Showing papers on "Component (UML) published in 1992"

Precision Machine Design

Abstract: This book is a comprehensive engineering exploration of all the aspects of precision machine design - both component and system design considerations for precision machines. It addresses both theoretical analysis and practical implementation providing many real-world design case studies as well as numerous examples of existing components and their characteristics. Fast becoming a classic, this book includes examples of analysis techniques, along with the philosophy of the solution method. It explores the physics of errors in machines and how such knowledge can be used to build an error budget for a machine, how error budgets can be used to design more accurate machines. Supporting software (MS Excel spreadsheets on 5.25' diskette) enable the reader to study 'What if' design scenarios based on formulas presented in the book.

Memory and working-with-memory: A component process model based on modules and central systems

Abstract: A neuropsychological model of memory is proposed that incorporates Fodor's (1983) idea of modules and central systems. The model has four essential components: (1) a non-frontal neocortical component that consists of perceptual (and perhaps interpretative semantic) modules that mediate performance on item-specific, implicit tests of memory, (2) a modular medial temporal/hippocampal component that mediates encoding, storage, and retrieval on explicit, episodic tests of memory that are associative/cue dependent, (3) a central system, frontal-lobe component that mediates performance on explicit tests that are strategic and on procedural tests that are rule-bound, and (4) a basal ganglia component that mediates performance on sensorimotor, procedural tests of memory. The usefulness of the modular/central system construct is explored and evidence from studies of normal, amnesic, agnosic, and demented people is provided to support the model.

A neural network component for an intrusion detection system

Abstract: An approach toward user behavior modeling that takes advantage of the properties of neural algorithms is described, and results obtained on preliminary testing of the approach are presented. The basis of the approach is the IDES (Intruder Detection Expert System) which has two components, an expert system looking for evidence of attacks on known vulnerabilities of the system and a statistical model of the behavior of a user on the computer system under surveillance. This model learns the habits a user has when he works with the computer, and raises warnings when the current behavior is not consistent with the previously learned patterns. The authors suggest the time series approach to add broader scope to the model. They therefore feel the need for alternative techniques and introduce the use of a neural network component for modeling user's behavior as a component for the intrusion detection system. >

Industrial ecology: concepts and approaches.

Abstract: Industrial ecology is a new approach to the industrial design of products and processes and the implementation of sustainable manufacturing strategies. It is a concept in which an industrial system is viewed not in isolation from its surrounding systems but in concert with them. Industrial ecology seeks to optimize the total materials cycle from virgin material to finished material, to component, to product, to waste product, and to ultimate disposal. To better characterize the topic, the National Academy of Sciences convened a colloquium from which were derived a number of salient contributions. This paper sets the stage for the contributions that follow and discusses how each fits into the framework of industrial ecology.

Failure mode assumptions and assumption coverage

Abstract: A method is proposed for the formal analysis of failure mode assumptions and for the evaluation of the dependability of systems whose design correctness is conditioned on the validity of such assumptions. Formal definitions are given for the types of errors that can affect items of service delivered by a system or component. Failure node assumptions are then formalized as assertions on the types of errors that a component may induce in its enclosing system. The concept of assumption coverage is introduced to relate the notion of partially-ordered assumption assertions to the quantification of system dependability. Assumption coverage is shown to be extremely important in systems requiring very high dependability. It is also shown that the need to increase system redundancy to accommodate more severe modes of component failure can sometimes result in a decrease in dependability. >

Heterogeneous software configuration management apparatus

Abstract: A heterogeneous configuration management tool (17) enables building of a software system in a heterogeneous network (11) of computers (13, 15). In building a desired software system, the tool (17) enables at least one component of the system to be translated by a foreign computer (13) of the network (11) and other components of the system to be translated by other computers (15) of the network (11). A reference to a version indicator (25) is passed to the foreign computer (13) to provide the foreign computer (13) an indication of user-specified version of the component being translated by the foreign computer (13). The reference is expanded during processing on the foreign computer (13). Pathname transformation files (21) are employed to provide transformation of a pathname in one computer of the network (11) to a corresponding pathname in another computer of a network (11). Binaries (30) resulting from component translations are stored in split pools (35). In turn, split releases of the built software system are enabled.

