A Knowledge-Based Decision Support System for Combined Heat and Power Investment Appraisal and Plant Selection

Author(s):  
R A Hughes ◽  
B Ramsay ◽  
C Rossini

Combined heat and power (CHP) can, in the most suitable cases, reduce a consumer's total energy costs by up to 40 per cent. It is important to stress that CHP is not viable at all sites and further that poor choice of CHP plant often results in inefficient and uneconomic operation. It is therefore vitally important to build a clear picture of what specific factors determine the profitability of a CHP scheme. The development of an accurate, reliable economic model is necessary for any sector where a potential market for CHP exists. Conventional economic models have a number of limitations, particularly where situations involve a high degree of risk and uncertainty. This paper shows how decision analysis techniques can be combined with a conventional spreadsheet to overcome these weaknesses and demonstrates the power and flexibility of the resulting model with a case study.

2013 ◽  
Vol 1 (1) ◽  
pp. 158-178
Author(s):  
Urcun John Tanik

Cyberphysical system design automation utilizing knowledge based engineering techniques with globally networked knowledge bases can tremendously improve the design process for emerging systems. Our goal is to develop a comprehensive architectural framework to improve the design process for cyberphysical systems (CPS) and implement a case study with Axiomatic Design Solutions Inc. to develop next generation toolsets utilizing knowledge-based engineering (KBE) systems adapted to multiple domains in the field of CPS design automation. The Cyberphysical System Design Automation Framework (CPSDAF) will be based on advances in CPS design theory based on current research and knowledge collected from global sources automatically via Semantic Web Services. A case study utilizing STEM students is discussed.


Author(s):  
Amy Poe ◽  
Steve Brockett ◽  
Tony Rubalcava

Abstract The intent of this work is to demonstrate the importance of charged device model (CDM) ESD testing and characterization by presenting a case study of a situation in which CDM testing proved invaluable in establishing the reliability of a GaAs radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC). The problem originated when a sample of passing devices was retested to the final production test. Nine of the 200 sampled devices failed the retest, thus placing the reliability of all of the devices in question. The subsequent failure analysis indicated that the devices failed due to a short on one of two capacitors, bringing into question the reliability of the dielectric. Previous ESD characterization of the part had shown that a certain resistor was likely to fail at thresholds well below the level at which any capacitors were damaged. This paper will discuss the failure analysis techniques which were used and the testing performed to verify the failures were actually due to ESD, and not caused by weak capacitors.


Author(s):  
Kuo Hsiung Chen ◽  
Wen Sheng Wu ◽  
Yu Hsiang Shu ◽  
Jian Chan Lin

Abstract IR-OBIRCH (Infrared Ray – Optical Beam Induced Resistance Change) is one of the main failure analysis techniques [1] [2] [3] [4]. It is a useful tool to do fault localization on leakage failure cases such as poor Via or contact connection, FEoL or BEoL pattern bridge, and etc. But the real failure sites associated with the above failure mechanisms are not always found at the OBIRCH spot locations. Sometimes the real failure site is far away from the OBIRCH spot and it will result in inconclusive PFA Analysis. Finding the real failure site is what matters the most for fault localization detection. In this paper, we will introduce one case using deep sub-micron process generation which suffers serious high Isb current at wafer donut region. In this case study a BEoL Via poor connection is found far away from the OBIRCH spots. This implies that layout tracing skill and relation investigation among OBIRCH spots are needed for successful failure analysis.


Ta dib ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 23 (2) ◽  
pp. 145
Author(s):  
Surandi Surandi ◽  
Supardi Supardi ◽  
Johan Setiawan

