Showing papers on "Design tool published in 2010"

Tanagra: a mixed-initiative level design tool

Abstract: Tanagra is a prototype mixed-initiative design tool for 2D platformer level design, in which a human and computer can work together to produce a level. The human designer can place constraints on a continuously running level generator, in the form of exact geometry placement and manipulation of the level's pacing. The computer then fills in the rest of the level with geometry that guarantees playability, or informs the designer that there is no level that meets their requirements. This paper presents the design of Tanagra, a discussion of the editing operations it provides to the designer, and an evaluation of the expressivity of its generator.

A Simple Nonlinear Magnetic Analysis for Axial-Flux Permanent-Magnet Machines

Abstract: This paper presents a simple nonlinear magnetic analysis for axial-flux permanent-magnet machines as an assistant design tool of 3-D finite-element analysis (3D-FEA). The proposed analysis consists of an equivalent magnetic circuit and an analytical model of air-gap permeances, including saturable permeances in the core. The proposed analysis is capable of calculating the flux distribution and torque characteristics under heavy operating conditions. We verify the accuracy of the proposed analysis by comparing the results with those of 3D-FEA for various design free parameters. After verifying the accuracy of the analysis, we present our analysis-based optimum design, which realizes the maximum torque density while maintaining efficiency at the desired value. Compared to the traditional 3D-FEA, the design method proposed here has the same accuracy, while the computation time is as short as 1/21.

Bosu: a physical programmable design tool for transformability with soft mechanics

Abstract: Physical transformability is emerging as an important element of interaction design as advances in material science and computational control give rise to new possibilities in actuated products and kinetic environments. However, this transition also produces a new range of design problems-how do we visualize, imagine, and design the physical processes of transformation? This paper presents Bosu, a design tool offering kinetic memory---the ability to record and play back motion in 3-D space---for soft materials. It is used for motion prototyping and digitally augmented form finding, combining dynamic modeling with coincident sensing and actuation to create transformable structures. Evaluation from a workshop with architects and interaction, product, and fashion designers is presented discussing the ramifications of physically programming motion with a new soft materiality, moving toward new ideas in body mimesis and material construction for kinetic design.

Adaptive polynomial chaos for gas turbine compression systems performance analysis

Abstract: The design of a gas turbine, or one of its constituentmodules, is generally approachedwith some specific operating condition in mind (its design point). Unfortunately, engine components seldom exactly meet their specifications and do not operate at just one condition, but over a range of power settings. This simplification can then lead to a product that exhibits performance worse than nominal in real-world conditions. The integration of some consideration of robustness as an active part of the design process can allow products less sensitive to the presence of the noise factors commonly found in real-world environments to be obtained. To become routinely used as a design tool, minimization of the time required for robustness analysis is paramount. In this study, a nonintrusive polynomial chaos formulation is used to evaluate the variability in the performance of a genericmodular-core compression system for a three-spool modern gas turbine engine subject to uncertain operating conditions with a defined probability density function. The standard orthogonal polynomials from the Askey scheme are replaced by a set of orthonormal polynomials calculated relative to the specific probability density function, improving the convergence of the method.

Digital Architectural Design as Exploration of Computable Functions

Abstract: In recent decades, new methodologies have emerged in architectural design that exploit the computer as a design tool. This has generated a varied set of digital skills and a new type of architectural knowledge. However, up to now, a theoretical framework is missing that would allow for a comprehensive pedagogical agenda for the teaching of digital design in architecture. The present paper offers an attempt towards such a theoretical grounding based on the concept of computable functions. This approach results in an abstract and formal perspective on digital design that enables a grouping of contemporary digital design methods and an understanding of their logical relationship. On a theoretical level, it opens a path for the study of the mechanism that facilitates the transfer of concepts from various scientific disciplines into architecture.

Comparing and Optimizing the DARPA System F6 Program Value-Centric Design Methodologies

Abstract: The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) System F6 (Future, Fast, Flexible, Fractionated, Free-Flying) Program has the long-term objective of demonstrating that, in certain mission contexts, fractionated spacecraft are a desirable alternative to monolithic spacecraft. Conceptually, fractionated spacecraft consist of physically independent, “free-flying” modules that collaborate on-orbit to achieve a certain level of systemwide performance or functionality. During Phase I of the System F6 Program, four major aerospace companies developed computer-based simulation models, referred to as valuecentric design methodology (VCDM) tools, to quantitatively compare the risk-adjusted, net value of comparable monolithic and fractionated spacecraft. This research effort seeks to further learning from the four VCDM tools through two independent investigations, both focused on developing key methodological insights for future value-centric design tool development. The first investigation entails objectively comparing characteristics of the tools such as their respective modeling architectures and quantification of risk-adjusted, net value. And the second investigation entails the optimization of PIVOT, one of the four tools from Phase I, using several complementary multi-disciplinary optimization methodologies. The first major conclusion from this research is that consensus amongst the four VCDM tools from Phase I, per the most valuable fractionated spacecraft is untenable given substantial diversity in their respective modeling architectures, inherent assumptions, and ensuing interpretation of value. The second conclusion is that the solution stability of wellvetted multi-disciplinary optimization methodologies is significantly inhibited by nested uncertainty in a tool, often manifested in non-deterministic objective functions, as found in all of the Phase I VCDM tools.

