Showing papers on "Conceptual design published in 1985"

Computer control of space-borne teleoperators with sensory feedback

Abstract: This paper presents the conceptual design, analysis, synthesis and software organization of an advanced teleoperator control system with sensory feedback. The design requirements for the system are discussed in detail and an implementation strategy is presented. The resulting system features maximum autonomy of the local hand controller and remote manipulator subsystems, along with kinematic and dynamic coordination between these subsystems. The final design emphasizes cooperation and interaction between the human operator and the computers in control of the sensor-based manipulator system. The hardware and software modules being used to implement the system at JPL are described.

Redefining the role of computers in architecture: from drafting/modelling tools to knowledge-based design assistants

Abstract: The use of computers for automating the processes of design and manufacture promised significant improvements in designer's productivity and products' quality, neither of which, so far, have been realized in architectural design. This paper argues that in order to realize such improvements the modelling/drafting role computers have been assigned in architectural design should be changed, so that computers will become intelligent assistants to designers, relieving them from the need to perform the more trivial design tasks and augmenting their decision making capabilities. To support this argument, architectural design is modelled as a search process in a space of alternative solutions, seeking one or more solutions that satisfy certain design criteria. Design is shown to be a special case of general problem-solving processes, and thus comprised of two major components: design states and the generator/test cycle that facilitates transitions between them. It is then shown that the symbolic representation capabilities of computers qualify them to simulate such design states and the generate/test cycle, using techniques that were developed independently in the fields of geometric modelling and artificial intelligence. A conceptual framework of a knowledge-based computer-aided design system, which brings these techniques to bear on architectural problems, is presented, and its potential for increasing the utility of computers in the design of buildings is discussed.

The design of a rule-based CAI tutorial

Abstract: Rule-based systems are a development associated with recent research in artificial intelligence (AI). These systems express their decision-making criteria as sets of production rules, which are declarative statements relating various system states to program actions. For computer-assisted instruction (CAI) programs, system states are defined in terms of a task analysis and student model, and actions take the form of the different teaching operations that the program can perform. These components are related by a set of means-ends guidance rules that determine what the program will do next for any given state. The paper presents the design of a CAI course employing a rule-based tutorial strategy. This design has not undergone the test of full implementation; the paper presents a conceptual design rather than a programming blueprint. One of the unique features of the course design described here is that it deals with the domain of computer graphics. The precise subject of the course is ReGIS, the Remote Graphics Instruction Set on Digital Equipment Corporation GIGI and VT125 terminals. The paper describes the course components and their inter-relationships, discusses how program control might be expressed in the form of production rules, and presents a program that demonstrates one facet of the intended course: the ability to parse student input in such a way that rules can be used to update a dynamic student model.

Computer-Aided Database Design: The Dataid Project

Abstract: Preface. The DATAID Project. Computer-Aided Database Design: The DATAID Approach (A. Albano, V. De Antonellis and A. Di Leva). Tools For Database Design . Chapters: I. A Tool for Modelling Dynamics in Conceptual Design (V. De Antonellis and B. Zonta). II. GINCOD: A Graphical Tool for Conceptual Design of Database Applications (C. Batini et al.). III. A Software Engineering Approach to Database Design: The Galileo Project (A. Albano and R. Orsini). IV. A Workbench for Conceptual Design in Galileo (M. Capacciolo and M.E. Occhiuto). V. The Logical Design in the DATAID Project. The Easymap System (M.N. Bert et al.). VI. Architecture of a Physical Design Tool for Relational DBMSs (D. Maio, C. Sartori and M.R. Scalas). VII. Integrated Tools for Physical Database Design in CODASYL Environment (S. Orlando et al.). DATAID Methodology . VIII. DATAID-D: Methodology for Distributed Database Design (S. Ceri and B. Pernici). IX. Dynamics in Logical Database Design (B. Demo, A. Di Leva and P. Giolito). X. Important Issues in Database Design Methodologies and Tools (S. Navathe). Appendix: The DATAID Publication List.

