Abstract This paper discusses the theories that explain why the RMS Titanic sank on her maiden voyage. It focuses on the design flaws of the ship, the inferior steel that was used in its building, the speed that the ship was traveling when it hit the iceberg and the overconfidence and negligence of both builders and crew. It combines all of these issues to explain how the disaster could have occurred.
From the Paper "The Titanic disaster was one of the most catastrophic events in the history of travel on the seas. Some ministers preached that the disaster was actually a godsend in disguise, compelling people to abandon their self-absorption, and punishing them for their reliance on technological progress. (Lord 113) Not only did the tragedy mark the end of a universal sense of security, but it was also a turning point in the implementation of additional safety measures. The International Ice Patrol and Coast Guards now closely monitor meandering icebergs to keep them clear of the steamer lanes, and every liner must have sufficient lifeboats for all boarding passengers. (Lord 104) Never again will mankind invest its trust in a few thousand tons of steel and rivets. Like the author Michael Harrington states in his novel Their Eyes Were Watching God, "If there is technological advance without social advance, there is, almost automatically, an increase in human misery, in impoverishment." The saga of the Titanic is a classic example of technological failure causing profound death and destruction."
Abstract This paper analyzes and outlines all the activities required to manage the North Sea Oil infrastructure project within the set time frame and budget. The author describes the initiation, project planning and design, project execution and projection, monitoring and control and completion stages of this project. The author also presents that key processes as integration management, scope management, time and cost management, quality management, human resources management, communication management and risk management. The author underscores that the selected project manager will need to have excellent interpersonal skills and prior experience in the oil and gas industry with projects of this nature.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
Project Stages
Project Initiation Stage
Project Planning or Design Stage
Project Execution or Projection Stage
Project Monitoring and Controlling Systems
Project Completion Stage
Project Management Processes
Integration Management
Scope Management
Time and Cost Management
Quality Management
Human Resources Management
Communication Management
Risk Management
Conclusion
From the Paper "This is also known as the closing stage of the project. However, though the project has been completed it doesn't mean that everything comes to an end at this point. While the execution of the project ends and the end product has been completed it is at this point that the maintenance and post completion support for the users begins along with health and safety audits etc to ensure that all the necessary safety measures are in place."
An essay arguing that modern technology is not contributing towards closing the gender gap between men and women and that it is the social constructs that encourage gender specific technology that must be changed.
Abstract This paper argues that, rather than being gender neutral, modern technology is actually quite gender specific. The paper then sites several examples of technology that support this contention and suggests that the technology also seems to imply that women are less competent or less able to operate technology as well as men and need adapted technology. The paper concludes that technology has not 'liberated' women in that technology remains a gendered subject and that, if we want to advance the prospects of women, we must first create cultural change, as technological advances do not automatically promote gender inequality .
From the Paper "The creation of gendered technology has continued at a strong pace, no longer a domain of household gadgets or curling irons but a realm that includes reproductive technologies serving women, as technology supporting child-bearing women. Women are unwittingly helping a new technology sector from which males profit in the growing numbers to have children later in life, to engage in sex selection, or to demand children through relatively to very high risk cases. This technological enterprise can perhaps be seen as post-industrial child-bearing as a new industry carrying on from the industrial era. In sum, technology has not 'liberated' women in that technology remains a gendered subject. Those who expected something different are advised to trace the much longer history of gender as a socially constructed phenomenon. Cultural change must be created to alter ideas of gender, as opposed to hoping that technological advances will progress the prospects of women."
Tags: social constructs, industry roles stereotypes, technological advances
Abstract This paper specifies that the author thinks the most remarkable American technological engineering achievement is the steel-girder-based skyscraper first erected in the 1880s by William le Baron Jenney. The author feels this way because the building shows the capacity of Americans to ingeniously find new ways of making products serve practical purposes. The paper describes Jenney's 1883 Home Insurance Building, constructed in Chicago, which is the very first building to employ steel skeleton construction and to resemble, in a rudimentary sense, the quintessential modern skyscraper. The paper relates that this building is a prototypical example of nineteenth-century American capitalism and industry at work.
From the Paper "Unsurprisingly, the earliest tall structures were comprised of masonry characterized by "the thick walls of the lower stories usurping a disproportionate amount of floor space." Obviously, it became imperative to design structures that would permit thinner walls to exist throughout the entire height of the building. Initially, architects used cast iron along with masonry; later, they used cage construction whereby an iron frame supported the floors of the structure and the masonry walls had only to bear their own weight."