Method and apparatus for optimizing hvac systems in buildings

Abstract: A computer based method and apparatus for simulating and optimizing design of an HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning system) in a building. Conventional software tools for this purpose use the well known Navier-Stokes partial differential equations used to describe motion of fluid substances by means of computational fluid dynamics using a finite element method to solve the equations and optimize design of building air ducts for carrying warm and cool air through a building. Instead here the HVAC system is initially simulated using an electrical circuit design tool such as SPICE, where room volumes correspond to electrical capacitances, heat sources correspond to electrical resistances, and air flows to electrical currents in a complex R-C electrical circuit. The goal is to improve energy efficiency in terms of the amount of energy used to heat and cool air, and also the amount of energy used to circulate the air through the air ducts.

A New Parametric Design Tool for Robot Milling

Abstract: This paper proposes the use of parametric design software, which is generally used for real-time analysis and evaluation of architectural design variants, to create a new production immanent design tool for robot milling. Robotic constraints are integrated in the data flow of the parametric model for calculating, visualizing and simulating robot milling toolpaths. As a result of the design process, a physical model together with a milling robot control data file is generated.

Robust Finite Element Model for the Design of Thermoelectric Modules

Abstract: Thermoelectric devices for power generation have been receiving increased attention as an emerging sustainable energy technology because of recent advances in thermoelectric materials and the tremendous thermal resources available. Little focus has been given to the effective implementation of thermoelectric materials in power generation modules and efficient module design. With recent exploration into new module configurations, it is imperative that a comprehensive model be developed as a design tool. A new three-dimensional, device-level, multiphysics modeling technique is developed for the purposes of designing and evaluating thermoelectric module configurations. Using the new model, we identify and explore several geometric parameters which are critical to module performance. The impact on device performance of solder, ceramic interface, and electrical contact thickness, as well as the leg spacing, is evaluated for a standard unicouple configuration. Results are compared to the standard one-dimensional constant property models commonly used in thermoelectric module design.

Computer-aided design of biological circuits using TinkerCell.

Abstract: Synthetic biology is an engineering discipline that builds on modeling practices from systems biology and wet-lab techniques from genetic engineering. As synthetic biology advances, efficient procedures will be developed that will allow a synthetic biologist to design, analyze, and build biological networks. In this idealized pipeline, computer-aided design (CAD) is a necessary component. The role of a CAD application would be to allow efficient transition from a general design to a final product. TinkerCell is a design tool for serving this purpose in synthetic biology. In TinkerCell, users build biological networks using biological parts and modules. The network can be analyzed using one of several functions provided by TinkerCell or custom programs from third-party sources. Since best practices for modeling and constructing synthetic biology networks have not yet been established, TinkerCell is designed as a flexible and extensible application that can adjust itself to changes in the field.

Flexible Design of Urban Water Distribution Networks

Abstract: With increasing global change pressures (urbanization, climate change etc.) coupled with e xisting un-sustainability factors and risks inherent to conventional urban water management, cities of the future will experience difficulties in efficient decision making on the infrastructure development. Projections of future global change pressures are plagued with uncertainties which cause difficulties when developing urban water infrastructures that are insensitive to these global change uncertainties. In this paper a methodology is presented that generates optimal urban water networks that are adaptable and sustainable under future global change pressures. These flexible systems are characterized by their ability to cope with uncertainties and have the capability to adapt to new, different, or changing requirements. The flexible design tool presented in this paper consists of two major components. The first component is a methodology for developing scenario trees that reflect uncertainties associated with future demand for water. These scenario trees represent the uncertainty envelope associated with demand projections over time. The second component is an optimization model that considers the phased design of the water network, taking into account the likeliness of different demand scenarios over time (as expressed by the scenario trees). The GA based optimization model identifies the optimal staged development of the network that gives the optimal expected value of the network both in terms of costs and benefits. The flexible design tool is then applied to the design of an example network with a design horizon of 30 year. The solution is presented as a phased design in 5 year stages and is compared with a design undertaken in the traditional way. This comparison clearly highlights the benefits and the efficacy of applying flexible design approaches for water systems operating under future uncertainties.