Apparatus and method for dynamic linking of computer software components

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the dynamic (execution time) linking of object oriented software components is disclosed. The present invention comprises a computer system including a set of at least two software components. This invention provides a method and means for dynamically linking object oriented software components during run time execution of the program. The present includes two main features. First, a query function is provided to allow an application component to determine, during program execution time, the name and location of library classes available for use. Second, the application component can create (instantiate) instances of derived classes of an abstract base class. The application component can manipulate the instantiated object using the abstract interface provided by the base class definition. The implementation of the present invention involves processing at two steps in the software generation cycle. First, the prior art static linker must be modified to provide processing support for the present invention at link time. Second, the main features of the present invention are performed at program execution time.

Computing similarity in a reuse library system: an AI-based approach

Abstract: This paper presents an AI based library system for software reuse, called AIRS, that allows a developer to browse a software library in search of components that best meet some stated requirement. A component is described by a set of (feature, term) pairs. A feature represents a classification criterion, and is defined by a set of related terms. The system allows to represent packages (logical units that group a set of components) which are also described in terms of features. Candidate reuse components and packages are selected from the library based on the degree of similarity between their descriptions and a given target description. Similarity is quantified by a nonnegative magnitude (distance) proportional to the effort required to obtain the target given a candidate. Distances are computed by comparator functions based on the subsumption, closeness, and package relations. We present a formalization of the concepts on which the AIRS system is based. The functionality of a prototype implementation of the AIRS system is illustrated by application to two different software libraries: a set of Ada packages for data structure manipulation, and a set of C components for use in Command, Control, and Information Systems. Finally, we discuss some of the ideas we are currently exploring to automate the construction of AIRS classification libraries.

Data processing system with improved work flow system and method

Abstract: A Work Flow Manager (WFM), or process manager, is the software to manage and control the flow of work items from one function to the next in a well-defined application process to achieve the complete processing of those work items. Applications of WFMs include the processing of imaged or multimedia documents such as health and other insurance forms, filmless radiology, IRS tax submissions, and FBI fingerprint and voice identification. The invention WFM: a. provides an improved, scalable subsystem and method for work flow management; b. partitions the application (work flow) process into component distributed services, each represented by an OSF Distributed Computer Environment (DCE) service; c. defines the application process with a state transition diagram (STD); d. uses centralized control software with a work-in-process (WIP) manager, a work queue manager, and a WIP submission attributes data base manager; e. defines and uses a common "pull system" protocol for communication between the WFM and the component distributed services; f. distinguishes WIP submissions from archived submissions; and g. uses an "attribute-base file system" to store submissions, typically implemented with both a data base for submission attributes (including the current state of WIP submissions), and a distributed file system for submission contents files.

Deriving Database Queries from Logical Forms by Abductive Definition Expansion

Abstract: The paper describes a principled approach to the problem of deriving database queries from logical forms produced by a general NL interface. Our method attempts to construct a database query and a set of plausible assumptions, such that the logical form is equivalent to the query given the assumptions. The domain information needed is provided as declarative meaning postulates, including "definitional equivalences". The technical basis for the approach is that a "definition" of the form Head ∧ Conditions ↔ Body can be read procedurally as "Expand Head to Body if it occurs in an environment where Conditions can be inferred". The "environment" is provided by the other conjuncts occurring together with Head in the original logical form, together with other meaning postulates and the contents of the database. The method has been implemented in CLARE, a language and reasoning system whose linguistic component is the SRI Core Language Engine.

The relative importance of permanent and transitory components : identification and some theoretical bounds

Abstract: Much macroeconometric discussion has recently emphasized the economic significance of the size of the permanent component in GNP. Consequently, a large literature has developed that tries to estimate this magnitude measured, essentially, as the spectral density of increments in GNP at frequency zero. This paper shows that unless the permanent component is a random walk this attention has been misplaced: in general, that quantity does not identify the magnitude of the permanent component. Further, by developing bounds on reasonable measures of this magnitude, the paper shows that a random walk specification is biased towards establishing the permanent component as important.

Design tool and method for preparing parametric assemblies

Abstract: An expert system for desigining a connected collection of components which are available or can be made in different forms, describable by a selected number of variables, comprises a knowledge base which comprises a plurality of records pertaining to types of connectable components having at least one characteristic, at least one rule for combining a component with other components, and an inference engine which includes means for selecting a record for a first component, means for selecting a second component, if available, connectable to first component, and storing information about a plurality of connected components. Constant characteristics include component name, component description, manufacturer identification number, price information, availability information, a dimension, color or texture, and variable characteristics include information about whether more than one component has been selected and, if so, information about a second component and how and where the second component is connected.

