating in combined heat and power mode.

[Fast determination of induction period of motor gasoline using Fourier transform attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopy].

PubMed

Liu, Ya-Fei; Yuan, Hong-Fu; Song, Chun-Feng; Xie, Jin-Chun; Li, Xiao-Yu; Yan, De-Lin

2014-11-01

A new method is proposed for the fast determination of the induction period of gasoline using Fourier transform attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). A dedicated analysis system with the function of spectral measurement, data processing, display and storage was designed and integrated using a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer module and chemometric software. The sample presentation accessory designed which has advantages of constant optical path, convenient sample injection and cleaning is composed of a nine times reflection attenuated total reflectance (ATR) crystal of zinc selenide (ZnSe) coated with a diamond film and a stainless steel lid with sealing device. The influence of spectral scanning number and repeated sample loading times on the spectral signal-to-noise ratio was studied. The optimum spectral scanning number is 15 times and the optimum sample loading number is 4 times. Sixty four different gasoline samples were collected from the Beijing-Tianjin area and the induction period values were determined as reference data by standard method GB/T 8018-87. The infrared spectra of these samples were collected in the operating condition mentioned above using the dedicated fast analysis system. Spectra were pretreated using mean centering and 1st derivative to reduce the influence of spectral noise and baseline shift A PLS calibration model for the induction period was established by correlating the known induction period values of the samples with their spectra. The correlation coefficient (R2), standard error of calibration (SEC) and standard error of prediction (SEP) of the model are 0.897, 68.3 and 91.9 minutes, respectively. The relative deviation of the model for gasoline induction period prediction is less than 5%, which meets the requirements of repeatability tolerance in GB method. The new method is simple and fast. It takes no more than 3 minutes to detect one sample. Therefore, the method is feasible for implementing fast determination of gasoline induction period, and of a positive meaning in the evaluation of fuel quality.

The Fogging Method with Variable of Nozle Diameter as the Mitigation Alternative for Spreading the Dust of Cement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Purwanta, J.; Marnoto, T.; Setyono, P.; Ramelan, A. H.

2018-03-01

The cement plant impacts on the lives of people around the factory site, one of them on the air quality, especially dust. Cement plant has made various efforts to mitigate dust generated, but the reality on the ground is still a lot of dust flying around either of the cement factory chimneys and transportation. The purpose of this study was to find the optimum condition of nozle diameter from the cement dust catcher, for mitigation the dust spread to around the cement plant. This study uses research methods such as collecting secondary data which includes data intensity rainfall, the average long rains, wind speed and direction as well as data quality monitoring dust around PT. Semen Gresik (Persero) Tbk. Tuban plant. To determine the wind direction propensity models, use a soft Windrose file. To determine the impact on the spread of dust into the environment using secondary data monitoring air quality. Results of the study is that the mitigation of dust around the cement plant is influenced by natural factors, namely the tendency of wind direction, rainfall and rainy days, and the rate of dust emission from the chimney. I try for operate the cement dust catcher with variable of nozle diameter. Finally, I find the optimum condition of nozle diameter for cement dust catcher is 1.40 mm, with line equation is y = 149.09.e 1.6237.x and error 5%. In that condition, nozle can make the fog with a good quality and it can catch the cement dust well.

The expression of the skeletal muscle force-length relationship in vivo: a simulation study.

PubMed

Winter, Samantha L; Challis, John H

2010-02-21

The force-length relationship is one of the most important mechanical characteristics of skeletal muscle in humans and animals. For a physiologically realistic joint range of motion and therefore range of muscle fibre lengths only part of the force-length curve may be used in vivo, i.e. only a section of the force-length curve is expressed. A generalised model of a mono-articular muscle-tendon complex was used to examine the effect of various muscle architecture parameters on the expressed section of the force-length relationship for a 90 degrees joint range of motion. The parameters investigated were: the ratio of tendon resting length to muscle fibre optimum length (L(TR):L(F.OPT)) (varied from 0.5 to 11.5), the ratio of muscle fibre optimum length to average moment arm (L(F.OPT):r) (varied from 0.5 to 5), the normalised tendon strain at maximum isometric force (c) (varied from 0 to 0.08), the muscle fibre pennation angle (theta) (varied from 0 degrees to 45 degrees) and the joint angle at which the optimum muscle fibre length occurred (phi). The range of values chosen for each parameter was based on values reported in the literature for five human mono-articular muscles with different functional roles. The ratios L(TR):L(F.OPT) and L(F.OPT):r were important in determining the amount of variability in the expressed section of the force-length relationship. The modelled muscle operated over only one limb at intermediate values of these two ratios (L(TR):L(F.OPT)=5; L(F.OPT):r=3), whether this was the ascending or descending limb was determined by the precise values of the other parameters. It was concluded that inter-individual variability in the expressed section of the force-length relationship is possible, particularly for muscles with intermediate values of L(TR):L(F.OPT) and L(F.OPT):r such as the brachialis and vastus lateralis. Understanding the potential for inter-individual variability in the expressed section is important when using muscle models to simulate movement. (c) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cytomegalovirus Viral Load in Bronchoalveolar Lavage to Diagnose Lung Transplant Associated CMV Pneumonia.

PubMed

Lodding, Isabelle Paula; Schultz, Hans Henrik; Jensen, Jens-Ulrik; Kirkby, Nikolai; Perch, Michael; Andersen, Claus; Lundgren, Jens D; Iversen, Martin

2018-02-01

The diagnostic yield for cytomegalovirus (CMV) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) viral load in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) or in plasma to diagnose CMV pneumonia in lung transplant recipients remains uncertain and was investigated in a large cohort of consecutive lung transplant recipients. Bronchoscopies within the first year of lung transplantation with CMV detectable in BAL by PCR (ie, viral load, ≥273 IU/mL) were included (66 recipients; 145 bronchoscopies); at each bronchoscopy episode, 2 independent experts reviewed clinical and laboratory information to determine whether the patient at that time fulfilled the criteria for CMV pneumonia per current international recommendations. Corresponding plasma CMV PCR viral load determined at time of the bronchoscopy (n = 126) was also studied. Optimal CMV PCR viral load cutoff for CMV pneumonia diagnosis was determined using receiver operating characteristics. CMV was detected in BAL with CMV PCR in 145 episodes, and 34 (23%) of these episodes fulfilled the criteria for CMV pneumonia. The area under the curve-receiver operating characteristics for CMV in BAL was 90% at the optimum cutoff (4545 IU/mL) with a corresponding sensitivity of 91% and specificity of 77% (in plasma the corresponding values were 274 IU/mL, 63% and 76%, respectively). CMV PCR viral load in BAL had a high performance to diagnose CMV pneumonia in lung transplant recipients; plasma CMV viral load did not reliably aid as a diagnostic tool.

Preparation of A356 Foam Aluminum by Means of Titanium Hydride

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarajan, Zohair

2017-09-01

The effect of heating temperature and stirring time during preparation of foam aluminum alloy A356 on its relative porosity is studied. The optimum amount of the foam-forming agent, i.e., titanium hydride TiH2, facilitating uniform distribution of pores throughout the whole cross section of a hardened casting is determined. Optimum conditions are established for foam formation in a melt during stirring using a mixer are described.

Optimum Platinum Loading In Pt/SnO2 CO-Oxidizing Catalysts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schryer, David R.; Upchurch, Billy T.; Davis, Patricia P.; Brown, Kenneth G.; Schryer, Jacqueline

1991-01-01

Platinum on tin oxide (Pt/SnO2) good catalyst for oxidation of carbon monoxide at or near room temperature. Catalytic activity peaks at about 17 weight percent Pt. Catalysts with platinum loadings as high as 46 percent fabricated by technique developed at Langley Research Center. Work conducted to determine optimum platinum loading for this type of catalyst. Major application is removal of unwanted CO and O2 in CO2 lasers.

A study of the feasibility of directly applying gas generator systems to space shuttle mechanical functions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lake, E. R.

1974-01-01

This study examined the current status and potential application of pyrotechnic gas generators and energy convertors for the space shuttle program. While most pyrotechnic devices utilize some form of linear actuation, only limited use of rotary actuators has been observed. This latter form of energy conversion, using a vane-type actuator as optimum, offers considerable potential in the area of servo, as well as non-servo systems, and capitalizes on a means of providing prolonged operating times. Pyrotechnic devices can often be shown to provide the optimum means of attaining a truly redundant back-up to a primary, non-pyrotechnic system.

Evaluation of mechanical losses in a linear motor pressure wave generator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jacob, Subhash; Rangasamy, Karunanithi; Jonnalagadda, Kranthi Kumar; Chakkala, Damu; Achanur, Mallappa; Govindswamy, Jagadish; Gour, Abhay Singh

2012-06-01

A moving magnet linear motor compressor or pressure wave generator (PWG) of 2 cc swept volume with dual opposed piston configuration has been developed to operate miniature pulse tube coolers. Prelimnary experiments yielded only a no-load cold end temperature of 180 K. Auxiliary tests and the interpretation of detailed modeling of a PWG suggest that much of the PV power has been lost in the form of blow-by at piston seals due to large and non-optimum clearance seal gap between piston and cylinder. The results of experimental parameters simulated using Sage provide the optimum seal gap value for maximizing the delivered PV power.

