Showing papers in "Innovative Systems Design and Engineering in 2013"

Speed Control of DC Motor using Pid Controller Based on Matlab

Abstract: This paper is to design PID controller to supervise and control the speed response of the DC motor and MATLAB program is used for calculation and simulation PID controllers are widely used in a industrial plants because of their simplicity and robustness. Industrial processes are subjected to variation in parameters and parameter perturbations. We are choosing PID parameters and discussed Key words: DC motor, PID controller, MATLAB representation

A Review on Image Processing

Abstract: Image Processing involves changing the nature of an image in order to improve its pictorial information for human interpretation, for autonomous machine perception. Digital image processing is a subset of the electronic domain wherein the image is converted to an array of small integers, called pixels, representing a physical quantity such as scene radiance, stored in a digital memory, and processed by computer or other digital hardware. Interest in digital image processing methods stems from two principals applications areas: improvement of pictorial information for human interpretation; and processing of image data for storage, transmission, and representation for autonomous machine perception. Edges characterize boundaries and edge detection is one of the most difficult tasks in image processing hence it is a problem of fundamental importance in image processing. In this paper investigates different steps of digital image processing.like, a high-speed non-linear Adaptive median filter implementation is presented. Then Adaptive Median Filter solves the dual purpose of removing the impulse noise from the image and reducing distortion in the image. The Image Processing Toolbox software is a collection of functions that extend the capability of the MATLAB numeric computing environment. The toolbox supports a wide range of image processing operations on the given image. Index Terms — Image Enhancement, Feature Extraction.

Perturb and Observe Maximum Power Point Tracking for Photovoltaic Cell

Abstract: Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) techniques are used in photovoltaic (PV) systems to maximize the PV array output power by tracking continuously the maximum power point (MPP) which depends on panel’s temperature and on irradiance conditions. The issue of MPPT has been addressed in different ways in the literature but, especially for low-cost implementations, the perturb and observe (PO moreover, it is well known that the P&O algorithm can be confused during those time intervals characterized by rapidly changing atmospheric conditions. In order to limit the negative effects associated to the above drawbacks, the P&O MPPT parameters must be customized to the dynamic behavior of the specific converter adopted. A theoretical analysis allowing the optimal choice of such parameters is also carried out. In this paper MATLAB-based M file programming scheme suitable for monitoring the I-V and P-V characteristics of a PV array under a nonuniform insolation due to partial shading condition for different configuration (modules in series parallel) of solar PV. It can also be used for developing and evaluating new maximum power point tracking techniques, especially for shaded conditions. Implementation of a novel MPPT technique has been developed using P&O algorithm has been done using MATLAB-based M file programming scheme without applying shading effect to solar array. Keywords: Maximum power point (MPP), maximum power point tracking (MPPT), perturb and observe (P&O), photovoltaic (PV)

Water And Alcohol Extraction Of Thyme Plant (Thymus Vulgaris) And Activity Study Against Bacteria, Tumors And Used As Anti-Oxidant In Margarine Manufacture

Abstract: Isolation had been done for active substances from Thyme plant (Thymus Vulgaris) such as volatile oils, Saponins and Tannins. The percentage in form was (21.1%),(59.2%),( 9.7%) respectively. Also a study of anti-bacterial activity of extracts from Thyme using two types of pathogenic bacteria Escherichia Coli and aurous Staphylococcus showed the ability of inhibition for all different extracts by vary inhibition diameters for different active substances, concentrations and bacteria. One type of cancer cellular line used to study the effect of Thyme extracts on the growth of cells in the laboratory and thus know the specifications of extracts as anti-tumor, (L 20 B) cell line have been used which is mice Transformed cell Line. The possibility of using alcohol extract as anti-oxidant to be add to ghee or vegetable oil, the sensory evaluation and physical results were very good over full year. Keywords : Thymus Vulgaris, Antibacterial and anticancer activity. Extraction, Anti-Oxidant

