A review of robust design methods for multiple responses

Problems in engineering design often involve determining design variable settings to optimize individual product performance for multiple criteria, which are often in conflict. We review mathematically rigorous techniques from the statistical literature for finding a vector x of design variable settings, which produces an optimal compromise solution among a group of prioritized response variables. The best compromise solution is typically gained by optimizing an objective function, which incorporates the prioritized demands of multiple responses. Since most multi-response objective functions are constructed by combining the functions used to optimize univariate responses, a review of the prominent univariate approaches is presented first. A multivariate approach from the engineering literature called the compromise Decision Support Problem is also reviewed. Finally a table comparing the relative merits of the different multivariate approaches summarizes the article in a concise and user-friendly fashion.     

HIV training and perceived competence among doctoral students in psychology.

A training-needs assessment was conducted at California School of Professional Psychology, Berkeley/Alameda, on students' beliefs about clinical competence, past training in HIV issues, and future training needs at the school. They perceived themselves to be somewhat competent in providing clinical services to HIV patients and members of groups at high risk for HIV. A modest correlation was found between the students' total HIV training and perceived competence, but none was found between the multicultural emphasis in HIV education and their perceived competence. These findings suggest an ethical dilemma surrounding inadequately trained psychologists providing services to multicultural populations. Ethical issues concerning training standards and criteria for clinical competency are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Raman spectra of Graphon carbon black

The Raman spectrum of Graphon carbon black has been recorded using rotating cell techniques. Angular dependence of scattering at 1360, 1580 and 2700 cm^?1 are reported and these data suggest that the 1360 cm^?1 line is associated with non-planar microstructure distortions. The excitation frequency dependence of the intensity ratio of the bands at 1360 (D) and 1580 cm^?1 (G) is interpreted in terms of resonance (vibronic) interaction. This dependence is primarily the result of an increase in the intensity of the 1360 cm ^?1 line. The disorder-associated line (D) exhibits a significant excitation-dependent shift from 1378 cm^i?1 (457.9 nm Ar⁺) to 1330 cm^?1 (647.1 nm Kr⁺). The “graphite” (G) line position is less sensitive to changes in excitation frequency. The spectral features are discussed in terms of factor group, C_6v⁴, and layer site symmetry, C_3v. Also the possible role of localized alkene-like structure in zones of structural distortion is considered.     

Transferring information from one experiment to another

This paper presents a rational method (based on Bayes' Theorem) for transferring information on parameter values from one experiment to another, in situations where the mathematical models for the two experiments share some parameters in common. The uncertainty in the estimates of the parameters, which reflects the experimental error in the initial experiment, is properly transferred as well. The use of the method is demonstrated by applying it to a fairly complicated system, typical in chemical reaction engineering, in which the kinetic parameters in a model for the hydrogenolysis of butane reaction were estimated using data obtained from a bench-scale, integral packed-bed reactor. These parameter estimates were then transferred to a model for a fluidized bed reactor in which the same chemical reaction occurred. Using the fluidized bed data they were updated and two additional parameters in the fluidized bed model were also estimated. This procedure allows a more realistic estimate of the uncertainty in all parameter values in the model for the fluidized bed reactor.     

In situ polymerization and nano‐templating phenomenon in nylon fiber/PMMA composite laminates

Supercritical Carbon Dioxide (SC CO₂) is used as a reaction/processing medium in the fabrication of fiber‐reinforced composite materials. SC CO₂ allows resin (reactive monomer), to penetrate inside the fibers themselves, partitioning into the amorphous regions of the fiber. The crystal structure then templates polymerization of matrix within the fiber. This process produces a composite that exhibits ultralong‐range order from the nanoscale reinforcement of crystals to the macroscale fiber reinforcement of matrix. In addition, SC CO₂ lowers resin viscosity and aids in wetting out Nylon 6,6 fiber reinforcement in a process similar to reaction injection molding (RIM) or resin transfer molding (RTM). This article will discuss the fabrication technique in detail, including process parameters and the structure of resulting composites and morphology of modified fibers. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 88: 1600–1607, 2003     

ELECTROKINETIC EFFECTS: CARBONIC ANHYDRASE AND CO2 ELECTRODE DYNAMICS

It is well known that the dynamic response rate of the Severinghaus-type CO₂ electrode is improved significantly in some cases by addition of the enzyme carbonic anhydrase to the electrode assembly. Hysteresis in the response rate also is reduced. Experimental data and modelling results indicate that catalysis of the CO₂ hydration reaction in the bulk of the bicarbonate layer (the Nernst film) is not responsible for the improved response behavior, Evidence is presented to show that catalysis in the electrostatic double layer region at the glass electrode surface is a possible explanation. This proposed phenomenon may have widespread implications for the optimal design of analytical devices, commercial processes involving electrochemical phenomena, and may also provide insight into electrobiologi-cal processes.     

Transparent,methacrylate-based polymer networks with controlled crosslinker ductility

A series of transparent methacrylate-based crosslinked polymer networks are prepared in which the crosslinker length is controlled as a means to investigate the effects of network ductility on mechanical and ballistic properties. In each network the optical clarity of pure poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) is retained, as well as a low value of haze. Both the glass transition temperature (T_g) and the tensile modulus of the networks are highly tunable, with network values both above and well below that of pure PMMA or the pure crosslinker network. The ballistic performance is likewise affected, with performance values of up to 400% greater than neat PMMA. We examine the effects of the crosslinker molecular weight on the impact performance, finding that, in these systems, the molecular weight between crosslinks is not a driving factor for the impact performance, and this may broadly translate to polymer networks in general. We find that improvements in ballistic performance can be realized at low molecular weight between crosslinks, provided the crosslinking agent is of sufficient ductility.     

Access and service convergence over the mobile internet – A survey

Next generation heterogeneous wireless networks are expected to interwork with Internet Protocol (IP)-based infrastructures. Conventional network services operate like silos in that a specific set of services are offered over a specific type of access network. It is desirable for users to be able to roam between fixed and mobile networks that employ different access technologies. Therefore, mobility management with quality of service (QoS) support is of particular importance and one of the driving forces of convergence. Since service providers often provide more than one service to their subscribers, it is important to facilitate convergence of network charging architecture through a common charging framework. One of the main issues of IP-based convergence is security and privacy. This requires coordination of different security policies in diverse networks that have different security levels and capabilities. The business case for migration to an IP-based platform motivates operators to deliver more powerful services for customers as well as a better user experience. This paper provides an overview of converged mobile Internet architectures and their implications on QoS, charging/billing and security, as well as emerging business models for telecommunication services.     

Vehicle Teleoperation Interfaces

Despite advances in autonomy, there will always be a need for human involvement in vehicle teleoperation. In particular, tasks such as exploration, reconnaissance and surveillance will continue to require human supervision, if not guidance and direct control. Thus, it is critical that the operator interface be as efficient and as capable as possible. In this paper, we provide an overview of vehicle teleoperation and present a summary of interfaces currently in use.