Training and optimization of an artificial neural network controlling a hybrid power filter

A hybrid power compensator (HPC) consisting of a static VAr compensator and a dynamic compensator needs to be optimally controlled during the compensation of nonlinear loads. The HPC must be controlled to meet minimum requirements in terms of power factor and harmonic distortion, while at the same time minimizing its total cost. An artificial neural network (ANN) is used to control the HPC amidst a very dynamic power system environment. The performance of a reference ANN is evaluated while controlling an HPC connected to a typical nonlinear industrial load. The training and performance of the ANN is then optimized in terms of training set size, training set packing and ANN topology and the performance compared to the reference ANN. This paper highlights the importance of optimising the mentioned ANN parameters to achieve optimum ANN training and modeling accuracy. The results obtained reveals that the application of an ANN in controlling an HPC is feasible given that the ANN parameters are chosen appropriately.     

Bio-layer management in anaerobic membrane bioreactors for wastewater treatment.

Membrane separation technology represents an alternative way to achieve biomass retention in anaerobic bioreactors for wastewater treatment. Due to high biomass concentrations of anaerobic reactors, cake formation is likely to represent a major cause of flux decline. In the presented research, experiments are performed on the effect of biomass concentration and level of gas sparging on the hydraulic capacity of a submerged anaerobic membrane bioreactor. Both parameters significantly affected the hydraulic capacity, with biomass exerting the most pronounced effect. After 50 days of continuous operation the critical flux remained virtually unchanged, despite an increase in membrane resistance, suggesting that biomass characteristics and hydraulic conditions determine the bio-layer formation rather than the membrane's fouling level. The concept of bio-layer management is introduced to describe the programmed combination of actions performed in order to control the formation of biomass layer over membranes.     

Creating and Justifying Research and Development Value: Scope,Scale, Skill and Social Networking of R&D

In this paper we describe a framework for analysing the creation and justification of Research & Development. The 4S framework is developed for analysing the scope, scale, skills and social network aspects of Research & Development value. The framework is based on social system theory, a process contingency model, and recent Research & Development metrics. We present a first empirical assessment based on a workshop using the 4S framework for leveraging Research & Development. Results that assist in the assessment of value creation utilising R & D within networks are very relevant in high tech industries. The multi–dimensional process approach of this framework seems promising for understanding and managing R&D value creation, but needs further operationalisation. Case studies are described and a Dutch network on leveraging R&D has been initiated.     

A numerical model for the dissolution of spherical particles in binary alloys under mixed mode control

A general numerical model is described for the dissolution kinetics of spherical particles in binary systems for any combination of first order reactions at the particle-matrix interface and long distance diffusion within the matrix. The model is applicable to both finite and infinite media and handles both complete and partial particle dissolution. It is shown that interfacial reactions can have a strong effect on the dissolution kinetics, the solute concentration at the particle-matrix interface and the solute concentration profile in the matrix.     

The impact of cleaner processing on nutrient availability in the bleached kraft industry.

The pulp and paper industry has invested heavily over recent years in cleaner processing, to reduce losses and minimise its impact on the environment. Over the past fifteen years, a New Zealand integrated bleached kraft mill has undergone a comprehensive programme of upgrades to increase production, reduce water consumption and streamline its biological treatment process. Whilst the overall discharge of contaminants from the site decreased, the treatment system performance did not show a concurrent improvement as may have been expected. Reduced BOD removal, low dissolved oxygen levels, and poor solids settlability were symptomatic of phosphorus limitation in the aerated lagoon treatment system. The wastewater entering the system was found to be phosphorus limited at a BOD:P ratio of 100:0.2. Mono-ammonium-phosphate was supplemented, at approximately 30 kg P/d, to raise the phosphorus levels to a BOD:P ratio of 100:0.3. Treatment efficiencies improved very quickly after phosphorus dosage, with a 50% reduction in BOD and TSS discharge, a significant increase in dissolved oxygen levels, and improved BOD removal (85% to 93%). This case study demonstrates that whilst more closed operation can result in reduced discharge of organic loads, there may be negative impacts on the availability of nutrients for balanced biological growth.     

Modeling Power Supply Noise in Delay Testing

Excessive power supply noise during test can cause overkill. This article discusses two models for supply noise in delay testing and their application to test compaction. The proposed noise models avoid complicated power network analysis, making them much faster than existing power noise analysis tools. can cause performance degradation and     

Multistage Zeolite Drying for Energy-Efficient Drying

This work discusses the potential of three multistage zeolite drying systems (counter-, co-, and cross-current) with a varying number of stages. The evaluation showed that for 2-4 stages with heat recovery the efficiency of the systems ranges between 80 and 90%. Additionally, by introducing a compressor, the latent heat in the exhaust air from the regenerator is recovered and used to heat the inlet air for an additional drying stage. As a result, for the counter-current drying system and compressor pressure 1.5-2 bar, a maximum energy efficiency of 120% is achieved, which results in halving the energy consumption compared to conventional drying systems.     

Ethernet-based passive optical local-area networks for fiber-to-the-desk application

We introduce optical local-area network (LAN) architectures based on multimode optical fiber and components, short wavelength lasers and detectors, and the widely used fast Ethernet protocol. These architectures are designed to lower the costs associated with passive optical LAN implementation. Further reduction in overall cost is achieved through decreased network downtime, lower maintenance cost, extended geometrical spans, and larger headroom for future capacity increase. These optically transparent networks represent a novel approach for implementing fiber-to-the-desk.