Phase conditions for Schur polynomials The rate of change of phase of a real or complex Schur polynomial , evaluated along the unit circle traversed counterclockwise , is strictly positive . For polynomials with real coefficients , this bound can be tightened . These and some other fundamental bounds on the rate of change of phase are derived here , using the Tchebyshev representation of the image of a real polynomial evaluated on the unit circle

B I O O O O B I I I I O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I I I O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O

phase conditions
schur polynomial
real coefficients
rate of change of phase
tchebyshev representation

phase monotonicity
robust stability
discrete-time control systems
stabilization


The crossing number of P -LRB- N , 3 -RRB- It is proved that the crossing number of the generalized Petersen graph P -LRB- 3k + h , 3 -RRB- is k + h if h in -LCB- 0 , 2 -RCB- and k + 3 if h = 1 , for each k > or = 3 , with the single exception of P -LRB- 9,3 -RRB- , whose crossing number is 2

O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O

crossing number
generalized petersen graph


Dynamic spectrum management for next-generation DSL systems The performance of DSL systems is severely constrained by crosstalk due to the electromagnetic coupling among the multiple twisted pairs making up a phone cable . In order to reduce performance loss arising from crosstalk , DSL systems are currently designed under the assumption of worst-case crosstalk scenarios leading to overly conservative DSL deployments . This article presents a new paradigm for DSL system design , which takes into account the multi-user aspects of the DSL transmission environment . Dynamic spectrum management -LRB- DSM -RRB- departs from the current design philosophy by enabling transceivers to autonomously and dynamically optimize their communication settings with respect to both the channel and the transmissions of neighboring systems . Along with this distributed optimization , when an additional degree of coordination becomes available for future DSL deployment , DSM will allow even greater improvement in DSL performance . Implementations are readily applicable without causing any performance degradation to the existing DSLs under static spectrum management . After providing an overview of the DSM concept , this article reviews two practical DSM methods : iterative water-filling , an autonomous distributed power control method enabling great improvement in performance , which can be implemented through software options in some existing ADSL and VDSL systems ; and vectored-DMT , a coordinated transmission/reception technique achieving crosstalk-free communication for DSL systems , which brings within reach the dream of providing universal Internet access at speeds close to 100 Mb/s to 500 m on 1-2 lines and beyond 1 km on 2-4 lines . DSM-capable DSL thus enables the broadband age

B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O B I O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I I I O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

dsl systems performance
data transmission
iterative water-filling
adsl systems
vectored-dmt
coordinated transmission/reception
crosstalk-free communication
broadband networks
100 mbit/s


Some properties of Hadamard matrices coming from dihedral groups H. Kimura -LRB- 1996 -RRB- introduced a method to construct Hadamard matrices of degree 8n + 4 from the dihedral group of order 2n . In this paper we study some properties of this construction

O O O B I O O B I O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O


Network intrusion and fault detection : a statistical anomaly approach With the advent and explosive growth of the global Internet and electronic commerce environments , adaptive/automatic network/service intrusion and anomaly detection in wide area data networks and e-commerce infrastructures is fast gaining critical research and practical importance . We present and demonstrate the use of a general-purpose hierarchical multitier multiwindow statistical anomaly detection technology and system that operates automatically , adaptively , and proactively , and can be applied to various networking technologies , including both wired and wireless ad hoc networks . Our method uses statistical models and multivariate classifiers to detect anomalous network conditions . Some numerical results are also presented that demonstrate that our proposed methodology can reliably detect attacks with traffic anomaly intensity as low as 3-5 percent of the typical background traffic intensity , thus promising to generate an effective early warning

B I O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I I O O O O B I O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O

network intrusion
fault detection
internet
wide area data networks
wireless ad hoc networks
statistical models
multivariate classifiers
traffic anomaly intensity
background traffic intensity

hierarchical multitier statistical anomaly detection


Routing security in wireless ad hoc networks A mobile ad hoc network consists of a collection of wireless mobile nodes that are capable of communicating with each other without the use of a network infrastructure or any centralized administration . MANET is an emerging research area with practical applications . However , wireless MANET is particularly vulnerable due to its fundamental characteristics , such as open medium , dynamic topology , distributed cooperation , and constrained capability . Routing plays an important role in the security of the entire network . In general , routing security in wireless MANETs appears to be a problem that is not trivial to solve . In this article we study the routing security issues of MANETs , and analyze in detail one type of attack-the `` black hole '' problem-that can easily be employed against the MANETs . We also propose a solution for the black hole problem for ad hoc on-demand distance vector routing protocol

B I O B I I I O B I I I O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O B I O B I O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

routing security
wireless ad hoc networks
mobile ad hoc network
wireless mobile nodes
wireless manet
open medium
dynamic topology
distributed cooperation


The chromatic spectrum of mixed hypergraphs A mixed hypergraph is a triple H = -LRB- X , C , D -RRB- , where X is the vertex set , and each of C , D is a list of subsets of X . A strict k-coloring of H is a surjection c : X -LCB- 1 , ... , k -RCB- such that each member of le has two vertices assigned a common value and each member of D has two vertices assigned distinct values . The feasible set of H is -LCB- k : H has a strict k-coloring -RCB- . Among other results , we prove that a finite set of positive integers is the feasible set of some mixed hypergraph if and only if it omits the number I or is an interval starting with 1 . For the set -LCB- s , t -RCB- with 2 < or = s < or = t - 2 , the smallest realization has 2t - s vertices . When every member of C union D is a single interval in an underlying linear order on the vertices , the feasible set is also a single interval of integers

O B I O B I O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

chromatic spectrum
mixed hypergraphs
vertex set
positive integers
mixed hypergraph


A unified view for vector rotational CORDIC algorithms and architectures based on angle quantization approach Vector rotation is the key operation employed extensively in many digital signal processing applications . In this paper , we introduce a new design concept called Angle Quantization -LRB- AQ -RRB- . It can be used as a design index for vector rotational operation , where the rotational angle is known in advance . Based on the AQ process , we establish a unified design framework for cost-effective low-latency rotational algorithms and architectures . Several existing works , such as conventional COordinate Rotational Digital Computer -LRB- CORDIC -RRB- , AR-CORDIC , MVR-CORDIC , and EEAS-based CORDIC , can be fitted into the design framework , forming a Vector Rotational CORDIC Family . Moreover , we address four searching algorithms to solve the optimization problem encountered in the proposed vector rotational CORDIC family . The corresponding scaling operations of the CORDIC family are also discussed . Based on the new design framework , we can realize high-speed/low-complexity rotational VLSI circuits , whereas without degrading the precision performance in fixed-point implementations

O O O O B I I I O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O B I I I O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O B I O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

vector rotational cordic algorithms
digital signal processing applications
angle quantization
design index
vector rotational operation
unified design framework
searching algorithms
optimization problem
scaling operations

dsp applications
low-latency rotational algorithms
greedy searching algorithm
low-latency rotational architectures
high-speed rotational vlsi circuits
low-complexity rotational vlsi circuits
fixed-point implementations
trellis-based searching algorithm


Integrate-and-fire neurons driven by correlated stochastic input Neurons are sensitive to correlations among synaptic inputs . However , analytical models that explicitly include correlations are hard to solve analytically , so their influence on a neuron 's response has been difficult to ascertain . To gain some intuition on this problem , we studied the firing times of two simple integrate-and-fire model neurons driven by a correlated binary variable that represents the total input current . Analytic expressions were obtained for the average firing rate and coefficient of variation -LRB- a measure of spike-train variability -RRB- as functions of the mean , variance , and correlation time of the stochastic input . The results of computer simulations were in excellent agreement with these expressions . In these models , an increase in correlation time in general produces an increase in both the average firing rate and the variability of the output spike trains . However , the magnitude of the changes depends differentially on the relative values of the input mean and variance : the increase in firing rate is higher when the variance is large relative to the mean , whereas the increase in variability is higher when the variance is relatively small . In addition , the firing rate always tends to a finite limit value as the correlation time increases toward infinity , whereas the coefficient of variation typically diverges . These results suggest that temporal correlations may play a major role in determining the variability as well as the intensity of neuronal spike trains