User manual for VICONOPT: An exact analysis and optimum design program covering the buckling and vibration of prismatic assemblies of flat in-plane loaded, anisotropic plates, with approximations for discrete supports, and transverse stiffeners

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, F. W.; Anderson, M. S.; Kennedy, D.; Butler, R.; Aston, G.

1990-01-01

A computer program which is designed for efficient, accurate buckling and vibration analysis and optimum design of composite panels is described. The capabilities of the program are given along with detailed user instructions. It is written in FORTRAN 77 and is operational on VAX, IBM, and CDC computers and should be readily adapted to others. Several illustrations of the various aspects of the input are given along the example problems illustrating the use and application of the program.

Study of the Optimum Zone of the Independent Variables of an ORGEL Reactor Connected to a 250-MWeb Power Plant. Self Supporting Fuel Elements Made of UC, with Sap Cladding with Four Fuel Rods and Individual Pressure Tubes; STUDIE DER OPTIMALEN ZONE DER UNABHANGIGEN PARAMETER EINES ORGEL- REAKTORS IN EINEM 250-MWe-KRAFTWERK. SELBST-TRAGENDES BRENNELEMENT AUS UC, SAP-UMHUL-LUNG MIT 4 BRENNSTOFFSTABEN UND INDIVIDUELLEN DRUCKROHREN

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

LaFontaine, F.; Tauch, P.

The optimum range of the independent variables of and ORGEL reactor connected to a 250-Mw power plant (4 fuel rods of UC with individual pressure tubes), as well as the geometry of the reactor core and the operation of the plant, is described. (auth)

CFD-Based Design Optimization Tool Developed for Subsonic Inlet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1995-01-01

The traditional approach to the design of engine inlets for commercial transport aircraft is a tedious process that ends with a less-than-optimum design. With the advent of high-speed computers and the availability of more accurate and reliable computational fluid dynamics (CFD) solvers, numerical optimization processes can effectively be used to design an aerodynamic inlet lip that enhances engine performance. The designers' experience at Boeing Corporation showed that for a peak Mach number on the inlet surface beyond some upper limit, the performance of the engine degrades excessively. Thus, our objective was to optimize efficiency (minimize the peak Mach number) at maximum cruise without compromising performance at other operating conditions. Using a CFD code NPARC, the NASA Lewis Research Center, in collaboration with Boeing, developed an integrated procedure at Lewis to find the optimum shape of a subsonic inlet lip and a numerical optimization code, ADS. We used a GRAPE-based three-dimensional grid generator to help automate the optimization procedure. The inlet lip shape at the crown and the keel was described as a superellipse, and the superellipse exponents and radii ratios were considered as design variables. Three operating conditions: cruise, takeoff, and rolling takeoff, were considered in this study. Three-dimensional Euler computations were carried out to obtain the flow field. At the initial design, the peak Mach numbers for maximum cruise, takeoff, and rolling takeoff conditions were 0.88, 1.772, and 1.61, respectively. The acceptable upper limits on the takeoff and rolling takeoff Mach numbers were 1.55 and 1.45. Since the initial design provided by Boeing was found to be optimum with respect to the maximum cruise condition, the sum of the peak Mach numbers at takeoff and rolling takeoff were minimized in the current study while the maximum cruise Mach number was constrained to be close to that at the existing design. With this objective, the optimum design satisfied the upper limits at takeoff and rolling takeoff while retaining the desirable cruise performance. Further studies are being conducted to include static and cross-wind operating conditions in the design optimization procedure. This work was carried out in collaboration with Dr. E.S. Reddy of NYMA, Inc.

Multi-phase SPH modelling of violent hydrodynamics on GPUs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mokos, Athanasios; Rogers, Benedict D.; Stansby, Peter K.; Domínguez, José M.

2015-11-01

This paper presents the acceleration of multi-phase smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) using a graphics processing unit (GPU) enabling large numbers of particles (10-20 million) to be simulated on just a single GPU card. With novel hardware architectures such as a GPU, the optimum approach to implement a multi-phase scheme presents some new challenges. Many more particles must be included in the calculation and there are very different speeds of sound in each phase with the largest speed of sound determining the time step. This requires efficient computation. To take full advantage of the hardware acceleration provided by a single GPU for a multi-phase simulation, four different algorithms are investigated: conditional statements, binary operators, separate particle lists and an intermediate global function. Runtime results show that the optimum approach needs to employ separate cell and neighbour lists for each phase. The profiler shows that this approach leads to a reduction in both memory transactions and arithmetic operations giving significant runtime gains. The four different algorithms are compared to the efficiency of the optimised single-phase GPU code, DualSPHysics, for 2-D and 3-D simulations which indicate that the multi-phase functionality has a significant computational overhead. A comparison with an optimised CPU code shows a speed up of an order of magnitude over an OpenMP simulation with 8 threads and two orders of magnitude over a single thread simulation. A demonstration of the multi-phase SPH GPU code is provided by a 3-D dam break case impacting an obstacle. This shows better agreement with experimental results than an equivalent single-phase code. The multi-phase GPU code enables a convergence study to be undertaken on a single GPU with a large number of particles that otherwise would have required large high performance computing resources.

The Role of Economic Uncertainty on the Block Economic Value - a New Valuation Approach / Rola Czynnika Niepewności Przy Obliczaniu Wskaźnika Rentowności - Nowe Podejście

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dehghani, H.; Ataee-Pour, M.

2012-12-01

The block economic value (EV) is one of the most important parameters in mine evaluation. This parameter can affect significant factors such as mining sequence, final pit limit and net present value. Nowadays, the aim of open pit mine planning is to define optimum pit limits and an optimum life of mine production scheduling that maximizes the pit value under some technical and operational constraints. Therefore, it is necessary to calculate the block economic value at the first stage of the mine planning process, correctly. Unrealistic block economic value estimation may cause the mining project managers to make the wrong decision and thus may impose inexpiable losses to the project. The effective parameters such as metal price, operating cost, grade and so forth are always assumed certain in the conventional methods of EV calculation. While, obviously, these parameters have uncertain nature. Therefore, usually, the conventional methods results are far from reality. In order to solve this problem, a new technique is used base on an invented binomial tree which is developed in this research. This method can calculate the EV and project PV under economic uncertainty. In this paper, the EV and project PV were initially determined using Whittle formula based on certain economic parameters and a multivariate binomial tree based on the economic uncertainties such as the metal price and cost uncertainties. Finally the results were compared. It is concluded that applying the metal price and cost uncertainties causes the calculated block economic value and net present value to be more realistic than certain conditions.

High spectral selectivity for solar absorbers using a monolayer transparent conductive oxide coated on a metal substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimizu, Makoto; Suzuki, Mari; Iguchi, Fumitada; Yugami, Hiroo

2017-05-01

A spectrally selective absorber composed of a monolayer transparent conductive oxide (TCO) coated on a metal substrate is investigated for use in solar systems operating at temperatures higher (>973 K) than the operation temperature of conventional systems ( ˜ 673 K). This method is different from the currently used solar-selective coating technologies, such as those using multilayered and cermet materials. The spectral selective absorption property can be attributed to the inherent optical property of TCO owing to the plasma frequency and interferences between the substrates. Since spectral selectivity can be achieved using monolayered materials, the effect of atomic diffusion occurring at each layer boundary in a multilayer or cermet coatings under high-temperature conditions can be reduced. In addition, since this property is attributed to the inherent property of TCO, the precise control of the layer thickness can be omitted if the layer is sufficiently thick (>0.5 μm). The optimum TCO properties, namely, carrier density and mobility, required for solar-selective absorbers are analyzed to determine the cutoff wavelength and emittance in the infrared range. A solar absorptance of 0.95 and hemispherical emittance of 0.10 at 973 K are needed for achieving the optimum TCO properties, i.e., a carrier density of 5.5 × 1020 cm-3 and mobility of 90 cm2 V-1 s-1 are required. Optical simulations indicate that the spectrally selective absorption weakly depends on the incident angle and film thickness. The thermal stability of the fabricated absorber treated at temperatures up to 973 K for 10 h is verified in vacuum by introducing a SiO2 interlayer, which plays an important role as a diffusion barrier.

Performance of combined sodium persulfate/H2O2 based advanced oxidation process in stabilized landfill leachate treatment.

PubMed

Hilles, Ahmed H; Abu Amr, Salem S; Hussein, Rim A; El-Sebaie, Olfat D; Arafa, Anwaar I

2016-01-15

A combination of persulfate and hydrogen peroxide (S2O8(2-)/H2O2) was used to oxidizelandfill leachate. The reaction was performed under varying S2O8(2-)/H2O2 ratio (g/g), S2O8(2-)/H2O2 dosages (g/g), pH, and reaction time (minutes), so as to determine the optimum operational conditions. Results indicated that under optimum operational conditions (i.e. 120 min of oxidation using a S2O8(2-)/H2O2 ratio of 1 g/1.47 g at a persulfate and hydrogen peroxide dosage of 5.88 g/50 ml and8.63 g/50 ml respectively, at pH 11) removal of 81% COD and 83% NH3-N was achieved. In addition, the biodegradability (BOD5/COD ratio) of the leachate was improved from 0.09 to 0.17. The results obtained from the combined use of (S2O8(2-)/H2O2) were compared with those obtained with sodium persulfate only, hydrogen peroxide only and sodium persulfate followed by hydrogen peroxide. The combined method (S2O8(2-)/H2O2) achieved higher removal efficiencies for COD and NH3-N compared with the other methods using a single oxidizing agent. Additionally, the study has proved that the combination of S2O8(2-)/H2O2 is more efficient than the sequential use of sodium persulfate followed by hydrogen peroxide in advanced oxidation processes aiming at treatingstabilizedlandfill leachate. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The practical operational-amplifier gyrator circuit for inductorless filter synthesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sutherland, W. C.

