Abstract This paper explores different attached greenhouses, their benefits and their components, including detailed descriptions of flooring, roofing, glazing, insulation and venting. It discusses how they conserve energy and how they are virtually self-sustaining year round.
From the Paper "The 'glazing' of the greenhouse is also very important- this is the material that allows the sunlight to come in and stay there, making the greenhouse warm and allowing plants to grow, even in the coldest of weathers. The two choices for glazing usually come down to glass and plastic. Glass is a good choice for your greenhouse because it is scratch and weatherproof, stable at high temperatures, has typically clear views (when clean) and has good solar transmittance. However, it is very difficult to install and is expensive. Plastics like polycarbonates, polyvinyl fluorides and fiberglass-reinforced polyesters are cheaper and easier to install, strong and resistant to breakage, have shown better plant growth results, and have a high solar transmittance. "
Abstract This paper explains that, when designing safe equipment, there are two major factors to consider: the severity of possible injuries or illness that may result from the use of the equipment and the probability of their occurrence. The paper further explains that it is first necessary to look at the machines' design in order to assess the potential for avoiding or reducing as many hazards as possible by selecting the machine's best features and second, it is essential to look at the possibility of reducing hazards by decreasing the need for the worker to intervene in the danger zones.
From the Paper "The overall process before new equipment is designed involves assessing risks through measurement of physical and chemical parameters in the workplace, such as solvents, metals, dust, noise, lighting, heat stress, ergonomic and safety hazards. Once this is completed, the following actions can take place that promote awareness of risks and following better practices such as substitution of solvents with less dangerous ones, improvement in ergonomic conditions and decreasing noise levels."
Abstract In this essay, the writer relates that there are few dams in the world that have received the amount of attention that Hoover Dam has received since its construction years ago. The writer points out that, with an annual tourist draw of more than 1 million people, Hoover Dam is counted as one of the most visited tourist attractions in America. Standing at 762 feet the dam towers above the dry arid floor around it and generates power for more than 1 million customers in Arizona, California and Nevada. This paper presents an extensive overview of Hoover Dam. The writer explores the construction, the benefits to society the dam provides and the future plans for the dam. The writer concludes that Hoover Dam continues to be respected as one of the great architectural designs in America's history.
Outline:
Introduction
Differences
History
Touring Options
The Building of the Dam
Conclusion
From the Paper "There are two dam tours available, one that lasts 30 minutes and another that lasts for an hour. The half hour tour provides information for a tour of up to 80 people and takes the participants into four different engineering areas. The second tour however, has room for 16 people because it asks them to don hard hats and go deeper into the dam to visit 10 additional sites of interest."
"The longer tour starts with an elevator ride that travels down more than 52 stories in length directly into the canyon wall. Once the elevator stops tourists walkthrough a long tunnel to the power plant where tour members are urged to put earplugs in before entering."
Abstract This paper takes a look at IC and ASIC designers and discusses how, in the early 1980s, engineers had life a bit easier than engineers do today. The paper goes on to say that they did not have to deal with the tiniest of mechanisms, testing them, creating switches, circuits and memory from electrons and molecules. According to the paper, delay specifications for the early (multi- micron) technologies were elementary at best.
From the Paper "Engineering teams from major universities and corporations deal with specifics of design problems and engineering team coordination raises the overhead. The scale of the design has been decreasing, which also increases complexity, cost and testing difficulties. The architecture of the SOCs must change in how they are laid on the chip, as well as the materials that are being used in order to avoid the problems that were addressed earlier in this research. As new systems are needed to take advantage of advances in IC manufacturing technology, finer process geometries will provide the ability to manufacture more gates on a single die. Large systems in silicon have declined, due to physical design limitations and now more appropriate, expensive materials will replace silicon. There will be 1 billion transistors made in 2007 (Lai 27)."
Abstract This paper presents a study that structures the research around the designs of manual production tooling or integrated tooling for tolerance holding during certain types/phases of assembly. The paper limits this research to no more than 5 robotic tools.