O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

correlated stochastic input
firing times
correlated binary variable
coefficient of variation
output spike trains
temporal correlations

integrate-and-fire neurons
synaptic input correlations
spike-train variability
computer simulation


Traffic engineering with traditional IP routing protocols Traffic engineering involves adapting the routing of traffic to network conditions , with the joint goals of good user performance and efficient use of network resources . We describe an approach to intradomain traffic engineering that works within the existing deployed base of interior gateway protocols , such as Open Shortest Path First and Intermediate System-Intermediate System . We explain how to adapt the configuration of link weights , based on a networkwide view of the traffic and topology within a domain . In addition , we summarize the results of several studies of techniques for optimizing OSPF/IS-IS weights to the prevailing traffic . The article argues that traditional shortest path routing protocols are surprisingly effective for engineering the flow of traffic in large IP networks

O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O B I O O O O B I O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I I O O O O O O O O O O O B I

ip routing protocols
interior gateway protocols
network conditions
user performance
network resources
intradomain traffic engineering
shortest path routing protocols
ip networks

intermediate system-intermediate system protocol


On abelian branched coverings of the sphere We obtain an enumeration formula for the number of weak equivalence classes of the branched -LRB- A * B -RRB- - covering of the sphere with m-branch points , when A and B are finite abelian groups with -LRB- | A | , | B | -RRB- = 1 . From this , we can deduce an explicit formula for enumerating the weak equivalence classes of pseudofree spherical -LRB- Zp * Zq -RRB- - actions on a given surface , when p and q are distinct primes

O B I I O O O O O O B I O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O B I I O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

abelian branched coverings
enumeration formula
weak equivalence classes
finite abelian groups
explicit formula
pseudofree spherical


Arranging solid balls to represent a graph By solid balls , we mean a set of balls in R/sup 3 / no two of which can penetrate each other . Every finite graph G can be represented by arranging solid balls in the following way : Put red balls in R/sup 3 / , one for each vertex of G , and connect two red balls by a chain when they correspond to a pair of adjacent vertices of G , where a chain means a finite sequence of blue solid balls in which each consecutive balls are tangent . -LRB- We may omit the chain if the two red balls are already tangent . -RRB- The ball number b -LRB- G -RRB- of G is the minimum number of balls -LRB- red and blue -RRB- necessary to represent G . If we put the balls and chains on a table so that all balls sit on the table , then the minimum number of balls for G is denoted by bT -LRB- G -RRB- . Among other things , we prove that b -LRB- K/sub 6 / -RRB- = 8 , b -LRB- K/sub 7 / -RRB- = 13 and b/sub T / -LRB- K/sub 5 / -RRB- = 8 , b/sub T / -LRB- K/sub 6 / -RRB- = 14 . We also prove that c/sub 1/n/sup 3 / < b -LRB- K/sub n / -RRB- < c/sub 2/n/sup 3 / log n , c/sub 3/n/sup 4 / / log n < b/sub T / -LRB- K/sub n / -RRB- < c/sub 4/n/sup 4 /

O B I O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O B I O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

solid balls
finite graph
adjacent vertices
finite sequence


Edge-colorings with no large polychromatic stars Given a graph G and a positive integer r , let f/sub r / -LRB- G -RRB- denote the largest number of colors that can be used in a coloring of E -LRB- G -RRB- such that each vertex is incident to at most r colors . For all positive integers n and r , we determine f/sub r / -LRB- K/sub n , n / -RRB- exactly and f/sub r / -LRB- K/sub n / -RRB- within 1 . In doing so , we disprove a conjecture by Y. Manoussakis et al. -LRB- 1996 -RRB-

O O O O B I O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

polychromatic stars
positive integer
positive integers


Stochastic optimization of acoustic response - a numerical and experimental comparison The objective of the work presented is to compare results from numerical optimization with experimental data and to highlight and discuss the differences between two fundamentally different optimization methods . The problem domain is minimization of acoustic emission and the structure used in the work is a closed cylinder with forced vibration of one end . The optimization method used in this paper is simulated annealing -LRB- SA -RRB- , a stochastic method . The results are compared with those from a gradient-based method used on the same structure in an earlier paper -LRB- Tinnsten , 2000 -RRB-

B I O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O B I O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O

numerical optimization
structure
closed cylinder
acoustic response
forced vibration
simulated annealing
stochastic optimization

acoustic emission minimization
gradient-based method


Combining PC control and HMI Integrating PC-based control with human machine interface -LRB- HMI -RRB- technology can benefit a plant floor system . However , before one decides on PC-based control , there are many things one should consider , especially when using a soft programmable logic controller -LRB- PLC -RRB- to command the input/output . There are three strategies to integrate a PC-based control system with an HMI : treat the PC running the control application as if it were a PLC , integrate the system using standard PC interfaces ; or using application programming interfaces

O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O B I I

application programming interfaces
pc interfaces
human machine interface
programmable logic controller

pc-based control system
shop floor system


Learning nonregular languages : a comparison of simple recurrent networks and LSTM Rodriguez -LRB- 2001 -RRB- examined the learning ability of simple recurrent nets -LRB- SRNs -RRB- -LRB- Elman , 1990 -RRB- on simple context-sensitive and context-free languages . In response to Rodriguez 's -LRB- 2001 -RRB- article , we compare the performance of simple recurrent nets and long short-term memory recurrent nets on context-free and context-sensitive languages

O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

nonregular language learning
recurrent neural networks
context-sensitive languages
context-free languages
short-term memory recurrent nets


On biorthogonal nonuniform filter banks and tree structures This paper concerns biorthogonal nonuniform filter banks . It is shown that a tree structured filter bank is biorthogonal if it is equivalent to a tree structured filter bank whose matching constituent levels on the analysis and synthesis sides are themselves biorthogonal pairs . We then show that a stronger statement can be made about dyadic filter banks in general : That a dyadic filter bank is biorthogonal if both the analysis and synthesis banks can be decomposed into dyadic trees . We further show that these decompositions are stability and FIR preserving . These results , derived for filter banks having filters with rational transfer functions , thus extend some of the earlier comparable results for orthonormal filter banks

O B I I I O O O O O O B I I I O O O O O O B I I I O O O O O O O O B I I I O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O

biorthogonal nonuniform filter banks
tree structured filter bank
biorthogonal pairs
dyadic filter banks
dyadic trees
fir preserving
rational transfer functions


Cat and class : what use are these skills to the new legal information professional ? This article looks at the cataloguing and classification skills taught on information studies courses and the use these skills are to new legal information professionals . The article is based on the opinions of nine new legal information professionals from both academic and law firm libraries

O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O B O B O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I

legal information professional
cataloguing
classification
information studies courses
law firm libraries


Taking back control -LSB- SCADA system -RSB- Most common way to implement a SCADA system is to go outside . However , in the author 's opinion , to truly take control of a SCADA project , in-house personnel should handle as much of the job as possible . This includes design , equipment specification , installation , and programming . The more of these tasks one does in-house , the more control and ownership one has . To accomplish this , we first evaluated the existing SCADA system and investigated new technologies to establish a list of features the new system needed to incorporate

O O O O B O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

supervisory control
data acquisition
in-house integration
compatibility
programmable logic controllers


Reply to Carreira-Perpinan and Goodhill -LSB- mathematics in biology -RSB- In a paper by Carreira-Perpinan and Goodhill -LRB- see ibid. , vol .14 , no. 7 , p.1545-60 , 2002 -RRB- the authors apply mathematical arguments to biology . Swindale et al. think it is inappropriate to apply the standards of proof required in mathematics to the acceptance or rejection of scientific hypotheses . To give some examples , showing that data are well described by a linear model does not rule out an infinity of other possible models that might give better descriptions of the data . Proving in a mathematical sense that the linear model was correct would require ruling out all other possible models , a hopeless task . Similarly , to demonstrate that two DNA samples come from the same individual , it is sufficient to show a match between only a few regions of the genome , even though there remains a very large number of additional comparisons that could be done , any one of which might potentially disprove the match . This is unacceptable in mathematics , but in the real world , it is a perfectly reasonable basis for belief