Abstract: The purposes of this study are to find out: (1) the implementation of Radin Inten II’s resistance nationalism values in the learning process; (2) the obstacles experienced by teachers when implementing Radin Inten II’s resistance nationalism values in the learning process; (3) the efforts made by teachers in overcoming obstacles during the implementation of Radin Inten II’s nationalism values in the learning process. This study used qualitative approach with the type of case study conducted at SMAN 1 Kalianda. Data collection techniques consisted of observation, interviews, and documentary studies. Data analysis techniques used the model of Miles & Huberman consisting of data collection, data reduction, data display, and conclusion. The results show: (1) the implementation of Radin Inten II’s nationalism resistance values in the process of learning local history was carried out by compiling a syllabus and implementing learning plan (RPP) by incorporating local history into Indonesian historical material which was consisted of planning, implementation, and evaluation, (2) the obstacles experienced by teachers included: the ability of teachers during learning process, students’ attitudes, and time constraints, (3) the efforts made by the teacher were taking the initiative to instill the values of nationalism in the resistance of Radin Inten II’s, applying various models, strategies, methods and singing a national song before learning. Abstrak: Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui: (1) implementasi nilai-nilai nasionalisme perlawanan Radin Inten II dalam proses pembelajaran, (2) kendala yang dialami oleh guru saat implementasi nilai-nilai nasionalisme perlawanan Radin Inten II dalam proses pembelajaran, (3) upaya yang dilakukan guru dalam mengatasi kendala yang dihadapi saat implementasi nilai-nilai nasionalisme perlawanan Radin Inten II dalam proses pembelajaran. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan jenis studi kasus di SMAN 1 Kalianda. Teknik pengumpulan data terdiri dari observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi. Teknik analisis data menggunakan model Miles & Huberman yang terdiri dari pengumpulan data, reduksi data, penyajian data, dan penarikan kesimpulan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan: (1) implementasi nilai-nilai nasionalisme perlawanan Radin Inten II dalam proses pembelajaran sejarah lokal dilakukan dengan menyusun silabus dan rencana pelaksana pembelajaran (RPP) dengan memasukkan sejarah lokal kedalam materi sejarah Indonesia yang terdiri dari perencanaan, pelaksanaan, dan evaluasi, (2) kendala yang dialami oleh guru diantaranya: kemampuan guru dalam proses pembelajaran, sikap siswa, dan adanya keterbatasan waktu, (3) upaya yang dilakukan oleh guru yaitu berinisiatif menanamkan nilai-nilai nasionalisme dalam perlawanan Radin Inten II, menerapkan berbagai model, strategi, metode dan menyanyikan lagu nasional sebelum pembelajaran.


2021 ◽  
Vol 43 (1) ◽  
pp. 1-46
Author(s):  
David Sanan ◽  
Yongwang Zhao ◽  
Shang-Wei Lin ◽  
Liu Yang

To make feasible and scalable the verification of large and complex concurrent systems, it is necessary the use of compositional techniques even at the highest abstraction layers. When focusing on the lowest software abstraction layers, such as the implementation or the machine code, the high level of detail of those layers makes the direct verification of properties very difficult and expensive. It is therefore essential to use techniques allowing to simplify the verification on these layers. One technique to tackle this challenge is top-down verification where by means of simulation properties verified on top layers (representing abstract specifications of a system) are propagated down to the lowest layers (that are an implementation of the top layers). There is no need to say that simulation of concurrent systems implies a greater level of complexity, and having compositional techniques to check simulation between layers is also desirable when seeking for both feasibility and scalability of the refinement verification. In this article, we present CSim 2 a (compositional) rely-guarantee-based framework for the top-down verification of complex concurrent systems in the Isabelle/HOL theorem prover. CSim 2 uses CSimpl, a language with a high degree of expressiveness designed for the specification of concurrent programs. Thanks to its expressibility, CSimpl is able to model many of the features found in real world programming languages like exceptions, assertions, and procedures. CSim 2 provides a framework for the verification of rely-guarantee properties to compositionally reason on CSimpl specifications. Focusing on top-down verification, CSim 2 provides a simulation-based framework for the preservation of CSimpl rely-guarantee properties from specifications to implementations. By using the simulation framework, properties proven on the top layers (abstract specifications) are compositionally propagated down to the lowest layers (source or machine code) in each concurrent component of the system. Finally, we show the usability of CSim 2 by running a case study over two CSimpl specifications of an Arinc-653 communication service. In this case study, we prove a complex property on a specification, and we use CSim 2 to preserve the property on lower abstraction layers.