Design and Simulation of Single Phase Intelligent Prepaid Energy Meter

Abstract: In this paper, the design and simulation of Intelligent Prepaid Energy Meter (IPEM) has been presented. The objectives of this work are :( i) to model an IPEM,( ii) to show its reliability on load measurement ; and (iii) to show graphical behavior of energy consumption pattern of different loads connected to power supply. The design methodology is Artificial Intelligent (AI) based-using “ knowledge-based” and “cognitive simulation” approach. The intelligentce properties and expected results of the proposed digital meter was modeled into the system; and was simulated using Matlab /Simulation tool. Results obtained were very satisfactory. If fully implemented, on one hand, the estimated bills or irregular billing imposed by Power Holding Company of Nigeria(PHCN) on her customers will stop; and on the other hand ,revenue loss through unpaid bills suffered by PHCN will greatly reduce. This will have an overall effects on the nation’s economy as revenue collection will increase. Keyword :Artificial Intelligence, Prepaid Energy Meter, Model, Simulation, Matlab/Simulink

The Use of Fibre Waste as Complement in Concrete for a Sustainable Environment

Abstract: One of the many challenges faced in developing world is the issue of waste management. Organic fibres forms major percentage of waste produced from agricultural products and should be of great concern. Fibres have been used to reinforce composites concrete to obtain lighter weight, reduce shrinkage effects which serve to reduce environmental waste. Natural fibre is 100% bio-degradable and recyclable, thereby eliminate pollution, promote biodiversity and conservation of natural resources and thus environmentally friendly.This paper focuses on utilization of some fibres as solid wastes for making economically-friendly and affordable green environment. Three fibres: Jute, Oil palm and Polypropylene fibres were used as complement in concrete and its suitability, durability and influence on the properties of concrete were assessed. The percentages of fibre used were 0.25 and 0.5 of cement content by weight. A total of 84 concrete cube specimens were prepared for standard tests which include compression test, slump test and compaction factor test. The compression test was carried out at concrete ages of 7, 14, 21 and 28 days. As the percentage of the fibre increases, the tendency for fibre to ball up becomes higher in water. The test results showed that for Jute and Oil palm fibres, the optimum fibre content was 0.25% and for Polypropylene fibre, the optimum fibre content was 0.5%. They all yielded increase in strength when compared to the control specimen and has proven to reduce reasonable environmental waste pollution. Keywords : Environmental Pollution, Fibre, Concrete strength, Jute, Waste reduction

V/F control of Three Phase Induction Motor Drive with Different PWM Techniques

Abstract: This paper presents a v/f control of induction motor with different pulse width modulation ( PWM) techniques as sine triangle pulse width modulation ( SPWM), Third-harmonic pulse width modulation (THPWM) and Space vector pulse width modulation(SVPWM) using MATLAB SIMULINK. Induction motor modeled in the synchronous q-d reference frame. The performance of IM with full load torque is compared using these techniques for THD, harmonics spectra, utilization of dc supply voltage, fundamental peak of the output voltage and motor speed. The dynamic performance of IM using SVPWM under reference speed and load torque variations is studied also. The results show that the SVPWM is the efficient one because it’s superior performance characteristics. The operation of IM with v/f method for closed loop system is enhancement when SVPWM technique is applied. Keywords: Space vector modulation, SPWM, V/f control, Harmonic injection.

Facility Planning and Associated Problems: A Survey

Abstract: In this study, we have classified and reviewed different types of problems which are related to facility planning and layout design for different types of manufacturing processes. The main problems which are related to location of facilities which also affects the system performance such as distribution of man, material and machine in a plant or a factory and their optimization technique while using of mathematical models, their solutions and application related to whole problems is presented. For solving this type of problems, intelligent techniques such as expert systems, fuzzy logic and neutral networks have been used. In this paper the recent analysis on facility layout is incorporated and facility layout problem is surveyed. Many intelligent techniques and conventional algorithms for solving FLP are presented. In our discussion different research direction, general remarks and tendencies have been mentioned Keywords —Facility Planning, Material handling Optimization method

Analysis of Wind Turbine Driven Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator under Different Loading Conditions

Abstract: This paper proposes the configuration of a Wind Turbine generating system equipped with Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator (PMSG). There are different types of synchronous generators, but the PMSG is chosen which has better performance due to higher efficiency and less maintenance. Since it can be used without a gearbox also implies a reduction of the weight of the nacelle and a reduction of costs. The model includes a wind turbine model, drive train model and PMSG model. The equations that explain their behavior have been introduced. The generator model is established in the d-q synchronous rotating reference frame. The proposed Wind Turbine Generator System (WTGS) has been implemented in MATLAB/SIMULINK software. The PMSG is operating in stand-alone which is loaded with different types of loads. The simulation results indicate the ability of wind driven PMSG to operate over wide range of operating conditions at different loading conditions and show effect of different load types in operation. Keywords: Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator (PMSG), Wind Turbine, Wind Energy and WTGS MATLAB/SIMULINK.