O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

mathematical arguments
biology
scientific hypotheses
linear model
dna
genome

hypothesis testing
cortical maps
neural nets


Generalized mosaicing : wide field of view multispectral imaging We present an approach to significantly enhance the spectral resolution of imaging systems by generalizing image mosaicing . A filter transmitting spatially varying spectral bands is rigidly attached to a camera . As the system moves , it senses each scene point multiple times , each time in a different spectral band . This is an additional dimension of the generalized mosaic paradigm , which has demonstrated yielding high radiometric dynamic range images in a wide field of view , using a spatially varying density filter . The resulting mosaic represents the spectrum at each scene point . The image acquisition is as easy as in traditional image mosaics . We derive an efficient scene sampling rate , and use a registration method that accommodates the spatially varying properties of the filter . Using the data acquired by this method , we demonstrate scene rendering under different simulated illumination spectra . We are also able to infer information about the scene illumination . The approach was tested using a standard 8-bit black/white video camera and a fixed spatially varying spectral -LRB- interference -RRB- filter

B I O B I I I I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

hyperspectral imaging
color balance
image fusion
physics-based vision
image-based rendering


Adaptive scheduling of batch servers in flow shops Batch servicing is a common way of benefiting from economies of scale in manufacturing operations . Good examples of production systems that allow for batch processing are ovens found in the aircraft industry and in semiconductor manufacturing . In this paper we study the issue of dynamic scheduling of such systems within the context of multi-stage flow shops . So far , a great deal of research has concentrated on the development of control strategies , which only address the batch stage . This paper proposes an integral scheduling approach that also includes succeeding stages . In this way , we aim for shop optimization , instead of optimizing performance for a single stage . Our so-called look-ahead strategy adapts its scheduling decision to shop status , which includes information on a limited number of near-future arrivals . In particular , we study a two-stage flow shop , in which the batch stage is succeeded by a serial stage . The serial stage may be realized by a single machine or by parallel machines . Through an extensive simulation study it is demonstrated how shop performance can be improved by the proposed strategy relative to existing strategies

B I O B I O B I B I O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O B I O O O O O O B O O O B I O O B I O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O B I O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

adaptive scheduling
batch servers
flow shops
batch servicing
manufacturing operations
production systems
ovens
aircraft industry
semiconductor manufacturing
dynamic scheduling
control strategies
integral scheduling approach
shop optimization
single machine
parallel machines
simulation study

multi-stage flow shops
look-ahead strategy
near-future arrivals
two-stage flow shop


Estimating the intrinsic dimension of data with a fractal-based method In this paper , the problem of estimating the intrinsic dimension of a data set is investigated . A fractal-based approach using the Grassberger-Procaccia algorithm is proposed . Since the Grassberger-Procaccia algorithm -LRB- 1983 -RRB- performs badly on sets of high dimensionality , an empirical procedure that improves the original algorithm has been developed . The procedure has been tested on data sets of known dimensionality and on time series of Santa Fe competition

O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O B I I

data intrinsic dimension estimation
fractal-based method
pattern recognition


Using technology to facilitate the design and delivery of warnings This paper describes several ways in which new technologies can assist in the design and delivery of warnings . There are four discussion points : -LRB- 1 -RRB- current product information can be delivered via the Internet ; -LRB- 2 -RRB- computer software and hardware are available to assist in the design , construction , and production of visual and auditory warnings ; -LRB- 3 -RRB- various detection devices can be used to recognize instances in which warnings might be delivered ; and -LRB- 4 -RRB- a warning presentation can be modified to fit conditions and persons . Implications , example applications and future prospects of these points are described

O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O B O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

product information
internet
computer software
auditory warnings
warning presentation


Restoration of archival documents using a wavelet technique This paper addresses a problem of restoring handwritten archival documents by recovering their contents from the interfering handwriting on the reverse side caused by the seeping of ink . We present a novel method that works by first matching both sides of a document such that the interfering strokes are mapped with the corresponding strokes originating from the reverse side . This facilitates the identification of the foreground and interfering strokes . A wavelet reconstruction process then iteratively enhances the foreground strokes and smears the interfering strokes so as to strengthen the discriminating capability of an improved Canny edge detector against the interfering strokes . The method has been shown to restore the documents effectively with average precision and recall rates for foreground text extraction at 84 percent and 96 percent , respectively

O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

wavelet technique
handwritten archival documents
wavelet reconstruction process
canny edge detector

archival documents restoration
ink seepage
iterative stroke enhancement


Deadlock-free scheduling in flexible manufacturing systems using Petri nets This paper addresses the deadlock-free scheduling problem in Flexible Manufacturing Systems . An efficient deadlock-free scheduling algorithm was developed , using timed Petri nets , for a class of FMSs called Systems of Sequential Systems with Shared Resources -LRB- S/sup 4 / R -RRB- . The algorithm generates a partial reachability graph to find the optimal or near-optimal deadlock-free schedule in terms of the firing sequence of the transitions of the Petri net model . The objective is to minimize the mean flow time -LRB- MFT -RRB- . An efficient truncation technique , based on the siphon concept , has been developed and used to generate the minimum necessary portion of the reachability graph to be searched . It has been shown experimentally that the developed siphon truncation technique enhances the ability to develop deadlock-free schedules of systems with a high number of deadlocks , which can not be achieved using standard Petri net scheduling approaches . It may be necessary , in some cases , to relax the optimality condition for large FMSs in order to make the search effort reasonable . Hence , a User Control Factor -LRB- UCF -RRB- was defined and used in the scheduling algorithm . The objective of using the UCF is to achieve an acceptable trade-off between the solution quality and the search effort . Its effect on the MFT and the CPU time has been investigated . Randomly generated examples are used for illustration and comparison . Although the effect of UCF did not affect the mean flow time , it was shown that increasing it reduces the search effort -LRB- CPU time -RRB- significantly

O O O B I I O B I O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O B I I I I I I O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O

systems of sequential systems with shared resources

petri net model transitions firing sequence


Efficient simplicial reconstructions of manifolds from their samples An algorithm for manifold learning is presented . Given only samples of a finite-dimensional differentiable manifold and no a priori knowledge of the manifold 's geometry or topology except for its dimension , the goal is to find a description of the manifold . The learned manifold must approximate the true manifold well , both geometrically and topologically , when the sampling density is sufficiently high . The proposed algorithm constructs a simplicial complex based on approximations to the tangent bundle of the manifold . An important property of the algorithm is that its complexity depends on the dimension of the manifold , rather than that of the embedding space . Successful examples are presented in the cases of learning curves in the plane , curves in space , and surfaces in space ; in addition , a case when the algorithm fails is analyzed

O B I O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O B I O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

simplicial reconstructions
manifold learning
learned manifold
true manifold
simplicial complex
sampling density


Elastically adaptive deformable models We present a technique for the automatic adaptation of a deformable model 's elastic parameters within a Kalman filter framework for shape estimation applications . The novelty of the technique is that the model 's elastic parameters are not constant , but spatio-temporally varying . The variation of the elastic parameters depends on the distance of the model from the data and the rate of change of this distance . Each pass of the algorithm uses physics-based modeling techniques to iteratively adjust both the geometric and the elastic degrees of freedom of the model in response to forces that are computed from the discrepancy between the model and the data . By augmenting the state equations of an extended Kalman filter to incorporate these additional variables , we are able to significantly improve the quality of the shape estimation . Therefore , the model 's elastic parameters are always initialized to the same value and they are subsequently modified depending on the data and the noise distribution . We present results demonstrating the effectiveness of our method for both two-dimensional and three-dimensional data

