NREC: risk assessment and planning of complex designs

Estimating the nonrecurring engineering (NRE) design cost constitutes an essential part of the investment-risk assessment and planning phases of new product development. A product's NRE design cost is the number of staff-months required to successfully complete its design. This information is essential in determining the human resources needed to meet a project's time-to-market constraints. For low-complexity development processes that target relatively stable products, relying on experienced managers to produce NRE design cost estimates is reasonable. But microprocessor design and other leading-edge product development processes often involve hundreds of designers, perhaps located at geographically distinct sites, and consist of a formidable number of tasks. These processes require a more systematic way of generating NRE design cost estimates. To that end, the authors have developed an NRE design cost estimation model and implemented it in a tool called NREC. NREC assists managers in making a fine-grained estimate of a project's NRE design costs, from requirements to final layout, as well as in tracking and assessing costs of completed projects. The tool also enables managers to systematically validate and tune the cost model's parameters according to the particular history of a project's design environment     

Investigations into the skills of modern and traditional train driving

Rail operations are housed inside a complex and extremely dynamic system where work is distributed in time and space. The train driver has traditionally relied on their own decisions, plans, and actions to navigate the rail environment, but the use of modern driver systems that force how these activities are regulated has altered this dynamic. This paper reports the findings of a study that set out to investigate the skills of modern (enhanced display-based) and traditional (real world) train driving. Data were collected from a variety of UK domain experts (n = 45) using an innovative methodology that converged multiple techniques for knowledge elicitation and analysis. The findings are represented in a model of dynamic train control and discussed according to the specific features and nature of tracking skill in the rail domain. The utility of the model is demonstrated through work of its application to the design of a train simulator and research tool for systematic study of rail human factor issues.     

Integrated approach to Web ontology learning and engineering

Developing the Semantic Web, seeking to improve the semantic awareness of computers connected via the Internet, requires a systematic, computer-oriented world representation. Researchers often refer to such a model as an ontology. Despite the work done on them in recent years, ontologies have yet to be widely applied and used. Research has devoted only limited attention to such practical issues as techniques and tools aimed at an ontology's actual construction and content. The authors have built a software environment, centered around the OntoLearn tool, which can build and assess a domain ontology for intelligent information integration within a virtual user community. OntoLearn has already been tested in two European projects, where it functioned as the basis for a semantic interoperability platform used by small- and medium-sized tourism enterprises. Further, developers can easily adapt OntoLearn to work with other general-purpose ontologies.     

A reduction paradigm for output regulation

The goal of this paper is to provide a reduction paradigm for the design of output regulators which can be of interest for nonlinear as well as linear uncertain systems. The main motivation of the work is to provide a systematic design tool to deal with non‐minimum‐phase uncertain systems for which conventional high‐gain stabilization methods are not effective. The contribution of the work is two‐fold. First, this work extends a previous reduction paradigm for output regulation of nonlinear systems. Furthermore, in the case of the uncertain controlled dynamics being linear, we show how the proposed framework leads to a number of systematic design tools of interest for non‐minimum‐phase linear systems affected by severe uncertainties. A numerical control example of a linearized model of an inverted pendulum on a cart is presented. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Work domain analysis for enhancing collaborations: a study of the management of microsystems design

Collaboration is an important process that enables organisations to achieve goals or solve problems and, in design processes, is an important factor for accomplishing interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary tasks. An understanding of the functional configuration of organisations could therefore offer a useful insight into collaborations of designers. This study makes use of work domain analysis (WDA) to analyse the management of design by organisations within the microsystems technology (MST) domain. The WDA considers the functional configuration of MST companies in terms of management constraints and boundaries. This study also makes use of the WDA to suggest ways of establishing collaborative design and enhancing collaboration between organisations. Practitioner Summary: The results of this methodical analysis offer useful insights for managing design functions. This study also presents recommendations for enhancing collaboration in organisations. The ability to manage and collaborate in design functions is valuable for improving the productivity, cost-effectiveness and time-to-market systems.     

论控制系统的智能设计

当前,许多先进的控制系统设计方法和性能很好的CADCS软件包得不到应用。先进的控制理论与落后的工程实践之间这种巨大的脱节正在呼唤着智能设计的诞生。本文论述了控制系统智能设计的背景,现状,研究内容,关键问题和创新性;指出,这一研究课题对于我国科学家既是挑战,又是极好的机遇。鉴于其意义之重要,内容之多方位性,以及工作量之显然巨大,我国科学家应当及早着手开展研究,争取进入世界先进行列。     

基于神经网络的GIS空间数学模型研究

文中对空间数学模型的建立方法以及不同方法的优缺点进行了分析比较,指出基于人工神经网络的建模方法是目前GIS应用领域中行之有效的方法之一,最后通过实例对该方法的有效性进行了验证。     

