Abstract This paper describes a study that uses human-machine interactive features of the automobile to determine if the driver of the automobile is becoming drowsy. This mechanism is intended to provide a warning to the driver in such a situation. In this way, the drowsy driver can be kept awake by the vehicle he or she is driving, a safety feature that could prevent many accidents caused by drowsy drivers. Several studies that have approached the issue of drowsiness detection based on the use of artificial neural networks are described. The paper includes two charts.
From the Paper "For the current project, some of this existing research may be adaptable to a new use or may provide guidance for solving the problems associated with drowsy driving. For the current project, the primary goal is to develop an algorithm, using the programs of Matlab, Simulink, and Stateflow, an algorithm that can determine an automobile
driver's relative awareness or drowsiness while maneuvering the vehicle. While this seems quite concise in summation, in reality there is much to consider when talking about the issues involved in such a development. For example, it should be asked what created the need for designing this new system and what would be the right technique in developing the system for driver use. Another question to be raised is what problems does the developed algorithm not take into account during its development, issues that may have to be considered later."
Abstract The paper discusses how many buildings today feature fully computerized building management systems that monitor energy use and maintenance schedules on a continuous basis. The paper shows how the trend towards this coalescence of different types of mechanical and electronics technologies has increased in recent years. The paper discusses how they help eliminate the need for human oversight, but the process is not without its challenges and constraints. The paper explores these systems and concludes that as building management professionals gain additional experience with these systems, it can be expected that additional applications will be identified that will make these systems more effective in the future.
Outline:
Summary
Keywords
Functional Description
Technologies at Play
HVAC Servicing Expectations
Conclusion and Proposals for Improvement
From the Paper "The encyclopedic entry for mechatronics indicates that, "Mechatronics is centred on mechanics, electronics and computing which, combined, make possible the generation of simpler, more economical, reliable and versatile systems" (Mechatronics, 2006, p. 2).
"According to Tolentino (2000), in recent years, mechatronics-based systems and processes that combine mechanical and electronics technologies have emerged that involve the application of the most advanced computer technologies in design, manufacturing and engineering along with the use of more advanced technological breakthroughs associated with high-definition television, innovative materials and chemicals, as well as advanced microchip technology."
Abstract This paper discusses how the introduction of new materials in recent decades has provided urban designers and architects with the opportunity to transform the relationship that has historically existed between people and their environments through innovations in construction and the materials from which these buildings are constructed. This paper provides an overview of some of the historical issues, such as the history of plastics, ceramics, semiconductors and reviews questions about the design issues that emerge from the nature of the materials themselves. This is followed by a summary of the research and salient findings in the conclusion.
Outline:
Introduction
Review and Discussion
Background and Overview
Historical Issues and Influences
Emergent Technological and Design Issues
Conclusion
From the Paper "Citing the example of Japan finding itself in need of coal during the 1930s, Bell reports that the Japanese simply acquired more material by invading Manchuria and appropriating their resources. This author also observed early on that the materials revolution would have a profound effect on how architects and designers selected the materials needed for any given applications, and suggested that new technologies would emerge that would allow for completely customizable materials for any given purpose. This, in fact, is what has taken place in recent years. Indeed, innovations in materials science as well as manufacturing applications that have introduced new composites and the potential for increasingly tiny applications of these substances at the molecular level through nanotechnology promise even more science-fiction-into-science fact realities. "
Abstract The paper relates that plastic pipes, tubing and other items are essentially a part of today's industries; they have almost replaced copper pipes and tubing, as well as aluminum and steel materials. The paper explores the dangers of PVC and examines how researchers have found that when infants are treated with medical devices that contain PVC in any form, they are inadvertently exposed to very high levels of a toxic chemical. The paper also shows that it was found that PVC can be dangerous if used while transporting compressed gases in above the ground installations, because the pipeline could rupture. The paper contends that policies and recommendations would help in the analysis, testing and the implementation of proposals and recommendations when using PVC.
From the Paper "Mechanical testing of PVC resins would have to be carried out to find out if the combination has created a success of a potential failure. (Portnoy,199) However, the determination of the actual root cause of the failure of systems or components, like for example, the PVC tubing in an industry, can be an extremely complex proposition, because of the fact that it would involve multi-disciplinary testing and analysis. (Matco Associates inc. Failure Analysis)."
