Supply chain management using an optimization driven simulation approach

In this work, we propose a hybrid simulation‐based optimization framework to solve the supply chain management problem. The hybrid approach combines a mathematical programming model with an agent‐based simulation model and uses them in an iterative framework. The optimization model is used to guide the decisions toward an optimal allocation of resources given the realistic supply chain representation given by the simulation. Thus, the proposed approach provides a more realistic solution compared to a stand‐alone optimization model, often a simplified representation of the actual system, by making use of the simulation model, which captures the detailed dynamic behavior of the system. A multiobjective problem has been formulated by taking into consideration the environmental impact of supply chain operations. The proposed framework has been applied to small‐scale case studies to study the effectiveness of the approach for such problems. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 4612–4626, 2013     

Implications of space and time for distributed work: an interpretive study of US–Norwegian systems development teams

In this paper, utilizing the often taken-for-granted notions of space and time, we develop an understanding of how collaboration is possible among virtual team-members spread across the globe. We do so by interpretively examining the actual experiences and work practices of virtual team-members located in the US & Norway, engaged in information systems development (ISD) projects. We identify a number of collaboration inhibitors, along with strategies used by team-members to address the challenges posed by the mismatch in time zones and the lack of physical proximity.     

Synching or sinking: global software outsourcing relationships

Global software outsourcing is the outsourcing of software development to subcontractors outside the client organization's home country, India is the leading GSO subcontractor, registering average annual growth of more than 40 percent over the last decade and developing nearly US$4 billion in software for foreign clients in FY 1999. Indian firms now develop software for nearly one-third of the Fortune 5002. The authors investigate the strategies that differentiate successful and unsuccessful value chain moves     

A canadian perspective on vsats: Regulatory,technical and operational methodologies

VSAT systems have undergone a spurt of growth in recent years in Canada, particularly at K_u band using the star topology. This paper describes the regulatory, technical and networking issues in Canada. It starts out by describing the regulatory framework which has evolved in Canada to promote and foster the development and growth of such systems. It then provides a technical overview of the existing systems and possible evolution paths towards further enhanced capabilities. These include mesh networking and ISDN compatibility/capability. Finally, it discusses some end-to-end VSAT networking issues, including the interconnection of VSAT systems with the public switched network.     

The control of intermetallics in Pb-Cu-Te cable sheathing alloys

Lead alloys are used extensively as sheathing materials for high voltage power cables, especially in long undersea installations. Excellent extrusion properties, high ductility, a low re-crystallization temperature, good fatigue properties, and creep resistance make these alloys ideal for this application. Other service requirements, such as grounding of the cable, conduction of the short circuit currents, and waterproofing of the plastic insulators, are also met by a lead sheath. However, the lead layer in the cable is often a limiting factor both during cable production and during its service phase. The production of several hundred miles of long, single-piece cables is limited by cracking that takes place in the lead sheath during cable extrusion. Cracking of the lead sheath due to repeated vibration, creep, and re-crystallization becomes a limiting factor during the service life of these cables. Large precipitates that appear in the cable sheath after several hours of extrusion seem to be responsible for the premature cracking. A detailed examination of the alloy composition and cable sheathing operation is required to understand the origin of these precipitates     

Structural,dielectric, and electrical studies on thermally evaporated CdTe thin films

Sandwich structures of cadmium telluride (CdTe) thin films between Ag electrodes were prepared by thermal evaporation technique at a vacuum of ~2 × 10⁻⁵ torr. Structural characterization of these thin films was performed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. The effect of temperature and frequency on the electrical and dielectric properties of these films was studied in detail and reported in this article. The experimental study indicates that for the CdTe thin film the dielectric constant and dielectric loss increases with temperature and decreases with frequency. However, A.C. conductivity increases both with temperature and frequency. The data of complex impedance measurements over the same range of temperature and frequency are used to describe the relaxation behavior of the CdTe film. Our results indicate that the transport behavior of carriers in CdTe thin films is consistent with the correlated barrier hopping (CBH) model.     

Dear Readers

In Neyveli, Tamilnadu, India, a deep-seated multi-layered confined aquifer is being continuously pumped to permit safe mining of lignite. This paper highlights the various ground water recharge studies undertaken to quantify the potential of recharging the Neyveli hydrogeological basin to maintain the regional ground water balance. GIS studies were used to analyze artificial recharge in the Neyveli basin, commencing from the deep water table zone (recharge area) in the western upland part, the confined aquifer zone closer to the active mining area, and the confined zone further away in the east, down-dip and closer to the coast.     

Agile monitoring system for turning of difflicult-to-cut materials

This paper presents an agile monitoring system based on multiple sensors and fuzzy pattern recognition for the detection of tool cutting conditions in turning operations. Three piezoelectric force sensors and a thermocouple (NiCr-Nial) sensor were used to measure cutting force and temperature without altering the machine tool dynamics. Fuzzy C-means algorithm is used to improve the agility of selecting, clustering and classifying cutting tool conditions.