Roles for knowledge-based computer systems: Case studies in maternity care

The design of medical knowledge-based computer systems requires effective interdisciplinary communication for the development of a community sharing common goals and a common language for design. Over the past 9 years the Perinatal Research Group, an interdisciplinary team of computer scientists, engineers and clinicians, have developed a prototype knowledge-based computer system to aid clinicians in the care of women in labour. The group were uncertain which approach to adopt to progress this system from a prototype to a useful clinical tool to support decision making. A case study and activity theory analysis, of an existing clinical knowledge-based computer system in routine use, helped to resolve a number of communication and methodological issues that the design team encountered. Sharing of backgrounds and perspectives caused the design team to question previous assumptions and to explore alternative functions and roles for knowledge-based computer systems in maternity care. We are now undertaking a longitudinal case study and activity theory analysis of obstetric teams and women in labour to analyse the relationships between clinicians, patients and technology. This work will inform the development of our knowledge-based computer system to place the patient at the centre of the decision-making process.     

Investigating mode errors on automated flight decks: illustrating the problem-driven, cumulative, and interdisciplinary nature of human factors research

OBJECTIVE: The goal of this article is to illustrate the problem-driven, cumulative, and highly interdisciplinary nature of human factors research by providing a brief overview of the work on mode errors on modern flight decks over the past two decades. BACKGROUND: Mode errors on modem flight decks were first reported in the late 1980s. Poor feedback, inadequate mental models of the automation, and the high degree of coupling and complexity of flight deck systems were identified as main contributors to these breakdowns in human-automation interaction. Various improvements of design, training, and procedures were proposed to address these issues. METHODS: The author describes when and why the problem of mode errors surfaced, summarizes complementary research activities that helped identify and understand the contributing factors to mode errors, and describes some countermeasures that have been developed in recent years. RESULTS: This brief review illustrates how one particular human factors problem in the aviation domain enabled various disciplines and methodological approaches to contribute to a better understanding of, as well as provide better support for, effective human-automation coordination. CONCLUSION: Converging operations and interdisciplinary collaboration over an extended period of time are hallmarks of successful human factors research. APPLICATION: The reported body of research can serve as a model for future research and as a teaching tool for students in this field of work.     

基于社会网络分析的学术合作关系研究

学术合作关系是各领域各学科的科学家之间的合作关系。随着科学技术快速发展,各科学领域之间的交叉融合已成为一种需求趋势,学术合作关系也越来越密切。文中首先给出异构信息网络和元路径的定义,并在此基础之上提出在异构信息网络中通过元路径对学术合作关系进行预测的方法;然后建立合作可能性预测模型来计算作者之间的合作可能性;最后收集实验数据,并将数据代入到合作可能性预测模型中进行计算。实验表明,通过该模型作者可以找到其最佳合作者。     

基于程序插装的动态测试技术实现

动态测试是检测程序的动态行为的一种有效手段,本文介绍了Safepro白盒软件测试工具系列中基于程序插装的动脉测试技术实现,具体讨论了动态测试的模型、数据流模型和动态跟踪数据的编码和解码技术,插装库设计与插装策略等内容。     

人-AI交互: 实现“以人为中心AI”理念的跨学科新领域

AI技术造福了人类,也给研发带来了挑战,如果开发不当,会伤害人类和社会。目前国内外还没有系统的跨学科工作框架来有效地应对这些新挑战。为顺应学科发展的交叉趋势,中国国家自然科学基金委2020年成立了交叉科学部。在这样的背景下,本文分析AI系统研发面临的新挑战,进一步阐述我们在2019年提出的“以人为中心AI”（human-centered AI,HCAI）研发理念和设计目标。目前,HCAI研发理念在国外是AI界的热门课题之一,为推动 HCAI 理念的落实,本文系统地提出了人?人工智能交互（human-AI interaction,HAII）的跨学科新领域,定义了其目的、范围、研究和应用重点等。通过文献综述和分析,本文总结了国内外HAII研究和应用的重点,提出了今后的主要研究方向。最后,针对今后HCAI理念和HAII领域的工作,提出了一系列对策和建议。     

智能化网络管理工具的设计研究

文中主要研究在当前信息化革命背景下的高效网络管理工具设计。传统的网络管理工具中存在过分依赖预先配置信息,导致维护工作量巨大以及学习理解过于复杂的不足。针对这些问题,文中提出了基于端口扫描和工厂模式的智能化检测方法。并采用这种检测方法设计出一种智能化的网络管理工具。这种工具基于开源平台开发,采用面向对象的设计技术,面对日新月异的网络环境有更好的维护性和扩展空间,明显降低了网络管理人员的工作强度,提高了网络管理的工作效率。     

Graph based knowledge models for capitalizing,predicting and learning: A proof of concept applied to the dam systems

The capitalization and the analysis of historical information is nowadays a prerequisite for any effective risk management and assessment in a wide range of domains. Despite the development of mathematical models, procedures, support decision systems and databases, some engineering disciplines, such as civil engineering, remain resistant to the use of new digital technology due to the gap between the expectations of the engineers and the support that the tools may really provide. It is essential to propose a tool able to process both cross disciplinary and interdisciplinary knowledge flux and feedback from experience in a common and convenient unifying framework. The aim is to assist and to support engineering work and to make the task of knowledge modelling easier. The domain of dam systems is no exception to the rule. Dam failures are still commonplace. These failures stem from a lack of understanding about the complex relationships between three different factors: random hazards, the limit states of dam structures along with human activities and decisions. No generic and holistic approach is currently available that permits the processing of both knowledge and data, performs inferences and is easily usable for all types of users. This paper proposes the basic principles of a convenient design methodology for capitalizing, learning and predicting based on the formalism of conceptual graphs. The aim is to provide an easily usable tool able to (1) capitalise heterogeneous knowledge and store a database about dams, (2) issue alerts on current projects, (3) draw lessons from past dam failures and (4) tackle key issues in forensic civil engineering.     

