Showing papers on "System integration published in 2013"
TL;DR: The fit of integration describes the extent the qualitative and quantitative findings cohere and can help health services researchers leverage the strengths of mixed methods.
Abstract: Mixed methods research offers powerful tools for investigating complex processes and systems in health and health care. This article describes integration principles and practices at three levels in mixed methods research and provides illustrative examples. Integration at the study design level occurs through three basic mixed method designs—exploratory sequential, explanatory sequential, and convergent—and through four advanced frameworks—multistage, intervention, case study, and participatory. Integration at the methods level occurs through four approaches. In connecting, one database links to the other through sampling. With building, one database informs the data collection approach of the other. When merging, the two databases are brought together for analysis. With embedding, data collection and analysis link at multiple points. Integration at the interpretation and reporting level occurs through narrative, data transformation, and joint display. The fit of integration describes the extent the qualitative and quantitative findings cohere. Understanding these principles and practices of integration can help health services researchers leverage the strengths of mixed methods.
2,165 citations
TL;DR: The performance of power electronic systems, especially in terms of efficiency and power density, has continuously improved by the intensive research and advancements in circuit topologies, control schemes, semiconductors, passive components, digital signal processors, and system integration technologies.
Abstract: A new era of power electronics was created with the invention of the thyristor in 1957. Since then, the evolution of modern power electronics has witnessed its full potential and is quickly expanding in the applications of generation, transmission, distribution, and end-user consumption of electrical power. The performance of power electronic systems, especially in terms of efficiency and power density, has been continuously improved by the intensive research and advancements in circuit topologies, control schemes, semiconductors, passive components, digital signal processors, and system integration technologies.
689 citations
TL;DR: It is shown that an optical interposer is the most efficient way to cope with the various problems that a purely electronic system may encounter and will solve those interconnection problems.
Abstract: New semiconductor technologies such as many-core processors and 3D memories are being researched in order to overcome the limitations of electronics in the near future. Here, we first discuss some drawbacks of current technologies, and then show that silicon photonics will solve those interconnection problems. Next, we describe our studies toward realizing a system integration platform based on photonics and electronics convergence, and show that an optical interposer is the most efficient way to cope with the various problems that a purely electronic system may encounter. Our recent advances in silicon photonic devices are also described, and their integration into the hybrid interposer is reported through an early prototyping result. Finally, a surface mounted components approach for silicon photonics technology is discussed, which may prove useful in the computer and communication markets.
279 citations
TL;DR: A run-time platform is developed and a cross-computing environment process modelling technique is also developed to improve the feasibility of ISs under hybrid cloud computing environments.
Abstract: With the development of application services providers and cloud computing, more and more small-and medium-sized business enterprises use software services and even infrastructure services provided by professional information service companies to replace all or part of their information systems ISs. These information service companies provide applications, such as data storage, computing processes, document sharing and even management information system services as public resources to support the business process management of their customers. However, no cloud computing service vendor can satisfy the full functional IS requirements of an enterprise. As a result, enterprises often have to simultaneously use systems distributed in different clouds and their intra enterprise ISs. Thus, this article presents a framework to integrate applications deployed in public clouds and intra ISs. A run-time platform is developed and a cross-computing environment process modelling technique is also developed to improve the feasibility of ISs under hybrid cloud computing environments.
129 citations
TL;DR: Although limitations exist for using eye tracking as an interface tool, gaze and pupillary response have been successfully used to reflect changes in cognitive load and are starting to be incorporated into adaptive training systems, although issues are still present with differentiating pupil responses from simultaneous psychological effects.
Abstract: Substantial literature exists regarding how eye-tracking systems can be used to measure cognitive load and how these measurements can be useful for adapting training in real time. Much of the published literature discusses the applications and limitations of the research and typically provides recommendations for improvement. This review assesses these articles collectively to provide a clearer solution for implementing eye-tracking systems into a training environment. Although limitations exist for using eye tracking as an interface tool, gaze and pupillary response have been successfully used to reflect changes in cognitive load and are starting to be incorporated into adaptive training systems, although issues are still present with differentiating pupil responses from simultaneous psychological effects. Additionally, current eye-tracking systems and data analysis software have proven accurate enough for general use, but issues including system cost and software integration prevent this technology from becoming commercialized for use in common instructional settings.