1976-01-01

A literature is reported for gyrator circuits utilizing operational amplifiers as the active device. A gyrator is a two port nonreciprocal device with the property that the input impedance is proportional to the reciprocal of the load impedance. Following an experimental study, the gyrator circuit with optimum properties was selected for additional testing. A theoretical analysis was performed and compared to the experimental results for excellent agreement.

Critical induction a key quantity for the optimisation of transformer core operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ilo, A.; Pfützner, H.; Nakata, T.

2000-06-01

No-load losses P of transformers core have been considerably decreased through introduction of the so-called multi-step-lap designs. However, profound guidelines for the optimum step-number N do not exist. This study shows that the combination of both N and working induction B characterises the flux distribution. Transformer cores can operate in an over or an under-critical way depending on N and B.

[Experimental studies of micromotor headpieces].

PubMed

Kanaev, V F; Repin, V A

1982-01-01

Experimental studies of handpieces for micromotors have been performed to make more precise their operating parameters. The special stand has been used for the measurements of the following data: head temperature, power losses in handpieces at no-load, and operating power required for machining by means of spherical burrs. The experimental results made it possible to specify more exactly the range of handpiece rotational speeds and to select optimum loads under reliability testing.

Display formats manual

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Runnels, R. L.

1973-01-01

The standards and procedures for the generation of operational display formats to be used in the Mission Control Center (MCC) display control system are presented. The required effort, forms, and fundamentals for the design, specifications, and production of display formats are identified. The principles of display design and system constraints controlling the creation of optimum operational displays for mission control are explained. The basic two types of MCC display systems for presenting information are described.

Skylab astronaut life support assembly

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brown, J. T.

1972-01-01

A comparative study was performed to define an optimum portable life support system for suited operations inside and outside the Skylab Program. Emphasis was placed on utilization of qualified equipment, modified versions of qualified equipment, and new systems made up to state-of-the-art components. Outlined are the mission constraints, operational modes, and evaluation ground rules by which the Skylab portable life support system was selected and the resulting design.

The effect of experience, simulator-training and biometric feedback on manual ventilation technique.

PubMed

Lewis, Rebecca; Sherfield, Cerrie A; Fellows, Christopher R; Burrow, Rachel; Young, Iain; Dugdale, Alex

2017-05-01

To determine the frequency of provision and main providers (veterinary surgeons, nurses or trainees) of manual ventilation in UK veterinary practices. Furthermore, to determine the variation in peak inspiratory (inflation) pressure (PIP), applied to a lung model during manual ventilation, by three different groups of operators (inexperienced, experienced and specialist), before and after training. Questionnaire survey, lung model simulator development and prospective testing. Postal questionnaires were sent to 100 randomly selected veterinary practices. The lung model simulator was manually ventilated in a staged process over 3 weeks, with and without real-time biometric feedback (PIP display), by three groups of volunteer operators: inexperienced, experienced and specialist. The questionnaires determined that veterinary nurses were responsible for providing the majority of manual ventilation in veterinary practices, mainly drawing on theoretical knowledge rather than any specific training. Thoracic surgery and apnoea were the main reasons for provision of manual ventilation. Specialists performed well when manually ventilating the lung model, regardless of feedback training. Both inexperienced and experienced operators showed significant improvement in technique when using the feedback training tool: variation in PIP decreased significantly until operators provided manual ventilation at PIPs within the defined optimum range. Preferences for different forms of feedback (graphical, numerical or scale display), revealed that the operators' choice was not always the method which gave least variation in PIP. This study highlighted a need for training in manual ventilation at an early stage in veterinary and veterinary nursing careers and demonstrated how feedback is important in the process of experiential learning. A manometer device which can provide immediate feedback during training, or indeed in a real clinical setting, should improve patient safety. Copyright © 2017 Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists and American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Autoclave heat treatment for prealloyed powder products

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Freche, J. C.; Ashbrook, R. L.

1973-01-01

Technique could be applied directly to loose powders as part of hot pressing process of forming them to any required shapes. This would eliminate initial extrusion step commonly applied to prealloyed powders, substantially reduce cost of forming operation, and result in optimum properties.

Improving the operating effectiveness of the shaft kilns of magnesite combine

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

Utenkov, A.F.; Sinitsyn, E.A.; Gor'kova, T.V.

1986-11-01

The authors analyze the combustion efficiency of a natural gas-fired tunnel kiln and propose design and performance modifications to the burner and fuel systems to provide for optimum combustion and utilization of the calorific value of the fuel.

Interest focuses on exploratory areas

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

Stremel, K.

1984-10-01

Speculative geophysical programs are underway in sparsely drilled areas throughout the southern Rocky Mountain region. Responding to significant operator interest generated by new production in Nevada, a few contractors are designing programs to establish optimum recording parameters. Geophysical exploration activities in Colorado and Utah are discussed.

Space Operations Center orbit altitude selection strategy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Indrikis, J.; Myers, H. L.

1982-01-01

The strategy for the operational altitude selection has to respond to the Space Operation Center's (SOC) maintenance requirements and the logistics demands of the missions to be supported by the SOC. Three orbit strategies are developed: two are constant altitude, and one variable altitude. In order to minimize the effect of atmospheric uncertainty the dynamic altitude method is recommended. In this approach the SOC will operate at the optimum altitude for the prevailing atmospheric conditions and logistics model, provided that mission safety constraints are not violated. Over a typical solar activity cycle this method produces significant savings in the overall logistics cost.

Characterization of In-Flight Processing of Alumina Powder Using a DC-RF Hybrid Plasma Flow System at Constant Low Operating Power

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nishiyama, H.; Onodera, M.; Igawa, J.; Nakajima, T.

2009-12-01

The aim of this study is to provide the optimum operating conditions for enhancing in-flight alumina particle heating as much as possible for particle spheroidization and aggregation of melted particles using a DC-RF hybrid plasma flow system even at constant low operating power based on the thermofluid considerations. It is clarified that the swirl flow and higher operating pressure enhance the particle melting and aggregation of melted particles coupled with increasing gas temperature downstream of a plasma uniformly in the radial direction at constant electrical discharge conditions.

Cooled variable-area radial turbine technology program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Large, G. D.; Meyer, L. J.

1982-01-01

The objective of this study was a conceptual evaluation and design analyses of a cooled variable-area radial turbine capable of maintaining nearly constant high efficiency when operated at a constant speed and pressure ratio over a range of flows corresponding to 50- to 100-percent maximum engine power. The results showed that a 1589K (2400 F) turbine was feasible that would satisfy a 4000-hour duty cycle life goal. The final design feasibility is based on 1988 material technology goals. A peak aerodynamic stage total efficiency of 0.88 was predicted at 100 percent power. Two candidate stators were identified: an articulated trailing-edge and a locally movable sidewall. Both concepts must be experimentally evaluated to determine the optimum configuration. A follow-on test program is proposed for this evaluation.

General description and operation of the agro-environmental system: Crop management modeling. [Virginia

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gross, E.; Scott, J. H., Jr.

1981-01-01

Input for a data management system to provide farmers with information to improve crop management practices in Virginia requires monitoring of control crops at field stations, crop surveys derived from remotely sensed aircraft data, meteorological data from synchronous satellites, and details of local agricultural conditions. Presently models are under development for determining pest problems, water balance in the soil, stages of plant maturity, and optimum planting date. The status of the Cerospora leafspot model for peanut crop management is considered. Other models under development planned relate to Cylindtocladium Blackrot and Sclerotinia blight of peanuts, cyst nematode (Globerdena solanacearum) of tobacco, and red crown rot of soybeans. A software for program for estimating precipitation and solar radiation on a statewise basis is also being developed.

Using computer graphics to design Space Station Freedom viewing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldsberry, B. S.; Lippert, B. O.; Mckee, S. D.; Lewis, J. L., Jr.; Mount, F. E.

1989-01-01

An important aspect of planning for Space Station Freedom at the United States National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is the placement of the viewing windows and cameras for optimum crewmember use. Researchers and analysts are evaluating the placement options using a three-dimensional graphics program called PLAID. This program, developed at the NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC), is being used to determine the extent to which the viewing requirements for assembly and operations are being met. A variety of window placement options in specific modules are assessed for accessibility. In addition, window and camera placements are analyzed to insure that viewing areas are not obstructed by the truss assemblies, externally-mounted payloads, or any other station element. Other factors being examined include anthropometric design considerations, workstation interfaces, structural issues, and mechanical elements.