Tags: exceptionalism, light-weight metal, windows, panoramic view, elevator
Abstract The paper describes nanotechnology and the growth of this field. The paper discusses how, although nanotechnology promises to revolutionize many products and medications in the future, many believe it needs to be researched more completely before releasing it to the public for consumption.
Outline:
Introduction
What it is
Conclusion
From the Paper "For many start up companies across the nation the word nanotechnology strikes a chord. While it is still a small market as compared to many other open markets in today's business world it is a new enough market that it holds promise for the future of start up company success(Challener, 2003).
"The most significant contribution that nanotechnology will make to the business world is the fact that it is very flexible by design and its use. It can be used in many areas of business including automotive technology, aerospace technology, drug delivery and the textile industry."
Abstract The paper speaks about the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal which was the culmination of one of modern history's great negotiating processes. The paper describes how America deliberated with the French and the Columbians to secure the rights to complete the project.
Outline:
Executive Summary
Introduction to the Problem
Identify and Define the Problem
Types of Interest
Alternative Solutions
Common Goals and Objectives
Commitment to Work Together
Building Trust
Conclusion
From the Paper "The Americans also had to build trust with the workers who would ultimately dig the canal. Many workers for the French dig had died from the poor conditions, and the Americans needed to avoid a repeat in order to keep work moving. Unfortunately, the project got off to a poor start in 1904, when project leader John Findlay Wallace duplicated many of the French mistakes ("TR's legacy," No date). Conditions were unsanitary, the food supply was terrible, and disease began to spread again, prompting many workers to leave the project. When Wallace was replaced by John Stevens, Stevens' first priorities were to build better facilities for workers, improve sanitation efforts on the project, and to make sure the workers were well fed. These steps built trust with the disenfranchised workers, and historians widely believe that the canal would not have been completed without Stevens' intervention."
Abstract In the United States, hydroelectric dams once provided as much as one-half of all electrical power needs. This paper discusses how since they require so much land, there is also a natural limit to how many new dams can be built and debates their true efficiency as opposed to use of other forms of renewable energy such as fossil fuels.
Outline:
Background and History
Hydroelectric Dams for Power Production and Flooding Prevention in the United States
Evaluating the Contemporary Efficiency and Economics of Hydroelectric Dams
From the Paper "Before electricity was harnessed for use as a convenient power source, many early post-Industrial Revolution factories and textile mills relied on water, either for mills driven by the natural power of gravity, or steam engines. Modern hydroelectric dams are complex structures capable of controlling immense volumes of water to reduce the likelihood of natural floods, to provide electric power, irrigate land, and allow open reservoirs and aqueducts to store and deliver water supplies to remote areas far from natural fresh water sources."
Abstract This paper explains that, to completely comprehend the different methods and materials associated with bridge building and to understand the history of technology in this area, one must first grasp the materials used in construction, how they are used and what technology is applied in their use. The paper then explains that the purpose of the research proposed is to provide a better understanding of materials and technology that have been historically utilized in building bridges including elements of hydraulics and drilling. The paper includes two tables.
Table of Contents:
Statement of Thesis
Study Purpose
Significance of Study
Questions of the Research
Methodology
Literature Review
Summary of Literature Reviewed
Recommendation for Further Research
From the Paper "A great new range of materials has opened up for the use of 20th-century man: refractory metals, light alloys, plastics, and synthetic fibers, for example. Some of these do better, or cheaper, what the older ones did; others have combinations of properties that enable entirely new devices to be made or quite new effects to be achieved. We now employ in industrial processes a majority of the ninety-two elements in the periodic table, which are found in nature, whereas until a century ago, all but 20, if known at all, were curiosities of the chemistry laboratory."
Abstract This paper addresses the problems arising from the fact that Southeast Asia has become an economic power in the global market. The paper points out that there has been rapid globalization in the region, where major Western companies set up shop, due to lower labor and production costs. The paper argues that, although this has been good economically, not everything is positive with Southeast Asia's growing industrial complex, increased energy consumption, and use of fossil fuel. The paper maintains that this productivity and progress negatively affects the environment and contributes to the global warming. To conclude, the paper suggests a way to prevent the increase of greenhouse gas emissions by setting up a team of architects, engineers, and scientist to design environmentally-friendly vehicles, factories and productivity devices, as well as green houses, buildings and offices that will use solar energy.
From the Paper "The key issues hounding the continuous and total development of Southeast Asia can only be solved by a leader who is firm but fair, and believes in the spirit and substance of a true democracy. The firmness can imposed on those who rape and pillage the region's natural resources that actually endanger the lives of those in the region but the world too. Fairness must be applied to those who strive to contribute to improving the region without expecting a windfall in return - where seeing the region improve is reward enough. As an architect, I can try and do my best to help solve some if not all of the problems in Southeast Asia. I know I may not be able to solve then all but I can be one person who could make a difference. I will not only be an architect who designs and builds but an architect of socio-political and economic change."
