Artificial dielectric devices for variable polarization compensation at millimeter and submillimeter wavelengths

Variable polarization compensation has been demonstrated at 100 GHz. The device consists of two interlocking V-groove artificial dielectric gratings that produce a birefringence that varies with the separation distance. A maximum retardance of 74/spl deg/ has been obtained experimentally in a silicon device, in good agreement with rigorous coupled-wave computer simulations. Further simulations predict that adding quarter wave dielectric antireflection (AR) coatings to the outer surfaces of the device can reduce the insertion loss to below 4 dB. The use of rectangular grooved gratings provides increased retardance and reduced loss. It is predicted that a coupled device with rectangular grooved gratings will be capable of maximum retardance in excess of 180/spl deg/, with low insertion loss (<0.6 dB). The sensitivity of the wave retardation as a function of mechanical separation has a peak value of 485/spl deg//mm. The design and micromachining fabrication techniques scale for operation at submillimeter wavelengths.     

Load-Displacement of Masonry Panels with Unbonded and Intermittently Bonded FRP. I: Analytical Model

An experimental study was carried out to develop and test innovative fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) rehabilitation techniques that meet the stringent requirements of restoration of historical buildings and are cost-effective alternatives applicable to existing masonry structures. In these techniques, FRP reinforcement was either unbonded or intermittently bonded to the masonry wall. In order to analyze performance, extend the range of the investigated parameters, and define limitations, a simplified analytical model was developed to predict the postcracking lateral load-displacement response under biaxial bending. The response of the retrofitted walls cannot be modeled by conventional approaches. The proposed model is based on balancing internal and external work and rigid body mechanics. It is assumed that all postcracking deformations take place at cracks between wall subpanels. Postcracking displacements are calculated from rotation rather than curvature. The adequacy of the model was verified by comparisons with the experimental results and a good agreement was found. The model could be used as the basis for a design method.     

Farthest line segment Voronoi diagrams

The farthest line segment Voronoi diagram shows properties different from both the closest-segment Voronoi diagram and the farthest-point Voronoi diagram. Surprisingly, this structure did not receive attention in the computational geometry literature. We analyze its combinatorial and topological properties and outline an O(nlogn) time construction algorithm that is easy to implement. No restrictions are placed upon the n input line segments; they are allowed to touch or cross.     

Discrete simulation of NC machining

We describe a method for simulating and verifying the correctness of Numerical Control (NC) programs. NC programs contain the sequence of cutting tool movements which machine raw stock into a finished object. Our method is based on a discrete approximation of the object by a set of points. A vector is passed through each of the points and machining is simulated by finding the intersections of tool movements with these vectors. We present a point-selection method and an analysis that shows that the error introduced by the approximation can be made as small as desired. The run time is inversely proportional to the allowable error and the size of the cutting tool, and directly proportional to the distance that the cutting tool moves.This research was supported in part by the National Science Foundation under Contract No. DMC 8512621 and by the Ford Motor Company.     

Hazard analysis for a storage sphere of pressurised liquefied flammable gas

An analysis has been carried out on the fire and explosion risk associated with a storage sphere holding some 600 tons of liquefied flammable gas under pressure and protected by a spray system. Fault trees leading to (i) a large leakage followed by a catastrophic explosion of a flammable vapour cloud in the open, and (ii) a fire causing sudden rupture of the tank and a large fireball, have been constructed. Special attention is paid to the life risk to firemen who may be dealing with a fire incident at the sphere. Data for insertion in the fault trees are discussed and a cost benefit analysis of treevarious fire defence methods is carried out.