A reference architecture for the component factory

Abstract: Software reuse can be achieved through an organization that focuses on utilization of life cycle products from previous developments. The component factory is both an example of the more general concepts of experience and domain factory and an organizational unit worth being considered independently. The critical features of such an organization are flexibility and continuous improvement. In order to achieve these features we can represent the architecture of the factory at different levels of abstraction and define a reference architecture from which specific architectures can be derived by instantiation. A reference architecture is an implementation and organization independent representation of the component factory and its environment. The paper outlines this reference architecture, discusses the instantiation process, and presents some examples of specific architectures by comparing them in the framework of the reference model.

A software size model

Abstract: A bottom-up approach to software size estimation is described. It first identifies factors affecting software size, thus obtaining size explanation equations, and then seeks suitable predictors based on those explanation factors which can be used for size estimation. The approach, or model, is bottom-up in that it sizes individual software components or modules first, and then obtains subsystem and system sizes by summing component sizes. Since components may have different purposes and characteristics, the model allows for the partitioning of system components into several different types, each component type having different size explanation and estimation equations. The partitioning is not fixed, but depends on the particular software development technology. The model is applied to several different software systems, including both business applications and systems programs. >

Applying reliability models more effectively (software)

Abstract: A set of linear combination software reliability models that combine the results of single, or component, models is presented. It is shown that, as measured by statistical methods for determining a model's applicability to a set of failure data, a combination model tends to have more accurate short-term and long-term predictions than a component model. These models were evaluated using both historical data sets and data from recent Jet Propulsion Laboratory projects. The computer-aided software reliability estimation (CASRE) tool, which automates many reliability measurement tasks and makes it easier to apply reliability models and to form combination models, is described. >

Method and apparatus for inspection of surface mounted devices

Abstract: The invention provides methods and apparatus for inspecting a surface mounted device to estimate its position. The methods and apparatus provide for storing a description of the component to be inspected; devising a plan for inspecting features of the surface mounted device to determine their characteristics arid, from them, to estimate a position of the device itself; generating an image of at least a portion of the component being inspected; and estimating the component's position by inspecting successive features in accord with the plan. A resulting output signal provides that estimate, for example, to placement equipment which can make final adjustments in placement. According to one aspect of the invention, that plan is intended to reduce with inspection of each successive feature any uncertainty in the estimation of the position of the component.

Component surface distortion evaluation apparatus and method

Abstract: A system is disclosed which operates to collect high resolution three-dimensional surface mesh data from mechanical components which are used for component evaluation. The system includes a multidimensionally movable fixture mount for holding the mechanical components. A structured light pattern emitting projector is provided together with an image sensing camera for detecting impingement of the light pattern on the mechanical component and for generating the surface data. A set of software tools analyzes the data to provide numerical or quantitative component analysis and further presents the data in display form to allow intuitive or qualitative analysis for product and process improvement.

Systems Analysis in Water‐Distribution Network Design: From Theory to Practice

Abstract: Review of the use of system‐analysis techniques, and in particular optimization, to design water‐distribution networks reveals that in spite of the considerable development of models in the literature they have not been accepted into practice. This lack of acceptance is present even though a competitive evaluation of the component design models has shown them to be capable of designing realistic networks. The lack of acceptance is attributed primarily to the absence of suitable packaging to make the algorithms useful in a design office environment. This evidence suggests that, from a practice point of view, there is relatively little need for further development of these component design models, other than the packaging. Reliability analysis in water‐distribution network design has not yet entered practice either. In contrast to the component size problem, reliability analysis has not been accepted primarily because of a lack of reliability measure that is both comprehensive in its interpretation of relia...