Tags: pollution, fuel, ecology, green, architecture, solar
Abstract In this article, the writer notes that the need for construction management has never been more critical than in the present for construction projects and in fact due to technological advances the construction manager's realm is one that has greatly diversified. The paper then presents research that clearly demonstrates that the need exists for highly educated, trained and qualified construction project management more than ever before due to issues of safety and security. The paper also relates that the purpose of the study is to research and examine construction management and to gain an understanding of how the needs and demands in construction project management have changed as compared to historical and traditional construction management.
Outline:
Statement of Thesis
Statement of the Problem
Purpose of the Study
Significance of the Study
Methodology
Literature Review
Findings of the Study
Recommendations for Research
From the Paper "First the project must be organized prior to design and construction and while the project is ongoing the project manager will have considerations of labor, material, and equipment utilization. Cost estimation will be important as well as the economic evaluation of facilities and investments and the financing of the facilities to be construction. Other considerations include construction pricing and contracting and fundamental scheduling procedures as well as more advanced scheduling techniques. The project manager as well must consider cost-control, cost-monitoring and cost-accounting during the term of the construction project. Other considerations in project management include quality control and safety during construction and finally the organization and use of project information."
Abstract In this article, the writer examines the theoretical issues in physical planning and its role in upgrading traditional rural industries. The discussion focuses on several issues including the conceptual differences between physical, urban, regional and rural development planning. In addition, the research also examines the correlation between physical planning and economic development along with various issues related to core facilities and secondary facilities. The investigation then concentrates upon the role of physical planning in industrial development and several issues are examined.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Definition of Physical Planning
Brief Examination Conceptual Differences among Physical, Urban, Regional and Rural Development Planning
Physical Planning and Economic Development
Content and Objectives of Physical Planning
Core Facilities
Secondary Facilities
Physical Planning in Industrial Development
Role of Physical Planning in Industrial Development
Role of Physical in Upgrading Traditional Small Scale Industries
Issues in Physical Planning Designs, Constraints, Obstacles
Challenges to Implementation of Physical Planning Schemes
From the Paper "Indeed, physical planning is vital to the economic and social growth of nations. When physical planning is absent the population of a nation or a region may suffer greatly as it relates to their quality of life. In addition, economic and social development can be stifled because the necessary infrastructure such s hospitals, schools and industry are not available. Without the needed infrastructure a nation or a region does not have the capacity to sustain itself socially or economically and is often dependent upon nations that have the type of infrastructure that allows them to proper socially and economically development. Now that we have provided a definition of physical planning, the next section of the discussion will focus on conceptual differences associated with physical, urban, regional and rural development planning."
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses that despite their time-tested and proven positive points, a number of false perceptions continue to challenge truths regarding the timber-framed building. The writer purports that repeated strokes of correct information can figuratively fell or cut down even the most dense deceptions depicting the worth of timber-framed buildings. During the course of this study, this researcher counters false perceptions and confirms the correct conception that timber does not easily rot, decay and deteriorate. In fact, the writer concludes that even after extended periods of time, the durability and superior quality of timber when used as a building material can be repeatedly validated. The paper includes color figures.
Outline:
Chapter 1
Introduction
Correcting False Perceptions
Origin, Defects and Properties of Timber
Defects in Timber
Properties of Timber
Strength
Thermal Insulation
Thermal Movement
Density
Chemical Resistance
Fire Resistance and the Behavior of Timber in Fires
Chapter II
Embodied Energy Explained
Examples of Timber-Framed Buildings Built in The Past
Chapter III
Conclusion
Challenging Contentions Confirm
From the Paper "To better understand some of the general misconceptions about timber, this researcher presents an in-depth look at the origin and properties of timber, along with possible defects likely to reduce strength and stability in timber. Timber evolves from wood, a natural product derived from trees, and in some instances, from fibrous plants. As forests cover more than one-third of the world's land surface and approximately 8% of Britain, it is readily available.
"Consequently, timber proves to be a popular building material. When wood is cut and in many instances, pressed, it becomes lumber and timber which form boards, planks and numerous other products. These products, in turn, become generic building materials which may be used for almost any type of structure in the majority of world climates and environmental situations. "
Abstract This paper explains that biomaterials are synthetic materials used to replace or restore damaged function. They should be biocompatible, non-toxic and non-carcinogenic. The paper reports that metals, polymers, ceramics and composites are the most commonly used biomaterials. The paper then details their use as synthetic orthopedic, dental and breast implants, in hernia repair, in gene therapy, to replace damaged organs, to enhance bone healing, to store and dispense multiple drug doses and multi-stage vaccines and other uses.
