Centria University of Applied Sciences

About: Centria University of Applied Sciences is a education organization based out in Kokkola, Finland. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Cellular network & Higher education. The organization has 56 authors who have published 110 publications receiving 1029 citations. The organization is also known as: Centria Polytechnic & Central Ostrobothnian University of Applied Sciences.

Model Predictive Control-Based Optimal Operations of District Heating System With Thermal Energy Storage and Flexible Loads

Abstract: Operating heating power plant (DHPP) with fluctuating load is a complex problem. Thermal energy storage (TES), flexible loads, and operating constraints compound this complexity further. This investigation focuses on the design of a model predictive controller (MPC) that reduces the operating and maintenance cost in a DHPP, considering TES and flexible loads. The MPC accomplishes this task by scheduling boilers, TES units, and flexible loads. To handle the fluctuating demand, the MPC uses forecasts and combines it with a constrained optimization problem. The objective function reflects the cost, whereas the generator limits, TES dynamics, thermal loads, including supply temperature, power plant layout, and reliability, are the constraints. The resulting optimization problem is modeled as a mixed-integer linear program with both continuous and logic variables. Here the logic variables model the operating modes of the boiler and storage units. The use of receding horizon approach enhances the robustness to the forecast errors. The constraints modeling plant layout, supply temperature, and grid reliability lead to a more realistic solution. The MPC is illustrated using simulation on historical data and experiments on a DHPP at Ylivieska, Finland. Our results demonstrate the cost benefits of the proposed approach.

Motivations: The Entrepreneurial Mind and Behavior

Abstract: In this chapter various theories and approaches to motivational research are reviewed and applied to the study of the entrepreneur. These are discussed with respect to both necessity and opportunistic entrepreneurship. Various models that integrate internal and external motivation are explored and the concept of risk is examined as a form of motivation. The role of goals and goal setting is also discussed in the motivational framework and is tied to intrinsic and extrinsic motivations. In addition, work and life satisfaction are reviewed as they impact entrepreneurial motivation with specific attention paid to career motivation. Finally, achievement motivation is discussed, not only in terms of a unidimensional model, but also in terms of a multi-dimensional model to predict the performance of firms using the motivation characteristics of the entrepreneur.

Cognitive Radio Trial Environment: First Live Authorized Shared Access-Based Spectrum-Sharing Demonstration

Abstract: Cognitive radio system (CRS) technology can help respond to the growing mobile traffic demand by improving network resource usage and gaining access to new shared spectrum bands. This article presents a cognitive radio trial environment (CORE) consisting of cognitive engines (CEs) to control different radio systems [e.g., long-term evolution (LTE) and wireless open-access research platform (WARP)-based networks]. Load balancing and authorized shared access (ASA) are demonstrated using the trial environment with promising results. The ASA-based spectrum sharing trial is presented for the first time with a real-life mobile network accessing a shared spectrum band under a licensed shared access (LSA) regime. Cognitive decision making brings intelligence to the usage of the radio and network resources and, at best, increases considerably end users? quality of service (QoS) compared to the standard systems, as shown for QoS-based offloading.

Live field trial of Licensed Shared Access (LSA) concept using LTE network in 2.3 GHz band

Abstract: This paper presents the results from a live field trial of the new Licensed Shared Access (LSA) concept using a TD-LTE network in the 2.3 GHz spectrum band in Finland. In the trial a live LTE network shares the spectrum from incumbent programme making and special events (PMSE) service including cordless cameras without causing harmful interference. The trial implements the new LSA concept and the required new building blocks including LSA Repository for spectrum availability information and LSA Controller for commanding the mobile communication network in the band. The trial uses a real TD-LTE base station, real network management system, and real core network. Incumbent spectrum usage data is collected to the LSA Repository and used by the LSA Controller to retrieve available spectrum bands. LSA Controller uses the network management system to configure the base station according to the spectrum availability information. Incumbent spectrum users' rights are protected by evacuating the LSA band and handing users over from the LTE network to other networks when requested by the incumbent spectrum user. Numerical results are presented to quantify the duration of the LSA band evacuation process. The demonstration shows that the new LSA concept can be implemented with existing network elements and a minimum amount of new components. The first performance results on the LSA band evacuation times indicate that the LSA band can be evacuated and released in good time and the incumbents' rights can be protected.

Field trial of the 3.5 GHz citizens broadband radio service governed by a spectrum access system (SAS)

Abstract: In this paper, we describe a spectrum access system (SAS) based Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) field trial using a live LTE network in the 3.5 GHz band. The latest WInnForum specification guided the implementation of the relevant protocols for SAS operation. Here, we evaluate the performance of a CBRS field trial by using one of the most important performance indicators in a spectrum sharing scenario — the evacuation time. It indicates how rapidly the secondary user relinquishes the shared spectrum band to the primary user. Following the applied protocols, we measure and analyze the time scales for the evacuation and frequency change procedures in a field trial environment. Our work shows that the set time limits for the protection of primary users against interference are realistic when using commercially available mobile networks and equipment. Finally, utilizing knowledge of the latest base station models, we propose ways to reduce the evacuation and reconfiguration time by up to 70%.