111 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examined the impact of the three aspects of institutional pressures on the two dimensions of supplier integration and their impact in turn on financial performance in Chinese manufacturing industry, and found that normative and mimetic pressures are positively related to both system and process integration; while coercive pressures are only positively linked to process integration and not significantly related to system integration.
85 citations
28 Feb 2013
TL;DR: Bagadus, a prototype of a sports analytics application using soccer as a case study, which integrates a sensor system, a soccer analytics annotations system and a video processing system using a video camera array is presented.
Abstract: Sports analytics is a growing area of interest, both from a computer system view to manage the technical challenges and from a sport performance view to aid the development of athletes. In this paper, we present Bagadus, a prototype of a sports analytics application using soccer as a case study. Bagadus integrates a sensor system, a soccer analytics annotations system and a video processing system using a video camera array. A prototype is currently installed at Alfheim Stadium in Norway, and in this paper, we describe how the system can follow and zoom in on particular player(s). Next, the system will playout events from the games using stitched panorama video or camera switching mode and create video summaries based on queries to the sensor system. Furthermore, we evaluate the system from a systems point of view, benchmarking different approaches, algorithms and tradeoffs.
72 citations
Proceedings Article•
28 Mar 2013TL;DR: To balance the control and avoid monopoly, ecosystem-driven security schemes are proposed including the public-based authentication, repository-based credential management, SE-based cryptography, and non-invasive message handover in order to achieve the economy of scale.
Abstract: In-home healthcare services based on the Internet-of-Things (IoT) have big potential in business. To exploit this opportunity, an ecosystem should be established first. Technical solutions should aim for a cooperative ecosystem by addressing the interoperability, security, and system integration. In this paper, we propose an ecosystem-driven design strategy and apply it in the design of an open-platform based solution. In particular, a cooperative ecosystem is formulated by merging the traditional healthcare and mobile internet ecosystems. Utilizing the existing standardization efforts, the interfaces between actors can be simplified. To balance the control and avoid monopoly, ecosystem-driven security schemes are proposed including the public-based authentication, repository-based credential management, SE-based cryptography, and non-invasive message handover. In order to achieve the economy of scale, an open platform-based in-home healthcare station is proposed. The proposed methodology and solution are demonstrated in implemented prototype system and field trials.
69 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present a survey of the literature on distributed knowledge work integration, focusing on the key decisions identified by this literature in relation to the contracting, organization, work, and information infrastructure design of a knowledge work project.
Abstract: This paper surveys the literature and develops a framework for research into the integration of distributed knowledge work (DKW). Knowledge work is considered to be “distributed” whenever key decisions for execution of the project cut across organizational boundaries, as occurs under outsourcing, offshoring, or open-source arrangements. The growth of such arrangements in recent years is well documented. Nonetheless, research into maintaining the coherence of a distributed knowledge work project from initiation to customer delivery, often referred to as supply chain integration, project or systems integration, or simply “integration,” is relatively new. We first review the relevant literature from operations, service, and information management, organizational theory, and engineering design, focusing on the key decisions identified by this literature in relation to the contracting, organization, work, and information infrastructure design of a knowledge work project. We then attempt to open the “black box” of integration by inductively organizing these key decisions. Finally, we contrast this approach with prior research frameworks and identify key topics for future study.
52 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a single-wheel robot system called GYROBO is developed and controlled by the Mechatronics approach to make the complex dynamical system satisfy the specification as desired.
49 citations
TL;DR: This paper surveys the literature and develops a framework for research into the integration of distributed knowledge work, focusing on the key decisions identified by this literature in relation to the contracting, organization, work, and information infrastructure design of a knowledge work project.
