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Abstract: The aim of the study is to model and to simulate the thermal and electrical efficiencies of the cogeneration plant of a paper mill. The final purpose is the benefits optimization by adjusting production to the amount of energy to be sold. It is necessary to know it because the sale price goes down when the actual production of electrical energy does not match the scheduled power. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this paper, we address some computational challenges arising in complex simulation-based design optimization problems. High computational cost, black-box formulation and stochasticity are some of the challenges related to optimization of design problems involving the simulation of complex mathematical models. Solving becomes even more challenging in case of multiple conflicting objectives that must be optimized simultaneously. In such cases, application of multiobjective optimization methods is necessary in order to gain an understanding of which design offers the best possible trade-off. We apply a three-stage solution process to meet the challenges mentioned above. As our case study, we consider the integrated design and control problem in paper mill design where the aim is to decrease the investment cost and enhance the quality of paper on the design level and, at the same time, guarantee the smooth performance of the production system on the operational level. In the first stage of the three-stage solution process, a set of solutions involving different trade-offs is generated with a method suited for computationally expensive multiobjective optimization problems using parallel computing. Then, based on the generated solutions an approximation method is applied to create a computationally inexpensive surrogate problem for the design problem and the surrogate problem is solved in the second stage with an interactive multiobjective optimization method. This stage involves a decision maker and her/his preferences to find the most preferred solution to the surrogate problem. In the third stage, the solution best corresponding that of stage two is found for the original problem. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] Estimation of GHG emission and energy consumption in wastewater treatment plants. [•] On-site and off-site emissions of carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide. [•] Higher GHG emission in anaerobic and hybrid plants due to higher CH4 generation. [•] Recovery and use of biogas satisfy the energy demands of treatment systems. [•] Higher off-site than on-site GHG emissions due to the use of fuel and material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Through sampling reed in Shuangtai estuary wetland in April, 2009 and simulation test in Shenyang Agricultural University, we analyze the removal efficiency of Cu, Zn, Pb and Cd during different growth period of reed and distribution of them in various parts of reed. The results show that the removal efficiency is best in jointing stage, the removal of Pb largest with 21% increase and 30% in sprout and exhibition leaf period, the removal of Zn largest with 53% and 29% increase in jointing stage and the maturity period, the removal of Cd largest with 40% increase in the different growing season. The absorption amount of Cu, Zn, Pb and Cd in roots of reed reaches maximum during the growth, followed by in stems and in leaves. Absorptive capacity in the whole plant for Cu, Zn, Pb and Cd exists extremely significant difference (p <0.01). The order is Pb>Zn>Cu>Cd. The absorption in root is higher than in stems and in leaves (p <0.05), but Zn and Cd absorption amount has no significant differences in stems and leaves (p >0.05). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Compared to traditional steel metering blades commonly used in paper coating operations, ‘soft-tip’ metering blades have received considerably less attention. The research presented herein concerns computationally detailing the characteristics of deformation and deflection in soft-tipped blades under the influence of coating colour flow. Multiphysics simulations were conducted to assess the interrelationships between deflection, deformation, blade length and material properties. Localised plastic deformation in the soft-tip material may be manipulated by adjusting the material properties and geometries of the tip material alongside variables such as; the free blade length, the speed and the properties of the incoming coating. Design of soft-tip materials with respect to these factors may make it easier to achieve a desired blade tip and hence, coating characteristic. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Understanding the effects of water absorption on the geometry of a paper sheet is important for inkjet printing applications, since internal moisture content differences may cause unacceptable out-of-plane deformations. The present work focuses on moisture-induced deformations due to a moisture content that is uniform over the thickness of the sheet. Large enough in-plane differences will cause the sheet to buckle, leading to a wavy pattern at the edges of the sheet. Two approaches are utilized to study this for levels of moisture content up to and including the threshold for buckling. An analytical approach, based on geometrically nonlinear plate theory (von Kármán theory), and a numerical one, using commercially available finite element software, are presented. As a first reference problem an isotropic circular plate, wetted uniformly at its center, is solved both analytically and numerically for the in-plane stress distribution, the buckling threshold, and