Dynamically timed electric motor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Casper, Ann M. (Inventor)

1994-01-01

The invention disclosed in this document is a brushless DC motor including a housing having an end cap secured thereto. The housing encloses a rotor, a stator and a rotationally displaceable commutation board having 5 sensors secured thereon and spaced around the periphery of the rotor. An external rotational force is applied to the commutation board for displacement of the sensors to various positions whereby varying feedback signals are generated by the positioning of the sensors relative to the rotating rotor. The commutation board is secured in a fixed position in response to feedback signals indicative of optimum sensor position being determined. The rotation of the commutation board and the securing of the sensors in the desired fixed position is accomplished without requiring the removal of the 5 end cap and with the DC motor operating.

Optimization of Steamed Meals Based on Composite Flour (Taro, Banana, Green Bean) and Its Predicted Shelf Life

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sunarmani; Setyadjit; Ermi, S.

2018-05-01

Ongol-ongol is for food diversification by mixing composite flour of taro, banana and mung bean, then was steamed by hot air. The purpose of this study was to find out the optimum way to produce ‘ongol-ongol’ from composite flour and to know the storage life by prediction method. The research consisted of two stages, namely the determination of the optimum formula of ‘ongol-ongol’ with Design Expert DX 8.1.6 software and the estimation of product shelf life of the optimum formula by ASLT (Accelerated Shelf Life Test) method. The optimum formula of the steamed meal was produced from composite flour and arenga flour with ratio of 50: 50 and flour to water ratio of 1: 1. The proximate content of steamed meal of optimum formula is 36.53% moisture content, ash content of 1,36%, fat content of 14.48%, protein level of 28.5%, and carbohydrate of 44.77% (w/w). Energy Value obtained from 100 g of ‘ongol-ongol’ was 320.8 Kcal. Recommended for steamed meal storage life is 12.54 days at ambient temperature.

Sensitive determination of enoxacin in pharmaceutical formulations by its quench effect on the fluorescence of glutathione-capped CdTe quantum dots.

PubMed

Yang, Qiong; Tan, Xuanping; Yang, Jidong

2016-02-01

A sensitive and simple method for the determination of enoxacin (ENX) was developed based on the fluorescence quenching effect of ENX for glutathione (GSH)-capped CdTe quantum dots (QDs). Under optimum conditions, a good linear relationship was obtained from 4.333 × 10(-9)  mol⋅L(-1) to 1.4 × 10(-5)  mol⋅L(-1) with a correlation coefficient (R) of 0.9987, and the detection limit (3σ/K) was 1.313 × 10(-9)  mol⋅L(-1). The corresponding mechanism has been proposed on the basis of electron transfer supported by ultraviolet-visible (UV) light absorption, fluorescence spectroscopy, and the measurement of fluorescence lifetime. The method has been applied to the determination of ENX in pharmaceutical formulations (enoxacin gluconate injections and commercial tablets) with satisfactory results. The proposed method manifested several advantages such as high sensitivity, short analysis time, low cost and ease of operation. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

A PLS-based extractive spectrophotometric method for simultaneous determination of carbamazepine and carbamazepine-10,11-epoxide in plasma and comparison with HPLC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hemmateenejad, Bahram; Rezaei, Zahra; Khabnadideh, Soghra; Saffari, Maryam

2007-11-01

Carbamazepine (CBZ) undergoes enzyme biotransformation through epoxidation with the formation of its metabolite, carbamazepine-10,11-epoxide (CBZE). A simple chemometrics-assisted spectrophotometric method has been proposed for simultaneous determination of CBZ and CBZE in plasma. A liquid extraction procedure was operated to separate the analytes from plasma, and the UV absorbance spectra of the resultant solutions were subjected to partial least squares (PLS) regression. The optimum number of PLS latent variables was selected according to the PRESS values of leave-one-out cross-validation. A HPLC method was also employed for comparison. The respective mean recoveries for analysis of CBZ and CBZE in synthetic mixtures were 102.57 (±0.25)% and 103.00 (±0.09)% for PLS and 99.40 (±0.15)% and 102.20 (±0.02)%. The concentrations of CBZ and CBZE were also determined in five patients using the PLS and HPLC methods. The results showed that the data obtained by PLS were comparable with those obtained by HPLC method.

Distillation Designs for the Lunar Surface

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Boul, Peter J.; Lange,Kevin E.; Conger, Bruce; Anderson, Molly

2010-01-01

Gravity-based distillation methods may be applied to the purification of wastewater on the lunar base. These solutions to water processing are robust physical separation techniques, which may be more advantageous than many other techniques for their simplicity in design and operation. The two techniques can be used in conjunction with each other to obtain high purity water. The components and feed compositions for modeling waste water streams are presented in conjunction with the Aspen property system for traditional stage distillation. While the individual components for each of the waste streams will vary naturally within certain bounds, an analog model for waste water processing is suggested based on typical concentration ranges for these components. Target purity levels for recycled water are determined for each individual component based on NASA s required maximum contaminant levels for potable water Optimum parameters such as reflux ratio, feed stage location, and processing rates are determined with respect to the power consumption of the process. Multistage distillation is evaluated for components in wastewater to determine the minimum number of stages necessary for each of 65 components in humidity condensate and urine wastewater mixed streams.

Use of RSM for the multivariate, simultaneous multiobjective optimization of the operating conditions of aliphatic carboxylic acids ion-exclusion chromatography column: Quantitative study of hydrodynamic, isotherm, and thermodynamic behavior.

PubMed

Shojaeimehr, Tahereh; Rahimpour, Farshad; Schwarze, Michael; Repke, Jens-Uwe; Godini, Hamid Reza; Wozny, Günter

2018-04-15

The present study evaluates the capability of ion exclusion chromatography (IEC) of short chain aliphatic carboxylic acids using a cation exchange column (8% sulfonated cross-linked styrene-divinylbenzene copolymer) in different experimental conditions. Since one of the prerequisites to the development of an efficient carboxylic acid separation process is to obtain the optimum operational conditions, response surface methodology (RSM) was used to develop an approach to evaluate carboxylic acids separation process in IEC columns. The effect of the operating conditions such as column temperature, sulfuric acid concentration as the mobile phase, and the flow rate was studied using Central Composite Face (CCF) design. The optimum operating conditions for the separate injection of lactic acid and acetic acid is temperature of 75 °C, sulfuric acid concentration of 0.003 N for both acids and flow rate of 0.916 (0.886) mL/min for acetic acid (lactic acid). Likewise, the optimum conditions for the simultaneous injection of acetic and lactic acid mixture are the column temperature of 68 °C, sulfuric acid concentration of 0.0003 N, and flow rate of 0.777 mL/min. In the next step, the adsorption equilibria of acetic acid and lactic acid on the stationary phase were investigated through a series of Frontal Analysis (FA), Frontal Analysis by Characteristic Points (FACP), and using Langmuir isotherm model. The results showed an excellent agreement between the model and experimental data. Finally, the results of thermodynamic studies proved that the IEC process for separation of acetic and lactic acid is a spontaneous, feasible, exothermic, and random process with a physical adsorption mechanism. The results of the current paper can be a valuable information in the stages of designing IEC columns for separation of aliphatic carboxylic acids. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

An ergonomic study of the optimum operating table height for laparoscopic surgery.

PubMed

Berquer, R; Smith, W D; Davis, S

2002-03-01

Laparoscopic surgery requires the use of longer instruments than open surgery, thus changing the relation between the height of the surgeon's hands and the desirable height of the operating room table. The optimum height of the operating room table for laparoscopic surgery is investigated in this study. Twenty-one surgeons performed a two-handed, one-fourth circle cutting task using a laparoscopic video system and laparoscopic instruments positioned at five instrument handle heights relative to subjects' elbow height (-20, -10, 0, +10, and +20 cm) by adjusting the height of the trainer box. Subjects rated the difficulty and discomfort experienced during each task on a visual analog scale. Skin conductance (SC) was measured in Micromhos via paired surface electrodes placed near the ulnar edge of the palm of the right (cutting) hand. The mean electromyographic (EMG) signal from the right deltoid and trapezius muscles was measured. Arm orientation was measured in three dimensions using a magnetometer/accelerometer. Signals were acquired using analog circuitry and digitally sampled using a National Instruments DAQCard 700 connected to a Macintosh PowerBook 5300c running LabVIEW software. Statistical analysis was carried out by analysis of variance and post hoc testing. Statistically significant changes were found in the subjective rating of discomfort (p <0.002), deltoid EMG (p <0.0006), trapezius EMG (p <0.0001), and arm elevation (p <0.0001) between instrument handle heights. SC values and task times did not change significantly. Discomfort and difficulty ratings were lowest when instrument handles were positioned at elbow height. EMG values and arm elevation all decreased with lower instrument height. This study suggests that the optimum table height for laparoscopic surgery should position the laparoscopic instrument handles close to surgeons' elbow level to minimize discomfort and upper arm and shoulder muscle work. This corresponds to an approximate table height of 64 to 77 cm above floor level. A redesign of current operating room tables may be required to meet these ergonomic guidelines.

