Showing papers on "System integration published in 1986"

Systems Analysis and Design Methods

Abstract: From the Publisher: This edition continues to react to changes and expected changes in the information technology domain including Year 2000 (Y2K) compatibility,client/server computing,the Internet,intranets,and extranets. Finally,there are exciting systems analysis and design challenges with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) applications (such as SAP),systems integration,and business process redesign. Today's students want to "practice" the application of concepts,not just study them. As with the previous editions of this book,the authors wrote it to: 1) Balance the coverage of concepts,tools,techniques,and their applications 2) Provide the most examples of system analysis and design deliverables available in any book 3) Balance the coverage of classical methods (such as structured analysis and information engineering) and emerging methods (e. g.,object-oriented analysis and rapid application development). Additionally,the textbook can serve the reader as a post-course,professional refer-ence for best current practices.

Medical Expert Systems—Knowledge Tools for Physicians

Abstract: Recent advances in the field of artificial intelligence have led to the emergence of expert systems, computational tools designed to capture and make available the knowledge of experts in a field. Although much of the underlying technology available today is derived from basic research on biomedical advice systems during the 1970s, medical application packages are thus far generally unavailable from the young artificial intelligence industry. Medical expert systems will begin to appear, however, as researchers in medical artificial intelligence continue to make progress in key areas such as knowledge acquisition, model-based reasoning and system integration for clinical environments. It is accordingly important for physicians to understand the current state of such research and the theoretic and logistic barriers that remain before useful systems can be made available. One experimental system, ONCOCIN, provides a glimpse of the kinds of knowledge-based tools that will someday be available to physicians.

The Building systems integration handbook

Abstract: Design is frequently a team effort with different professionals or consultants contributing their expertise to portions of design. But you may have the total design responsibility for a building. The Building Systems Integration Handbook will help you get a solid handle on all the systems involved, so you have enough knowledge to make the appropriate decisions and coordinate your outside consultants. It is the only book that discusses the full range of design considerations and decisions involved in building design. It takes a building apart, piece by piece, to give you a detailed look at the 2-, 3- and 4-system combinations and the five levels - 11 possible combinations in all - of integration for systems and building components. Readers will find: practical advice from top professionals and a solid framework to help you evaluate the appropriate degree of integration at any design stage; detailed descriptions of designs and performance criteria, forces and physical options; elaborate drawings and photos, keyed to various combinations of systems, augmented by indepth background information; and details on current methods and materials to help you integrate the buildings on which you work. In addition, because this is the only book that actually gives you definitions of integration, it helps you recognize opportunities for integrated design in all building systems, whether they are already systematized or not. That means any size or any type of building, regardless of the materials used.

Integrated software usage in the professional work environment: evidence from questionnaires and interviews

Abstract: In a field study of use of integrated business software by business professionals, we found several characteristics of the real-world situation leading to the under-utilization of integrated software and being of importance for its human factors. Professionals work in a heterogeneous software environment filled with practical problems, they follow “satisficing” strategies of sub-optimal usage, and they have problems migrating to more advanced uses. Current levels of software integration do not always adequately or easily support the “task integration” requirements of real tasks such as handling many small things.

Computational approaches to vision

Abstract: Vision is examined in terms of a computational process, and the competence, structure, and control of computer vision systems are analyzed. Theoretical and experimental data on the formation of a computer vision system are discussed. Consideration is given to early vision, the recovery of intrinsic surface characteristics, higher levels of interpretation, and system integration and control. A computational visual processing model is proposed and its architecture and operation are described. Examples of state-of-the-art vision systems, which include some of the levels of representation and processing mechanisms, are presented.

Cooperation among flexible manufacturing systems

Abstract: Integration of an automated manufacturing system is now recognized as one of the key issues for improving productivity. The separation of a large complex system into smaller subsystems that operate individually contributes to an efficient integration and control of the entire system. However, the overall performance of the system may be reduced if each subsystem operates independently and if no cooperation between the subsystems' resources exists. How the subsystems should cooperate to improve system performance is investigated.

An approach for assessing software prototypes

Abstract: A procedure for evaluating a software prototype is presented. The need to assess the prototype itself arises from the use of prototyping to demonstrate the feasibility of a design or development strategy. The assessment procedure can also be of use in deciding whether to evolve a prototype into a complete system. The procedure consists of identifying evaluation criteria, defining alternative design approaches, and ranking the alternatives according to the criteria.

Integrated structure/control design - Present methodology and future opportunities

Abstract: Attention is given to current methodology applied to the integration of the optimal design process for structures and controls. Multilevel linear decomposition techniques proved to be most effective in organizing the computational efforts necessary for ISCD (integrated structures and control design) tasks. With the development of large orbiting space structures and actively controlled, high performance aircraft, there will be more situations in which this concept can be applied.