2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
R. van Zelm ◽  
E. Coeckelberghs ◽  
W. Sermeus ◽  
A. Wolthuis ◽  
L. Bruyneel ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Specific factors that facilitate or prevent the implementation of enhanced recovery protocols for colorectal cancer surgery have been described in previous qualitative studies. This study aims to perform a concurrent qualitative and quantitative evaluation of factors associated with successful implementation of a care pathway (CP) for patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer. Methods This comparative mixed methods multiple case study was based on a sample of 10 hospitals in 4 European countries that implemented a specific CP and performed pre- and post-implementation measurements. In-depth post-implementation interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals who were directly involved. Primary outcomes included protocol adherence and improvement rate. Secondary outcomes included length of stay (LOS) and self-rated protocol adherence. The hospitals were ranked based on these quantitative findings, and those with the highest and lowest scores were included in this study. Qualitative data were summarized on a per-case basis using extended Normalization Process Theory (eNPT) as theoretical framework. The data were then combined and analyzed using joint display methodology. Results Data from 381 patients and 30 healthcare professionals were included. Mean protocol adherence rate increased from 56 to 62% and mean LOS decreased by 2.1 days. Both measures varied greatly between hospitals. The two highest-ranking hospitals and the three lowest-ranking hospitals were included as cases. Factors which could explain the differences in pre- and post-implementation performance included the degree to which the CP was integrated into daily practice, the level of experience and support for CP methodology provided to the improvement team, the intrinsic motivation of the team, shared goals and the degree of management support, alignment of CP development and hospital strategy, and participation of relevant disciplines, most notably, physicians. Conclusions Overall improvement was achieved but was highly variable among the 5 hospitals evaluated. Specific factors involved in the implementation process that may be contributing to these differences were conceptualized using eNPT. Multidisciplinary teams intending to implement a CP should invest in shared goals and teamwork and focus on integration of the CP into daily processes. Support from hospital management directed specifically at quality improvement including audit may likewise facilitate the implementation process. Trial registration NCT02965794. US National Library of Medicine, ClinicalTrials.gov. Registered 4 August 2014.


Author(s):  
Beniamino Di Martino ◽  
Dario Branco ◽  
Luigi Colucci Cante ◽  
Salvatore Venticinque ◽  
Reinhard Scholten ◽  
...  

AbstractThis paper proposes a semantic framework for Business Model evaluation and its application to a real case study in the context of smart energy and sustainable mobility. It presents an ontology based representation of an original business model and examples of inferential rules for knowledge extraction and automatic population of the ontology. The real case study belongs to the GreenCharge European Project, that in these last years is proposing some original business models to promote sustainable e-mobility plans. An original OWL Ontology contains all relevant Business Model concepts referring to GreenCharge’s domain, including a semantic description of TestCards, survey results and inferential rules.


2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (14) ◽  
pp. 7646
Author(s):  
Ed Shaw ◽  
Debbie Coldwell ◽  
Anthony Cox ◽  
Matt Duffy ◽  
Chris Firth ◽  
...  

Research on urban rivers often seeks to find commonalities to advance knowledge of the effect of urbanisation on rivers, and rightly so. But it is important, also, to develop a complementary understanding of how urban rivers can be distinct, to facilitate a more nuanced view of concepts such as the ‘urban river syndrome’ and of the challenges facing those who wish to create more sustainable urban river corridors. To this end we use the Don Catchment as a case study to illustrate how historic patterns of urbanisation have been fundamental in shaping the catchment’s rivers. Following the Industrial Revolution, the catchment became an industrial centre, resulting in the ecological death of river ecosystems, and the disconnection of communities from stark urban river corridors. Widescale deindustrialisation in the 1970s and 1980s then resulted in a partial ecological recovery of the rivers, and ignited public interest. This history has imbued the catchment’s urban river corridors with a distinctive industrial character that can vary greatly between and within settlements. It has also left a legacy of particular issues, including a high degree of river habitat fragmentation and physical modification, and of negative perceptions of the rivers, which need improving to realise their potential as assets to local communities.


2019 ◽  
Vol 29 (4) ◽  
pp. 329-346 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cigdem Baskici

Purpose Although there have been a considerable number of studies regarding subsidiary role typology in multinationals’ management literature, there appear to be few studies that consider knowledge-based role typology from the network-based perspective. The purpose of this study is to fill this gap and extend the study of Gupta and Govindarajan (1991). Thus, the study focuses on answering the following research question: Do subsidiaries have different roles in terms of knowledge flows within a multinational company (MNC)? Design/methodology/approach This empirical study has been carried out as an explorative single case study. An MNC with 15 foreign subsidiaries headquartered in Turkey, which operated in the manufacturing of household appliances and consumer electronics, has been selected as the case. Knowledge transfer is analyzed in this MNC from the network perspective. Findings Four role typologies are detected for subsidiaries of the MNC: collector transmitter, collector diffuser, converter transmitter and converter diffuser. Research limitations/implications Findings of this study are specific to this case. Testing the findings in a sample consisting of subsidiaries of MNCs producing transnational products may contribute to the generalizability of these roles. Practical implications This study offers potentially important findings for MNC managers to use. First, in this study, knowledge flows' route could be defined within MNCs’ dual network. Second, role typologies could inform MNC managers to design their MNCs’ knowledge network. Originality/value The suggested typologies are expected to more accurately define the roles of subsidiaries within contemporary MNCs which are accepted to be transformed from hierarchical structures to network-based organizations.


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