Effects of Tuber Age and Variety on Physical Properties of Cassava ( Manihot Esculenta (Crantz)) Roots

Abstract: Poor postharvest storability of cassava roots has led farmers into leaving the tuber in-ground for a long time even after maturity thereby leading to lignifications. Besides, this practice has been reported to result in changes in the physiological structure of the roots, hence the need to investigate the influence of this on the engineering properties of the root. Two improved cassava varieties, TME 419 and TMS 30572 and a local variety, Oko-iyawo were investigated in this study. Selected physical properties which include diameter and peel thickness at the head, middle and tail (D H , D M , D T , P H , P M and P T ), mass, length, Peel Proportion by Weight (PPW) and density for tubers aged 12, 15 and 18 Months After Planting (MAP) were measured using standard methods. The data were analyzed using the two way ANOVA in SPSS 15. The mean D H , D M , D T , P H , P M , P T, mass and length ranged respectively from 36.67 (8.76) – 43.32 (11.53) mm, 35.26 (15.77) – 45.58 (7.68) mm, 26.06 (12.94) – 33.87 (10.30) mm, and 1.30 (0.25) – 4.60 (1.13) mm, 1.23 (0.23) – 4.52 (1.08) mm, 1.19 (0.16) – 4.06 (1.05) mm, 229.78 (146.98) – 489.11 (274.28) g, and 232.98 (85.43) – 344.18 (90.37) mm. They were significantly influenced by age except D M and D T while oval shape was established from the dimensions indicating suitability for mechanical peeling. Mean PPW ranged from 17.36 (2.73) – 24.09 (7.32) % which showed that younger tubers have more flesh for human consumption and older tubers thick peels more useful in animal feed. Analysis of variance showed that the tuber age had a very strong influence on all the physical properties except D M and density. Varietal influence on tuber mass, D H , D M and density was not statistically significant. The study established the importance of tuber age and variety as factors to be considered in the design and development of cassava processing and handling equipment for effective and efficient performance of the machines. Keywords : Cassava, postharvest, tuber age, cassava variety, physical properties

Stochastic Analysis and Performance Evaluation of a Complex Thermal Power Plant

Abstract: This paper present the stochastic analysis and performance evaluation of the thermal power plant which serve as an improvement of Vora 2011, by the use of performance evaluation using probabilistic approach. The research study consists mainly three sub-systems namely boiler, super heater and re-heater connected in series configuration with two type of preventive maintenance ie offline and online. The analysis shows that as failure rate increases, the availability decreases and as repair rate increases, the availability of the system increases and vice-versa. Performance matrices shows that Super heater subsystem is the most critical subsystem among the three subsystems in the power generation plant as far as maintenance is concern, as its availability percentage is the least among the three subsystem and boiler subsystem is having the higher percentage of availability with about 99% level. The results of the analysis are found beneficial to the plant management for the availability analysis of the system. Key words: Reliability, Availability, Maintainability .

Sediment Deposition in Nigeria Reservoirs: Impacts and Control Measures

Abstract: This work examines the issue of sediment deposition in reservoirs. As death is an inevitable end for humans, so is siltation an inevitable end for reservoirs. Sediment content of river inflows into reservoirs depletes the available storage capacity thereby reducing the benefits such as domestic and industrial water supplies, hydro power generation, irrigation, navigation, fish and wild life, sanitation and recreation, flood control, ground water recharge, etc. Sediment distribution pattern of the reservoir was examined. Factors affecting siltation in reservoirs were also captured. Impacts of reservoirs on the environment and our health were discussed. Different methods of controlling silting in reservoirs were examined. It was recommended that there should be periodic monitoring of sedimentation in our reservoirs to prolong the life of the reservoirs and sustain their benefits. Keywords: sediment deposition, storage capacity, reservoir life.