Knowledge mining by imprecise querying: a classification-based approach

Abstract: Knowledge mining is the process of discovering knowledge that is hitherto unknown. An approach to knowledge mining by imprecise querying that utilizes conceptual clustering techniques is presented. The query processor has both a deductive and an inductive component. The deductive component finds precise matches in the traditional sense, and the inductive component identifies ways in which imprecise matches may be considered similar. Ranking on similarity is done by using the database taxonomy, by which similar instances become members of the same class. Relative similarity is determined by depth in the taxonomy. The conceptual clustering algorithm, its use in query processing, and an example are presented. >

Method of and apparatus for providing automatic detection and processing of an empty multimedia data object

Abstract: Automatic detection and processing of an empty multimedia data object is used to determine the data type of a multimedia data object. The system also detects whether the multimedia data object, or a component thereof, is empty based upon its data type. The system also appropriately processes a detected empty multimedia data object, or a component thereof. The appropriate processing may include no action, informing a user, program, or device of a detected empty multimedia data object, or a component thereof, inhibiting further processing of a detected empty multimedia data object, or a component thereof, or deleting a detected empty multimedia data object, or a component thereof.

The subjective need and demand for orthodontic treatment.

Abstract: The subjective need and demand for orthodontic treatment amongst 955 12-year-old Sheffield children has been assessed using the aesthetic component of the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need and by...

Communication signal having a time domain pilot component

Abstract: A quad 16 QAM transmission (132-136) and reception (600) methodology wherein a time domain pilot reference is advantageously associated therewith. There may be one or more such pilot references for each packet of multiple 16 QAM pulses (200). Depending upon the embodiment, each 16 QAM pulse can include a time domain pilot reference, or an estimated pilot reference (402 and 301) for that pulse can be determined either by reference to pilot references in other pulses sharing the same packet, or by reference to pilot references for other previously received 16 QAM pulses corresponding to that same pulse.

An evaluation of Starburst's memory resident storage component

Abstract: As part of the Starburst extensible database project, the authors have designed and implemented a memory resident storage component that can coexist along side traditional disk-oriented storage components. The memory resident storage component shares the code of Starburst's common services, such as query optimization, plan generation, query evaluation, record manipulation, and transaction management. The design of Starburst's memory resident storage component is discussed, contrasted with Starburst's default disk-oriented storage component, and compared to the performance of the two storage components using the Wisconsin Benchmarks. The results show that a memory resident storage component can perform significantly better than a disk-oriented storage component, even when the disk-oriented storage component has all of its data cached in memory. The benchmark results show that, by using memory resident techniques, overall query execution can be improved by up to a factor of four. >

A new design strategy for the self-assembly of molecular shuttles

Abstract: A strategy for the construction of a [2]rotaxane—comprised of a dumbbell-shaped component containing two π-electron-deficient 4,4′-bipyridinium units encircled by one π-electron-rich bisparaphenylene-34-crown-10 macrocycle—by a constitutionally determined self-assembly process is described.

Method and system for providing user control of device driver configuration

Abstract: A method and system for providing a user with interactive control of device driver configuration. In a preferred embodiment, during configuration of a device driver composed of multiple component drivers, each of a plurality of available component drivers is invoked for potential inclusion in the device driver. For each available component driver, a component driver definition file is provided which contains definition statements. Also for each available component driver, an entry in a parameter registry is provided which contains a list of configuration parameters to be passed to the available component driver when it is invoked. Upon user selection of a component driver, the corresponding component driver definition file is read and the definition statements from the corresponding component driver definition file are provided to the user. In accordance with user responses to the definition statements, the configuration parameters are assigned appropriate values and updated in the corresponding entry in the parameter registry. As a result, upon a next configuration of the device driver, the modified configuration parameters are passed to the selected component driver when invoked for inclusion in the device driver.

Generalization of physical component boundary fitted co-ordinate (pcbfc) method for the analysis of free-surface flow

Abstract: SUMMARY This paper presents a systematic and theoretically consistent approach for the analysis of free-surface flow, making use of a number of established ideas such as physical component, boundary-fitted co-ordinate (BFC) and Lagrangian front tracking. The approach extends, theoretically as well as numerically, the use of physical component to general non-orthogonal moving grids and provides a numerically stable BFC method with little labour of free-surface positioning, grid generation and grid renewal. The approach conserves mass even at the free surface and allows time step of the order of the Coulant number. The main body of the present paper starts with the definition of analytical space and Riemannian geometry intrinsic to the physical component by applying to it the theorems of differential geometry and manifold theory. Then the governing equations of flow and free surface for the physical component are defined in the general 3D form with the notation of the new Riemannian geometry.Numerica1 procedures and the fully discrete equations are also presented for the benefit of potential users. Finally, several 2D examples demonstrate the basic performance of the present method by showing the computability of complex free-surface motion.