NeoCASS: an Integrated Tool for Structural Sizing, Aeroelastic Analysis and MDO at Conceptual Design Level

Abstract: This paper presents a design framework called NeoCASS (Next generation Conceptual Aero-Structural Sizing Suite), developed at the Department of Aerospace Engineering of Politecnico di Milano in the frame of SimSAC (Simulating Aircraft Stability And Control Characteristics for Use in Conceptual Design) project, funded by EU in the context of 6th Framework Program. It enables the creation of efficient low-order, medium fidelity models particularly suitable for structural sizing, aeroelastic analysis and optimization at the conceptual design level. The whole methodology is based on the integration of geometry construction, aerodynamic and structural analysis codes that combine depictive, computational, analytical, and semi-empirical methods, validated in an aircraft design environment. The work here presented aims at including the airframe and its effect from the very beginning of the conceptual design. This aspect is usually not considered in this early phase. In most cases, very simplified formulas and datasheets are adopted, which implies a low level of detail and a poor accuracy. Through NeoCASS, a preliminar distribution of stiffness and inertias can be determined, given the initial layout. The adoption of empirical formulas is reduced to the minimum in favor of simple numerical methods. This allows to consider the aeroelastic behavior and performances, as well, improving the accuracy of the design tools during the iterative steps and lowering the development costs and reducing the time to market. The result achieved is a design tool based on computational methods for the aero-structural analysis and Multi-Disciplinary Optimization (MDO) of aircraft layouts at the conceptual design stage. A complete case study regarding the TransoniCRuiser aircraft, including validation of the results obtained using industrial standard tools like MSC/NASTRAN and a CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) code, is reported. As it will be shown, it is possible to improve the degree of fidelity of the conceptual design process by including tailored numerical tools, overcoming the lacks of statistical methods. The result is a method minimally dependent on datasheets, featuring a good compromise between accuracy and costs.

NovoFLAP: A ligand-based de novo design approach for the generation of medicinally relevant ideas.

Abstract: NovoFLAP is a computer-aided de novo design tool that generates medicinally relevant ideas for ligand-based projects. The approach combines an evolutionary algorithm (EA-Inventor) with a powerful ligand-based scoring function that uses both molecular shape and pharmacophore features in a multiconformational context (FLAP). We demonstrate that NovoFLAP can generate novel ideas that are not only appealing to design scientists but are also validated by comparison to compounds known to demonstrate activity at the desired biological target. NovoFLAP provides a novel computer-aided design technique that can be used to generate ideas that maintain desirable molecular attributes, such as activity at the primary biological target, while offering opportunities to surmount additional design challenges. Application to the design of the first nonbasic 5HT1B antagonist is presented.

Safe compositional network sketches: formal framework

Abstract: NetSketch is a tool for the specification of constrained-flow applications and the certification of desirable safety properties imposed thereon. NetSketch assists system integrators in two types of activities: modeling and design. As a modeling tool, it enables the abstraction of an existing system while retaining sufficient information about it to carry out future analysis of safety properties. As a design tool, NetSketch enables the exploration of alternative safe designs as well as the identification of minimal requirements for outsourced subsystems. NetSketch embodies a lightweight formal verification philosophy, whereby the power (but not the heavy machinery) of a rigorous formalism is made accessible to users via a friendly interface. NetSketch does so by exposing tradeoffs between exactness of analysis and scalability, and by combining traditional whole-system analysis with a more flexible compositional analysis. The compositional analysis is based on a strongly-typed Domain-Specific Language (DSL) for describing and reasoning about constrained-flow networks at various levels of sketchiness along with invariants that need to be enforced thereupon. In this paper, we define the formal system underlying the operation of NetSketch, in particular the DSL behind NetSketch's user-interface when used in "sketch mode", and prove its soundness relative to appropriately-defined notions of validity. In a companion paper [7], we overview NetSketch, highlight its salient features, and illustrate how it could be used in applications that include: the management/shaping of traffic flows in a vehicular network (as a proxy for cyber-physical systems (CPS) applications) and a streaming media network (as a proxy for Internet applications).

Intelligent design of induction motors by multiobjective fuzzy genetic algorithm

Abstract: In this paper an approach using multi-objective fuzzy genetic algorithm (MFGA) for optimum design of induction motors is presented. Single-objective genetic algorithm optimization is compared with the MFGA optimization. The efficiency of those algorithms is investigated on motor’s performance. The comparison results show that MFGA is able to find more compromise solutions and is promising for providing the optimum design. Besides, a design tool is developed to evaluate and analysis the steady-state characteristics of induction motors.