Integrating ICT in Library Management: Design and Development of an Automated Library Management System for Cavendish University Uganda

Abstract: This study intended to solicit requirements for a proposed library information system and develop it for CUU as a step to automate its library services. The study employed prototyping method to come up with the system. The system met most of the objectives by enabling the library staff keep track of its clients and resources they manage. Report generation was made easy as all the information has become easier to manipulate due to the nature of electronic storage. Searching for reading material has been made easy since different criteria may be used to accomplish the task. The interfaces were user friendly and there was no need for retraining other than orientation. The researcher recommends that this system be continuously built to take care of other library services which include management of the serials and periodicals, book reservations, automatic email notification for reminders, use of bar codes, scanners and labels; and use of RFID (Radio Frequency Identification ) tags to mitigate book thefts. It is also recommended that the library system, go online so that books and lecture notes are accessed over the internet by users. Keyword : Library Management, network, Service Delivery

Design of Sawdust Briquette Machine

Abstract: In this paper, the sawdust briquette machine is designed. Sawmill waste is a big problem especially in urban cities in Nigeria. These wastes are burnt openly which is causing environmental pollution. The wastes can be converted to wealth thereby providing jobs for many unemployed citizens. The principles of machine design were employed to design the essential parts such as hopper, belts, housing barrel, the die, and the shaft. The machine has a production capacity of 95 kg/hr. Keywords: Briquette, Machine design, Sawdust, Wastes to wealth, Wood wastes

Contingency Ranking and Analysis using Power System Analysis Toolbox (PSAT)

Abstract: In this paper according to the increasing utilization in power system, the transmission lines and power plants often operate in stability boundary and system probably lose its stable condition by over loading or occurring disturbance According to the reasons that are mentioned, the prediction and recognition of voltage instability in power system has particular importance and it makes the network security stronger This paper, by considering of power system contingencies based on the maximum loading parameter point is focused in order to analyze the static voltage stability using continuation power flow method The study has been carried out on IEEE 14-Bus Test System using Power System problem has been solved by using PSAT with Matlab and results are presented Keywords- Contingency ranking, Continuation Power Flow, Psat Voltage Stability

The Role of Innovation Management Model to Improve Service Quality for Telecommunications Industry in Indonesia

Abstract: Telecommunications industry in Indonesia has rapidly increased An intense competition of telecommunication operators has often neglecting quality of services which must be provided but instead focussing on offering cheap telecommunications costs Every year average revenue per unit (ARPU) tends to decline, which result innovations, increase service quality, and prevent the customers switch to another operator This research was using Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) approach based on philosophy of Critical Systems Thinking (CST), and Strategic Assumption Surface Engineering and Testing (SAST) Data flow diagram (DFD) were used as tools for designing management model innovation for telecommunication companies in Indonesia The result obtained an incentives to innovators which is an important factor for Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) The further innovation model for telecommunication in Indonesia is producing innovations which ultimately improve customer service quality Keywords: Quality Service, Innovation Management, Analytical Hierarchy Process, Soft Systems Methodology

Distribution of Enzymes (Rhodanese, 3-Mercaptopyruvate Sulphurtransferase, Arginase And Thiaminase) in Some Commonly Consumed Plant Tubers in Nigeria.

Abstract: Four different enzymes (Rhodanese, 3-mercaptopyruvate sulphurtransferase (3-MST) , Arginase and thiaminase) activities were detected in crude plant extracts of nine randomly selected plant tubers which includes sweet potato ( Ipomoea batatas ), irish potato ( Solanum tuberosum ), white yam, yellow yam, bitter yam ( Diascorea bulbifera ), sweet yam ( Diascorea esculentu ), water yam ( Diascorea alata ), cocoyam and cassava ( Manihot esculentu ) . In each case, the enzymes exhibited high activities. The p value activity of 3-MST varies significantly in the various plant tuber. White yam showed the highest activity with a mean of 0.2 which varies significantly when compared to, red cocoyam with a mean of 0.005. Arginase was also seen to vary significantly in the different plant samples with Irish potato having the highest mean value of activity while cassava showed the lowest mean value. Thiaminase activity varied significantly in the plant tubers. Cassava stem had the highest mean value of thiaminase activity while bitter yam peel showed the lowest mean value of activity. These studies confirm the activities and nutritional values of these enzymes in the commonly consumed plant tubers. Keywords: Plant Tubers, Arginase, Rhodanese, 3-Mercaptopyruvate Sulphurtransferase, Thiaminase, Activity.