Abstract: This article surveys the literature and develops a framework for research into the integration of distributed knowledge work (DKW). Knowledge work is considered to be �distributed� whenever key decisions for execution of the project cut across organizational boundaries, as occurs under outsourcing, offshoring, or open-source arrangements. The growth of such arrangements in recent years is well documented. Nonetheless, research into maintaining the coherence of a DKW project from initiation to customer delivery, often referred to as supply chain integration, project or systems integration, or simply �integration,� is relatively new. We first review the relevant literature from operations, service, and information management, organizational theory, and engineering design, focusing on the key decisions identified by this literature in relation to the contracting, organization, work, and information infrastructure design of a knowledge work project. We then attempt to open the �black box� of integration by inductively organizing these key decisions. Finally, we contrast this approach with prior research frameworks and identify key topics for future study.
TL;DR: In this article, the main constraints encountered in decarburized retrofitting of the existing power plants using monoethanolamine solution are analyzed and several special system integration schemes for CO 2 capture in an existing 600MW power generation unit are put forward.
TL;DR: A novel, unifying approach to address interoperability challenges in heterogeneous data sources, by representing structural and semantic models in one framework that should reduce the effort needed from data sources personnel for implementing and managing the integration.
Patent•
26 Jun 2013
TL;DR: In this paper, an equipment monitoring system based on three-dimensional real scenes and a system integration method based on 3D real scenes is presented, where a database technology is fully utilized, and static data of a 3D scene model library is integrated and associated with dynamic data in a monitoring subsystem.
Abstract: The invention discloses an equipment monitoring system based on three-dimensional real scenes and a system integration method based on three-dimensional real scenes A database technology is fully utilized, and static data of a three-dimensional real scene model library is integrated and associated with dynamic data in an equipment monitoring subsystem to realize dynamism and instantaneity of three-dimensional real scene object information display; physical modeling is performed to smart equipment to form identifiable equipment three-dimensional pixel, feature information of the smart equipment is extracted to build a visual information data structure of the smart equipment; an industrial data bridge and an SOA (semiconductor optical amplifier) technology are utilized to integrate real-time date collected by the smart equipment to a three-dimensional real scene image so as to realize information display control and statistical analysis, accurate visualized dynamic information is provided for administrators in real time, and omnibearing monitoring requirements are met
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors analyzed the process of designing and building the Hammarby Model, an integrated infrastructural system aiming to minimize the metabolic flows of the district by closing its material and energy flows.
TL;DR: The articles in this special section focus on energy systems integration (ESI) which enables the effective analysis, design, and control of these interactions and interdependencies along technical, economic, regulatory, and social dimensions.
Abstract: The articles in this special section focus on energy systems integration (ESI) which enables the effective analysis, design,and control of these interactions and interdependencies along technical, economic, regulatory, and social dimensions.
TL;DR: A conceptual model based on actor-network theory and insights from structuration theory is used to analyse the case of developing sewage gas for transport in Stockholm, showing that the process was very dynamic and that the network grew in such a way that it became risky for actors not to join it.
Dissertation•
01 Jan 2013
TL;DR: Energy systems design should be – amongst other things – environmentally compliant a environmentally compliant system to help societies secure access to affordable energy services.
Abstract: Securing access to affordable energy services is of central importance to our societies. To do this sustainably, energy systems design should be – amongst other things – environmentally compliant a ...
TL;DR: In this paper, a methodology is defined to design BPMN process models according to the standard ANSI/ISA-95 because it enables B2M integration projects development.
TL;DR: In this article, an optical scanning scheme for microstereolithography (MSL) is proposed to meet the requirements of high speed and resolution of high-resolution components with high production rate.