B I I I O O O O O O B I O O O O O B I O O B I I O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

elastically adaptive deformable models
automatic adaptation
elastic parameters
kalman filter framework
shape estimation
elastic degrees of freedom
state equations
extended kalman filter

physics-based modeling techniques
geometric degrees of freedom


Knowledge acquisition and ontology modelling for construction of a control and monitoring expert system This paper presents the processes of knowledge acquisition and ontology development for structuring the knowledge base of an expert system . Ontological engineering is a process that facilitates construction of the knowledge base of an intelligent system . Ontology is the study of the organization and classification of knowledge . Ontological engineering in artificial intelligence has the practical goal of constructing frameworks for knowledge that allow computational systems to tackle knowledge-intensive problems and it supports knowledge sharing and reuse . To illustrate the process of conceptual modelling using the Inferential Modelling Technique as a basis for ontology construction , the tool and processes are applied to build an expert system in the domain of monitoring of a petroleum-production facility

B I O B I O O O O B I I I I O O O O O O B I O O O O O O B I O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O B I O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

knowledge acquisition
knowledge base
intelligent system
ontological engineering
artificial intelligence
inferential modelling technique
ontology modelling
control and monitoring expert system

knowledge reuse
petroleum-production facility


Analysis of the surface roughness and dimensional accuracy capability of fused deposition modelling processes Building up materials in layers poses significant challenges from the viewpoint of material science , heat transfer and applied mechanics . However , numerous aspects of the use of these technologies have yet to be studied . One of these aspects is the characterization of the surface roughness and dimensional precision obtainable in layered manufacturing processes . In this paper , a study of roughness parameters obtained through the use of these manufacturing processes was made . Prototype parts were manufactured using FDM techniques and an experimental analysis of the resulting roughness average -LRB- R/sub a / -RRB- and rms roughness -LRB- R/sub q / -RRB- obtained through the use of these manufacturing processes was carried out . Dimensional parameters were also studied in order to determine the capability of the Fused Deposition Modelling process for manufacturing parts

O O O B I O B I I O B I I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O B I O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

fused deposition modelling processes
surface roughness
dimensional accuracy capability
dimensional precision
layered manufacturing processes
prototype parts
roughness average
rms roughness

rapid prototyping
three-dimensional solid objects
cad model
cnc-controlled robot
extrusion head


Infrared-image classification using hidden Markov trees An image of a three-dimensional target is generally characterized by the visible target subcomponents , with these dictated by the target-sensor orientation -LRB- target pose -RRB- . An image often changes quickly with variable pose . We define a class as a set of contiguous target-sensor orientations over which the associated target image is relatively stationary with aspect . Each target is in general characterized by multiple classes . A distinct set of Wiener filters are employed for each class of images , to identify the presence of target subcomponents . A Karhunen-Loeve representation is used to minimize the number of filters -LRB- templates -RRB- associated with a given subcomponent . The statistical relationships between the different target subcomponents are modeled via a hidden Markov tree -LRB- HMT -RRB- . The HMT classifier is discussed and example results are presented for forward-looking-infrared -LRB- FLIR -RRB- imagery of several vehicles

O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B

hidden markov trees
target pose
wiener filters
hmt
vehicles

ir image classification
infrared-image classification
3d target image
target-sensor orientation
contiguous target-sensor orientations
karhunen-loeve representation
minimization
forward-looking-infrared imagery
flir imagery


Design and analysis of optimal material distribution policies in flexible manufacturing systems using a single AGV Modern automated manufacturing processes employ automated guided vehicles -LRB- AGVs -RRB- for material handling , which serve several machine centres -LRB- MC -RRB- in a factory . Optimal scheduling of AGVs can significantly help to increase the efficiency of the manufacturing process by minimizing the idle time of MCs waiting for the raw materials . We analyse the requirements for an optimal schedule and then provide a mathematical framework for an efficient schedule of material delivery by an AGV . A mathematical model is developed and then a strategy for optimal material distribution of the available raw material to the MCs is derived . With this model , the optimal number of MCs to be utilized is also determined . Finally , the material delivery schedule employing multiple journeys to the MCs by the AGV is carried out . Through rigorous analysis and simulation experiments , we show that such a delivery strategy will optimize the overall performance

O O O O B I I I O B I I O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O B I O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

optimal material distribution policies
flexible manufacturing systems
agv
material handling
machine centres
optimal scheduling
material delivery

automated guided vehicle
waiting time
manufacturing lead time
idle time minimization


An efficient DIPIE algorithm for CAD of electrostatically actuated MEMS devices Pull-in parameters are important properties of electrostatic actuators . Efficient and accurate analysis tools that can capture these parameters for different design geometries , are therefore essential . Current simulation tools approach the pull-in state by iteratively adjusting the voltage applied across the actuator electrodes . The convergence rate of this scheme gradually deteriorates as the pull-in state is approached . Moreover , the convergence is inconsistent and requires many mesh and accuracy refinements to assure reliable predictions . As a result , the design procedure of electrostatically actuated MEMS devices can be time-consuming . In this paper a novel Displacement Iteration Pull-In Extraction -LRB- DIPIE -RRB- scheme is presented . The DIPIE scheme is shown to converge consistently and far more rapidly than the Voltage Iterations -LRB- VI -RRB- scheme -LRB- > 100 times faster ! -RRB- . The DIPIE scheme requires separate mechanical and electrostatic field solvers . Therefore , it can be easily implemented in existing MOEMS CAD packages . Moreover , using the DIPIE scheme , the pull-in parameters extraction can be performed in a fully automated mode , and no user input for search bounds is required

O O B I O O O B I I I O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I I O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

dipie algorithm
moems cad packages
electrostatically actuated mems devices
electrostatic actuators
design geometries
convergence rate
displacement iteration

displacement iteration pull-in extraction scheme


A fuzzy-soft learning vector quantization for control chart pattern recognition This paper presents a supervised competitive learning network approach , called a fuzzy-soft learning vector quantization , for control chart pattern recognition . Unnatural patterns in control charts mean that there are some unnatural causes for variations in statistical process control -LRB- SPC -RRB- . Hence , control chart pattern recognition becomes more important in SPC. In order to detect effectively the patterns for the six main types of control charts , Pham and Oztemel -LRB- 1994 -RRB- described a class of pattern recognizers for control charts based on the learning vector quantization -LRB- LVQ -RRB- such as LVQ , LVQ2 and LVQ-X etc. . In this paper , we propose a new supervised LVQ for control charts based on a fuzzy-soft competitive learning network . The proposed fuzzy-soft LVQ -LRB- FS-LVQ -RRB- uses a fuzzy relaxation technique and simultaneously updates all neurons . It can increase correct recognition accuracy and also decrease the learning time . Comparisons between LVQ , LVQ-X and FS-LVQ are made

O O O O O O B I I I O O O O B I I I I O O O O O O O O O B I I I O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O B O O O O B I I I O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O

fuzzy-soft learning vector quantization
simultaneous neuron update
numerical results
manufacturing process


Orthogonal decompositions of complete digraphs A family G of isomorphic copies of a given digraph G is said to be an orthogonal decomposition of the complete digraph D/sub n / by G , if every arc of D/sub n / belongs to exactly one member of G and the union of any two different elements from G contains precisely one pair of reverse arcs . Given a digraph h , an h family mh is the vertex-disjoint union of m copies of h . In this paper , we consider orthogonal decompositions by h-families . Our objective is to prove the existence of such an orthogonal decomposition whenever certain necessary conditions hold and m is sufficiently large

B I O B I O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O

orthogonal decompositions
complete digraphs
isomorphic copies
necessary conditions


