Genetic algorithms: concepts and applications [in engineeringdesign]

This paper introduces genetic algorithms (GA) as a complete entity, in which knowledge of this emerging technology can be integrated together to form the framework of a design tool for industrial engineers. An attempt has also been made to explain “why” and “when” GA should be used as an optimization tool     

Analysis of thin walled structures using the boundary element method

In this article the direct boundary element formulations of stretching and bending plate problems are combined together to solve thin walled structures and other similar frames. The final system is obtained by assuming each individual plane structural element as a subregion. After the necessary transforms of these equations they can be combined together taking into account the displacement compatibility and equilibrium conditions.     

A comparison of leaf-spring with aircushion trailer suspensions in the transport environment

Packaging engineers need to be able to accurately determine the forces present in the shipping environment in order to protect packaged goods. The purpose of this study was to determine the vertical vibration levels measured in three separate truck-trailer suspension systems; conventional leaf-spring, conventional air-ride and damaged air-ride. The main conclusion reached in this study is that the air-ride suspension when maintained gives lower power density (PD) levels on all road surfaces studied. A damaged air-ride suspension and leaf-spring suspension are very similar in response frequencies, although the damaged air-ride produces higher vibration levels at lower frequencies.     

Entfestigungsverhalten des Stahls 50 CrV4 bei der thermomechanischen Behandlung

Softening behaviour of 50 CrV4 steel on thermomechanical treatment Determination of static softening of austenite on thermomechanical treatment of steel by rolling. Analysed was the development of the austenite structure and influencing the work softening processes depending on the deformation-temperature-time mode. The static softening processes were modelled mathematically by using Avrami's relationships.     

Wigner-space synthesis of discrete-time periodic signals

A procedure that facilitates at least-squares synthesis of periodic, discrete-time signals from Wigner quasi-distributions is proposed. The scheme is based on expanding the desired time sequence on a generally nonorthogonal, Gabor-type basis whose associated biorthogonal function presumably exists. The specific basis selection may crucially affect the efficiency and quality of the ensuing synthesis procedure. The cited basis type constitutes a considerable generalization over the standardly used orthogonal variety, thus creating previously unavailable degrees of freedom. Of primary significance is the acquired capability of generating time-frequency basis functions that are well localized. Localization is a highly desirable property that can advantageously serve in various applications. It is shown and numerically demonstrated that benefits of localization as well as the fact that achieving effective time-frequency basis localization renders a certain degree of oversampling unavoidable     

New fault locating system for air-insulated substations usingoptical current detector

The authors present the basic philosophy, construction, design features, and test results of a new fault locating system. This fault locating system helps to shorten the time required for restoration of service after the occurrence of a busbar fault in an air-insulated distribution substation. Recent optical and electronic technologies allow the design of a highly accurate and compact fault locating system which consists of optical current detectors using the Faraday effect and a fault locating processor using a digital data processing technique. The fault location is carried out by discriminating between the directions of zero-sequence currents. Through various tests and field operations, it has been confirmed that the system has sufficient performance for practical applications     

Fault section detection system for 66 kV underground branchtransmission lines using optical magnetic field sensors

A fault section detection system that uses optical magnetic field sensors and instantly detects the section in which a ground fault occurred was developed for 66 kV underground multiterminal systems having Y-branch joint boxes. The optical magnetic field sensor, which is based on the Faraday effect in Bi-doped YIG ((BiYbGd)₃Fe₅O₁₂) having a large Verdet constant, detects cable conductor currents of 0 to 2000 A with high precision with the use of a laminated magnetic ring core of silicon steel plates. Sensors and a fault section detector/indicator of a system are connected with optical fibers capable of nonrepeated transmission of over 6 km     

Transient and dynamic average-value modeling of synchronous machinefed load-commutated converters

A new average-value model of a synchronous machine fed load-commutated converter is set forth in which the stator dynamics are combined with the DC link dynamics. This model is shown to he extremely accurate in predicting system transients and in predicting frequency-domain characteristics such as the impedance looking into the synchronous machine fed load-commutated converter. The model is verified against a detailed computer simulation and against a hardware test system, thus providing a three-way comparison. The proposed model is shown to be much more accurate than models in which the stator dynamics are neglected