Outline:
Purpose of the Study
Introduction
Types of Tooling Identified
Flexible and Non-Flexible Robotic Assembly
CAD, CAM & CAPP Systems
Synthesis System - Conigen
Summary
From the Paper "According to this work systems engineering over the last twenty years has "evolved to include the cost of automated machine tools as alternatives to labor and has developed several very different cost profiles; but the optimizations were still being performed at the simple part or discrete work element level. There was no large change in the process during the decade of the 1980s however, the hardware and software of today are stated to be "capable of simulating multiple, if not essentially unlimited, factory designs and equipment variations, giving the systems engineer the ability to affect both prior to a factory's construction." (Ibid) The work of Dr. David M. Anderson, P.E., CMC entitled: "Design for Manufacturability and Concurrent Engineering" states that it is very critical that "concurrent engineering of parts and tooling" are used for the purposes of minimizing "tooling complexity, cost, delivery lead-time" and in order to "maximize throughput, quality and flexibility."
Abstract The paper explains that computer aided design (CAD) involves the application of computer technology to the design of the cockpit so that it is more ergonomic and more sensitive to the characteristics of different pilots. The paper relates that, on the whole, CAD technology is an enormous improvement on older aviation design because it allows designers to visualize situations in three-dimensionality throughout the design process. The paper discusses the CAD-based ergonomic analysis programs that allow researchers to create accurate 3-D human models that measure the impact of ergonomics on the safety and reliability of products, equipment and facilities. The paper includes graphs, tables and illustrations.
Outline:
Chapter I: Introduction
Chapter II: Review of Related Literature
Chapter III:Methodology
Chapter IV: Results
Chapter V: Discussion
Chapter VI: Conclusion
Chapter VII: Recommendations
From the Paper "Aircraft accidents that lead to loss of lives receive the highest level of attention in the aviation industry. There are many different causes for aircraft accidents that occur on an everyday basis in the aviation industry, which range from pilot errors to mechanical challenges. Some of those errors are minor, but others can have devastating effects. Pilot errors can be minimized by utilizing adequate tools and various analyses. Human factors are one of the methods that would improve safety. The term "human factors" has grown drastically, and has become more popular as the commercial aviation industry realized that human errors underlies most aviation accidents and incidents, rather than mechanical failure (Greaber 1999)."
Abstract This paper presents a case study that looks at various home appliances built in the United States during the year 2002. It looks for differences in efficiency and other resources and compares capabilities and competitions among other countries. The paper presents each factor and shows a possible solution for consumers as a guide to help save cost as well as follow federal guidelines.
Table of Contents:
Case Study
Appliance Resources
Appliance Capabilities
Appliance Competencies
Solutions
Discussion
From the Paper "It seems that appliances are used at enormous rates within homes in the United States. Yet, the energy needed to consume is higher when consumers use the appliances regularly. The appliances have changed drastically over the years to follow federal guidelines to save energy, be more efficient in terms of long lasting, comparison shopping at various stores as well as on-line, and consistent competition from manufacturers and retailers."
"For example, the manufacturer Philips, which may be considered as the leader in digital demonstrations and wireless connectivity, gave way to new visions: Connected Home. According to Philips new forefront, the Connected Home will address consumers to use more home appliances, broadband and future technological developments. In definition, "Connected Home is made up of a broadband connection to the outside world and two or more devices connected together and to the outside world via a wired or wireless home network" ("Philips")."
Tags: electrical, manufacturers, consumers, energy
Abstract The paper explores BASF's aggressive growth strategy and reviews how their focus on non-cyclical operational aspects has helped boost company growth. The paper shows the truth in their popular slogan "We don't make a lot of the products you buy. We make a lot of the products you buy better".
Outline:
Unbridled Aggression
Cyclical Implications
Too Aggressive?
From the Paper "Since Sean Milmo's seven-year old Chemical Market Reporter article on BASF (which originally stood for Badische Anilin-und Soda-Fabrik), the record sales he discussed in "BASF outlines growth strategy in major markets" have been broken time and again. BASF remains strong in cyclical and commodity products and continues to increase earnings in non-cyclical operations as well. In fact, the third quarter of 2006 marked the thirteenth quarter in a row in which the company has posted sales growth. The chemical company has effectively resisted the urge to rest on its collective laurels, and has recently (2006) acquired Engelhard, Degussa Construction Chemicals and Johnson Polymer. Initially, Englehard's board of directors rejected BASF's bid ($37/share) stating they believed it to be "inadequate and opportunistic." Not to be denied, BASF increased their bid by $1/share, which Engelhard eventually accepted. This approach personifies the chemical giant's approach to growth: they are aggressive!"