A review of methods for monitoring streamflow for sustainable water resource management

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dobriyal, Pariva; Badola, Ruchi; Tuboi, Chongpi; Hussain, Syed Ainul

2017-10-01

Monitoring of streamflow may help to determine the optimum levels of its use for sustainable water management in the face of climate change. We reviewed available methods for monitoring streamflow on the basis of six criteria viz. their applicability across different terrains and size of the streams, operational ease, time effectiveness, accuracy, environmental impact that they may cause and cost involve in it. On the basis of the strengths and weaknesses of each of the methods reviewed, we conclude that the timed volume method is apt for hilly terrain having smaller streams due to its operational ease and accuracy of results. Although comparatively expensive, the weir and flume methods are suitable for long term studies of small hill streams, since once the structure is put in place, it yields accurate results. In flat terrain, the float method is best suited for smaller streams for its operational ease and cost effectiveness, whereas, for larger streams, the particle image velocimetry may be used for its accuracy. Our review suggests that the selection of a method for monitoring streamflow may be based on volume of the stream, accuracy of the method, accessibility of the terrain and financial and physical resources available.

Study on effect of geometrical configuration of radioactive source material to the radiation intensity of betavoltaic nuclear battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Badrianto, Muldani Dwi; Riupassa, Robi D.; Basar, Khairul

2015-09-01

Nuclear batteries have strategic applications and very high economic potential. One Important problem in application of nuclear betavoltaic battery is its low efficiency. Current efficiency of betavoltaic nuclear battery reaches only arround 2%. One aspect that can influence the efficiency of betavoltaic nuclear battery is the geometrical configuration of radioactive source. In this study we discuss the effect of geometrical configuration of radioactive source material to the radiation intensity in betavoltaic nuclear battery system. received by the detector. By obtaining the optimum configurations, the optimum usage of radioactive materials can be determined. Various geometrical configurations of radioactive source material are simulated. It is obtained that usage of radioactive source will be optimum for circular configuration.

The effect of noise constraints on engine cycle optimization for long-haul transports

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Antl, R. J.

1973-01-01

Optimum engine cycles were determined for noise levels of 10, 15, and 20 EPNdB below current FAA regulations, using 200-passenger trijet aircraft flying over ranges from 5555 to 10,200 km at cruise speeds of Mach 0.90 and 0.98. The tests showed that the noise constraints imposed compromises on the optimum cycle with resulting economic penalties. The economic penalties, however, could be effectively offset by applying advanced engine technologies.

Optimum systems design with random input and output applied to solar water heating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdel-Malek, L. L.

1980-03-01

Solar water heating systems are evaluated. Models were developed to estimate the percentage of energy supplied from the Sun to a household. Since solar water heating systems have random input and output queueing theory, birth and death processes were the major tools in developing the models of evaluation. Microeconomics methods help in determining the optimum size of the solar water heating system design parameters, i.e., the water tank volume and the collector area.

Modification of Natural Zeolite with Fe(III) and Its Application as Adsorbent Chloride and Carbonate ions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suhartana; Sukmasari, Emmanuella; Azmiyawati, Choiril

2018-04-01

The aim of the research is to natural zeolite with Fe(III) using anion exchange process to improve the anion exchange capacity. Natural zeolite was activated using HNO3 1 N and then mixed with FeCl3 solution and refluxed followed by oven and calcination at a temperature of 550°C. The influence of Fe(III) to zeolite was characterized by FTIR while presence of Fe in zeolite characterized by AAS. Zeolite and Zeolite-Fe adsorption capacity of chloride and carbonate anions were determined through adsorption test by variation of pH and contact time. In advanced, and then to determining the Fe adsorbed concentration at Zeolite using UV-Vis spectrophotometer. FTIR analysis result showed that the addition of Fe does not affect the zeolite’s structure but change the intensity of the zeolite spectra. The Fe concentration in Zeolite-Fe of 714 mg L-1, indicate that Fe was present in the zeolite. Both Zeolite and Zeolite-Fe adsorbtion results showed that optimum pH of Chloride anion is 2, with adsorption capacity 2,33 x 10-3 gg-1 and optimum contact time is 8 minutes. While Zeolite and Zeolite-Fe adsorbtion results showed that optimum pH of Carbonate anion is 5, with adsorption capacity 5,31 x 10-3 gg-1 and optimum contact time is 8 minutes.

Helicopter vibration suppression using simple pendulum absorbers on the rotor blade

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pierce, G. A.; Hanouva, M. N. H.

1982-01-01

A comprehensive anaytical design procedure for the installation of simple pendulums on the blades of a helicopter rotor to suppress the root reactions is presented. A frequency response anaysis is conducted of typical rotor blades excited by a harmonic variation of spanwise airload distributions as well as a concentrated load at the tip. The results presented included the effect of pendulum tuning on the minimization of the hub reactions. It is found that a properly designed flapping pendulum attenuates the root out-of-plane force and moment whereas the optimum designed lead-lag pendulum attenuates the root in-plane reactions. For optimum pendulum tuning the parameters to be determined are the pendulum uncoupled natural frequency, the pendulum spanwise location and its mass. It is found that the optimum pendulum frequency is in the vicinity of the excitation frequency. For the optimum pendulum a parametric study is conducted. The parameters varied include prepitch, pretwist, precone and pendulum hinge offset.

The Effect of Crumb Rubber Particle Size to the Optimum Binder Content for Open Graded Friction Course

PubMed Central

Ibrahim, Mohd Rasdan; Katman, Herda Yati; Karim, Mohamed Rehan; Koting, Suhana; Mashaan, Nuha S.

2014-01-01

The main objective of this paper is to investigate the relations of rubber size, rubber content, and binder content in determination of optimum binder content for open graded friction course (OGFC). Mix gradation type B as specified in Specification for Porous Asphalt produced by the Road Engineering Association of Malaysia (REAM) was used in this study. Marshall specimens were prepared with four different sizes of rubber, namely, 20 mesh size [0.841 mm], 40 mesh [0.42 mm], 80 mesh [0.177 mm], and 100 mesh [0.149 mm] with different concentrations of rubberised bitumen (4%, 8%, and 12%) and different percentages of binder content (4%–7%). The appropriate optimum binder content is then selected according to the results of the air voids, binder draindown, and abrasion loss test. Test results found that crumb rubber particle size can affect the optimum binder content for OGFC. PMID:24574875

The optimum decision rules for the oddity task.

PubMed

Versfeld, N J; Dai, H; Green, D M

1996-01-01

This paper presents the optimum decision rule for an m-interval oddity task in which m-1 intervals contain the same signal and one is different or odd. The optimum decision rule depends on the degree of correlation among observations. The present approach unifies the different strategies that occur with "roved" or "fixed" experiments (Macmillan & Creelman, 1991, p. 147). It is shown that the commonly used decision rule for an m-interval oddity task corresponds to the special case of highly correlated observations. However, as is also true for the same-different paradigm, there exists a different optimum decision rule when the observations are independent. The relation between the probability of a correct response and d' is derived for the three-interval oddity task. Tables are presented of this relation for the three-, four-, and five-interval oddity task. Finally, an experimental method is proposed that allows one to determine the decision rule used by the observer in an oddity experiment.

Removal of phenol from synthetic wastewater using carbon-mineral composite: Batch mechanisms and composition study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamaruddin, Mohamad Anuar; Alrozi, Rasyidah; Aziz, Hamidi Abdul; Han, Tan Yong; Yusoff, Mohd Suffian

2017-09-01

This study investigates the treatability of composite adsorbent made from waste materials and minerals which is widely available in Malaysia. The composite adsorbent was prepared based on wet attrition method which focuses on the determination of optimum dosage of each of raw materials amount by conventional design of experiment work. Zeolite, activated carbon, rice husk and limestone were ground to obtained particle size of 150 µm. 45.94% zeolite, 15.31% limestone, 4.38% activated carbon, 4.38% rice husk carbon and 30% of ordinary Portland cement (OPC). The mixture was mixed together under pre-determined mixing time. About 60% (by weight) of water was added and the mixture paste was allowed to harden for 24 hours and then submersed in water for three days for curing. Batch experimental study was performed on synthetic dissolving a known amount of solid crystal phenol with distilled water into the volumetric flasks. From the batch experimental study, it was revealed that the optimum shaking speed for removal of phenol was 200 rpm. The removal efficiency was 65%. The optimum shaking time for removing phenol was 60 minutes; the percentage achieved was 55%. The removal efficiency increased with the increased of the amount of composite adsorbent. The removal efficiency for optimum adsorbent dosage achieved 86%. Furthermore, the influence of pH solution was studied. The optimum pH for removing phenol was pH 6, with the removal percentage of 95%. The results implies that carbon-mineral based composite adsorbent is promising replacement for commercial adsorbent that provides alternative source for industrial adsorption application in various types of effluent treatment system.

Methods for the synthesis of polysilanes

DOEpatents

Zeigler, John M.

1991-01-01

A method of controlling the yield of polysilane of a desired molecular weight and/or polydispersity prepared in a reductive condensation of corresponding silane monomers on a solid catalyst dispersed in an inert solvent for both the monomers and the growing polymer chains, comprises determining the variation of molecular weight and/or polydispersity of the polysilane as a function of the solubility of the polysilane in reaction solvent, determining thereby a chosen optimum solubility of the polysilane in solvent for obtaining a desired yield of polysilane of said desired molecular weight and/or polydispersity, and thereafter carrying out the preparation of the polysilane in a solvent in which the polysilane has said chosen optimum solubility.