An Aesthetics Driven Approach to Jewelry Design

Abstract: This paper proposes a computer-based design tool to automate art form generation used in jewelry design. Expert system and evolutionary algorithm are integrated into the prototype design tool named JAFG (Jewelry Art Form Generator). Art forms are represented using iterated function system (IFS) fractals. Case-based reasoning method and fuzzy logic are used for calculating case similarity to increase the efficiency of existing art forms retrieval. An evolutionary algorithm is used as a mechanism to generate new art forms. A rule-based reasoning with a forward chaining IF-THEN rule method is applied to estimate production cost. An automated model-making module integrated into the design system provides users with an option to manufacture jewelry prototypes using a computer numerical control (CNC) or a rapid prototyping (RP) machine. Examples are given to illustrate how JAFG operates.

Designing Dependable Storage Solutions for Shared Application Environments

Abstract: The costs of data loss and unavailability can be large, so businesses use many data protection techniques such as remote mirroring, snapshots, and backups to guard against failures. Choosing an appropriate combination of techniques is difficult because there are numerous approaches for protecting data and allocating resources. Storage system architects typically use ad hoc techniques, often resulting in overengineered expensive solutions or underprovisioned inadequate ones. In contrast, this paper presents a principled automated approach for designing dependable storage solutions for multiple applications in shared environments. Our contributions include search heuristics for intelligent exploration of the large design space and modeling techniques for capturing interactions between applications during recovery. Using realistic storage system requirements, we show that our design tool produces designs that cost up to two times less in initial outlays and expected data penalties than the designs produced by an emulated human design process. Additionally, we compare our design tool to a random search heuristic and a genetic algorithm metaheuristic, and show that our approach consistently produces better designs for the cases we have studied. Finally, we study the sensitivity of our design tool to several input parameters.

Lo-fi prototyping to design interactive-tabletop applications for children

Abstract: Interactive tabletops are an exiting new platform for supporting children's collaboration. With design guidelines and standardized interaction principles still immature, there is a considerable need for iterative prototyping to define the task and interface. Lo-fi prototypes---using cardboard, paper, etc.---are easy to develop, flexible to adjust during design sessions, and intuitive for users to manipulate. Using them can be a valuable step in designing tabletop applications.In this paper, we detail the design process of two tabletop applications, concentrating on the role of lo-fi prototyping. TransTime is a pattern game for 5--6 year olds to engage how time progresses. OurSpace is a design tool for 7--9 year olds to arrange desks and assign seats for students in their classroom. By comparing the experiences, we arrive at a better understanding of the benefits, challenges, and limits of using lo-fi prototypes to design interactive-tabletop applications for children.

Raw Shaping Form Finding: Tacit Tangible CAD

Abstract: This paper is aiming at the identification of essential voids in the support of design processes offered by commonly available methods and tools. Some remarkable results were obtained during design sessions with novices and experts by engaging them in tangible experiments that were designed to trigger and enhance their skills, tacit knowing and creativity that enable them to represent their ideas and concepts in an intuitive way. We explored the differences in designer’s behavior during use of “analogue” and digital representation tools. We will explain our laboratory experiments, test results, educational embedding and creative opportunities that emerge from hybrid design tools. Furthermore we propose an exciting hybrid design tool to bring back the tacit and tangible elements of design processing into CAD systems.

Multidisciplinary design optimization with discrete and continuous variables of various uncertainties

Abstract: As a powerful design tool, Reliability Based Multidisciplinary Design Optimization (RBMDO) has received increasing attention to satisfy the requirement for high reliability and safety in complex and coupled systems. In many practical engineering design problems, design variables may consist of both discrete and continuous variables. Moreover, both aleatory and epistemic uncertainties may exist. This paper proposes the formula of RFCDV (Random/Fuzzy Continuous/Discrete Variables) Multidisciplinary Design Optimization (RFCDV-MDO), uncertainty analysis for RFCDV-MDO, and a method of RFCDV-MDO within the framework of Sequential Optimization and Reliability Assessment (RFCDV-MDO-SORA) to solve RFCDV-MDO problems. A mathematical problem and an engineering design problem are used to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed method.

D-Macs: building multi-device user interfaces by demonstrating, sharing and replaying design actions

Abstract: Multi-device user interface design mostly implies creating suitable interface for each targeted device, using a diverse set of design tools and toolkits. This is a time consuming activity, concerning a lot of repetitive design actions without support for reusing this effort in later designs. In this paper, we propose D-Macs: a design tool that allows designers to record their design actions across devices, to share these actions with other designers and to replay their own design actions and those of others. D-Macs lowers the burden in multi-device user interface design and can reduce the necessity for manually repeating design actions.