Abstract: Microstereolithography (MSL) is technology of fabrication of three-dimensional (3D) components by using layer-by-layer photopolymerization. Typical design goals of MSL system are: small features, high resolution, high speed of fabrication, and large overall size of component. This paper focuses on design and development of such a system to meet these optomechatronic requirements. We first analyze various optical scanning schemes used for MSL systems along with the proposed scheme via optical simulations and experiments. Next, selection criteria for various subsystems are laid down and appropriate design decisions for the proposed system are made. Further, mechanical design of the scanning mechanism is carried out to meet requirements of high speed and resolution. Finally, system integration and investigation in process parameters is carried out and fabrication of large microcomponent with high resolution is demonstrated. The proposed system would be useful for fabrication of multiple/large microcomponents with high production rate in various applications.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present a critical, non complacent review focusing on the dryer-heat pump integration issue as presented in published R&D studies, and investigate the accuracy of current configurations and proposed improvements, and evaluate their applicability in the drying industry.
Abstract: Part I of this critical, non complacent review focuses on the dryer–heat pump integration issue as presented in published R&D studies. It investigates the accuracy of current configurations and proposed improvements, and evaluates their applicability in the drying industry. The scope is to promote technological advancement and the industrial implementation of drying heat pumps.
TL;DR: Experimental results show that the integration of online testing in reconfigurable systems incurs only minimum impact on performance while delivering high fault coverage and low test latency.
Abstract: Field-programmable gate array (FPGA)-based reconfigurable systems allow the online adaptation to dynamically changing runtime requirements. The reliability of FPGAs, being manufactured in latest technologies, is threatened by soft errors, as well as aging effects and latent defects. To ensure reliable reconfiguration, it is mandatory to guarantee the correct operation of the reconfigurable fabric. This can be achieved by periodic or on-demand online testing. This paper presents a reliable system architecture for runtime-reconfigurable systems, which integrates two nonconcurrent online test strategies: preconfiguration online tests (PRET) and postconfiguration online tests (PORT). The PRET checks that the reconfigurable hardware is free of faults by periodic or on-demand tests. The PORT has two objectives: It tests reconfigured hardware units after reconfiguration to check that the configuration process completed correctly and it validates the expected functionality. During operation, PORT is used to periodically check the reconfigured hardware units for malfunctions in the programmable logic. Altogether, this paper presents PRET, PORT, and the system integration of such test schemes into a runtime-reconfigurable system, including the resource management and test scheduling. Experimental results show that the integration of online testing in reconfigurable systems incurs only minimum impact on performance while delivering high fault coverage and low test latency.
02 Jun 2013
TL;DR: This paper aims to support the SoS architect by systematically developing a way to characterize system of systems integration patterns and support the architecting process by highlighting important issues a soS architect needs to consider.
Abstract: Architecting systems of systems is well known to be a formidable challenge A major aspect in this is defining the integration among the systems that constitute the system of systems In this paper, we aim to support the SoS architect by systematically developing a way to characterize system of systems integration patterns These characteristics at the same time support the architecting process by highlighting important issues a SoS architect needs to consider We discuss the consolidated template and illustrate it with an example pattern We also discuss the integration of this novel pattern approach into the overall architecting process
DOI•
28 May 2013
TL;DR: In this paper, a conceptual framework is developed that combines Actor-Network Theory with insights from structuration theory to better understand how systems integration comes about, and a method is also suggested that helps visualising integration processes.
Abstract: Today, most cities function linearly. One way to improve their environmental performance is to make a transition from linear to Circular Urban Systems (CUS) so that part of the waste streams becomes valorised locally. This does not only require technical but also organisational and institutional changes. Moreover it implies that links have to be created between systems that were previously separate (wastewater treatment and transport for instance). This is called systems integration. This research aims to better understand how systems integration comes about. To be able to reconstruct processes of systems integration, a conceptual framework is developed that combines Actor-Network Theory with insights from structuration theory. A method is also suggested that helps visualising integration processes. These are then applied to the study of three urban areas: EVA-Lanxmeer in Culemborg (NL), Hammarby Sjostad in Stockholm (SE) and Lille Metropole (FR). In total ten attempts at systems integration are analysed. Researchers earlier pointed out that systems integration could potentially lock systems in a sub-optimal situation. This study however shows that systems integration can foster innovation and open up new technological pathways. Moreover, this research highlights that systems integration often faces barriers due to the structural incompatibilities of the systems involved. Creating bridging systems can be a way to lift these incompatibilities. It also shows that the presence of an organisation able to provide inter-sectorial coordination is often necessary. Finally, results indicate that maintaining a high level of autonomy is conducive to systems integration.
