scholarly journals Signal constellation design tool: A case study in user interface synthesis

Author(s):  
Gabriel Robins
i-com ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
pp. 19-32
Author(s):  
Daniel Buschek ◽  
Charlotte Anlauff ◽  
Florian Lachner

Abstract This paper reflects on a case study of a user-centred concept development process for a Machine Learning (ML) based design tool, conducted at an industry partner. The resulting concept uses ML to match graphical user interface elements in sketches on paper to their digital counterparts to create consistent wireframes. A user study (N=20) with a working prototype shows that this concept is preferred by designers, compared to the previous manual procedure. Reflecting on our process and findings we discuss lessons learned for developing ML tools that respect practitioners’ needs and practices.


Energies ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 14 (14) ◽  
pp. 4271
Author(s):  
Lucia Cattani ◽  
Paolo Cattani ◽  
Anna Magrini

Photovoltaic panel efficiency can be heavily affected by soiling, due to dust and other airborne particles, which can determine up to 50% of energy production loss. Generally, it is possible to reduce that impact by means of periodic cleaning, and one of the most efficient cleaning solutions is the use of demineralized water. As pauperization of traditional water sources is increasing, new technologies have been developed to obtain the needed water amount. Water extracted from the air using air to water generator (AWG) technology appears to be particularly suitable for panel cleaning, but its effective employment presents issues related to model selection, determining system size, and energy efficiency. To overcome such issues, the authors proposed a method to choose an AWG system for panel cleaning and to determine its size accordingly, based on a cleaning time optimization procedure and tailored to AWG peculiarities, with an aim to maximize energy production. In order to determine the energy loss due to soiling, a simplified semiempirical model (i.e., the DIrt method) was developed as well. The methodology, which also allows for energy saving due to an optimal cleaning frequency, was applied to a case study. The results show that the choice of the most suitable AWG model could prevent 83% of energy loss related to soling. These methods are the first example of a design tool for panel cleaning planning involving AWG technology.


Author(s):  
Cari R. Bryant ◽  
Matt Bohm ◽  
Robert B. Stone ◽  
Daniel A. McAdams

This paper builds on previous concept generation techniques explored at the University of Missouri - Rolla and presents an interactive concept generation tool aimed specifically at the early concept generation phase of the design process. Research into automated concept generation design theories led to the creation of two distinct design tools: an automated morphological search that presents a designer with a static matrix of solutions that solve the desired input functionality and a computational concept generation algorithm that presents a designer with a static list of compatible component chains that solve the desired input functionality. The merger of both the automated morphological matrix and concept generation algorithm yields an interactive concept generator that allows the user to select specific solution components while receiving instantaneous feedback on component compatibility. The research presented evaluates the conceptual results from the hybrid morphological matrix approach and compares interactively constructed solutions to those returned by the non-interactive automated morphological matrix generator using a dog food sample packet counter as a case study.


Author(s):  
Hamid Khakpour Nejadkhaki ◽  
John F. Hall ◽  
Minghui Zheng ◽  
Teng Wu

A platform for the engineering design, performance, and control of an adaptive wind turbine blade is presented. This environment includes a simulation model, integrative design tool, and control framework. The authors are currently developing a novel blade with an adaptive twist angle distribution (TAD). The TAD influences the aerodynamic loads and thus, system dynamics. The modeling platform facilitates the use of an integrative design tool that establishes the TAD in relation to wind speed. The outcome of this design enables the transformation of the TAD during operation. Still, a robust control method is required to realize the benefits of the adaptive TAD. Moreover, simulation of the TAD is computationally expensive. It also requires a unique approach for both partial and full-load operation. A framework is currently being developed to relate the TAD to the wind turbine and its components. Understanding the relationship between the TAD and the dynamic system is crucial in the establishment of real-time control. This capability is necessary to improve wind capture and reduce system loads. In the current state of development, the platform is capable of maximizing wind capture during partial-load operation. However, the control tasks related to Region 3 and load mitigation are more complex. Our framework will require high-fidelity modeling and reduced-order models that support real-time control. The paper outlines the components of this framework that is being developed. The proposed platform will facilitate expansion and the use of these required modeling techniques. A case study of a 20 kW system is presented based upon the partial-load operation. The study demonstrates how the platform is used to design and control the blade. A low-dimensional aerodynamic model characterizes the blade performance. This interacts with the simulation model to predict the power production. The design tool establishes actuator locations and stiffness properties required for the blade shape to achieve a range of TAD configurations. A supervisory control model is implemented and used to demonstrate how the simulation model blade performs in the case study.


2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 142-166 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nadiye Ozlem Erdil ◽  
Omid M. Arani

Purpose This paper aims to investigate to what extent quality function deployment (QFD) can be used in quality improvement rather than design activities. Design/methodology/approach A framework was developed for implementation of QFD as a quality improvement tool. A case study approach is used to test this framework, and quality issues were analyzed using the framework in a ceramic tile manufacturing company. Findings The results showed considerable improvements in the critical quality characteristics identified and sales rates, demonstrating the potential of QFD to be used in assessing and prioritizing areas of improvement, and converting them into measurable process or product requirements. Research limitations/implications One case study was completed. More studies would be beneficial to support current findings. Practical implications This framework provides structured approach and guidelines for practitioners in adapting QFD for quality improvements in existing products or processes. Originality/value This study proposes a new framework to use QFD in quality improvement activities, expanding its application areas. Moreover, the results of the literature study performed provide a valuable collection of practical QFD implementation examples.


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