Optimization of UMTS Network Planning Using Genetic Algorithms

Abstract: The continuously growing of cellular networks complexity, which followed the introduction of UMTS technology, has reduced the usefulness of traditional design tools, making them quite unworthy The purpose of this paper is to illustrate a design tool for UMTS optimized net planning based on genetic algorithms In particular, some utilities for 3G net designers, useful to respect important aspects (such as the environmental one) of the cellular network, are shown

A wireless local area network modeling tool for scalable indoor access point placement optimization

Abstract: When considering a new wireless local area network (WLAN) deployment a designer must consider many and often conflicting design metrics including environment configuration, coverage constraints, frequency assignment, co-channel interference, user demands on the WLAN, application types, number of access points and their position when undertaking a design. The multitude of factors that influence the performance of a WLAN highlights the challenge facing a designer to achieve a reliable and robust network design particularly for large deployments. It also emphasizes the need for a software tool that automatically and intuitively models a WLAN based on user specified demands. The research presented will describe such a network modeling, design, and evaluation tool that has been developed to aid designers when undertaking the difficult task of WLAN design and also used as a simulation test bed to evaluate various models such as propagation models, optimization approaches. The paper will particularly focus on the evaluation of a scalable optimization algorithm in the design tool that can be used to automatically optimize the number of access points required and their position to meet site specific demands in indoor environments.

The potential of Quality Function Deployment (QFD) in reducing work-related musculoskeletal disorders

Abstract: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) frequently affect the health and well-being of workers and can hinder growth in the industrial sector. Research indicates that user requirements to reduce workplace risk factors for MSDs are not always effectively conveyed to practitioners of design. This creates a mismatch between these requirements and what is ultimately produced. Quality function deployment (QFD) is a structured collaborative design approach, widely used in industry. The aim of this research was to explore the potential of a QFD-based design tool to enhance such communication in the design process and help reduce work-related MSDs. In order to evaluate user knowledge and ability to identify workplace risks and the subsequent requirements for design, a multi-methods study was undertaken with cleaners (n= 10), joiners (n= 6) and plumbers (n= 6) and their line managers (n= 6). Methods included semi-structured interviews, task analysis, REBA and body part discomfort maps. The findings revealed that these workers were in general able to identify risks to their musculoskeletal health and make design suggestions related to specific tasks. All of the workers expressed concern about manual handling, and issues related to awkward postures were also identified by the majority. A QFD-based design tool (with guidance material) was then developed to facilitate communication in the design process. It consisted of six features to encompass the design process, and included tools and techniques with supplementary templates to aid practitioners. In order to evaluate its feasibility with respect to current practice, an online questionnaire survey was conducted with a cohort of practitioners of ergonomics and design (n= 32). Of these, the majority rated highly the importance of an integrated approach for participatory design to help reduce work-related MSDs. They also suggested elements to be included in the design tool, which were in congruence with the features already included. To evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the design tool in the field setting, in-depth interviews using a walkthrough approach (n= 8) and case studies of specific work tasks (n= 3) were conducted with practitioners. The findings showed that the design tool would be very useful in managing and presenting design information. In particular, practitioners liked being provided with design principles to help systematically identify design solutions to reduce risks and using the QFD-based matrices to present such information. Limitations of the tool were identified as inadequacy of guidance, the lack of automated procedures and the time required to set up and learn. The design tool (and guidance material) seems to have potential in facilitating the sharing of design information among the stakeholders of the design process.

Integration of numerical and field-theoretical techniques in the design of single- and multi-band rectennas for micro-power generation

Abstract: We introduce an integrated design methodology for the optimization of RF-to-DC conversion efficiency of multi-band rectennas (rectifying antennas), with the aim of harvesting the RF energy available in humanized environments. Existing RF sources can either operate at known frequencies, power budgets, and locations, or can be ubiquitously available at different frequency bands, and with unknown directions of incidence and polarizations. In all cases, the RF link power budget may be extremely low. In order to harvest a significant quantity of energy, it is thus mandatory to place a very special care in the design of each part of the receiving/storing system. For this purpose, the receiving antenna must be optimized together with the rectifying circuit and the load. In our work, this is accomplished by a rigorous design tool based on the concurrent use of nonlinear/electromagnetic (EM) CAD tools and EM theory. The effectiveness of the method is demonstrated by comparing the computed and measured performance of single- and multi-band rectennas, both linearly and circularly polarized. Such antennas are designed to harvest RF energy from a variety of cellular and WiFi systems that are normally present in civil environments.