Process planning for reliable high-speed machining of moulds A method of generating NC programs for the high-speed milling of moulds is investigated . Forging dies and injection moulds , whether plastic or aluminium , have a complex surface geometry . In addition they are made of steels of hardness as much as 30 or even 50 HRC . Since 1995 , high-speed machining has been much adopted by the die-making industry , which with this technology can reduce its use of Sinking Electrodischarge Machining -LRB- SEDM -RRB- . EDM , in general , calls for longer machining times . The use of high-speed machining makes it necessary to redefine the preliminary stages of the process . In addition , it affects the methodology employed in the generation of NC programs , which requires the use of high-level CAM software . The aim is to generate error-free programs that make use of optimum cutting strategies in the interest of productivity and surface quality . The final result is a more reliable manufacturing process . There are two risks in the use of high-speed milling on hardened steels . One of these is tool breakage , which may be very costly and may furthermore entail marks on the workpiece . The other is collisions between the tool and the workpiece or fixtures , the result of which may be damage to the ceramic bearings in the spindles . in order to minimize these risks it is necessary that new control and optimization steps be included in the CAM methodology . There are three things that the firm adopting high-speed methods should do . It should redefine its process engineering , it should systematize access by its CAM programmers to high-speed knowhow , and it should take up the use of process simulation tools . In the latter case , it will be very advantageous to use tools for the estimation of cutting forces . The new work methods proposed in this article have made it possible to introduce high speed milling -LRB- HSM -RRB- into the die industry . Examples are given of how the technique has been applied with CAM programming re-engineered as here proposed , with an explanation of the novel features and the results

B I O O O O O B O O O O B I O O O O O B O O O B I O O B O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O B O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

moulds
process planning
nc programs
forging dies
complex surface geometry
optimum cutting strategies
productivity
surface quality
hardened steels
tool breakage
ceramic bearings
cam methodology
process simulation tools

reliable high-speed machining
high-speed milling
injection moulds
error-free programs
tool workpiece collisions
process engineering redefinition
cam programming re-engineering
cutting strategies


Comparison of push and pull systems with transporters : a metamodelling approach Analyses push and pull systems with transportation consideration . A multiproduct , multiline , multistage production system was used to compare the two systems . The effects of four factors -LRB- processing time variation , demand variation , transporters , batch size -RRB- on throughput rate , average waiting time in the system and machine utilization were studied . The study uses metamodels to compare the two systems . They serve a dual purpose of expressing system performance measures in the form of a simple equation and reducing computational time when comparing the two systems . Research shows that the number of transporters used and the batch size have a significant effect on the performance measures of both systems

O O O O B I O B O O B I O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O B I O B O B I O O B I O B I I O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O B I O O O O O O B I O O O

transporters
pull systems
metamodelling approach
processing time variation
demand variation
batch size
throughput rate
average waiting time
machine utilization
performance measures

multiproduct multiline multistage production system


Exploratory study of the adoption of manufacturing technology innovations in the USA and the UK Manufacturing technologies , appropriately implemented , provide competitive advantage to manufacturers . The use of manufacturing technologies across countries is difficult to compare . One such comparison has been provided in the literature with a study of US and Japanese practices in advanced manufacturing technology use using a common questionnaire . The present study compares the use of 17 different technologies in similar industries in the USA -LRB- n = 1025 -RRB- and UK -LRB- n = 166 -RRB- using a common questionnaire . Largely , there are remarkable similarities between the two countries . This may partly correlate with the heavy traffic in foreign direct investment between the two nations . Notable differences are -LRB- 1 -RRB- across-the-board , US manufacturers are ahead of the UK firms in computerized integration with units inside and outside manufacturing organizations ; -LRB- 2 -RRB- US manufacturers show higher labour productivity , which is consistent with macro-economic data , and -LRB- 3 -RRB- more UK manufacturers report the use of soft technologies such as just-in-time , total quality manufacturing and manufacturing cells . Hypotheses for future investigation are proposed

O O O O O O B I I O O B O O B O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O B I O O O O B I I O B I O O O O O O O

manufacturing technology innovations
usa
uk
competitive advantage
foreign direct investment
labour productivity
soft technologies
total quality manufacturing
manufacturing cells


On fuzzy and probabilistic control charts In this article , different procedures of constructing control charts for linguistic data , based on fuzzy and probability theory , are discussed . Three sets of membership functions , with different degrees of fuzziness , are proposed for fuzzy approaches . A comparison between fuzzy and probability approaches , based on the Average Run Length and samples under control , is conducted for real data . Contrary to the conclusions of Raz and Wang -LRB- 1990 -RRB- the choice of degree of fuzziness affected the sensitivity of control charts

O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O

linguistic data
probabilistic control charts
membership functions
average run length
sensitivity

fuzzy control charts
control chart construction
fuzziness degree
fuzzy subsets
porcelain products


Open hypermedia for product support As industrial systems become increasingly more complex , the maintenance and operating information increases both in volume and complexity . With the current pressures on manufacturing , the management of information resources has become a critical issue . In particular , ensuring that personnel can access current information quickly and effectively when undertaking a specific task . This paper discusses some of the issues involved in , and the benefits of using , open hypermedia to manage and deliver a diverse range of information . While the paper concentrates on the problems specifically associated with manufacturing organizations , the problems are generic across other business sectors such as healthcare , defence and finance . The open hypermedia approach to information management and delivery allows a multimedia resource base to be used for a range of applications and it permits a user to have controlled access to the required information in an easily accessible and structured manner . Recent advancement in hypermedia also permits just-in-time support in the most appropriate format for all users . Our approach is illustrated by the discussion of a case study in which an open hypermedia system delivers maintenance and process information to factory-floor users to support the maintenance and operation of a very large manufacturing cell

B I O B I O O O O O O O O O B O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O B O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O

open hypermedia
maintenance
operating information
information resources
product support


Evaluation of the usability of digital maintenance manuals developed without either user input or a task analysis The primary objective was to investigate the value that can be added to a low-cost digital maintenance manual by the addition of a navigational aid . Two versions of a digital maintenance manual were developed , the difference between them being the number of design heuristics observed when designing navigational aids . Neither version was based on an analysis of the tasks carried out by users , nor were users involved in the design process . Instead , the manuals were developed directly from the digital information used to produce the existing paper manual . Usability trials were carried out to test both versions according to the time taken and errors committed by users during typical information retrieval tasks . Users were questioned to determine their ease of use -LRB- EOU -RRB- perceptions for each manual . The main outcomes were that the navigation aid used in the second version reduced the time taken to use the manual but increased the number of errors made by users . The navigational aid also seemed to reduce the perceived EOU compared with the first version . In both cases , the perceived EOU was lower than for a previous digital manual that had been developed using a task analysis and user input . The paper concludes by recommending the development of a generic task model of user interaction with digital maintenance manuals

O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O B I O O O O

navigational aid
usability trials
information retrieval
generic task model
user interaction
task analysis


Hysteretic threshold logic and quasi-delay insensitive asynchronous design We introduce the class of hysteretic linear-threshold -LRB- HLT -RRB- logic functions as a novel extension of linear threshold logic , and prove their general applicability for constructing state-holding Boolean functions . We then demonstrate a fusion of HLT logic with the quasi-delay insensitive style of asynchronous circuit design , complete with logical design examples . Future research directions are also identified

O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O

hysteretic linear-threshold logic functions


Development of an Internet-based intelligent design support system for rolling element bearings This paper presents a novel approach to developing an intelligent agile design system for rolling bearings based on artificial intelligence -LRB- AI -RRB- , Internet and Web technologies and expertise . The underlying philosophy of the approach is to use AI technology and Web-based design support systems as smart tools from which design customers can rapidly and responsively access the systems ' built-in design expertise . The approach is described in detail with a novel AI model and system implementation issues . The major issues in implementing the approach are discussed with particular reference to using AI technologies , network programming , client-server technology and open computing of bearing design and manufacturing requirements