Structural design of the Sandia 34-M Vertical Axis Wind Turbine

Abstract: Sandia National Laboratories, as the lead Department of Energy laboratory for Vertical-Axis Wind Turbine development, is currently designing a 34-m diameter Darrieus-type vertical-axis wind turbine. This turbine will be a research test bed that provides a focus for advancing technology and validating design and fabrication techniques in a size range suitable for utility use. Structural data from this machine will allow structural modeling to be refined and verified for a turbine on which the gravity effects and stochastic wind loading are significant. Performance data from it will allow aerodynamic modeling to be refined and verified. This design effort incorporates Sandia’s state-of-the-art analysis tools in the design of a complete machine. In this report I describe the analytic tools we are using, summarize the conceptual design procedure, and present portions of our detailed design as it existed in September 1984.

A conceptual design aid environment for expert-database systems☆

Abstract: With the actual penetration of expert systems into the business world, the question is, how the expert system idea can be used to enhance the existing information systems with more intelligence in usage and operation. This interest is not surprising due to the advancement of the fifth generation of computer technology, and avid interest in the field of Artificial Intelligence. Therefore design of an information system for an application becomes more complex, and the inability of the human designer to deal with it increases. For designing intelligent systems, we have to be able to forecast the behavior of the information system more precisely before implementing it, i.e. we'have to support the specification process. Clearly the technology, such as Data base systems, is leading on efficiency issues as those needed for the construction, retrieval and manipulation of large shared data base. On the other hand, the AI techniques have improved significantly with function such as deductive reasoning and natural language processing. It is important to find way to merge these technologies into one mainstream of computing. A meeting point for the two areas is the issue of conceptual knowledge modelling, so that models can be created that will define the role and the ways to use data in AI systems. In the framework of this study, one possible expert system design aid environment has been suggested to assist the designer in his work. In a conceptual modelling environment a model is given for analysing complex real world problems known as the Conceptual Knowledge Model (CKM), represented by a Graphical and a Formal Representation. The Graphical Representation consists of three graphs: Conceptual Requirement Graph, Conceptual Behavior Graph, and Conceptual Structure Graph. These graphs are developed by involving the expert during the design process. The graphs are then transformed into first-order predicate logic to represent the logical axioms of a theory, which constitutes the knowledge base of the Expert System. The model suggested here is a step towards closing the gap between the theory of the conventional data base theory and AI databases.

Expert systems and their use in augmenting design optimization

Abstract: The challenging requirements that are evolving for future aircraft demand that each design be optimally integrated, for the penalties imposed by nonoptimal performance are significant. Classic numerical optimization algorithms have been and will continue to be important tools for aircraft designers. These methods are, however, limited to certain categories of aircraft design variables, leaving the remainder to be determined by the user. A method that makes use of knowledge-based expert systems offers the potential for aiding the conceptual design process in a way that is similar to that of numerical optimization, except that it would address discrete, discontinuous, abstract, or any other unoptimized aspect of vehicle design and integration. Other unique capabilities such as automatic discovery and learning in design may also be achievable in the near term. This paper discusses current practice in conceptual aircraft design and knowledge-based systems, and how knowledge-based systems can be used in conceptual design.

GINCOD: A Graphical Tool for Conceptual Design of Data Base Applications.

Abstract: The general features of a graphical tool for conceptual design of data base applications are described. A set of primitives that aid the designer to incrementally specify data and transactions of interest by means of a high level diagrammatic specification is shown. Finally, the user interface, implementation features and open research problems are outlined.