Abstract This study aims to determine, through a critical review of the literature, what factors are involved in selecting viscoelastic flooring systems. It then discusses how companies can use these flooring systems to their best effect in a wide variety of applications. The study extends the use of viscoelastic damper design configurations in flooring systems to a global basis, but with an emphasis on those systems currently in use, or anticipated in the near future, in the United States.
Table of Contents:
Chapter 1: Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Purpose of Study
Importance of Study
Scope of Study
Rationale of Study
Overview of Study
Chapter 2: Review of Related Literature
Chapter 3: Methodology
Description of the Study Approach
Data-gathering Method and Database of Study
From the Paper "According to Bryner, elastomeric coatings are primarily based on acrylic, silicone, or urethane chemistry. Approximately 70 percent of the elastomeric coatings used in the U.S. are acrylic-based, F&S says. Some of the key competitors in this industry today include Degussa Construction Systems (Shakopee. MN), Sherwin-Williams, and ICI (Bryner, 2005). This author adds that one company saw "double-digit growth last year in this business, and expect to see the same next year" (Bryner, 2005, p. 37). This company, ICI, manufactures acrylic-based wall coatings that are primarily used on "tilt-up" buildings--a type of construction where walls are cast on-site and then "tilted up" in place--and in particular, prison buildings. The company says these coatings accounted for 2 percent of its 2004 store-sales. ICI recently reorganized its elastomeric coatings business under one brand, called Decra-Flex, Salvadore says. "We had a disjointed program, and what we've done is brought everything together," he says (Bryner, 2005, p. 38)."
Abstract In this article, the writer points out that in order to be fully aware of what type of panel is being addressed by this study, various types of panels must be examined and understood. The writer notes that there are various types of panels that are more significant to the discussion than others, and some types of panels also have more information written about them. The writer maintains that because of this, there are panels discussed that have more information about them than other panels, but every effort is made to ensure that each type of panel has enough information collected about it to ensure that the reader has a clear understanding of the type of panel and the important information that surrounds each one. Diagrams and figures are also provided where they are available to help with the understanding of the different types of panels that are discussed.
Outline:
Literature Review
Soft and Laminated Core Sandwich Panels
One Way Stiffened Core Panels
Two Way Stiffened Core Panels
Bibliography
From the Paper "One way stiffened core panels must also be addressed as a type of panel that is important to discuss within the confines of this particular review of the literature. These panels are significant for many different types of applications, as are all of the panels that are being discussed within this review of the literature. Two way stiffened core panels will also be addressed in the next section. The subsections below, however, will address the different types of one way stiffened core panels, including Z-core, C-core, Trussed Core, and Zig Zag Core panels.
While one way stiffened core panels are important to address, it is also necessary to ensure that the different types of these panels are examined, because they all work differently and are created differently (Gdoutos, Daniel, Wang & Abot, 2001). This indicates that, while they all may work well, some of them will work better for specific types of applications, and it is necessary to be aware of what types of applications are the best choices for each particular panel."
Abstract In this article, the writer investigates various construction companies within Libya, to rank construction delay variables in accordance with their effect on delay and cost. Additionally, the researcher's aim includes reviewing the existing literature available on the construction industry to ascertain the primary causes of delays in construction processes. To achieve these aims, the author evaluates what are the primary causes of delays related to construction processes. Further, the writer discusses what construction companies exist in Libya and how these variables rank according to their effect on project delay and cost. The writer also examines how construction delays impact the cost of construction processes.
Outline:
Introduction
Objectives
Literature Review
Methodology
Analysis of Data
Implications
References
From the Paper "Ford notes that political leadership in Libya is ripe for encouraging foreign investment in multiple sectors. The country will need to increase its' production capacity to attract foreign investors particularly in underdeveloped fields. The country must also reintegrate itself in the international political arena by working on relations with the governments in major countries of western Europe and the U.S."
"Sebestyen notes that construction and modern manufacturing has along history that can be traced several thousand years. Changing technologies have impacted multiple arenas including construction, where the techniques, processes, materials, machines and information of technology must be embraced during production and used in different ways for different countries, even in the presence of international trends in construction. Technology has stimulated among other things better conditions within the construction industry, better quality, durability and increased opportunities for sustainable growth."
Abstract This paper discusses crystallography, which is the scientific study of crystals. The paper specifically introduces quasicrystals and discusses their discovery in 1982. The paper goes on to analyze the properties, symmetry and application of quasicrystals, looking closely at how they differ from classical crystals. The paper includes many diagrams to illustrate its points.