O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O B I I I O O O O O B I O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O B I O B I

rolling element bearings
intelligent agile design system
artificial intelligence
web technologies
smart tools
network programming
manufacturing requirements
bearing design

internet-based intelligent design support system


Design of 1-D and 2-D variable fractional delay allpass filters using weighted least-squares method In this paper , a weighted least-squares method is presented to design one-dimensional and two-dimensional variable fractional delay allpass filters . First , each coefficient of the variable allpass filter is expressed as the polynomial of the fractional delay parameter . Then , the nonlinear phase error is approximated by a weighted equation error such that the cost function can be converted into a quadratic form . Next , by minimizing the weighted equation error , the optimal polynomial coefficients can be obtained iteratively by solving a set of linear simultaneous equations at each iteration . Finally , the design examples are demonstrated to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach

O O O O O B I I I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O B I I O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

weighted least-squares method
1d allpass filters
2d allpass filters
nonlinear phase error approximation


Heuristics for single-pass welding task sequencing Welding task sequencing is a prerequisite in the offline programming of robot arc welding . Single-pass welding task sequencing can be modelled as a modified travelling salesman problem . Owing to the difficulty of the resulting arc-routing problems , effective local search heuristics are developed . Computational speed becomes important because robot arc welding is often part of an automated process-planning procedure . Generating a reasonable solution in an acceptable time is necessary for effective automated process planning . Several different heuristics are proposed for solving the welding task-sequencing problem considering both productivity and the potential for welding distortion . Constructive heuristics based on the nearest neighbour concept and tabu search heuristics are developed and enhanced using improvement procedures . The effectiveness of the heuristics developed is tested and verified on actual welded structure problems and random problems

O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O B I I O O O O O O O O O O B I I I O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O B I O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O B I O B I O O O B I I O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O B I

constructive heuristics
offline programming
robot arc welding
modified travelling salesman problem
local search heuristics
computational speed
productivity
welding distortion
nearest neighbour concept
tabu search heuristics
random problems
welded structure problems

single-pass welding task sequencing
automated process-planning procedure


Analytic PCA construction for theoretical analysis of lighting variability in images of a Lambertian object We analyze theoretically the subspace best approximating images of a convex Lambertian object taken from the same viewpoint , but under different distant illumination conditions . We analytically construct the principal component analysis for images of a convex Lambertian object , explicitly taking attached shadows into account , and find the principal eigenmodes and eigenvalues with respect to lighting variability . Our analysis makes use of an analytic formula for the irradiance in terms of spherical-harmonic coefficients of the illumination and shows , under appropriate assumptions , that the principal components or eigenvectors are identical to the spherical harmonic basis functions evaluated at the surface normal vectors . Our main contribution is in extending these results to the single-viewpoint case , showing how the principal eigenmodes and eigenvalues are affected when only a limited subset -LRB- the upper hemisphere -RRB- of normals is available and the spherical harmonics are no longer orthonormal over the restricted domain . Our results are very close , both qualitatively and quantitatively , to previous empirical observations and represent the first essentially complete theoretical explanation of these observations

O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

spherical harmonics
lighting variability
convex lambertian object
surface normal vectors
principal eigenmodes
irradiance

analytic principal component analysis
five-dimensional subspace
principal eigenvalues
radiance


Generalized spatio-chromatic diffusion A framework for diffusion of color images is presented . The method is based on the theory of thermodynamics of irreversible transformations which provides a suitable basis for designing correlations between the different color channels . More precisely , we derive an equation for color evolution which comprises a purely spatial diffusive term and a nonlinear term that depends on the interactions among color channels over space . We apply the proposed equation to images represented in several color spaces , such as RGB , CIELAB , Opponent colors , and IHS

O O B O O O B O B I O O O O O O O O O O O B O B I O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O B I I O O B I O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O B O B I O O B

color images
diffusion
thermodynamics
irreversible transformations
color channels
color evolution
spatial diffusive term
nonlinear term
rgb
cielab
opponent colors
ihs

generalized spatio-chromatic diffusion
vector-valued diffusion
scale-space


Work sequencing in a manufacturing cell with limited labour constraints This study focuses on the analysis of group scheduling heuristics in a dual-constrained , automated manufacturing cell , where labour utilization is limited to setups , tear-downs and loads/unloads . This scenario is realistic in today 's automated manufacturing cells . The results indicate that policies for allocating labour to tasks have very little impact in such an environment . Furthermore , the performance of efficiency oriented , exhaustive , group scheduling heuristics deteriorated while the performance of the more complex , non-exhaustive heuristics improved . Thus , it is recommended that production managers use the simplest labour scheduling policy , and instead focus their efforts to activities such as job scheduling and production planning in such environments

B I O O B I O B I I O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O B I O O O

work sequencing
manufacturing cell
limited labour constraints
group scheduling heuristics
automated manufacturing cells
nonexhaustive heuristics
production planning
job scheduling

dual-constrained automated manufacturing cell

efficiency oriented exhaustive group scheduling heuristics


Design methodology for diagnostic strategies for industrial systems This paper presents a method for the construction of diagnostic systems for complex industrial applications . The approach has been explicitely developed to shorten the design cycle and meet some specific requirements , such as modularity , flexibility , and the possibility of merging many different sources of information . The method allows one to consider multiple simultaneous failures and is specifically designed to make easier the coordination and simplification of local diagnostic algorithms developed by different teams

B I O B I O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O

design methodology
modularity
local diagnostic algorithms
diagnostic strategies
industrial systems


Automated post bonding inspection by using machine vision techniques Inspection plays an important role in the semiconductor industry . In this paper , we focus on the inspection task after wire bonding in packaging . The purpose of wire bonding -LRB- W/B -RRB- is to connect the bond pads with the lead fingers . Two major types of defects are -LRB- 1 -RRB- bonding line missing and -LRB- 2 -RRB- bonding line breakage . The numbers of bonding lines and bonding balls are used as the features for defect classification . The proposed method consists of image preprocessing , orientation determination , connection detection , bonding line detection , bonding ball detection , and defect classification . The proposed method is simple and fast . The experimental results show that the proposed method can detect the defects effectively

B I I I O O B I O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O B O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O B I I O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O B I O O O O O O B I O B I O B I O B I I O B I I O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

semiconductor industry
automated post bonding inspection
machine vision
wire bonding
packaging
lead fingers
bonding line missing
bonding line breakage
bonding balls
defect classification
image preprocessing
orientation determination
connection detection
bonding line detection
bonding ball detection


Reconstructing surfaces by volumetric regularization using radial basis functions We present a new method of surface reconstruction that generates smooth and seamless models from sparse , noisy , nonuniform , and low resolution range data . Data acquisition techniques from computer vision , such as stereo range images and space carving , produce 3D point sets that are imprecise and nonuniform when compared to laser or optical range scanners . Traditional reconstruction algorithms designed for dense and precise data do not produce smooth reconstructions when applied to vision-based data sets . Our method constructs a 3D implicit surface , formulated as a sum of weighted radial basis functions . We achieve three primary advantages over existing algorithms : -LRB- 1 -RRB- the implicit functions we construct estimate the surface well in regions where there is little data , -LRB- 2 -RRB- the reconstructed surface is insensitive to noise in data acquisition because we can allow the surface to approximate , rather than exactly interpolate , the data , and -LRB- 3 -RRB- the reconstructed surface is locally detailed , yet globally smooth , because we use radial basis functions that achieve multiple orders of smoothness

O O O B I O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I I O B I I O B I O O O B I I O B I O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O

volumetric regularization
radial basis functions
low resolution range data
data acquisition techniques
computer vision
stereo range images
space carving
3d point sets
3d implicit surface

surfaces reconstruction
sparse range data
noisy data
nonuniform data
vision-based data sets
weighted radial basis functions


Five-axis NC milling of ruled surfaces : optimal geometry of a conical tool The side milling of ruled surfaces using a conical milling cutter was studied . This is a field that has largely been ignored by research scientists , but it is much used in industry , especially to machine turbine blades . We first suggest an improved positioning with respect to the directrices of the ruled surface . As compared with the methods already developed for the cylindrical cutter , this positioning enables the error between the cutter and the work-piece to be reduced . An algorithm is then introduced to calculate error so one can determine the cutter dimensions -LRB- cone radius and angle -RRB- in order to respect the tolerance interval imposed by the design office . This study provides an opportunity to determine cutters with greater dimensions , thus alleviating bending problems during milling