Investigations of Machining Parameters on Surface Roughness in CNC Milling using Taguchi Technique

Abstract: With the more precise demands of modern engineering products, the control of surface texture has become more important. This investigation outlines the Taguchi optimization methodology, which is applied to optimize cutting parameters in end milling operation. The study was conducted in machining operation for hardened die steel H-13. The processing of the job was done by solid carbide four flute end-mill tool under finishing conditions. The input machining parameters like spindle speed, depth of cut, and feed rate were evaluated to study their effect on SR (surface roughness) using L-9 standard orthogonal array. Signal-to-Noise (S/N) ratio, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and various plots were generated using MINITAB software. Finally the effect of machining input parameters on SR is studied and reported in this paper. Key Words : CNC Milling, H-13, SR, L-9, ANOVA

An Electronic Protection Unit for Diesel Engine Standby Generators

Abstract: Today diesel engine-driven standby generators for backup power supply have been adopted for residential, commercial, and industrial use—especially in some developing countries where power from the utility company is highly erratic. Although many of these generators function well in operation, certain engine conditions, such as low oil pressure, high oil and water temperature, abnormally high speed, etc., could lead to malfunction, failure, or complete breakdown of the engine. Therefore, the focus of this work is to present the implementation of a simple, but effective electronic protection unit (EPU) capable of mitigating the adverse effect which may arise as a result of these conditions. It is composed of two major sub-circuits—the main protective sub-circuit and the timing sub-circuit—realized using a combination of passive and active components. Unlike the common electrical relay-based protection system, this unit has an additional advantage of being able to keep the fault-indicating system of the generator working even after engine shutdown, thereby facilitating fault tracking. The unit has been tested on a diesel engine-driven generator and found to function satisfactorily. The test results are shown. Keywords: diesel engine, engine fault, protection, standby generator

Automated Surface Defect Detection using Area Scan Camera

Abstract: This research comprises the design and fabrication of an automated surface defect detection system in which the defected part is automatically rejected. A special purpose rejection mechanism is designed in a manner to whether accept the defect free parts or reject the defected parts. The inspection vision system adopted in the design is an area scan camera, which works in conjunction with the MATLAB image acquisition tool. The control process is achieved via a PIC16F84A microcontroller, where it controls the image capturing and the defected part rejection mechanism. To validate the performance of this designed system, three types of plates were used, namely, defect free, punch defected and crack defected. Results showed that all the defected plates were rejected thus insuring the high efficiency of the system. Keywords: area scan camera, inspection vision system, surface detection

An investigation of shell-helical coiled tube heat exchanger used for solar water heating system

Abstract: An experimental and theoretical study has been performed of thermal and hydrodynamic characteristics of a new type shell-helical coiled tube heat exchanger used as a storage tank in a closed loop solar water heater system for no water withdrawn from storage tank. The parameters studied are collectors heat gain, heat rejected from coils to shell side of the storage tank, average temperature of storage tank, friction factor, pressure drop, heat exchanger effectiveness, and collector efficiency for circulating mass flow rates of (1.8, 3, 6, 9 l/min), with no water consumption during a clear days in Baghdad. A FORTRAN 95 computer program was developed to evaluate theoretically the pressure drop across the helical coil and to process the experimental data. The results show that heat transfer inside helical coiled tubes is increased with increasing the circulation flow rates and coil diameter ratio. A transition from laminar to turbulent flow has been noticed at (6 and 9 l/min) circulation flow rates. For circulation flow rate of (6 l/min) the transition from laminar to turbulent flow is faster indicated for the outer coil than that for central coil, while the flow is laminar for inner coil. For (9 l/min) circulation flow rate the transition from laminar to turbulent has been noticed for all coils. Collector efficiency is increased with increasing circulation flow rates. The pressure drop decreases with the increase of solar radiation. Friction factor decreases with increasing circulation flow rate. The shell-triple concentric helical coil heat exchanger is found more effective than shell-single coil heat exchanger when the experimental results are compared with previous related work. Keywords: S olar hot water, Storage tank, Heat exchanger, Helical coil tube, Pressure drop, Effectiveness

