Challenges in computer architecture evaluation

We focus on problems suited to the current evaluation infrastructure. The current limitation and trends in evaluation techniques are troublesome and could noticeably slow the rate of computer system innovation. New research has been recommended to help and make quantitative evaluations of computer systems manageable. We support research in the areas of simulation frameworks, benchmarking methodologies, analytic methods, and validation techniques.     

Study on the replication quality of micro-structures in the injection molding process with dynamical tool tempering systems

The injection molding of micro-structures is a promising mass-production method for a broad range of materials. However, the replication quality of these structures depends significantly on the heat flow during the filling stage. In this paper, the filling and heat transfer of v-groove and random structures below 5 μm is investigated with the help of an AFM (atomic force microscope) and thermo couples. A numerical model is developed to predict the filling of surface structures during the filling and packing stage. The model implies the use of simple fully developed flow models taking the power-law material model into account. This permits investigation into which ways several processing parameters affect the polymer flow in the surface structures. The mold wall temperature, which has significant effects on the polymer flow, is varied by using a variothermal mold temperature control system to validate the model proposed.     

Proteomics of brain synapses and molecular dissection of synaptic subdomains

Synapses form the nuts and bolts of the brain. Synaptic transmission involves an intricate network of synaptic proteins that forms the molecular machinery underlying transmitter release, activation of transmitter receptors, and signal transduction cascades. It is generally believed that neuronal activity-dependent change of synaptic efficacy is at the basis of learning and memory and is encoded by sequential molecular events at the synapse. In the past 2-3?years, a number of proteomics studies have been performed on synaptic subdomains, including synaptic vesicles, postsynaptic density, synaptic lipid raft, synapse protein complexes, as well as on synaptic protein PTMs, notably phosphorylation. The activity-dependent dynamics of protein constituents of the synapse are starting to be examined by quantitative proteomics. It is anticipated that these analyses will yield novel insights into the organization of the synapse, and will generate testable hypotheses of synapse function and regulation both in health and disease.     

Operation, system architectures, and physical Layer design considerations of distributed MAC protocols for UWB

Impulse-based ultra wideband (I-UWB) is an attractive radio technology for large ad hoc and sensor networks due to its robustness to harmful multipath effects, sub-centimeter ranging ability, simple hardware, and low radiated power. To scale to large sizes, networks often implement distributed medium access control (MAC) protocols. However, most MAC protocols for I-UWB are centralized, and they target small wireless personal area networks and cellular networks. We propose three distributed MAC protocols suitable for I-UWB. Two multichannel protocols, called multichannel pulse sense multiple access (M-PSMA) and multichannel ALOHA achieve high aggregate throughput. A busy-signal protocol, called busy-signal multiple access (BSMA), reduces the energy wasted from re-transmitted packets. This paper describes the three protocols in terms of the protocol's operation, the supporting system architecture, and the I-UWB physical layer. Physical layer simulations confirm the feasibility of implementing the proposed systems and also provide parameters for network simulations. Network simulations show that the throughput of M-PSMA exceeds that of a centralized time-division multiple-access protocol and that the energy efficiency of BSMA far surpasses that of other distributed protocols.     

Proximity Detection – Schutzeinrichtung für Gefahrenzonen im Untertageberg- und Tunnelbau: Stand der Technik und Notwendigkeiten der Weiterentwicklung

The restricted space in underground work sites in mining and tunnelling always entails the potential of collisions between men and machinery. Despite work rules and safety training, accidents of this category are still too frequent and therefore technical safety systems to avoid such collisions have been asked for and developed. In the United States of America and South Africa a rising number of such proximity detection systems are in operation and allow a first review of the impact on safety of miners. This article presents the state of the art and based on the existing operational experience some of the necessary further developments in this field.     

Multi-objective Topology Optimization of Thermo-mechanical Compliant Mechanisms

The material characteristics of a structure will change with temperature variation,and will induce stress within the structure.Currently,the optimal design for the topology of compliant mechanisms is mainly performed in single physical field.However,when compliant mechanisms work in high temperature environments,their displacement outputs are generated not only by mechanical load,but also by the temperature variation which may become the prominent factor.Therefore,the influence of temperature must be considered in the design.In this paper,a novel optimization method for multi-objective topology of thermo-mechanical compliant mechanisms is presented.First,the thermal field is analyzed with finite-element method,where the thermal strain is taken into account in the constitutive relation,and the equivalent nodal thermal load is derived with the principle of virtual work.Then the thermal load is converted into physical loads in elastic field,and the control equation of the thermo-mechanical compliant mechanism is obtained.Second,the mathematical model of the multi-objective topology optimization is built by incorporating both the flexibility and stiffness.Meanwhile,the coupling sensitivity function and the sensitivity analysis equations of thermal steady-state response are derived.Finally,optimality criteria algorithm is employed to obtain numerical solution of the multi-objective topology optimization.Numerical examples show that the compliant mechanisms have better performance and are more applicable if the temperature effect is taken into account in the design process.The presented modeling and analysis methods provide a new idea and an effective approach to topology optimization of compliant mechanisms in electrothermic coupling field and multiphysics fields.     

Regulatory Power,Network Tools and Market Behaviour: Transforming Practices in Norwegian Urban Planning

Planning changes can be initiated formally through revisions of statutory rules; alternatively changes can arise informally through amendments to everyday planning activities. This article explains how local planning authorities in Norway introduce new planning practices relating to the management of land and planning procedures. The observed new practices have been introduced even though the formal hierarchical structure of the planning law has stayed unchanged. They are analysed as outcomes of the changing use of tools under the three models for co-ordinating behaviour: hierarchy understood as government, market and network. First, the existing planning system is analysed to explain the legal possibilities for changing planning practices informally. Two categories of practices are then discussed: the use of the detailed development plan as an implementation instrument, and the use of the regulatory power in framing interconnections and responsibilities towards stakeholders. The main conclusion is that regulatory tools have lost some strength in favour of tools under the network model, and that the observed changes in planning practices are mostly a result of mutual dependencies between these two models for co-ordinating behaviour.