TL;DR: A concept-map and agent-based meta-composite software development approach that allows researchers instead of technicians to take a leadership role in the development of process models, reducing inefficiencies and errors and demonstrating the feasibility of the approach using a real-world translational research use case.
Abstract: Translational researchers conduct research in a highly data-intensive and continuously changing environment and need to use multiple, disparate tools to achieve their goals. These researchers would greatly benefit from meta-composite software development or the ability to continuously compose and recompose tools together in response to their ever-changing needs. However, the available tools are largely disconnected, and current software approaches are inefficient and ineffective in their support for meta-composite software development. Building on the composite services development approach, the de facto standard for developing integrated software systems, we propose a concept-map and agent-based meta-composite software development approach. A crucial step in composite services development is the modeling of users' needs as processes, which can then be specified in an executable format for system composition. We have two key innovations. First, our approach allows researchers (who understand their needs best) instead of technicians to take a leadership role in the development of process models, reducing inefficiencies and errors. A second innovation is that our approach also allows for modeling of complex user interactions as part of the process, overcoming the technical limitations of current tools. We demonstrate the feasibility of our approach using a real-world translational research use case. We also present results of usability studies evaluating our approach for future refinements.
TL;DR: The funStep case study presented in this article developed a framework to accelerate the integration of enterprises in collaborative working environments, solving information interoperability problems in the furniture supply chain.
Abstract: Industrial collaborative networks are characterised by heterogeneous business processes and data structures. Enterprises joining these networks face difficulties when they have to manage and orchestrate information within the network, namely due to the lack of interoperability between the systems and software applications operating between them. The furniture industry is the largest manufacturing sector in the world, involving mostly small and medium enterprises SMEs. The development of collaborative networked environments in this industrial sector has been identified of major importance, looking forward to enabling enterprises to extend the potential of their own business capabilities. Indeed, to keep its competitiveness, industry needs to accomplish rapidly the requirements in the digital global marketplace, and push promptly SME-based enterprises to adopt seamless electronic business services in networked environments, using modern ICT and standards among all agents involved in the furniture product life cycle. The funStep case study presented in this article developed a framework to accelerate the integration of enterprises in collaborative working environments, solving information interoperability problems in the furniture supply chain. The funStep framework enables gradual and sustained system interoperability, allowing incremental implementations using conformance options and classes. The funStep created an ISO standard which defines a formal structure for catalogue and product data under industrial domains of the furniture sector. Then, the ICT combined with the use of open-standards, and enriched by semantics representation, resulted in a suitable tool to improve enterprise competitiveness via a wider adoption of STEP Application Protocols in collaborative environments. Model Driven Architecture technology is used to enable automation of Model Morphisms, and therefore, translation at the information model and data levels. A reference ontology integrated in the standard product data model, permits an intelligent management at semantic level, providing enhanced capabilities for interoperability. The results of the case study presented stimulate enterprises on the adoption of technologies and practices to reach the future vision of furniture manufacturing business based on collaborative networked environments. It prepares industry and researchers to advance on the state of the art, and to establish solid proposals for the industry in general. The funStep case study has been validated by the industry, supported by European/International industrial research projects.
Book•
08 Mar 2013
TL;DR: Sociotechnical Enterprise Information Systems Design and Integration covers multiple systems and developments in design for businesses and enterprises of all sizes and proposes strategic approaches to manage risks and detect errors.