Abstract In this article, the writer explains that the Peace Bridge spans the Niagara River and links the cities of Fort Erie, Ontario and Buffalo, New York. The writer points out that this bridge is considered a critical link for cross-border commercial traffic with considerable economic significance for the region. The paper explains that the bridge was built in 1927, has three traffic lanes and sidewalks, and has been well-maintained so it is in excellent condition. The writer points out that the proposal to construct a new bridge that would cross the river is not due to damage to the existing bridge but to the limited capacity of the roadways on the bridge.
From the Paper "Someone designed the highway, while no one designed the space under the bridge. Such extra spaces are often created with such large-scale projects. This space is not likely to be useful in the current project to add three lanes of traffic to the existing bridge, though a more useful design for this space could be included at the same time to improve the area."
"The current bridge is a 3,600-foot steel truss built in 1927. The bridge is made up of five arched spans crossing the Niagara River, with an added through-truss span crossing the Black Rock Canal on the American side. The bridge was built of tons of steelwork and concrete abutments to hold it. The bridge was built to relieve traffic on the International Railway Bridge erected in 1873. The construction had to overcome the swift river current in that area, running at about twelve miles per hour. It is hoped that an addition to the bridge can increase traffic by one-third."
Abstract This paper discusses how electrical engineering helps musicians to identify the precision of musical notes, record their albums, and finally modify what has been recorded. It provides background context about the theory associated with various devices with an emphasis on critical analysis of the current solutions to the problem of having a standard measure for pitch of instruments. It also looks at how currently the "adaptive filter" devices and digital signal processing ("DSP") tuners are the most common and available solutions in the market. The paper includes diagrams and equations where relevant.
Outline:
Introduction
Sounds and Music
The Tuners for Musical Instruments
Latest Developments
Suggestion for Improvement
Conclusion
From the Paper "A musical note refers to a specific frequency, "A note is a sign used in music to represent the relative duration and pitch of a sound" [1]. Every sound is a wave and as such is characterized by its frequency. However, listening to only one, single frequency is not that enjoyable. The truth is that human ear is more sensitive to a frequency difference rather than a single frequency. Therefore, a musically desirable sound is the one rich in harmonics. "The harmonic of a wave is a component frequency of the signal that is an integer multiple of the fundamental frequency." [2] For example, consider a sound having a fundamental frequency f, its harmonics are then 2 f, 3 f, 4 f, 5 f, 6 f, etc. Another sound with the fundamental frequency 2 f would have 4 f, 6 f, and 8 f etc. as its harmonics. "
Abstract This paper discusses how concrete gravity dams are effective in most part due to their extreme size and weight, which counters all external forces, and how, used for many things, dams such as these can generate enormous amounts of hydropower and create massive reservoirs when necessary. Although dams do pose a certain amount of risk on the environment and those living around them, the positive aspects of dams seem to outweigh this risk.This paper explores the design behind concrete gravity dams, including but not limited to hydropower uses, effective external and internal forces, dam site selection, and many other related topics.
From the Paper "Throughout the history of dams, many failures have been attributed to weaknesses in the concrete used in the construction of the dam. Because the concrete is the main component in most large dams, it is important that it meets certain standards. Concrete is susceptible to deterioration, especially if it is constantly freezing and thawing (Jansen 109). It is important, when designing a concrete gravity dam, to recognize that the concrete will become saturated over time. When the Saint Francis Dam collapsed in 1928 less than two years after it had been built, it was found that the engineers had not implemented into the design the idea that the concrete would become saturated and therefore become less effective. For this reason, among others, the resultant vector of the forces acting on the dam was misplaced (outside of the middle third of the foot) and the dam eventually collapsed (Jansen 181). In later investigations, the concrete was also found to have a void ratio of 14%, which would increase the degree of saturation (Jansen 179). "
Abstract The paper reveals that Pauling has been labeled the premier chemist of the twentieth-century for his work and awards. The paper describes Pauling's birth and childhood, college life, family life, and his many accomplishments. This includes his works on crystal structures, the nature of chemical bonds, the use of Vitamin C to maintain and restore health, as well as his efforts to bring about world peace.
