On the Evolutionary Optimization of Many Conflicting Objectives

This study explores the utility of multiobjective evolutionary algorithms (using standard Pareto ranking and diversity-promoting selection mechanisms) for solving optimization tasks with many conflicting objectives. Optimizer behavior is assessed for a grid of mutation and recombination operator configurations. Performance maps are obtained for the dual aims of proximity to, and distribution across, the optimal tradeoff surface. Performance sweet-spots for both variation operators are observed to contract as the number of objectives is increased. Classical settings for recombination are shown to be suitable for small numbers of objectives but correspond to very poor performance for higher numbers of objectives, even when large population sizes are used. Explanations for this behavior are offered via the concepts of dominance resistance and active diversity promotion.     

Testing of the multi-application small light water reactor (MASLWR) passive safety systems

Experimental thermal hydraulic research has been conducted at Oregon State University for the purpose of assessing the performance of a new reactor design concept, the multi-application small light water reactor (MASLWR). The MASLWR is a pressurized light water reactor design with a net output of 35 MWe that uses natural circulation in both normal and transient operation. Due to its small size, portability and modularity, the MASLWR design is well suited to help fill the potential need for grid appropriate reactor designs for smaller electricity grids as may be found in developing or remote regions. The purpose of the OSU MASLWR test facility is to assess the operation of the MASLWR under normal full operating pressure and full temperature conditions and to assess the passive safety systems under transient conditions. The data generated by the testing program will be used to assess computer code calculations and to provide a better understanding of the thermal-hydraulic phenomena in the design of the MASLWR NSSS. During this testing program, four tests were conducted at the OSU MASLWR test facility. These tests included one design basis accident and one beyond design basis accident. During the performance of these tests, plant operations to include start up, normal operation and shut down evolutions were demonstrated successfully.     

Testing the robustness of CIECAM02

CIE TC8‐01 has adopted a new color appearance model: CIECAM02¹ replaces the CIECAM97s.² The new model consists of a number of refinements and simplifications of the CIECAM97s color appearance model. This article describes further tests to the robustness of the forward and reverse modes. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 30, 99–106, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/col.20087     

Using transistors to linearise biochemistry

A fundamental relationship exists between diffusion characteristics within semiconductors and Nernstian equilibrium in biological systems. In a transistor operating in weak inversion the potential difference between terminals governs electron concentration in an exponential way according to the Boltzmann distribution of charged particles while in a biochemical cell the potential difference across a membrane is governed by ionic concentration in a logarithmic way according to the Nernst equation. These two nonlinear physical phenomena form an interaction that potentially leads to linearisation and subsequent modelling of or interaction with biological systems by integrated semiconductor devices. To demonstrate the authors' hypothesis a silicon transistor-based biosensor is considered. This natural bridge between biochemistry and semiconductor silicon chips will enable the potential mass production of portable biochemical devices for the consumer market     

Analysis of low load transients for the Vandellòs-II NPP: Application to operation and control support

The Technical University of Catalonia (UPC) has been jointly working with the Asociación Nuclear Ascó-Vandellòs (ANAV) for a number of years in order to establish, qualify and use best estimate (BE) models for the reactors under the control of ANAV. ANAV is the consortium that is responsible for operation of the Ascó and Vandellòs-II reactors. The reactors are Westinghouse-design three-loop PWRs with an approximate electrical power of 1000 MW. The existing integral plant models for each plant are currently used for many different purposes among which are support of plant operation and control. Quite a number of studies have been done in order to improve both safety and plant competitiveness. Most of these dynamic analyses were carried out in relation to transients starting at nominal full power or at least, very close to full power. This paper develops a specific use of the Vandellòs-II plant model for operation and control support at low power involving new ranges of system actuation parameters. It also examines scenarios that are somewhat different from those typically analysed. The study starts showing the results of an assessment case, which is a start-up test and provides some additional qualification, and subsequently attempts to establish calculations to support both an improvement in feed water controls and to set up operating recommendations for low-load manual operation of feed water turbo-pump. Both results hopefully, will produce an outcome, which leads to an improvement in safety and reduces reactor trip probability.     

Impacts of spectral band difference effects on radiometric cross-calibration between satellite sensors in the solar-reflective spectral domain

In order for quantitative applications to make full use of the ever-increasing number of Earth observation satellite systems, data from the various imaging sensors involved must be on a consistent radiometric scale. This paper reports on an investigation of radiometric calibration errors due to differences in spectral response functions between satellite sensors when attempting cross-calibration based on near-simultaneous imaging of common ground targets in analogous spectral bands, a commonly used post-launch calibration methodology. Twenty Earth observation imaging sensors (including coarser and higher spatial resolution sensors) were considered, using the Landsat solar reflective spectral domain as a framework. Scene content was simulated using spectra for four ground target types (Railroad Valley Playa, snow, sand and rangeland), together with various combinations of atmospheric states and illumination geometries. Results were obtained as a function of ground target type, satellite sensor comparison, spectral region, and scene content. Overall, if spectral band difference effects (SBDEs) are not taken into account, the Railroad Valley Playa site is a “good” ground target for cross calibration between most but not all satellite sensors in most but not all spectral regions investigated. “Good” is defined as SBDEs within ± 3%. The other three ground target types considered (snow, sand and rangeland) proved to be more sensitive to uncorrected SBDEs than the RVPN site overall. The spectral characteristics of the scene content (solar irradiance, surface reflectance and atmosphere) are examined in detail to clarify why spectral difference effects arise and why they can be significant when comparing different imaging sensor systems. Atmospheric gas absorption features are identified as being the main source of spectral variability in most spectral regions. The paper concludes with recommendations on spectral data and tools that would facilitate cross-calibration between multiple satellite sensors.     

Phase-Error Measurement and Compensation in PLL Frequency Synthesizers for FMCW Sensors—I: Context and Application

The synthesis of linear frequency sweeps or chirps is required, among others, in frequency-modulated continuous-wave radar systems for object position estimation. Low phase and frequency errors in sweeps with high bandwidth are a prerequisite for good accuracy and resolution, but, in certain applications where high measurement rates are desired, the additional demand for short sweep cycles has to be met. Transient phenomena in dynamic synthesizers as well as nonlinear system behavior usually cause unknown phase errors in the system output. For the class of phase-locked-loop (PLL)-based frequency synthesizers, a novel output phase-measurement method and dedicated circuitry are proposed that allow significant reduction of phase errors by adaptive input predistortion. The measurement procedure is implemented within the PLL control circuitry and does not require external equipment. The application of this method to PLL system identification and linearization of extremely short frequency sweeps is shown     

Considerations and strategies behind the design and construction requirements of the Istanbul Strait immersed tunnel

This being a design-build project, the challenge faced during preparations of the Employer’s requirements for design and construction of the Istanbul Strait immersed tunnel was to give the contractor as much freedom as possible and yet specify enough so that the Employer obtained the required facility. When completed, this will be a world-class facility. This paper discusses on a strategic level many of the aspects to be presented by the author in two papers in later sessions of the day. Unusual features of this crossing include the deepest ever immersed tunnel crossing, extra waterproofing requirements, strong currents with bi-directional flow, close proximity of the North Anatolian Fault which is predicted to have a major seismic event during the life of the tunnel, and the method of connecting the adjacent bored tunnels to the immersed tunnel. Safety during tunnel construction and operation has been paramount, and resulted in changes to contract packaging and extra requirements. Other challenges discussed include fish migration, control of an international waterway, environmental issues and ensuring the stability of the soft soils during a seismic event.