O O O O B I O B I O O B O O B I O B I O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

ruled surfaces
optimal geometry
conical
side milling
positioning
cutter dimensions
tolerance interval

five-axis nc milling
conical milling cutter


Automatic multilevel thresholding for image segmentation by the growing time adaptive self-organizing map In this paper , a Growing TASOM -LRB- Time Adaptive Self-Organizing Map -RRB- network called `` GTASOM '' along with a peak finding process is proposed for automatic multilevel thresholding . The proposed GTASOM is tested for image segmentation . Experimental results demonstrate that the GTASOM is a reliable and accurate tool for image segmentation and its results outperform other thresholding methods

B I I O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O B O O O O B I I O O O B I I O O O B O O O B I O O O O O O B O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O

automatic multilevel thresholding
image segmentation
growing tasom
gtasom
peak finding process


An adaptive sphere-fitting method for sequential tolerance control The machining of complex parts typically involves a logical and chronological sequence of n operations on m machine tools . Because manufacturing datums can not always match design constraints , some of the design specifications imposed on the part are usually satisfied by distinct subsets of the n operations prescribed in the process plan . Conventional tolerance control specifies a fixed set point for each operation and a permissible variation about this set point to insure compliance with the specifications , whereas sequential tolerance control -LRB- STC -RRB- uses real-time measurement information at the completion of one stage to reposition the set point for subsequent operations . However , it has been shown that earlier sphere-fitting methods for STC can lead to inferior solutions when the process distributions are skewed . This paper introduces an extension of STC that uses an adaptive sphere-fitting method that significantly improves the yield in the presence of skewed distributions as well as significantly reducing the computational effort required by earlier probabilistic search methods

O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O B I O O O O O O

machine tools
sequential tolerance control
design constraints
compliance
skewed distributions
computational effort

adaptive sphere-fitting method
real-time measurement information
yield improvement


Agent-based product-support logistics system using XML and RDF The capability of the timely provision of maintenance services and service parts is critical to the competitiveness of industrial systems . To enhance the timely operations in a product-support logistics chain , business partners -LRB- equipment manufacturers , parts distributors , customers -RRB- may have to collaborate for the efficient exchange of relevant information . We propose the architecture of an agent-based product-support logistics system . Emphasis is placed on the problems of sharing and exchanging information through agent communication . We adopt the Resource Description Framework -LRB- RDF -RRB- schema for information modelling in product-support logistics domain . The eXtensible Markup Language -LRB- XML -RRB- serialization generates messages for agent communication . The use of XML and RDF enables software agents to understand the contents of messages correctly and consistently . We demonstrate the feasibility of our agent architecture using a scenario in logistical support processes . We believe that the approach can provide a promising way to the automation of business processes in product-support logistics through seamless communication among the partners

O O O O O B O B O O O O O O O B I O B I O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O B I O O O O O O B I I O B O O O O O O O O O O O B O B O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

xml
rdf
service parts
industrial systems
maintenance services
information modelling
extensible markup language
software agents


Integrated support based on task models for the design , evaluation , and documentation of interactive safety-critical systems : a case study in the air-traffic control domain This paper presents an approach to using task models in both the design and the evaluation phases of interactive safety-critical applications . We explain how it is possible to use information contained in task models to support the design and development of effective user interfaces . Moreover , we show how task models can also support a systematic inspection-based usability assessment by examining possible deviations that can occur while users interact with the system , an important issue especially when coping with the peculiar requirements of safety-critical applications . Such evaluation provides useful technical documentation to help users achieve an in-depth understanding of the system and its design rationale . Lastly , a description of the application of our approach to a real case study in the air-traffic control domain will illustrate the main features of the proposed method . In particular , we discuss examples taken from an application for air-traffic controllers in an aerodrome supported by graphical user interfaces for data-link communications with pilots

B I O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O

integrated support
user interfaces
technical documentation
task models

inspection-based usability assessment
graphical user interfaces
data-link communications
interactive safety-critical systems
air-traffic control domain


STEM : Secure Telephony Enabled Middlebox Dynamic applications , including IP telephony , have not seen wide acceptance within enterprises because of problems caused by the existing network infrastructure . Static elements , including firewalls and network address translation devices , are not capable of allowing dynamic applications to operate properly . The Secure Telephony Enabled Middlebox -LRB- STEM -RRB- architecture is an enhancement of the existing network design to remove the issues surrounding static devices . The architecture incorporates an improved firewall that can interpret and utilize information in the application layer of packets to ensure proper functionality . In addition to allowing dynamic applications to function normally , the STEM architecture also incorporates several detection and response mechanisms for well-known network-based vulnerabilities . This article describes the key components of the architecture with respect to the SIP protocol

B O B I I I B I O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O B O B I I I O O O O O O B I O O O O O B I I I O B O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O B O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I

secure telephony enabled middlebox
stem
ip telephony
network infrastructure
firewalls
network address translation devices
dynamic applications
network design
static devices
application layer
response mechanisms
sip protocol

stem architecture
detection mechanisms
network-based vulnerabilities


A maximum-likelihood surface estimator for dense range data Describes how to estimate 3D surface models from dense sets of noisy range data taken from different points of view , i.e. , multiple range maps . The proposed method uses a sensor model to develop an expression for the likelihood of a 3D surface , conditional on a set of noisy range measurements . Optimizing this likelihood with respect to the model parameters provides an unbiased and efficient estimator . The proposed numerical algorithms make this estimation computationally practical for a wide variety of circumstances . The results from this method compare favorably with state-of-the-art approaches that rely on the closest-point or perpendicular distance metric , a convenient heuristic that produces biased solutions and fails completely when surfaces are not sufficiently smooth , as in the case of complex scenes or noisy range measurements . Empirical results on both simulated and real ladar data demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method for several different types of problems . Furthermore , the proposed method offers a general framework that can accommodate extensions to include surface priors , more sophisticated noise models , and other sensing modalities , such as sonar or synthetic aperture radar

O O O O O B I I O O O O B I I O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O B I I O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O B I I

dense range data
3d surface models
noisy range data
sensor model
heuristic
biased solutions
complex scenes
noisy range measurements
real ladar data
sonar
synthetic aperture radar

maximum-likelihood surface estimator
unbiased estimator
simulated ladar data
surface reconstruction
surface fitting
optimal estimation
parameter estimation
bayesian estimation
registration
calibration


Use of Bayesian Belief Networks when combining disparate sources of information in the safety assessment of software-based systems The paper discusses how disparate sources of information can be combined in the safety assessment of software-based systems . The emphasis is put on an emerging methodology , relevant for intelligent product-support systems , to combine information about disparate evidences systematically based on Bayesian Belief Networks . The objective is to show the link between basic information and the confidence one can have in a system . How one combines the Bayesian Belief Net -LRB- BBN -RRB- method with a software safety standard -LRB- RTCA/DO -178 B , -RRB- for safety assessment of software-based systems is also discussed . Finally , the applicability of the BBN methodology and experiences from cooperative research work together with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace and Det Norske Veritas , and ongoing research with VTT Automation are presented

O O B I I O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

bayesian belief networks
software safety standard
safety assessment

intelligent product-support systems
software-based systems


Enhanced product support through intelligent product manuals The scope of this paper is the provision of intelligent product support within the distributed Intranet/Internet environment . From the point of view of user requirements , the limitations of conventional product manuals and methods of authoring them are first outlined . It is argued that enhanced product support requires new technology solutions both for product manuals and for their authoring and presentation . The concept and the architecture of intelligent product manuals are then discussed . A prototype system called ProARTWeb is presented to demonstrate advanced features of intelligent product manuals . Next , the problem of producing such manuals in a cost-effective way is addressed and a concurrent engineering approach to their authoring is proposed . An integrated environment for collaborative authoring called ProAuthor is described to illustrate the approach suggested and to show how consistent , up-to-date and user-oriented-product manuals can be designed . The solutions presented here enable product knowledge to be captured and delivered to users and developers of product manuals when , where and in the form they need it