Three-meter telescope study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wissinger, A.; Scott, R. M.; Peters, W.; Augustyn, W., Jr.; Arnold, R.; Offner, A.; Damast, M.; Boyce, B.; Kinnaird, R.; Mangus, J. D.

1971-01-01

A means is presented whereby the effect of various changes in the most important parameters of a three meter aperature space astronomy telescope can be evaluated to determine design trends and to optimize the optical design configuration. Methods are defined for evaluating the theoretical optical performance of axisymmetric, centrally obscured telescopes based upon the intended astronomy research usage. A series of design parameter variations is presented to determine the optimum telescope configuration. The design optimum requires very fast primary mirrors, so the study also examines the current state of the art in fabricating large, fast primary mirrors. The conclusion is that a 3-meter primary mirror having a focal ratio as low as f/2 is feasible using currently established techniques.

Multi-objective thermodynamic optimisation of supercritical CO2 Brayton cycles integrated with solar central receivers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vasquez Padilla, Ricardo; Soo Too, Yen Chean; Benito, Regano; McNaughton, Robbie; Stein, Wes

2018-01-01

In this paper, optimisation of the supercritical CO? Brayton cycles integrated with a solar receiver, which provides heat input to the cycle, was performed. Four S-CO? Brayton cycle configurations were analysed and optimum operating conditions were obtained by using a multi-objective thermodynamic optimisation. Four different sets, each including two objective parameters, were considered individually. The individual multi-objective optimisation was performed by using Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm. The effect of reheating, solar receiver pressure drop and cycle parameters on the overall exergy and cycle thermal efficiency was analysed. The results showed that, for all configurations, the overall exergy efficiency of the solarised systems achieved at maximum value between 700°C and 750°C and the optimum value is adversely affected by the solar receiver pressure drop. In addition, the optimum cycle high pressure was in the range of 24.2-25.9 MPa, depending on the configurations and reheat condition.

Research on the Treatment of Aluminum Alloy Chemical Milling Wastewater with Fenton Process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zong-liang, Huang; Ru, Li; Peng, Luo; Jun-li, Gu

2018-03-01

The aluminum alloy chemical milling wastewater was treated by Fenton method. The effect of pH value, reaction time, rotational speed, H2O2 dosage, Fe2+ dosage and the molar ratio between H2O2 and Fe2+ on the COD removal rate of aluminum alloy chemical milling wastewater were investigated by single factor experiment and orthogonal experiment. The results showed that the optimum operating conditions for Fenton oxidation were as follows: the initial pH value was 3, the rotational speed was 250r/min, the molar ratio of H2O2 and Fe2+ was 8, the reaction time was 90 min. Under the optimum conditions, the removal rate of the wastewater’s COD is about 72.36%. In the reaction kinetics that aluminum alloy chemical milling wastewater was oxidized and degraded by Fenton method under the optimum conditions, the reaction sequence of the initial COD was 0.8204.

Analysis of Meteorological Satellite location and data collection system concepts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wallace, R. G.; Reed, D. L.

1981-01-01

A satellite system that employs a spaceborne RF interferometer to determine the location and velocity of data collection platforms attached to meteorological balloons is proposed. This meteorological advanced location and data collection system (MALDCS) is intended to fly aboard a low polar orbiting satellite. The flight instrument configuration includes antennas supported on long deployable booms. The platform location and velocity estimation errors introduced by the dynamic and thermal behavior of the antenna booms and the effects of the presence of the booms on the performance of the spacecraft's attitude control system, and the control system design considerations critical to stable operations are examined. The physical parameters of the Astromast type of deployable boom were used in the dynamic and thermal boom analysis, and the TIROS N system was assumed for the attitude control analysis. Velocity estimation error versus boom length was determined. There was an optimum, minimum error, antenna separation distance. A description of the proposed MALDCS system and a discussion of ambiguity resolution are included.

Immobilization of an L-aminoacylase-producing strain of Aspergillus oryzae into gelatin pellets and its application in the resolution of D,L-methionine.

PubMed

Yuan Yj, Ying-jin; Wang Sh, Shu-hao; Song Zx, Zheng-xiao; Gao Rc, Rui-chang

2002-04-01

The conditions for immobilization of an l-aminoacylase-producing strain of Aspergillus oryzae in gelatin and the enzymic characteristics of the immobilized pellets were studied. The optimal concentrations of gelatin, glutaraldehyde and ethyldiamine and time of immobilization were determined. Scanning electron micrographs reveal the cross-linked structure differences between the native and immobilized pellets. Optimum pH and temperature of the native and immobilized pellets were determined. Effects of ionic strength and substrate concentration on relative activity of the native and immobilized pellets were investigated in detail. The immobilized pellets were more stable over broader temperature and pH ranges. In addition, the immobilized pellets showed stable activity under operational and storage conditions. The immobilized pellets lost about 20% of their initial activity after five cycles of reuse. The results reported in this paper show the potential for using the immobilized A. oryzae pellets to resolve d,l-methionine.

The Use of Input-Output Control System Analysis for Sustainable Development of Multivariable Environmental Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koliopoulos, T. C.; Koliopoulou, G.

2007-10-01

We present an input-output solution for simulating the associated behavior and optimized physical needs of an environmental system. The simulations and numerical analysis determined the accurate boundary loads and areas that were required to interact for the proper physical operation of a complicated environmental system. A case study was conducted to simulate the optimum balance of an environmental system based on an artificial intelligent multi-interacting input-output numerical scheme. The numerical results were focused on probable further environmental management techniques, with the objective of minimizing any risks and associated environmental impact to protect the quality of public health and the environment. Our conclusions allowed us to minimize the associated risks, focusing on probable cases in an emergency to protect the surrounded anthropogenic or natural environment. Therefore, the lining magnitude could be determined for any useful associated technical works to support the environmental system under examination, taking into account its particular boundary necessities and constraints.

Operational integration in primary health care: patient encounters and workflows.

PubMed

Sifaki-Pistolla, Dimitra; Chatzea, Vasiliki-Eirini; Markaki, Adelais; Kritikos, Kyriakos; Petelos, Elena; Lionis, Christos

2017-11-29

Despite several countrywide attempts to strengthen and standardise the primary healthcare (PHC) system, Greece is still lacking a sustainable, policy-based model of integrated services. The aim of our study was to identify operational integration levels through existing patient care pathways and to recommend an alternative PHC model for optimum integration. The study was part of a large state-funded project, which included 22 randomly selected PHC units located across two health regions of Greece. Dimensions of operational integration in PHC were selected based on the work of Kringos and colleagues. A five-point Likert-type scale, coupled with an algorithm, was used to capture and transform theoretical framework features into measurable attributes. PHC services were grouped under the main categories of chronic care, urgent/acute care, preventive care, and home care. A web-based platform was used to assess patient pathways, evaluate integration levels and propose improvement actions. Analysis relied on a comparison of actual pathways versus optimal, the latter ones having been identified through literature review. Overall integration varied among units. The majority (57%) of units corresponded to a basic level. Integration by type of PHC service ranged as follows: basic (86%) or poor (14%) for chronic care units, poor (78%) or basic (22%) for urgent/acute care units, basic (50%) for preventive care units, and partial or basic (50%) for home care units. The actual pathways across all four categories of PHC services differed from those captured in the optimum integration model. Certain similarities were observed in the operational flows between chronic care management and urgent/acute care management. Such similarities were present at the highest level of abstraction, but also in common steps along the operational flows. Existing patient care pathways were mapped and analysed, and recommendations for an optimum integration PHC model were made. The developed web platform, based on a strong theoretical framework, can serve as a robust integration evaluation tool. This could be a first step towards restructuring and improving PHC services within a financially restrained environment.

Zero Launch Mass Three Dimensional Print Head

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mueller, Robert P.; Gelino, Nathan J.; Smith, Jonathan D.; Buckles, Brad C.; Lippitt, Thomas; Schuler, Jason M.; Nick, Andrew J.; Nugent, Matt W.; Townsend, Ivan I.

2018-01-01

NASA's strategic goal is to put humans on Mars in the 2030's. The NASA Human Spaceflight Architecture Team (HAT) and NASA Mars Design Reference Architecture (DRA) 5.0 has determined that in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) is an essential technology to accomplish this mission. Additive construction technology using in-situ materials from planetary surfaces will reduce launch mass, allow structures to be three dimensionally (3D) printed on demand, and will allow building designs to be transmitted digitally from Earth and printed in space. This will ultimately lead to elimination of reliance on structural materials launched from Earth (zero launch mass of construction consumables). The zero launch mass (ZLM) 3D print head project addressed this need by developing a system that 3D prints using a mixture of in-situ regolith and polymer as feedstock, determining the optimum mixture ratio and regolith particle size distribution, developing software to convert g-code into motion instructions for a FANUC robotic arm, printing test samples, performing materials testing, and printing a reduced scale habitable structure concept. This paper will focus on the ZLM 3D Print Head design, materials selection, software development, and lessons learned from operating the system in the NASA KSC Swamp Works Granular Mechanics & Regolith Operations (GMRO) Laboratory.

