SEQUENTIAL PARTITION DETECTORS

Abstract

In this paper the theory of fixed sample nonparametric m-interval partition detectors is extended to include sequential operation. A formulation for sequential m-interval partition detector is given which requires knowledge of only (m ? 1) quantiles under a Lehmann alternative and, in addition, the slope of the distribution at these quantiles under a shift of the mean alternative. A theorem is proven that permits the use of Fisher's information as a bound on performance and assures the existence of a locally most powerful sequential partition detector. In addition, a reduced partition space concept is introduced to combat impulsive noise interference.     

Development Aspects of an Integrated Pyroelectric Array Incorporating a Thin PZT Film and Radiation Collectors

Work is being undertaken to produce an uncooled pyroelectric infra-red detector array which incorporates within its structure, an array of radiation collectors made by the bulk micro-machining of silicon. Development aspects of the processing route are presented here.     

The power transfer and frequency detuning in a gyrotron

A rigorous small-signal theory of the power transfer and the associated complex frequency shift of a gyrotron oscillator is developed. Experimental results taken from a 28 GHz gyrotron operating in the TE₀₂ mode, (measurements made at UKAEA, Culham Laboratory) and theoretical results on the frequency detuning are compared. It is seen that the frequency detuning increases as the frequency of the electric field approaches that of the cyclotron frequency. The imaginary component of the theoretical complex frequency detuning is shown to indicate the region of operation of the device and this is also compared with that obtained experimentally.     

Some observations on the bowl phenomenon

Previous studies suggest that performance of a series system may be enhanced if those station(s) having smallest mean operation time requirement(s) and/or smallest variability are placed in the middle of the line. There has been considerable confusion relative to whether this ‘bowl phenomenon’ has to do with the placement of means, variances, or some combination of the two. The results of the current study show that the phenomenon observed is not related to an imbalance in means. Rather, it is associated with an imbalance in absolute variability. Furthermore, it is suggested that the bowl effect vanishes altogether in cases where a minimal level of in-process buffer stock is provided.     

An agile manufacturing workcell design

This paper introduces a design for agile manufacturing worked Is intended for light mechanical assembly of products made from similar components (i.e., parts families). We define agile manufacturing as the ability to accomplish rapid changeover from the assembly of one product to the assembly of a different product. Rapid hardware changeover is made possible through the use of robots, flexible part feeders, modular grippers, and modular assembly hardware. The division of assembly, feeding, and unloading tasks between multiple robots is examined with prioritization based upon assembly time. Rapid software changeover will be facilitated by the use of a real-time, object-oriented software environment utilizing graphical simulations for off-line software development. An innovative dual VMEbus controller architecture permits an open software environment while accommodating the closed nature of most commercial robot controllers. These agile features permit new products to be introduced with minimal downtime and system reconfiguration.     

Effect of Sodium Nitrite Concentration, Sodium Erythorbate and Storage Time on the Quality of Franks Manufactured from Mechanically Deboned Turkey

The effects of sodium nitrite (0-156 ppm), sodium erythorbate (0 or 550 ppm) and storage time (up to 10 wk at 4°C) were measured on the chemical and sensory properties of turkey franks formulated largely from mechanically deboned turkey (MDT), Residual nitrite in the finished product was proportional to that incorporated at time of formulation and was reduced by using small initial amounts in combination with the maximum allowable erythorbate (550 ppm). Acceptable cured color in turkey franks was achieved with the incorporation of 50 ppm of nitrite. Erythorbate effectively increased cured color development and stability, particularly with smaller amounts of nitrite. Rancidity development in turkey franks was not of major significance. Even so, the presence of erythorbate imposed further control of oxidative changes in lipids. Maximum cured flavor development occurred with 50–100 ppm nitrite.     

Influence of Freezing and Thawing on the Egg Vitelline Membrane

The original method finalized for this study was a direct comparison of the isotheimic dehydration rate between two membrane samples, one subjected to a freezing-thawing cycle, the other being untreated control. Freezing entailed irreversible modifications in the properties of the vitelline membrane of the hen's egg as indicated by a significant increase in the water absorption capacity; an accelerated drying rate; and a marked decrease in the water retention capacity. Through this method, the cryoprotective action of glycerol at the membrane level was also demonstrated.