O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O

intelligent product support
intelligent product manuals
product manuals
proartweb
concurrent engineering
product knowledge


The set of just-in-time management strategies : an assessment of their impact on plant-level productivity and input-factor substitutability using variable cost function estimates Many manufacturers in the automobile industry around the world have adopted the just-in-time -LRB- JIT -RRB- set of management strategies in an effort to improve productivity , efficiency and product quality . The paper provides empirical evidence that supports the idea that JIT manufacturing environments are , in fact , more productive than their non-JIT counterparts . Plant-level cross-sectional data from auto-parts manufacturing firms are used to estimate variable cost functions for a JIT group as well as for a non-JIT group of plants . Differences in cost function characteristics between the two groups are examined and discussed

O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I I O O O O B I O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O B O B I O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

variable cost function estimates
automobile industry
jit
efficiency
product quality

just-in-time management strategies
plant-level productivity
input-factor substitutability
auto-parts manufacturing firms


Defending against flooding-based distributed denial-of-service attacks : a tutorial Flooding-based distributed denial-of-service -LRB- DDoS -RRB- attack presents a very serious threat to the stability of the Internet . In a typical DDoS attack , a large number of compromised hosts are amassed to send useless packets to jam a victim , or its Internet connection , or both . In the last two years , it was discovered that DDoS attack methods and tools are becoming more sophisticated , effective , and also more difficult to trace to the real attackers . On the defense side , current technologies are still unable to withstand large-scale attacks . The main purpose of this article is therefore twofold . The first one is to describe various DDoS attack methods , and to present a systematic review and evaluation of the existing defense mechanisms . The second is to discuss a longer-term solution , dubbed the Internet-firewall approach , that attempts to intercept attack packets in the Internet core , well before reaching the victim

O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O


Enlisting on-line residents : Expanding the boundaries of e-government in a Japanese rural township The purpose of this article is to analyze and learn from an unusual way in which local bureaucrats in a Japanese rural township are using the Internet to serve their constituents by enlisting the support of `` on-line residents . '' Successful e-government requires not only rethinking the potential uses of computer technology , but in adopting new patterns of decision-making , power sharing , and office management that many bureaucrats may not be predisposed to make . The main thesis of this article is that necessity and practicality can play a powerful motivational role in facilitating the incorporation of information technology -LRB- IT -RRB- at the level of local government . This case study of how bureaucrats in Towa-cho , a small , agricultural town in Northeastern Japan , have harnessed the Internet demonstrates clearly the fundamentals of building a successful e-government framework in this rural municipality , similar to many communities in Europe and North America today

O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O B I I O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O

japanese rural township
local bureaucrats
internet
power sharing
office management
rural municipality

on-line residents
e-government
decision-making
towa-cho


Government budget and accounting information policy and practice in Taiwan The principal government budget and accounting information policies in Taiwan are founded on the ability to provide integrated , consistent , and timely information for government managers to make more rational decisions concerning national resource allocation and evaluation . A specific accounting organization system has been designed for this purpose . This paper analyzes information policies and practices according to the relevant laws and regulations , identifies issues regarding the policies , and presents strategies to resolve the issues

B I O B I I O O O B O O B I O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O B I O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

government budget
accounting information policy
taiwan
government managers
rational decisions
national resource allocation

generally accepted accounting principles


A high-resolution high-frequency monolithic top-shooting microinjector free of satellite drops - part I : concept , design , and model Introduces an innovative microinjector design , featuring a bubble valve , which entails superior droplet ejection characteristics and monolithic fabrication , which allows handling of a wide range of liquids . This new microinjector uses asymmetric bubbles to reduce crosstalk , increase frequency response and eliminate satellite droplets . During a firing , i.e. , droplet ejection , the `` virtual valve '' closes , by growing a thermal bubble in the microchannel , to isolate the microchamber from the liquid supply and neighboring chambers . Between firings , however , the virtual valve opens , by collapsing the bubble , to reduce flow restriction for fast refilling of the microchamber . The use of bubble valves brings about fast and reliable device operation without imposing the significant complication fabrication of physical microvalves would call for . In addition , through a special heater configuration and chamber designs , bubbles surrounding the nozzle cut off the tail of the droplets being ejected and completely eliminate satellite droplets . A simple one-dimensional model of the operation of the microinjector is used to estimate the bubble formation and liquid refilling

O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O B O O B I O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I

bubble valve
droplet ejection characteristics
asymmetric bubbles
crosstalk
liquid refilling
frequency response
satellite droplets
virtual valve
flow restriction
chamber designs

monolithic top-shooting microinjector
inkjet printing
thermal bubble jet


Creating the right mail model If you know your post room is not as efficiently organised as it might be , but you are not sure how best to go about making improvements , then consider this advice from John Edgar of consultant MCS

O O O B O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B B


When the unexpected happens -LSB- disaster planning in banks -RSB- A business disruption can be as simple as a power failure or as complex as a terrorist attack . Regardless , you will need to have a plan to minimize interruptions to both your bank and your customers . Marketers have a role in this readiness process

O O O O O B I O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

planning
recovery
public relations
emergency management


Arbortext : enabler of multichannel publishing A company has a document-say , dosage instructions for a prescription drug or a troubleshooting sheet for a DVD drive . That document starts its life in a predictable format , probably Microsoft Word or WordPerfect , but then-to meet the needs of readers who nowadays demand access via multiple devices-the material has to be translated into many more formats : HTML , PageMaker , or Quark , possibly RTF , almost certainly PDF , and nowadays , next-generation devices -LRB- cell phones , handheld computers -RRB- also impose their own requirements . And what if , suddenly , the dosage levels change or new workarounds emerge to handle DVD problems ? That 's when a company should put in a call to Arbortext , a 20-year-old Ann Arbor , Michigan-based company that exists to solve a single problem : helping clients automate multichannel publishing

B O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I

document format
next-generation devices
content assets


PDF subscriptions bolster revenue In 1999 SD Times offered prospective subscribers the option of receiving their issues as Adobe Acrobat PDF files . What set the proposal apart from what other publishers were doing electronically on the Web was that readers would get the entire version of the paper-including both advertising and editorial just as it looked when it was laid out and went to press . SD Times is only one of a small , but growing , number of publications that are taking on the electronic world and finding success . In the past six months alone , the New York Times , Popular Mechanics , trade magazine Electronic Buyers ' News , and the Harvard Business Review have launched digital versions of their newspapers and magazines to augment their online and print versions . The reasons are as varied as the publishers themselves . Some companies are finding that readers do n't like their Web-based versions either due to poor navigation or missing graphics and images . Others want to expand their publications nationally and internationally , but do n't want the added cost of postage and printing . Still others are looking for ways to give advertisers additional visibility and boost advertising and subscription revenues . No matter what the reason , it 's a trend worth watching

B I O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O B I I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O B O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

pdf subscriptions
sd times
adobe acrobat pdf files
digital versions
magazines


Application of hybrid models for prediction and optimization of enzyme fermentation process . A comparative study The paper presents a comparison of the biotechnological process prediction and optimization results obtained by using different structure hybrid mathematical models for modeling of the same bioprocess . The hybrid models under investigation consist of the product mass balance equation in which different means - an artificial neural network , fuzzy-neural network and cell age distribution based calculation scheme - are incorporated for modeling the specific biosynthesis rate of a desired product . Experimental data from alpha - amylase laboratory and industrial fermentation processes are used for model parameter identification and the process prediction tests

O O B I O O O B O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O O O B I O O O O O B O O B I O O O O O B I I I O O O O O O O O O O O O O B I I O O O O O O O O O O B I O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O B O O O O O

mathematical models
bioprocess
hybrid models
product mass balance equation
cell age distribution
biosynthesis rate
enzyme fermentation
optimization
identification

fuzzy-neural network
industrial processes