A Comparison of Simple Methods to Incorporate Material Temperature Dependency in the Green's Function Method for Estimating Transient Thermal Stresses in Thick-Walled Power Plant Components.

PubMed

Rouse, James; Hyde, Christopher

2016-01-06

The threat of thermal fatigue is an increasing concern for thermal power plant operators due to the increasing tendency to adopt "two-shifting" operating procedures. Thermal plants are likely to remain part of the energy portfolio for the foreseeable future and are under societal pressures to generate in a highly flexible and efficient manner. The Green's function method offers a flexible approach to determine reference elastic solutions for transient thermal stress problems. In order to simplify integration, it is often assumed that Green's functions (derived from finite element unit temperature step solutions) are temperature independent (this is not the case due to the temperature dependency of material parameters). The present work offers a simple method to approximate a material's temperature dependency using multiple reference unit solutions and an interpolation procedure. Thermal stress histories are predicted and compared for realistic temperature cycles using distinct techniques. The proposed interpolation method generally performs as well as (if not better) than the optimum single Green's function or the previously-suggested weighting function technique (particularly for large temperature increments). Coefficients of determination are typically above 0 . 96 , and peak stress differences between true and predicted datasets are always less than 10 MPa.

Removal of unburned carbon from coal fly ash using a pneumatic triboelectrostatic separator.

PubMed

Kim, J K; Cho, H C; Kim, S C

2001-01-01

A pneumatic triboelectrostatic beneficiation system of fly ash was studied using a continuous, bench-scale electroseparator composed of two vertical electrode plates and an ejector-tribocharger. Tests were conducted to evaluate the charge density and the separation efficiency at various operating conditions. It was found that the higher charge densities were obtained at (1) the air flow rate of 1.75 m3/min. (2) the feed rate of less than 50 kg/h. and (3) the relative humidity of less than 30% with use of a stainless ejector tribocharger. With these optimum conditions, the clean ash of less than LOI 3% was recovered with a yield over 75% when operated at the diffuser slit gap of 4mm, the diffuser outlet velocity of 16.1-18.6 m/s, and the distance of 15 cm between diffuser slit and splitter. The optimum feed rate was found to be 740 kg/h per m2 of electrode surface area, which can be used as a scale-up factor of electroseparator.

Development of the Optimum Operation Scheduling Model of Domestic Electric Appliances for the Supply-Demand Adjustment in a Power System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ikegami, Takashi; Iwafune, Yumiko; Ogimoto, Kazuhiko

The high penetration of variable renewable generation such as Photovoltaic (PV) systems will cause the issue of supply-demand imbalance in a whole power system. The activation of the residential power usage, storage and generation by sophisticated scheduling and control using the Home Energy Management System (HEMS) will be needed to balance power supply and demand in the near future. In order to evaluate the applicability of the HEMS as a distributed controller for local and system-wide supply-demand balances, we developed an optimum operation scheduling model of domestic electric appliances using the mixed integer linear programming. Applying this model to several houses with dynamic electricity prices reflecting the power balance of the total power system, it was found that the adequate changes in electricity prices bring about the shift of residential power usages to control the amount of the reverse power flow due to excess PV generation.

The Case Mix of Patients Presenting with Full-Thickness Macular Holes and Progression before Surgery: Implications for Optimum Management.

PubMed

Madi, Haifa A; Dinah, Christiana; Rees, Jon; Steel, David H W

2015-01-01

Analysis of pre-operative spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) characteristics of full-thickness macular holes (FTMH) and effect on optimum management. We retrospectively reviewed SD-OCT characteristics of a consecutive cohort of patients waitlisted for FTMH surgery and categorized them by current evidence-based treatments. Out of the 106 holes analysed, 36 were small, 40 medium and 30 large. Initially, 33 holes had vitreomacular adhesion (VMA). 41 holes were analysed for change in characteristics with a median duration of 8 weeks between the scans. The number of small or medium holes decreased from 20 to 6 and that of large holes doubled. The number of holes with VMA halved. Smaller hole size (p = 0.014) and being phakic (p = 0.048) were associated with a larger increase in size. The strongest predictor of hole progression into a different surgical management category was the presence of VMA. FTMH characteristics can change significantly pre-operatively and affect optimal treatment choice.

Optimum quantum receiver for detecting weak signals in PAM communication systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, Navneet; Rawat, Tarun Kumar; Parthasarathy, Harish; Gautam, Kumar

2017-09-01

This paper deals with the modeling of an optimum quantum receiver for pulse amplitude modulator (PAM) communication systems. The information bearing sequence {I_k}_{k=0}^{N-1} is estimated using the maximum likelihood (ML) method. The ML method is based on quantum mechanical measurements of an observable X in the Hilbert space of the quantum system at discrete times, when the Hamiltonian of the system is perturbed by an operator obtained by modulating a potential V with a PAM signal derived from the information bearing sequence {I_k}_{k=0}^{N-1}. The measurement process at each time instant causes collapse of the system state to an observable eigenstate. All probabilities of getting different outcomes from an observable are calculated using the perturbed evolution operator combined with the collapse postulate. For given probability densities, calculation of the mean square error evaluates the performance of the receiver. Finally, we present an example involving estimating an information bearing sequence that modulates a quantum electromagnetic field incident on a quantum harmonic oscillator.

Optimization of Biomass Gasification Process for F-T Bio-Diesel Synthesys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Jae Hun; Sung, Yeon Kyung; Yu, Tae U.; Choi, Young Tae; Lee, Uen Do

The characteristics of biomass steam gasification were investigated to make an optimum syngas for Fischer Tropsch (F-T) synthesis of bio-diesel. Korean pine wood chip was used as a fuel and the experiment was conducted in a lab scale bubbling fluidized bed (0.1m LD. x 3.Omheight). Gas composition was evaluated by changing operating parameters such as gasifier temperature, and steam to fuel ratio. Major syngas was monitored by on-line gas analyzer (ND-IR spectroscopy) and gas chromatography (GC). As the temperature of gasifier increases hydrogen in the syngas increases while CO in the product gas decreases. The low concentration of sulfur compound and nitrogen in the product gas shows the potential advantages in the purification process of the syngas for F-T process. Optimum operating condition of the gasifier was found concerning the following gas cleaning and F-T process; H2-CO ratio and total gas yield increase while decreasing methane and CO2 concentrations in the syngas.

Cryogenic Eyesafer Laser Optimization for Use Without Liquid Nitrogen

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-02-01

liquid cryogens. This calls for optimal performance around 125–150 K—high enough for reasonably efficient operation of a Stirling cooler. We...state laser system with an optimum operating temperature somewhat higher—ideally 125–150 K—can be identified, then a Stirling cooler can be used to...needed to optimize laser performance in the desired temperature range. This did not include actual use of Stirling coolers, but rather involved both

Including climate variability in determination of the optimum rate of N fertilizer application using a crop model: A case study for rainfed corn in eastern Canada

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mesbah, M.; Pattey, E.; Jégo, G.; Geng, X.; Tremblay, N.; Didier, A.

2017-12-01

Identifying optimum nitrogen (N) application rate is essential for increasing agricultural production while limiting potential environmental contaminations caused by release of reactive N, especially for high demand N crops such as corn. The central question of N management is then how the optimum N rate is affected by climate variability for given soil. The experimental determination of optimum N rates involve the analyses of variance on the mean value of crop yield response to various N application rates used by factorial plot based experiments for a few years in several regions. This traditional approach has limitations to capture 1) the non-linear response of yield to N application rates due to large incremental N rates (often more than 40 kg N ha-1) and 2) the ecophysiological response of the crop to climate variability because of limited numbers of growing seasons considered. Modeling on the other hand, does not have such limitations and hence we use a crop model and propose a model-based methodology called Finding NEMO (N Ecophysiologically Modelled Optimum) to identify the optimum N rates for variable agro-climatic conditions and given soil properties. The performance of the methodology is illustrated using the STICS crop model adapted for rainfed corn in the Mixedwood Plains ecozone of eastern Canada (42.3oN 83oW-46.8oN 71oW) where more than 90% of Canadian corn is produced. The simulations were performed using small increment of preplant N application rate (10 kg N ha -1), long time series of daily climatic data (48 to 61 years) for 5 regions along the ecozone, and three contrasting soils per region. The results show that N recommendations should be region and soil specific. Soils with lower available water capacity required more N compared to soil with higher available water capacity. When N rates were at their ecophysiologically optimum level, 10 to 17 kg increase in dry yield could be achieved by adding 1 kg N. Expected yield also affected the optimum N rates for the region and soil. For instance, the probability to achieve a yield of 9.2 t ha-1 at 15% grain moisture on a loamy soil varied from 0 to 73% along the ecozone. For this level of expected yield, the recommended N rates ranged from 64 to 155 kg ha-1, which are relatively less than current provincial recommendations in Ontario and Quebec (120-170 kg ha-1).

Partial biochemical characterization of crude extract extracellular chitinase enzyme from Bacillus subtilis B 298

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lestari, P.; Prihatiningsih, N.; Djatmiko, H. A.