Study of Creep-Fatigue Interaction in the Prosthetic Socket below Knee

Abstract: The increasing numbers of amputees due to insurgence actions in Iraq urges the researches to conduct this study. Two stresses of fatigue and heat are generated as a result of limbs movement during extremely hot weather. The objective of this research is to Study the effect of temperature in hot climate countries on a socket made of composite materials during the gait. Where alternating pressures on the inner surface of the socket are generated and lead to variable stresses causing fatigue failure of material. It is evident that as temperature rises, the mechanical properties decrease over time due to creep which causes socket failure due to fatigue and creep interaction. The socket failure at room temperature is determined by fatigue test to obtain S-N curve. Also, stress distribution on the socket is studied at 60 Co. Keywords: amputee, fatigue, creep, below knee, piezoelectric sensor

A New Area and Power Efficient Single Edge Triggered Flip-Flop Structure for Low Data Activity and High Frequency Applications

Abstract: In this work, a new area and power efficient single edge triggered flip-flop has been proposed. The proposed design is compared with six existing flip-flop designs. In the proposed design, the number of transistors is reduced to decrease the area. The number of clocked transistors of the devised flip-flop is also reduced to minimize the power consumption. As compared to the other state of the art single edge triggered flip-flop designs, the newly proposed design is the best energy efficient with the comparable power delay product (PDP) having an improvement of up to 61.53% in view of power consumption. The proposed flip-flop also has the lowest transistor count and the lowest area. The simulation results show that the proposed flip-flop is best suited for low power and low area systems especially for low data activity and high frequency applications. Keywords: PDP, reliability, delay, process node, clock frequency

System and Data Capture Framework Insights into Breach Data toward Improved Feedback

Abstract: A secure information infrastructure is required to sustain competitive advantage. Despite creditable efforts, there are visible failures of Information Security (IS). Breach data offers necessary relatively unbiased and robust feedback to reveal what is overlooked for apt countermeasures and improved IS decisions. None of the previous works done analyzing breach data critically examine the process of breach data capture and reporting system, and breach data capture frameworks from a holistic perspective for improved substantive feedback, which this work addressed. A model of breach data capture and reporting system was proposed through argumentation and a fluid iterative cycle of awareness, suggestion, development, evaluation and conclusion. A breach data capture framework was proposed through argumentation and examination of existing related frameworks, employing the fluid iterative cycle, while fostering acceptability. The framework was evaluated in comparison with existing breach data capture frameworks. The proposed model and framework are complimentary efforts for substantive feedback toward apt countermeasures and improved IS decisions. Keywords: Model, data capture framework, breach data system, breach data capture, framework.

A Proposed Approach to Mechatronics Design and Implementation Education-Oriented Methodology

Abstract: Mechatronics engineer is expected to design engineering systems with synergy and integration toward constrains like higher performance, speed, precision, efficiency, lower costs and functionality. The key element in success of a mechatronics engineering education-program, and correspondingly, Mechatronics engineering graduates, is directly related to a well-structured mechatronic system design course and the applied structural design methodology. Guidelines for structural design methodology and tools for the development process of mechatronic products, that can be applied in educational process is highly required. This paper proposes mechatronics systems design education-oriented methodology, which aims to integrate multidisciplinary knowledge, in various stages through the design process and development of mechatronics product. The proposed mechatronics design methodology is described, discussed and applied with the help of example student final year graduation project; design and implementation of mechatronics mobile robotic guidance system in the from of smart wheelchair- Mechatronics Motawif, to help and support people with disabilities and special needs to perform specific predetermined tasks, particularly, performing Al Omrah and motion around holy Kaba, Makka. Keywords: Mechatronics, Design methodology, Parallel design, Synergistic integration, Modeling/ Simulation, Prototyping, Mobile robot, Motawif