A cube model for the classification of work with hand tools and the formulation of functional requirements

In an interdisciplinary research project, a model, visualized as a cube, was developed for the classification and analysis of work with hand tools and for communication of different ways of solving problems related to manual handling. The dimensions of the cube are demands of force, precision and time. Each dimension is divided into three levels of low, moderate and high demands respectively. Preliminary limits are proposed for acceptable and non-acceptable use situations and for situations that have to be investigated further. Using a case study of plate shears as a starting point, various measures of improving the position in the cube are discussed. The hand tool, the workplace, the work organization as well as the user of the hand tool are included in the analysis.     

Virtual garden landscape planning based on FPGA and GIS platform

The analysis of landscape visibility and scenic view is the essential area for studying the direct impact of landscape planning and management in a regional and urban area. The most particular analysis of landscape visualization is based on a GIS tool for conservation, management, and planning of urban landscapes for historic, major scenic spots, and value visualization. Visible mapping can be used to predict visual impact, visual acuity and natural landscape, cultural heritage of transformation and it is based on the protection of the landscape from selected points of view to significant landmarks need the intervention. Among them, the research is conducted in several cities around the world, and there is an Italian pilot project that has decided to integrate GIS-based visualization analysis into the planning of the cultural heritage. FPGA and GIS-based analysis of landscape have been implemented in various fields within the landscape planning frame work activities proposed by the development of science in Piedmont. Specific research is being conducted in the city of Turin. With an international perspective, this model focuses on describing these applications and introduces some of the difficult issues that are reduced in the field of planning and the possible uses of this technology.The design and implementation is executed in real time on Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) using Xilinx System Generator (XSG).     

工程图纸设计系统中的工作流授权模型研究

工程图纸设计是一个典型的工作流,它是严格的、由一系列相关设计任务组成的自动化过程.实际的工程图纸设计包含许多环节,如设计、提交、修改和审核等.不同的设计和管理人员在整个流程的不同阶段协同工作,并在每一阶段实现特定的目标.工程图纸设计工作流的这一特点使得授权成为其中的一个关键问题.针对此问题在分析经典基于角色的访问控制授权模型的基础上提出一种新的工作流授权模型SODAM.该模型引入了服务和动态授权的概念,增强了对用户权限和角色的控制,并使得授权对工作流的动态变化有了更强的适应性.最后给出了该模型在实时工程图纸设计系统中的应用.     

Extracting new patterns for cardiovascular disease prognosis

Abstract: Cardiovascular diseases constitute one of the main causes of mortality in the world, and machine learning has become a powerful tool for analysing medical data in the last few years. In this paper we present an interdisciplinary work based on an ambulatory blood pressure study and the development of a new classification algorithm named REMED. We focused on the discovery of new patterns for abnormal blood pressure variability as a possible cardiovascular risk factor. We compared our results with other classification algorithms based on Bayesian methods, decision trees, and rule induction techniques. In the comparison, REMED showed similar accuracy to these algorithms but it has the advantage of being superior in its capacity to classify sick people correctly. Therefore, our method could represent an innovative approach that might be useful in medical decision support for cardiovascular disease prognosis.     

Application of axiomatic design principles to identify more sustainable strategies for grinding

It has become increasingly important for manufacturers to implement sustainability into tool and process design. Existing models that evaluate the sustainability of abrasive processes focus mostly on case studies of selected energy and resource streams and rarely contain holistic process models. This study uses basic principles of axiomatic design to fundamentally describe grinding technology in a way that can be used for life cycle assessment. The functional requirements of the machining process are linked to process, tool, and coolant design parameters based upon common process understanding. However, these connections leave space for future quantitative and qualitative formulae. Sustainability metrics are then connected to the axiomatic process model. This work represents a first effort in developing this type of model. Finally, the model is used to qualitatively evaluate the impact of grit size on process sustainability showing that the method is feasible to identify strategies to increase sustainability in grinding.     

一种面向Agent的设计过程模型

本文提出了一种面向ａｇｅｎｔ的设计过程模型，该模型参加设计过程的实体为ａｇｅｎｔ，通过ａｇｅｎｔ有组织的协同工作描述产品设计过程。该模型的构造符合客观世界人们协作完成任务的工作方式，因此，依此模型构造的支撑容易适应现实世界