RIPL: an environment for rapid prototyping with intelligent support

Abstract: Rapid prototyping of the User-System Interface (USI) has proven to be an effective design, validation, and optimization technique. This paper describes the conceptual design of the Rapid Intelligent Prototyping Language (RIPL) environment. RIPL provides an automated environment that supports the USI designer with an Artificial Intelligence (AI) System, Display and Dialogue Definition Systems, and a User-System Simulator. With RIPL, dialogues are specified and edited interactively using state transition model graphics. Also, prototypes can be automatically instrumented to measure human performance.The AI components of RIPL are its most significant and unique elements. The RIPL AI System includes an expert system for USI design as well as other designer aids. These tools not only result in faster generation of prototypes, but increase USI quality from the human factors perspective. The expert system uses a knowledge base codified from USI design guidelines to answer designer queries and perform USI evaluation.

An expert system for adaptive quality control

Abstract: One of the main purposes of this paper is a betterment of an adaptability of a company. In this paper we present a conceptual design of a computer system which supports adaptive quality control. Our study relates to two scientific areas, i.e., systems science and computer science. In this paper, first we extract basic concepts for adaptive quality control by referring and summarizing the theoretical studies of quality control, and clarify the meaning of the concepts in expert system for adaptive quality control. Next, by referring to the study of the Fifth Generation Computer System in Japan, we discuss the basic feature of knowledge base system, knowledge base management system, and inference system based on the extracted concepts, and we present a conceptual design of an expert system for adaptive quality control.

MINIMARS conceptual design: Report I. Volume 1

Abstract: Engineering parameters and by features of MINIMARS are presented. Topics discussed are startup, halo physics, drift pumping, magnet design, shielding, injector systems, electrical systems, fueling systems, free electric laser, blankets, heat tansport, tritium systems, configuration, assembly and maintainence, and cost. 115 refs., 112 figs., 44 tabs. (WRF)

Development of a Total 3D CAD/CAM System for Electric Appliances

Abstract: This paper presents an overview of a 3D CAD/CAM system for electric appliances. The distinctive features of the system are as follows; 1 The system supports a wide range of design activities, conceptual design, engineering design and production design. 2 The system enables a conceptual designer to evaluate design options based on realistic representations of objects. 3 Various kinematic simulation functions enable engineers to analyze mechanisms.

Second-generation mobile satellite system. A conceptual design and trade-off study

Abstract: In recent years, interest has grown in the mobile satellite (MSAT) system, a satellite-based communications system capable of providing integrated voice and data services to a large number of users. To explore the potential of a commercial mobile satellite system (MSS) beyond the horizon of the first generation, using technologies of the 1990's and to assist MSAT-X in directing its efforts, a conceptual design has been performed for a second-generation system to be launched around the mid-1990's. The design goal is to maximize the number of satellite channels and/or minimize the overall life-cycle cost, subject to the constraint of utilizing a commercial satellite bus with minimum modifications. To provide an optimal design, a series of trade-offs are performed, including antenna sizing, feed configurations, and interference analysis. Interference is a serious problem for MSAT and often an overlapping feed design is required to reduce interbeam interference. The trade-off studies will show that a simple non-overlapping feed is sufficient for the second-generation system, thus avoiding the need for the complicated beam-forming network that is associated with the overlapping feed designs. In addition, a system that operates at L-band, an alternative frequency band that is being considered by some for possible MSAT applications, is also presented.

Modular Construction Technology for Arctic Islands

Abstract: In order to investigate the possibilities for application in the Arctic of new generation construction vessels, a conceptual design of a production island retained by crane-installed concrete modules was carried out. The advantage of the crane-installed modules consists in the fact that they are not required to maintain buoyancy during installation. Four various alternatives for transportation and installation of retaining wall were considered. The technical and economical analysis indicated that substantial cost savings may be expected due to the application of the very large transportation barge and large lifting capacity installation vessel. Besides direct cost reduction this technology precludes a number of logistic problems, associated with application of floating caissons. The paper describes the complete cycle of conceptual design for a proposed construction scheme in the conditions characteristic for the shallow-water areas of the Beaufort Sea.