Table of Contents:
Classical Crystals and Quasicrystals: An Overview
Quasicrystals in Focus
Symmetry of Quasicrystals and the Concept of Higher Dimensional Space
Types of Quasicrystals
Structure Models, Structure Solution Techniques, and Software Modeling
Properties of Quasicrystals
Applications of Quasicrystals and Research Areas in Quasicrystallography
From the Paper Crystallography, the scientific study of crystals, can be traced as far back as the 17th century, when scientists such as Johannes Kepler and "Robert Hooke published works presenting ideas on the microscopic structure of crystals. Numerous studies in this field resulted in the systematized discipline of crystals as it is known today. Following these developments, "crystallography" evolved from "the scientific study of crystals" to "the experimental science of determining the arrangement of atoms in solids." This evolution to cover all possible atomic arrangement was inevitable especially with the discovery of solids that cannot be confined within the conventional definition of a crystal."
Abstract This paper reviews and discusses sickle cell anemia. According to the paper, sickle cell anemia is an inherited blood disorder characterized primarily by chronic anemia and periodic episodes of pain. Sickle cell anemia is in essence a condition in which there is insufficient healthy blood cells to convey oxygen to the body.
Outline:
Definition and Description
Inheritance and Genetics
Incidence
Symptoms
Brief Historical Overview
Prognosis and Treatment
From the Paper "In order for sickle cell anemia to manifest itself the presence of two defective genes ( SS) are needed. In other words, if two parents are the carriers of one sickle hemoglobin gene (S) as well as a single normal cell ( A) then each chills born for these parents will have a "...25% chance of inheriting two defective genes and having sickle cell anemia; a 25% chance of inheriting two normal genes and not having the disease; and a 50% chance of being an unaffected carrier like the parents." (New Hope for People with Sickle Cell Anemia)"
"Individuals who have only one copy of the mutation are said to have sickle cell trait. These people are usually healthy but can transmit the disease to their children. This aspect is clarified by the fact that, "Sickle Cell trait (AS) is an inherited condition in which both hemoglobin A and S are produced in the red blood cells, always more A than S. Sickle cell trait is not a type of sickle cell disease. People with sickle cell trait are generally healthy." (What is Sickle Cell Disease?)"
Abstract The paper discusses the importance of machines designed to meet the needs of the humans they work for. The paper explains the concept of work measurement and shows how it applies to a machine or human being. The paper discusses how engineers can design a work system that is efficient and that meets the needs of the human counterparts in the best way possible. This is possible through the work measurement process.
Outline:
The Dynamics of Work Design
Work Systems
Work Measurement
Motion-Time Studies
The Human Factor
From the Paper "Regardless of the technology involved every work environment represents a system. This system consists of many parts, all of which must function synchronously in order for the work to be accomplished. Every corporation is like an assembly line with different parts. All of the parts must work together to produce a product. This is easy to understand when one thinks of a manufacturer, such as an automobile manufacturer, or a computer manufacturer. However, other systems might not be so obvious such as a bank, or delivery service. These businesses still offer a product, even if that product is actually a service. In the case of a bank there are tellers, managers, people who service the ATM machines, and building maintenance people, all of whom work together to produce a product."
Abstract This paper explores the gender differences and disparities in the science and engineering fields. The paper suggests that while there are many advantages to having children outside of the professional and academic world, such as a more balanced and healthy lifestyle, in terms of advancement in the profession, children are often seen as a disadvantage. The paper examines some of these disadvantages more closely.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
Female advancement and children
Analysis
Conclusion
Addendum
From the Paper "While this view has largely been revealed as a false prejudice, one of the central factors that prevent women from more extensive participation in the science and engineering is that they are traditionally and conventionally seen as being mainly responsible for childcare and child rearing. This refers to another social perception that women and not men should be responsible for the children and leads to various assumptions that women do not have the time to deal with the demands and pressure of the scientific world. The fact that a woman has children therefore has become a central and important variable in the debate about gender inequality in the scientific and other fields. This paper will explore some of the facts relating to this debate."
Abstract This paper explores how gender roles have eroded significantly in the last few decades giving women more opportunities to succeed in a wider range of careers. In particular, the paper focuses on engineering. The writer describes the "glass ceiling" and how that is also changing. Also considered are differing views regarding women specifically in engineering. The writer concludes that although women lag behind men in terms of numbers in the engineering, this is likely to change, as more women graduate with advanced degrees in this field.