Robotic Manipulation For Laser Processing

Abstract: The versatility of lasers in manufacturing operations is enhanced through robotic manipulation of the laser beam, the workpiece, or a combination of both. This paper presents an evaluation of the current state-of-the-art in laser/robot integration. Commencing with the first simple load/unload systems, through conventional machine tool motion systems, to today's complex flying optics systems, this paper presents advantages and disadvantages of the various manipulations. Current techniques for laser/robot integration are evaluated and examples of installed systems are described. Future developments and prospects for increased system utilization are discussed.

Current status of mission/system design for a Mars rover

Abstract: The system integration issues associated with the design of Rovers for Mars ground surface operations are addressed in this article. Requirements are established for both long distance traverse between geology sites and for geologic survey operations. To satisfy these mission requirements, a semi-autonomous vehicle design has been proposed and its performance capabilities are assessed. Furthermore, the mobility, power consumption, coordination and control (maneuverability), and reliability issues associated with the design of mobility systems to permit vehicle traverse over rugged terrain are examined and the direction of future work required to address these issues is outlined.

Integrated Air Revitalization System for Space Station

Abstract: Fifty-one distinct functions are encompassed by the Space Station's Environmental Control and Life Support System; one exception to this noninteractivity of functions is the regenerative air revitalization system that removes and reduces CO2 and generates O2. The integration of these interdependent functions, and of humidity control, into a single system furnishes opportunities for process simplification as well as for power, weight and volume requirement reductions by comparison with discrete subsystems. Attention is presently given to a system which quantifies these integration-related savings and identifies additional advantages that accrue to this integrating design method.

Space Station integration and verification concepts

Abstract: The TAVERNS concept for the integration, verification, and maintenance of the Space Station avionics and payload systems is described. The functional requirements which TAVERNS integrates are discussed, showing the mode of integration and the flight systems integration. The top and bottom TAVERNS sections are described, and the use of TAVERNS to develop software required for flight applications and testing is discussed.

System integration of knowledge-based maintenance aids

Abstract: There are many examples of knowledge-based fault diagnosis advisors for corrective maintenance of complex equipment. However, such advisors are only part of an overall maintenance solution. To be used effectively, diagnostic advisors must be integrated with other existing and forthcoming systems, such as Automated Test Equipment and maintenance databases. Successful fielding of knowledge-based systems requires consideration of integration issues throughout the design process.

Flight test of a displacement sidearm controller

Abstract: A six-axis displacement-stick sidearm controller was developed to enable single-handed control of remote manipulator operations in space. With a working model available, piloted evaluation became possible in a fly-by-computer variable-stability research aircraft, originally a Bell 205 helicopter. The original mechanization was limited to three rotational axes and a linear one, analogous to the collective stick. A newly designed short stickgrip was mounted and the spring force pattern adjusted to suit the helicopter flight control environment. A standard set of test maneuvers was flown by four experimental pilots with conventional helicopter flight controls and with sidearm controllers equipped with two different handgrips. Existing data from flight tests with an isometric-stick controller were added to complete the comparison. The displacement controller consistently achieved a rating of 3.0 to 3.5 on the Cooper-Harper scale, on par with the conventional controls. The same basic controller design was tested in spacecraft and remote manipulator simulations with very promising results. In each application operator/system integration was rapid and positive. The results demonstrate feasibility and support the design philosphy of using deflection as well as force to generate proprioceptive feedback.

Managing system creation

Abstract: The paper introduces systems methodologies to illustrate the span of systems engineering activities and the system management structure appropriate to creating a complex and enduring system. Information/decision/action (IDA) systems provide a vehicle to demonstrate a variety of methodologies in operation. This class of system includes individual humans, companies, governments, computer-based data systems and, paradoxically, the system design/management team intent on creating the respective systems themselves. Systems are viewed as having seven ages: conception, design, development, implementation, transition utility and senility (which is followed by replacement). System creation invokes five subsystems: the operational facility, two development subsystems concerned with test-and-integration and incompany support, and two deliverable inservice subsystems for user/operator training and through life maintenance. System creation team structure is shown to comprise operations analysis, requirements analysis, system design, equipment engineering, software engineering, test and integration, and installation and commissioning; the systems approach emphasises the first three of these in particular, to reduce the generation of ab, initio design errors. Functional decomposition and design option tradeoffs are demonstrated by example, and the establishment of end-to-end system dynamics is introduced using the ISO open system interconnection philosophy. System management organisations are outlines, and the allocation of resources by time within the project team structure it explored pictorially. Transition into operational use is highlighted as an area of special concern and, finally, the key issues of the systems management approach are identified.