Radioactive waste isolation in salt: peer review of Westinghouse Electric Corporation's report on reference conceptual designs for a repository waste package

Abstract: This report documents the findings of the peer panel constituted by Argonne National Laboratory to review Region A of Westinghouse Electric Corporation's report entitled Waste Package Reference Conceptual Designs for a Repository in Salt. The panel determined that the reviewed report does not provide reasonable assurance that US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) requirements for waste packages will be met by the proposed design. It also found that it is premature to call the design a ''reference design,'' or even a ''reference conceptual design.'' This review report provides guidance for the preparation of a more acceptable design document.

Parametric study of a canard-configured transport using conceptual design optimization

Abstract: Constrained-parameter optimization is used to perform optimal conceptual design of both canard and conventional configurations of a medium-range transport. A number of design constants and design constraints are systematically varied to compare the sensitivities of canard and conventional configurations to a variety of technology assumptions. Main-landing-gear location and canard surface high-lift performance are identified as critical design parameters for a statically stable, subsonic, canard-configured transport.

APM Configuration Concepts and Network Design

Abstract: The simpler networks, along with several of the more complex variations, include the following: Single-Lane Shuttle, Single-Lane Shuttle with Bypass, Double-Lane Shuttle, Single-Lane Loop, Double-Lane Loop, Pinched Loop with Turnbacks, Multi-Shuttle, and Shuttle/Loop Combination. Given the numerous configurations, network planners must decide which concept best fits: the applications, and the performance requirements and design constraints associated with it. Several factors, and the relative importance placed on each of the factors by the planners, determine which network is best.

A computer-assisted process for supersonic aircraft conceptual design

Abstract: Design methodology was developed and existing major computer codes were selected to carry out the conceptual design of supersonic aircraft. A computer-assisted design process resulted from linking the codes together in a logical manner to implement the design methodology. The process does not perform the conceptual design of a supersonic aircraft but it does provide the designer with increased flexibility, especially in geometry generation and manipulation. Use of the computer-assisted process for the conceptual design of an advanced technology Mach 3.5 interceptor showed the principal benefit of the process to be the ability to use a computerized geometry generator and then directly convert the geometry between formats used in the geometry code and the aerodynamics codes. Results from the interceptor study showed that a Mach 3.5 standoff interceptor with a 1000 nautical-mile mission radius and a payload of eight Phoenix missiles appears to be feasible with the advanced technologies considered. A sensitivity study showed that technologies affecting the empty weight and propulsion system would be critical in the final configuration characteristics with aerodynamics having a lesser effect for small perturbations around the baseline.

Reliability and Speed, Major Performance Criteria of Distributed Control

Abstract: While the advantages of Distributed Control are numerous and prevalent, its frontiers are felt, in principal, in the constraints of its Data Communication structure (network). These constraints fall into two categories: technical limits and affordability. They result in performance weakness. That is why the assessment of major criteria reliability and speed is vital for a sound conceptual design. The paper defines the constituents and ground rules of these criteria. The reliability and speed are unveiled as the investigation follows the technical aspects of distributed control hierarchical levels and communications layers.

Integrated Design Methodology for Urban Stormwater Detention Facilities

Abstract: The objective of this paper is to present the core of a design methodology that avoids the pitfalls of the design storm concept by using a microcomputer algorithm to estimate the long-term response of detention systems. The algorithm consists of three modules: (1) a stochastic runoff event generator, (2) an event shaper (for estimating intraevent variations), and (3) a detention basin model. These modules are part of a larger effort to produce a viable design methodology. Future extensions will include a module to guide the detention basin model in estimating flood control capability over a large matrix of design variations and an optimization module to locate the most cost-effective design.

MINIMARS conceptual design: Report I. Volume 2

Abstract: This report contains separate articles of seven aspects of the MINIMARS programs. The areas discussed are Fusion Engineering Design Center, Halo Model and Computer Code, safety design, the University of Wisconsin blankets, activation product transport in a FLiBe-VANADIUM alloy HT-9 system, a halo scraper/direct converter system, and heat transport power conversion. The individual articles are cataloged separately. (WRF)