High-Speed 64-Bit CMOS Binary Comparator

Abstract: High-speed 64-bit CMOS binary comparator is proposed in this brief Comparison is most basic arithmetic operation that determines if one number is greater than, equal to, or less than the other number Comparator is most fundamental component that performs comparison operation This brief presents comparison of modified and existing 64-bit binary comparator designs concentrating on delay Means some modifications are done in existing 64-bit binary comparator design to improve the speed of the circuit Comparison between modified and existing 64-bit binary comparator designs is calculated by simulation that is performed at 90nm technology in Tanner EDA Tool Keywords: Binary comparator, digital arithmetic, high-speed

A New Power Line Communication Modem Design with Applications to Vast Solar Farm Management

Abstract: This article presents a new power line communication (PLC) modem design which can control data flow with a new networking strategy to propagate signals for long distance without using extra cabling or signal repeaters. An investigation is also carried on the utilization of the twin core power line cables in vast solar farm for controlling solar trackers and data acquisition purposes. Frequency responses of these power lines are analyzed and tested according to different coupling circuits. A simple design is proposed for PLC modem based on such channel characteristics, data flow control strategy, collision avoidance technique and error detection. Keywords: Solar farm management, Power line communication, Data flow control, Twin-core cable characteristics.

Wavelet Based Analysis for Transmission Line Fault Location

Abstract: This paper presents wavelet based analysis for transmission line fault location. Faults in power transmission lines cause transients that travel at a speed close to the speed of light and propagate along the line as traveling waves (TWs). Traveling wave theory is utilized in capturing the travel time of the transients along the monitored lines between the fault point and the protective relay. This will help in proposing an accurate fault location technique based on high frequency components of fault current. Time resolution for these components is provided by the wavelet transform. This approach has the advantages of being independent of the fault impedance and fault inception angle. The application of the proposed technique for typical faults is illustrated using transient simulations obtained by MATLAB Simulink program. Keywords: travelling waves, wavelet transform, fault location, MATLAB Simulink.

Sustainability of Borehole Water Schemes Through Community Participation in Ejigbo, Osun State

Abstract: The study evaluates the contributions of community efforts to the borehole water supply schemes in Ejigbo Local Government Area (LGA). It examines the socio-economic characteristics of the respondents, enumerates the number of boreholes and their functionality, identifies the Agency that sponsored the provision of water scheme(s) and suggests measure of sustainance of the boreholes in the area. Data were collected from both primary and secondary sources. The primary source involves the enumeration of the total number of boreholes in the area, 250 structured questionnaires were administered using systematic random sampling method to collect information on the number of boreholes, their functionality, Agencies involved in the provision and community contributions. Data gathered were analysed using both descriptive and regression statistics to affirm the degree of functionality of boreholes in the area. The study revealed that 36 boreholes were in poor condition and needed repairs to function effectively. Communities were not much involved in the maintenance of boreholes in the area, hence, there was no sense of belonging by the people for repairs and maintenance. The study therefore recommends command approach in addition to the existing practice for sustainable water supply in the area. Keywords: water, borehole, functionality and sustainability

Impelling innovation at a Canadian automotive plant

Abstract: In industrialized countries manufacturing firms are facing significant change resulting from mass customization, shortening product life cycles, increasing technological change, and the entry of international competitors into their markets as witnessed by the automotive and electronics industries. ‘Process Innovation’ is one of the key areas where innovation is exigent. It pertains to finding better or more efficient ways of producing existing products, or delivering existing services. Making innovation a ubiquitous capability in manufacturing is fundamentally a leadership challenge. It needs a tangible organizational infrastructure that makes managers accountable at all levels for driving, facilitating, and embedding the innovation process into every part of the culture. This paper construes the process of ‘impelling and managing innovation’ at an automotive metal stamping plant in Canada, during the 2007-2009 financial crises in North America. The paper discusses the processes, psychological and physical environment, organisational culture, economic climate, and program content; rationale, significance and denouement. The paper concludes that idea management systems don't replace traditional departments and processes involved in new services, products, or strategies. They serve as an adjunct to them and provide a framework that can help organizations turn innovation into an enterprise-wide discipline-and a sustainable process that drives growth in good times and bad. Auto industry is going to remain important, for local, regional and national economies, as well as for the future of the planet if ecologically sustainable transport systems are to be developed; it will, no doubt, remain an important topic in academia. Key Words: Process Innovation, Suggestion System, Manufacturing, Metal Stamping, Automotive Plant