From the Paper "According to an interview with Dr. Hayden, a female electrical engineer professor at Cal Poly Pamona, both women and men face challenges in the engineering field. Although she was once encouraged to "try another, more female field" she was able to succeed in her field, despite being a female. She does admit that women have faced hardships in their pursuit of successful engineering careers, but "for every negative experience..I have had many more positive experiences". According to Dr. Hayden, the hardships are part of the learning process."
Abstract The paper relates that an increasing number of commercial and residential structures are using steel frame construction techniques due to their many advantages. The paper explains that because resources are by definition scarce, it is important to recognize when and where steel frame construction is an appropriate choice. The paper therefore examines the contemporary applications, properties, strengths and limitations of steel frame construction techniques.
Outline:
Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Purpose of Study
Importance of Study
Scope of Study
Rationale of Study
Overview of Study
Methodology
Discussion and Analysis
From the Paper "An increasing number of commercial and residential structures are using steel frame construction techniques today. The increased popularity of this building technique has grown from its early beginnings in Chicago a century and a half ago to become the building method of choice for many urban settings today. This increased use is directly attributable to a number of key advantages that steel frame construction has been shown to have over other construction techniques. For example, according to Fanjoy (2006), "While a versatile building material, lumber can pose a number of challenges to builders and remodelers: sudden and sizeable fluctuations in price, for example, or rot and dimensional instability due to exposure to moisture, either at the building site or after installation. But there is an alternative: steel framing" (3)."
Abstract This paper presents a detailed examination of the different types of windshields used on various vehicles, including their composition and function. The author succinctly explains the differing needs of automobile windshields as opposed to that of motorcycles. The differences in their composition is highlighted in contrast to their functions. The paper also gives a historical overview of windshields. Also included is a description of the windshield manufacturing process and how quality control and product repair are managed. The paper concludes by stating advancements in glass technology are certain to affect the future of the windshield manufacturing industry.
Outline:
Introduction
Historical Highlights
The Manufacturing Process
Quality Control and Product Repair
Future Outlook
References
From the Paper "Curved windshields allowed for a greater freedom in styling. The curved windshields also offered more interior room in car body design. In addition, during this time period, fabricating techniques became more advanced, including the drilling of holes in side windows for anchoring and lifting. By 1957, most American made vehicles had four-way curved glass, with glass curved at not only at the top and bottom, but at the sides as well. Curved rear windows enhanced styling freedom, and by the early 1960s, curved side windows began to become popular, allowing for more interior room. Smoother body lines emerged from automotive stylists ("A Look at Autoglass")."
Abstract This paper describes the history and uses of radio frequency identification (RFID). The author describes the history of radio frequency identification, especially as used during World War II. The paper further describes practical applications of radio frequency identification today, such as on toll roads and also in moving products to their destinations. The author uses Wal-Mart as an example, and also has several charts to demonstrate how RFID is used in industry. The paper concludes with potential uses for RFID in the future.
Outline:
History of Radio Frequency Identification
Fundamentals of Radio Frequency Identification
Exploring the type of RFID Tags
Active RFID Tags
Active Backscatter Tags
Passive Backscatter Tags
RFID's Future Applications
Figure 1: Comparing RFID Frequencies
Figure 2: Comparing RFID Tags and their Use
Figure 3: Exploring How RFID Works
Figure 4: RFID's Impact on a Manufacturer's Supply Chain
Table 1:
Mass customization manufacturing strategies which can be automated through RFID
Figure 5: Using RFID Technology to streamline the MRO Process
Figure 6: Authentication techniques using RFID to validate products using RFID
From the Paper "The 1990s were a significant decade for RFID since it saw the widespread deployment of electronic toll collection in the United States according to AIM (2001). From the lessons learned in transportation and the work completed by IBM engineers who developed and patented an ultra-high frequency (UHF) RFID system according to RFID Journal (2002) which could be read up to 20 feet away., the foundation for reading tags in motion from a distance was of immediate interest to mass merchandisers including Wal-Mart. The pioneering work IBM had done in UHF RFID was sold off to Intermec when the computer conglomerate encountered financial difficulties in the mid 1990s. Intermec, an industry leader in bar coding and material handling applications, struggled to make the technology a market success. What were missing were data standards and the ability to create Master Data Management repositories that could be queried and used for analysis."