2017-02-01

Extraction and characterization of extracellular chitinase from Bacillus subtilis B 298 have been done. Growth curve determination of B. subtilis B 298, production curve determination of crude extract chitinase from B. subtilis B 298, and partial biochemical characterization of crude extract chitinase have been achieved in this study. Optimum growth of B. subtilis B 298 was achieved at logarithmic phase within 9 hours incubation time, so it was used as inoculum for enzyme production. According to production curve of the enzyme, it was known that incubation time which gave the highest chitinase activity of 15 hours with activity of 6.937 U/mL respectively. Effect of various temperatures on chitinase activity showed that optimum activity was achieved at 40°C with an activity of 5.764 U/mL respectively. Meanwhile, the optimum pH for chitinase activity was achieved at pH of 5.0 with an activity of 6.813 U/mL respectively. This enzyme was then classified as metalloenzyme due to the decline of the activity by EDTA addition. All divalent cations tested acted as inhibitors.

Evaluation of multiple muscle loads through multi-objective optimization with prediction of subjective satisfaction level: illustration by an application to handrail position for standing.

PubMed

Chihara, Takanori; Seo, Akihiko

2014-03-01

Proposed here is an evaluation of multiple muscle loads and a procedure for determining optimum solutions to ergonomic design problems. The simultaneous muscle load evaluation is formulated as a multi-objective optimization problem, and optimum solutions are obtained for each participant. In addition, one optimum solution for all participants, which is defined as the compromise solution, is also obtained. Moreover, the proposed method provides both objective and subjective information to support the decision making of designers. The proposed method was applied to the problem of designing the handrail position for the sit-to-stand movement. The height and distance of the handrails were the design variables, and surface electromyograms of four muscles were measured. The optimization results suggest that the proposed evaluation represents the impressions of participants more completely than an independent use of muscle loads. In addition, the compromise solution is determined, and the benefits of the proposed method are examined. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd and The Ergonomics Society. All rights reserved.

Enhanced coagulation for turbidity and Total Organic Carbon (TOC) removal from river Kansawati water.

PubMed

Narayan, Sumit; Goel, Sudha

2011-01-01

The objective of this study was to determine optimum coagulant doses for turbidity and Total Organic Carbon (TOC) removal and evaluate the extent to which TOC can be removed by enhanced coagulation. Jar tests were conducted in the laboratory to determine optimum doses of alum for the removal of turbidity and Natural Organic Matter (NOM) from river water. Various other water quality parameters were measured before and after thejar tests and included: UV Absorbance (UVA) at 254 nm, microbial concentrations, TDS, conductivity, hardness, alkalinity, and pH. The optimum alum dose for removal of turbidity and TOC was 20 mg/L for the sample collected in November 2009 and 100 mg/L for the sample collected in March 2010. In both cases, the dose for enhanced coagulation was significantly higher than that for conventional coagulation. The gain in TOC removal was insignificant compared to the increase in coagulant dose required. This is usual for low TOC (< 2 mg/L)--high alkalinity water. Other water samples with higher TOC need to be tested to demonstrate the effectiveness of enhanced coagulation.

An automatic and effective parameter optimization method for model tuning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, T.; Li, L.; Lin, Y.; Xue, W.; Xie, F.; Xu, H.; Huang, X.

2015-11-01

Physical parameterizations in general circulation models (GCMs), having various uncertain parameters, greatly impact model performance and model climate sensitivity. Traditional manual and empirical tuning of these parameters is time-consuming and ineffective. In this study, a "three-step" methodology is proposed to automatically and effectively obtain the optimum combination of some key parameters in cloud and convective parameterizations according to a comprehensive objective evaluation metrics. Different from the traditional optimization methods, two extra steps, one determining the model's sensitivity to the parameters and the other choosing the optimum initial value for those sensitive parameters, are introduced before the downhill simplex method. This new method reduces the number of parameters to be tuned and accelerates the convergence of the downhill simplex method. Atmospheric GCM simulation results show that the optimum combination of these parameters determined using this method is able to improve the model's overall performance by 9 %. The proposed methodology and software framework can be easily applied to other GCMs to speed up the model development process, especially regarding unavoidable comprehensive parameter tuning during the model development stage.

Automated Decisional Model for Optimum Economic Order Quantity Determination Using Price Regressive Rates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roşu, M. M.; Tarbă, C. I.; Neagu, C.

2016-11-01

The current models for inventory management are complementary, but together they offer a large pallet of elements for solving complex problems of companies when wanting to establish the optimum economic order quantity for unfinished products, row of materials, goods etc. The main objective of this paper is to elaborate an automated decisional model for the calculus of the economic order quantity taking into account the price regressive rates for the total order quantity. This model has two main objectives: first, to determine the periodicity when to be done the order n or the quantity order q; second, to determine the levels of stock: lighting control, security stock etc. In this way we can provide the answer to two fundamental questions: How much must be ordered? When to Order? In the current practice, the business relationships with its suppliers are based on regressive rates for price. This means that suppliers may grant discounts, from a certain level of quantities ordered. Thus, the unit price of the products is a variable which depends on the order size. So, the most important element for choosing the optimum for the economic order quantity is the total cost for ordering and this cost depends on the following elements: the medium price per units, the stock cost, the ordering cost etc.

SPECT System Optimization Against A Discrete Parameter Space

PubMed Central

Meng, L. J.; Li, N.

2013-01-01

In this paper, we present an analytical approach for optimizing the design of a static SPECT system or optimizing the sampling strategy with a variable/adaptive SPECT imaging hardware against an arbitrarily given set of system parameters. This approach has three key aspects. First, it is designed to operate over a discretized system parameter space. Second, we have introduced an artificial concept of virtual detector as the basic building block of an imaging system. With a SPECT system described as a collection of the virtual detectors, one can convert the task of system optimization into a process of finding the optimum imaging time distribution (ITD) across all virtual detectors. Thirdly, the optimization problem (finding the optimum ITD) could be solved with a block-iterative approach or other non-linear optimization algorithms. In essence, the resultant optimum ITD could provide a quantitative measure of the relative importance (or effectiveness) of the virtual detectors and help to identify the system configuration or sampling strategy that leads to an optimum imaging performance. Although we are using SPECT imaging as a platform to demonstrate the system optimization strategy, this development also provides a useful framework for system optimization problems in other modalities, such as positron emission tomography (PET) and X-ray computed tomography (CT) [1, 2]. PMID:23587609

Permeability recovery of damaged water sensitive core using ultrasonic waves.

PubMed

Khan, Nasir; Pu, Chunsheng; Li, Xu; He, Yanlong; Zhang, Lei; Jing, Cheng

2017-09-01

It is imperative to recover the well productivity lose due to formation damage nearby wellbore during variant well operations. Some indispensable issues in conventional techniques make ultrasonic technology more attractive due to simple, reliable, favorable, cost-effective, and environment friendly nature. This study proposes the independent and combined use of ultrasonic waves and chemical agents for the treatment of already damaged core samples caused by exposure to distilled water. Results elucidate that ultrasonic waves with optimum (20kHz, 1000W) instead of maximum frequency and power worked well in the recovery owing to peristaltic transport caused by matching of natural frequency with acoustic waves frequency. In addition, hundred minutes was investigated as optimum irradiation time which provided ample time span to detach fine loosely suspended particles. However, further irradiation adversely affected the damaged permeability recovery. Moreover, permeability improvement attributes to cavitation due to ultrasonic waves propagation through fluid contained in porous medium and thermal energy generated by three different ways. Eventually, experimental outcomes indicated that maximum (25.3%) damaged permeability recovery was witnessed by applying ultrasonic waves with transducer #2 (20kHz and 1000W) and optimum irradiation timeframe (100min). This recovery was further increased to 45.8% by applying chemical agent and optimum ultrasonic waves simultaneously. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of reaction temperature on biodiesel production from waste cooking oil using lipase as biocatalyst

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Istiningrum, Reni Banowati; Aprianto, Toni; Pamungkas, Febria Lutfi Udin

2017-12-01

This study aims to determine the effect of temperature on conversion of biodiesel from waste cooking oil enzymatically using lipase extracted from rice bran. The feedstock was simulated waste cooking oil and lipase enzyme was extracted with buffer pH variation. The enzyme activity was titrimetrically determined and the optimum pH buffer was used to study the effect of temperature on the transesterification reaction. Temperature effects were assessed in the range of 45-60 °C and the content of methyl esters in biodiesel was determined by GC-MS. The reaction temperature significantly influences the transesterification reaction with optimum biodiesel conversion occurred at 55 °C with methyl ester content of 81.19%. The methyl ester composition in the resulting biodiesel is methyl palmitate, methyl oleate and methyl stearate.

Typical moisture-density curves : part II : lime treated soils.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1966-05-01

The objective of the study covered by this report was to determine whether the family of curves developed for untreated soils, could be used for determining the optimum moisture and maximum density of lime treated soils. This investigation was initia...

Driving under the influence of alcohol : determining an optimum sanction.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1971-01-01

Numerous elements must be considered in the design of an optimal statutory scheme for the definition and enforcement of the prohibition against driving under the influence of alcohol. Psychological factors determine the extent to which the statute ha...

Determination of optimum "multi-channel surface wave method" field parameters.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-12-01

Multi-channel surface wave methods (especially the multi-channel analyses of surface wave method; MASW) are routinely used to : determine the shear-wave velocity of the subsurface to depths of 100 feet for site classification purposes. Users are awar...