Using Ada to implement the operations management system in a community of experts

Abstract: An architecture is described for the Space Station Operations Management System (OMS), consisting of a distributed expert system framework implemented in Ada. The motivation for such a scheme is based on the desire to integrate the very diverse elements of the OMS while taking maximum advantage of knowledge based systems technology. Part of the foundation of an Ada based distributed expert system was accomplished in the form of a proof of concept prototype for the KNOMES project (Knowledge-based Maintenance Expert System). This prototype successfully used concurrently active experts to accomplish monitoring and diagnosis for the Remote Manipulator System. The basic concept of this software architecture is named ACTORS for Ada Cognitive Task ORganization Scheme. It is when one considers the overall problem of integrating all of the OMS elements into a cooperative system that the AI solution stands out. By utilizing a distributed knowledge based system as the framework for OMS, it is possible to integrate those components which need to share information in an intelligent manner.

Man/System Integration Standards for Space Systems

Abstract: This paper presents an overview of the Man/System Integrations Standards (MSIS) program. The standards to be developed by this program provide specific information for use in the design of space systems to ensure proper integration of the man/system interface requirements with those of other aerospace disciplines. These man/system interface requirements apply to the launch, re-entry, on-orbit, and extraterrestrial space environments. Concise design considerations, design requirements, and design examples are provided. The standards are being developed with broad government and industry collaboration via a Government/Industry Advisory Group (GIAG) that meets 4 times with the contractor team to critique the standards as they are being developed. The documentation (to be released in January 1987) will consist of four hardcopy volumes, a videotape, and a relational database. The videotape uses in-space film footage from Gemini, Skylab, and the shuttle to illustrate specific man/system integration problems (scenes are cross-referenced to the MSIS topics). The relational database provides a means for storing and manipulating the MSIS data.

Chapter 1 - VLSI Processor Design Methodology*

Abstract: Publisher Summary Integrated Circuit (IC) technology has made the production of chips with several transistors possible. Systems of such complexity are difficult to design. The computer architect faces problems in the areas of system partitioning with sub goal specification, subsystems interface specification and verification, and overall system integration. This improvement in IC technology allows the fabrication of processors with complexity, comparable to the largest mainframe computers designed using off-the-shelf technologies (SSI, MSI, and LSI). The advent of very large scale integrated (VLSI) processor has significantly changed the way in which computers are designed and implemented. This chapter discusses the use of VLSI as an implementation medium and it focuses on the design of general purpose microprocessors. In many ways, the architecture and organization of a VLSI processor are similar to the designs used in the CPUs of modern machines implemented by using standard parts. The MOS technology imposes some new constraints that emphasize on the interaction between architecture and implementation. The chapter discusses the issues that arise in determining the suitability of architecture as a program host, the implications of the architecture on the organization, and some guidelines to help evaluate the suitability of architecture both for an application environment and for implementation using VLSI.

Designing Defense Systems; the Trade-Off Process.

Abstract: : This monograph describes contemporary tools, talent, issues, and techniques applicable to designing defense products. The objectives are to provide insight for managers concerned with the design function and to provide designers with better understanding of the scope, tools, and issues involved. First considered is designing for the life cycle of the product. This relates designing for performance to designing for quality, reliability and maintainability, production, special systems requirements (e.g., system safety, human engineering, electromagnetic compatibility, contamination and corrosion control, survivability/vulnerability, hardware/software integration, operation and support) and cost. These individual technical functional designs and the interrelationships of performance, fitness for use over the life of the equipment, scheduled deliveries and budget constraints are discussed. Then, managing the design process is discussed followed by the state-of-the-art in design tools, talent, and computer aids for the task.

Integration and control of handling plant in an FMS for surface mounted PCBs

Abstract: This paper gives an overall view of the system integration requirements and the solutions adopted for control of the various machines used in the production of Surface Mounted PCBs. Production machines with different interfacing requirements, both mechanical and electrical, were integrated into a working FMS using robotics in combination with purpose designed plant. The paper shows how the control systems for the robots were also used for machine interfacing. The control network between the machines and the robot systems using both digital and data links to a mini computer is illustrated. The contrast between safety and operating requirements is discussed.

Hardware/Firmware Considerations for Integrating Load Management into System Operations

Abstract: The demand-side control and data acquisition capabilities of two-way power line carrier load management systems enhance and complement the Supervisory Control and Energy Management (supply-side) operations. Many utilities now recognize that the supply-side and demand-side functions should be integrated into one system and placed under control of the same operator. This paper discusses the hardware and firmware which is required for system integration and illustrates some alternative methods used to achieve full system integration.