Abstract: As technology continues to grow as an essential component of small and large enterprises, an ever increasing demand is placed on cutting-edge designs for information systems.Sociotechnical Enterprise Information Systems Design and Integration covers multiple systems and developments in design for businesses and enterprises of all sizes. This publication not only highlights the advancing technology and research in this area, but it also proposes strategic approaches to manage risks and detect errors. Researchers, practitioners, and professionals wishing to expand their knowledge on the most up to date information systems and its designs will benefit from this comprehensive compilation of research.
02 Jun 2013
TL;DR: It is demonstrated that the fan-out area of the eWLB can be used for the design of passive devices using the combination of TEV and RDL structures and the use of the through encapsulant via (TEV) technology can extend the integration capabilities to 3D.
Abstract: The embedded wafer level ball grid array (eWLB) is a novel system integration platform introduced recently. The eWLB technology is an attractive solution for high-frequency system-in-package (SiP) integration due to the capability to design high-quality (high-Q) embedded passives in the fan-out region and side-by-side multichip integration possibilities. In this paper, we show examples of using the fan-out region and the thin-film redistribution layer (RDL) advantageous for integration of inductors and antennas into an eWLB package. In addition, the use of the through encapsulant via (TEV) technology can extend the integration capabilities to 3D. We present measurement and simulation results of vertical interconnections realized using the RDL and TEVs of the eWLB. We demonstrate that the fan-out area of the eWLB can be used for the design of passive devices using the combination of TEV and RDL structures. We show examples of 3D inductors and transformers integrated in the eWLB. We present a fully integrated single-chip 60-GHz transceiver integrated in the eWLB package together with two dipole antennas as an example of mm-wave system integration.
TL;DR: In this study, an ontological framework is built as a mechanism for exchanging information and knowledge models for multiple applications and effective integration between hierarchical levels.
Abstract: Enterprises are highly complex systems in which one or more organizations share a definite mission, goals and objectives to offer a product or service. In this study, an ontological framework is built as a mechanism for exchanging information and knowledge models for multiple applications and effective integration between hierarchical levels. The potential of the general semantic framework that is developed is demonstrated using a case study concerning the enterprise supply chain network design-planning problem.
08 Oct 2013
TL;DR: An intelligent monitoring platform framework and system structure for facility agriculture ecosystem based on IOT, proven to be reliable and adaptable and analyzes and verifies the whole implementation process and selection of decision-making model.
Abstract: Facility agriculture area in China is expanding, and is leading the world. However its ecosystem control technology and system is still immature, with low level of intelligence. This puts significant constrain on the efficient, high-quality, safe and sustainable production of facility agriculture. Promoting application of modern information technology in agriculture will solve a series of technical questions in information collection in wide area, efficient and reliable information transmission, intelligent system integration for different needs and environment. This will be a catalyst for the transition from traditional farming to modern farming. This also provides opportunity for creating new technology and service development in IOT (internet of things) farming application. This paper presents an intelligent monitoring platform framework and system structure for facility agriculture ecosystem based on IOT. The solution is divided into four function layers based on the difference in information exchange process and task logical handling, i.e. sensor layer, transmission layer, monitoring layer, application layer. Among them, sensor layer is responsible for numerical sensor of physical values in farming. The sensor module formats and processes collected data based on public standard, and transforms to information and stores. The transmission layer summarizes collected data from sensor layer, using internet technology e.g. wireless sensor network. It provides data for upper layer to invoke, analyze and process. The monitoring layer uses the summarized data as input parameters, and intellectually control task in farming, by regulating automatic control algorithm. It results in better ecosystem that better suits crops' growth, reduces human interference, and eventually achieves more accurate farming process. The application layer summarizes and analyzes huge volume of information across locations and industries, through advanced open-ness and intelligence. It helps build up the industry's information service on environment, and better supports decision-making and action. The same rules are used in communication between different layers. Adjacent layers in the same system use standard interface to transmit data. This paper applies the above-mentioned framework in intelligent monitoring platform of facility agriculture ecosystem in Shanghai, and analyzes and verifies the whole implementation process and selection of decision-making model. This framework is proven to be reliable and adaptable.