Table of Contents:
Biomaterials in Medical Use
Polymers
Shaped Bodies
The Ideal Materials
ATP Research Fund
PolyHap Implants for Damaged Faces
Polymer Chip
Anti-bacterial Implants
Breast Implants
Polyurethane-covered Implants
Benefits and Contraindications
Benefits
Contraindications
Implants for Malignant Gliomas
BCNU/Gliadel
Polymer Technology
Periodontium Regenerating System
The Invention's Specifics
The Future is Biodegradable
Hernia Device
Summary
From the Paper "Periodontal disease affects up to 90% of the population and surgery has been the first choice of therapy. Surgery, however, does not restore lost periodontium. Restoration can happen if periodontal ligament cells can colonize root surfaces over gingival epithelial cells, gingival fibroblasts or osteoblasts. The application of microporous membranes under periodontal flaps during surgery eventually brought this effect about. A biodegradable membrane would make a follow-up surgery unnecessary and benefit both patient and surgeon from further health condition and cost."
Abstract The paper discusses the fact that roads invariably require bridges to cross over roads and rivers, and as strong as the bridges may seem to be at the time of their construction, engineers have not been able to build corrosion-proof bridges. The paper highlights the problems associated with corrosion of steel reinforced concrete bridge girders as they are vitally important to travelers and to engineers. The paper also reviews the numerous studies that have been conducted, and provides recommendations for better predictability vis-a-vis when a bridge is due to be replaced.
Outline:
Table of Contents
List of Figures, Nomenclature, Introduction
Hypothesis of Theoretical Considerations
Procedure
Results
Discussion of Results
Conclusions
Recommendations
From the Paper "This paper provides a strong engineering and safety background into the problems associated with corrosion and bridges. The procedure used in this paper is presented through the careful examination of the existing literature. Some of the literature may be a few years old but the past is prologue; what went before is as relevant as what is going on today. Other literature presented is quite contemporary, and all of the materials presented in this paper are relevant. Especially relevant are studies that have been conducted six, seven, eight and more years ago; compared and contrasted with what engineers and scientists are saying in the latest bulletins and research documents. For example, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) offered standard specifications for highway bridges in the 1990s that seem to be practical and yet have clearly not provided a workable solution to the ongoing problems of corrosion.
In the article titled "Reliability of Reinforced Concrete Girders Under Corrosion Attack," the authors (Frangopol, et al, 1997) embrace the AASHTO strategy; first, the effects of corrosion "on both moment and shear reliabilities" are carefully investigated; second, a "reliability-based design approach" that is based on minimization of "total material cost including corrosion effects" is taken into consideration. This article suggests that taking into consideration the environmental stressors on concrete (due to corrosion), along with the AASHTO standards, can then be plugged into "reliability-based optimization software." That software is a product of the combining of general-purpose optimization software and a Monte Carlo simulation-based evaluation program.
Hence, the procedure for coming up with reliable estimates of the life expectancy of concrete girders comes in two phases, according to this research. Phase one spans the time from construction to corrosion initiation; phase two, from corrosion initiation to time when "unacceptable levels of section loss have occurred." But is this procedure proactive or reactive? The answer - it is indeed reactive, and it is also outdated. But nevertheless it should be researched and understood because it is part of the literature. Science cannot predict future conditions and dynamics based on models and hypotheses alone. A foundation for the projections of the future is based on evidence from the past. "
Abstract The paper discusses the High Aswan Dam, an engineering marvel that controls the Nile River and keeps broad areas of the Nile Delta from flooding each spring. The paper then explores the costs of this dam
in human terms and in maintenance levels. The paper concludes that Egypt has paid a high price for the benefits the dam has provided them.
From the Paper "The High Aswan Dam is actually the second dam at Aswan. The first, constructed in 1899 by the British when Egypt was a British territory, had to be raised twice, in 1907 and 1933. The Nile River is very unpredictable, and it topped the original Aswan Dam several times during its history. The last time it nearly flooded was in 1946, and officials began to talk of raising it again. However, after study, instead of raising the dam a third time, engineers decided to build a much higher dam about four miles upriver from the original dam, and about 400 miles south of Cairo. While they had found an answer to the flooding problems, Egypt could not afford to build the dam all on her own, so Egypt's President Gamal Abdel Nasser sought help from other countries."
Tags: Nile, Delta, maintenance, famine, prosperity, crops