Outline:
Thesis Statement
I. Linus Carl Pauling
II. Accomplishments
From the Paper "You can find Linus Carl Pauling in many areas of research. This man basically wore a coat of many colors. Pauling was a chemist, physicist, humanitarian, nutrition expert, author, educator, and family man. Having accomplishments that are a mile long--Pauling has been labeled the premier chemist of the twentieth-century for his work and awards. (Wiki, 2007)
"Linus Carl Pauling, was born on February 28, 1901, in the town of Portland, Oregon. (Hutchinson, 1999) His parents were Herman and Isabelle Pauling, and he had two younger sisters. Pauling's, father died in 1910, leaving his mother and the children to make it on their own. Pauling continued on through high school, but did not graduate; because the high school required everyone to take a civics class and Pauling, felt he could learn civics on his own."
Abstract This paper presents a memo to Councillor Alex Chiu of the city of Markham. The memo discusses a recent civil engineering study regarding the problem of potholes in Markham. It summarizes the nature of the problem and presents possible solutions as well as recommendations regarding what would be the most effective solution for temporary patching of the potholes.
Table of Contents:
Summary
Findings
An Assessment of the Problem
Solutions
Recommendation
From the Paper "Repairing potholes is a complex problem, particularly if one attempts repairs in a time of high levels of precipitation and extreme temperature fluctuations, as in the Spring. Today there exist materials and technologies that permit effective solutions to potholes that need not wait until summer (Kuennen 2004). However, as will be seen, these solutions come with higher costs. Solutions will be determined by the expected lifespan of the road surface.
"If the City of Markham intends to reconstruct the pavement of the section of Steeles Avenue East in question within a span of, say, three years, then a short-term patch using hot-mix asphalt may be the preferable solution. In this regard, as specialists in the field of pavement and pothole patching observe: "You have to price your options to the length of life that you want for the patch" (Kuennen 2004, p.32)."
Abstract The paper examines the case of river crossing disputes along the St.Croix River where different interest groups were locked in opposite positions, requiring mediation in order to reach a resolution so that the project could advance. The paper explores the issues involved in the negotiation and mediation process, focusing on the processes that the mediators used in order to reach a satisfactory resolution. The paper states that, overall, this mediation process was completely successful. The paper also looks at improvements that could have been made to the process.
Outline:
Introduction
Defining the Problem
Initial Steps in the Mediation Process
Defining the Issues
The Use of Technology
The End of the Dispute
Were the Results Better?
What Could Have Been Done Better?
From the Paper "Construction issues involving environmental, economic, social and political interests are often extremely difficult. Most of the difficulty is caused by the fact that the various interest groups have different interests. Often these interests conflict leading to stalemates. These stalemates in turn lead to inaction because no course of action can be determined.
"In these cases mediation is often required in order to resolve the dispute. Often mediators have to find ways to get interest groups to think outside of the box in order to reach a satisfactory resolution."
Abstract This paper is a discussion on how America's interstate highways have affected its commercial growth over the years. Included in this study are the following topics: post roads and early travel routes, growth and sprawl benefits and effects, right-of-way and eminent domain, the role of the railroad in human and freight travel, the role of the automobile, and a short study on Route 66 in its heyday.
Outline:
Early European Models
Early American Travel Routes
The Railroad
The Automobile
Route 66
Infrastructure Issues
The Interstate's Role in Growth and Sprawl
From the Paper "The highway, or Interstate as it is formally called, has facilitated a drastic growth in American lifestyle, planning, and design, in urban, rural, and suburban regions. Some contend that the invention, production, and utilization of the automobile created the need for a broad network of interstates, while others say that this relationship was formulated the other way around. However, most will agree that the highway is a more efficient means of travel and of transporting goods. Additionally, it creates opportunity for growth along its corridors--from suburbs to shopping malls to rural rest stops, many businesses have boomed due to their proximity to the highway."