the resulting buckling mode. Secondly, the same is done for an orthotropic rectangular plate, wetted at its edges. Here, in the analytical approach a Rayleigh–Ritz analysis is employed to approximate the buckling threshold. The latter is also calculated by numerical means. The results show that the methods provide results consistent with each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Much literature exists for rock-paper-scissors (RPS) game. It is well known in a single habitat that spatial models are more stable than well-mixed population. However, the mechanism of spatial stabilization has been unclear. In the present article, we study multilayer model of RPS game in a patchy environment; respective patches are set as lattices. The predation probability of one of three species is assumed to be reduced as a parameter. Simulations on two-layer system reveal the opposite result to those on a single-habitat system. Namely, the well-mixed population becomes stable. In contrast, extinction occurs by random migration in spatially-explicit model, when the reduced predation probability is below a certain critical value. The extinction in spatial model is found to be caused by the collapse of a kind of swarm intelligence (SI). In RPS system, large swarms of each species are automatically protected from its predator. Such a self-organized protection is one of the simplest examples of SI. We also discuss some serious problems for random migration. • Spatial pattern of rock, paper and scissors are studied in patchy environment. • A distinct point of the present paper is to set lattices as respective patches. • We illustrate that biodiversity is sustained by a kind of "swarm intelligence". • Large swarms of each species are automatically protected from its predator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Robust functional form contains true parameters far more often than popular models. • Matches/outperforms widely used regression and Neural Network models. • Finds appropriate balance between Model Fit, Inference and Prediction (MIPs). • Introduces new large-sample DGP test; can use to improve A.I. models. • For MIS field finds Popularity Parameter to be important for predicting citations. This article introduces a versatile functional form for Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) through a simple, yet effective, transformation of the current framework. The models are applied through a new hierarchical bayesian estimation procedure for logistic regression to highly-cited papers in the Management Information Systems (MIS) field. The results are uniformly better, in regards to model fit and inference for in-sample and out-of-sample data, for simulation studies and real-world data applications, requiring very little time to convergence to true population parameters. In simulation studies, I show that the method contains the true parameters nearly three times as often as widely used existing GLMs, and does so while having confidence intervals that are 54.50% smaller, while requiring around two-thirds the number of MCMC iterations as existing bayesian methods. In Scientometric applications the methodology is shown to be highly robust with predictive/classification accuracy, either equaling or exceeding existing methods for identifying highly-cited articles including Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). Thus, the method is shown to be robust to the amount of asymmetry (or symmetry) of the probability of success (or failure) and robust to unbalanced samples and varying Data Generating Processes. Further, the methodology is equivalent to current methods if the data support them and is therefore complementary to existing methods, without loss of interpretability of model parameters. For the MIS field it finds that Popularity Parameter (PP) of an article Keywords can predict whether a paper will be highly-cited (top 25% of highly-cited articles) between two to three years after publication and beyond. Furthermore, given the small number of iterations needed for convergence, the methodology can also be used as a baseline method in Big Data (BD) settings for both Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) contexts as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Depending on unique operation characteristics for voltage applied on valve side winding of the converter transformers, it is extraordinarily significant to study the partial discharge (PD) behavior with oil-paper insulation under combined AC–DC voltage. Therefore, this paper investigated PD inception characteristics by pulse current methods with needle-plate electrode system under combined AC–DC voltage. Furthermore, 3D electric field distributions versus combined AC–DC voltage in different ratios were calculated by Finite Element Analysis (FEA). An experimental conclusion was drew that AC partial discharge inception voltage (PDIV) in pure oil would decrease linearly with the DC component increasing but the inception voltage with oil-paper insulation appeared to be independent of DC voltage and dependent of AC voltage. And 3D electric field distribution deduced from simulation provided a supplementary proof on the experimental results. Moreover, high speed photography was used to capture emitted light produced by discharge, estimate streamer velocity (1.8 km/s) and record streamer initiation and propagation process in oil gap. Previous studies have shown that the prebreakdown phenomena involving the generation and propagation of vapor channels through the oil could be divided into a three-stage process. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Recycling activities have demonstrated a remarkable increase over the last decade due to the economic and environmental dimensions of sustainability. In particular, capacity planning in production facilities has become a strategic issue of key importance affecting the profitability of the recycling industry. By integrating the simulation discipline and the feedback control theory into a dynamic consideration of recycling networks, this paper proposes a System Dynamics (SD) model for strategic capacity planning in the recycling industry. The decision-making process is based on a balanced tradeoff between profit and capacity utilization for a single producer with closed-loop recycling activities. The SD model captures physical stocks and flows apparent in real-world recycling networks and includes the feedback mechanisms which regulate these flows. When used as an “experimental tool”, the model tests alternative capacity planning policies and demonstrates policy suggestions for the forward and reverse channels, which maximize profitability over a strategic planning horizon. This experimentation is illustrated by using data from a paper producer with recycling activities, as a real-world test case. Extensive simulation runs, investigate the efficiency of a wide range capacity acquisition decisions, using total company profit as the measure of performance. Although such an analysis may differ from one recycling network to another, it has been kept as generic as possible to facilitate its applicability to a wide-spectrum of real-world local, regional or global networks. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A wide range of mathematical models for multiple effect evaporators in process industry including paper industry are well reported in the literature but not so extensive work on the dynamic behavior of MEE system is available in the literature. In the present study dynamic behavior of multi-effect evaporator system of a paper industry is obtained by disturbing the feed flow rate, feed concentration, live steam temperature and feed temperature. For this purpose an unsteady-state model for the multi-effect evaporator system is developed. Each effect in the process is represented by a number of variables which are related by the energy and material balance equations for the feed, product and vapor flow. A generalized mathematical model which could be applied to any number of effects and all kinds of feeding arrangements like forward feed, backward feed, mixed feed and spilt feed in the MEE system with simple modifications was finally obtained. Finally model for mixed feed sextuple effect falling film evaporators system was solved using MATLAB. For the steady state and dynamic simulation the ‘fsolve’ and ‘ode45’ solvers in MATLAB source code is used respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A three-dimensional model of the steam ejector heat pump for the dryer section of the paper machine was developed by applying the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) technique, which provided the pressure and velocity distributions of fluid flow in heat pump. The results indicated that the fluid velocity field in heat pump has an incomplete axially symmetrical distribution. The entrainment ratio of the heat pump initially increases rapidly with the increase of the ejected steam inlet pressure and then decreases after the inlet pressure exceeds one certain value. There exists a critical value for the mixed fluid pressure under the given operating conditions. The optimal ratio of the diameter of constant area mixing section to the steam nozzle throat diameter is about 3.4 and the optimal ratio of length to diameter of constant area mixing section L/D m is 6. An optimal divergence angle of diffuser was observed under different diffuser length. There is an optimized steam nozzle position under the given operating condition where the maximum of entrainment ratio was observed. The CFD technique is found to be an efficient alternative to predict the ejector performance and the conclusions of the research can provide a beneficial reference for structural optimization design of ejector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Costa''s dirty paper coding (DPC) offers a good framework for precoding for transmission over additive Gaussian channels with additive states non-causally known at the transmitter but not at the receiver. In this paper, rate calculation, error probability analysis and code design for DPC are investigated from a practical point-of-view. Based on Monte-Carlo numerical integration and simulations, we first show that the gap to the full AWGN capacity can be partially bridged using some finite-dimensional lattices with good packing and quantizing properties. Then the difficult problem of codebook selection is addressed through some illustrative examples. Analysis sheds light on the dual roles of “packing” and “shaping” as well as on their inter-connection at finite-dimensional coding, by opposition to the asymptotic case (i.e., infinite dimension) where the two coding components are decoupled. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Capillary pressures in a carbon paper gas diffusion layer (GDL) having hydrophilic and hydrophobic pores of a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) are investigated by both lattice Boltzmann simulations and experimental measurements. The simulated and measured capillary pressures as a function of water saturation for water drainage and imbibition processes in the GDL are presented and compared. It is shown that the pore-scale simulated drainage and imbibition capillary pressure curves are in good agreement with that obtained by experiment, both indicating the coexistence of hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties in the polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) treated carbon paper GDLs. The fitted capillary pressure curves, obtained from this paper, can provide more accurate predictions of the capillary pressure in carbon paper GDLs with non-uniform porosity and wettability than the standard Leverett–Udell relationship which was obtained for soil with more uniform porosity and wettability. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] A dynamic model for longitudinal vibration assisted guillotining of paper is developed. [•] Empirical model of a stack of thin paper material is identified. [•] Novel measurement procedure for determining dynamic behavior for ultrasonic assisted cutting is developed. [•] Simulated cutting forces are in agreement with the experimentally recorded cutting forces. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Cellulose partially converted to dialcohol cellulose has been identified as a potential breakthrough material for the production of bio-based, complex, double-curved surfaces due to its extensive strain-at-break characteristics (reaching as great as 80% in tensile loading). Tensile testing of handsheets made from modified cellulose fibers was conducted from 50 to 90% relative humidity (RH) and from 23 to 150 °C. Strain-at-break of the handsheets ranged from 35 to 80% over this humidity and temperature range, which is significantly greater than typical cellulose-based materials. The combined effect of moisture and temperature was further investigated by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, which was utilized to determine the glass-transition temperature of the handsheets as a function of relative humidity. Based on the tensile test results and verified by the three-dimensional (3-D) forming and simulation, a forming limit diagram (strain-based failure surface which describes and illustrates the formability of the material) for the handsheets was generated. This forming limit illustrates significant extent to which this bio-based material can be 3-D formed into advanced structures. Furthermore, temperature was identified as the best, quickest, and most controllable method of improving extensibility of this material during 3-D forming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study investigated the effects of bending curvature of simulated e-paper displays (−10cm, plane and 10cm) and ambient illuminance (50, 500, 6000 and 12,000lx) on the visual performance of young and elderly users for simulated electronic-paper displays. In total, 24 people comprising 12 young and 12 elderly users participated in this study. Young users demonstrated significantly enhanced visual performance using the simulated electrophoretic ink (E ink) e-paper display with ambient illuminance set at 50 and 500lx; however, participants did not demonstrate significantly different visual performance using the 2 simulated e-paper displays with ambient illuminance set at 6000 and 12,000lx. The bending curvature did not exhibit significant effects on the visual performance of young participants under various ambient illuminances. The elderly participants exhibited significantly enhanced visual performance using the simulated E ink e-paper display only when ambient illuminance was set at 50lx; however, participants did not exhibit significantly different visual performance using the two simulated e-paper displays with ambient illuminance set at other levels. Elderly users exhibited significantly enhanced visual performance when the bending curvature was set at 10cm, with ambient illuminance set at 50lx. Elderly users also demonstrated significantly enhanced visual performance under bending curvature settings of 10cm and plane, with ambient illuminance set at 500lx. However, the bending curvature of the simulated e-paper did not exhibit significant effects on the visual performance of elderly participants under ambient illuminance settings of 6000 and 12,000lx. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We describe a method for characterization of the microstructure of a paper, in terms of the statistical distribution of the effective radii and lengths of the channels between the paper''s fibers, and the average coordination numbers that characterize the connectivity of such channels, both in the main planes of the paper and in the transverse direction perpendicular to these planes. The microstructure of the paper is then represented by a three-dimensional network of interconnected flow channels between the fibers. The geometrical characteristics of the channels, such as their effective radii and lengths, are selected from the statistical distributions obtained by the characterization method, as are the two average coordination numbers. Extensive computer simulations are carried out to compute the effective permeability tensor of the paper, and to investigate the effect of the various microstructural parameters on the tensor. These simulations indicate that the two average coordination numbers, as well as the spatial distribution of the fibers and their length, strongly influence the flow properties of a paper. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A new two-dimensional network model is proposed as a micromechanics model to simulate paper’s failure process due to sequentially breakages of fibers and/or bonds. Paper is approximated as a network composed of fibers any two of which link to each other by their intersecting point, namely so-called bond. Fibers distribute along three particular directions, leading to network’s macro-level isotropy. In the framework of finite element method, nodes correspond to fiber-to-fiber bonds, while elements are fiber segments between every two neighboring nodes and described by Timoshenko beam theory. Element breaks when its equivalent internal tensile stress reaches the tensile strength of fiber. Strength of nodes, i.e. fiber-to-fiber bonds is assumed to be dependant on shearing interaction between fibers, considering the dominant interaction is shearing in a plane problem. Numerical examples show the model’s capacity of reflecting basic failure characteristic in paper. Influences of fiber length and the ratio of fiber strength to bond strength are analyzed in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Two categories of mathematical models were compared for the simulation of consolidation of paper coating structures, that is for the packing of pigments on a paper substrate under dewatering conditions. The first category uses probabilistic methods, relying on a random number generator to either determine the initial position of the pigments or their motion. The second category uses deterministic methods based on force balances. In this work, two probabilistic models and two deterministic models are described and their respective advantages and drawbacks are critically reviewed. Simulation results obtained using three of these methods are compared for the case of monodisperse and bidisperse spherical suspensions. Porosity calculations of the numerical packings obtained with the (deterministic) discrete element method (DEM) and two probabilistic methods, the Monte-Carlo (MCD) and the steepest descent (SDD) deposition methods, are compared with experimental data from the literature. These calculations reveal significant differences in the pore volume obtained with these three models. An analysis based on the bridging and relaxation phenomena that prevail in the flow of such particulate systems provide an explanation for these differences and show the strong potential of the discrete element method. The choice of the simulation method depends on the objective of the simulations. DEM will provide more accurate predictions of macroscopic quantities such as the porosity or the roughness, but requires very long computational times. MCD or SDD will only provide qualitative trends, but is computationally far less intense. A combination of strategies might be appropriate, using MCD (or SDD) to provide guidelines and DEM to enhance the results predicted by MCD. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Paper is a stochastic network of fibres, water and additives, and in that sense it may be envisaged as a composite material. Since fibres are much longer than the thickness of the paper sheet, the network is planar and almost two-dimensional. The two-dimensional structure governs many paper properties but the three-dimensional porous structure is also important. Insight into the structural changes that take place when paper is compressed in the paper machine may be gained by modelling and simulation of its viscoelastoplastic behaviour. The present work describes a mathematical model based on the cellular solids theory, characterising the nonlinear rheologic behaviour of the material. This approach results in an unsteady state problem and the resulting set of ODEs is solved by means of the DLSODES subroutine, which uses an integrator based in the Gear method. Experiments were conducted on a laboratory-scale dynamic press in order to validate the mechanical model. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Extensive computer simulations have been carried out to model imbibition of a coating fluid into a paper. The microstructure of the paper''s pore space is represented by a network of interconnected channels or pore throats that are formed between the paper''s fibers. The geometrical characteristics of the channels, such as their effective radius and length, as well as their connectivity, are selected from the experimental data presented in Part II of this series. The imbibition process that we simulate is the result of forcing the coating fluid into the pore space by applying a time-dependent flow-driven pressure distribution to the external surface of the paper, or is driven only by capillary forces. The dynamic pressure distribution is representative of a high-speed coating process. The simulations indicate that the connectivity of the pore throats, the anisotropic structure of the paper''s pore space, and the dynamic pressure distribution all have a strong influence on imbibition of a coating fluid into a paper''s pore space and, hence, on the quality of the coating. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Among all public buildings, on account of their educational purpose, school buildings have a major social responsibility. Therefore energy performance in this type of building is of great importance. The overall purpose of this research is to achieve a functional benchmarking, based on the real operation conditions of school buildings, by the exploitation of the results made public, through an intensive literature survey on energy consumptions in schools. The survey was made to gather data that is relative to energy consumption in school buildings, documented in the most diverse fields and units: global energy consumption values, electrical energy consumption; fuel consumption for heating, energy data consumption of schools expressed in annual cost per unit of heated/cooled surface area ($/m 2 ) or per unit of heated/cooled volume ($/m 3 ) or, finally, as the annual cost per student ($/student). The literature was analyzed to determine if a worldwide comparison among the published data could be established. The results suggest that when attempting to determine an energy benchmark some considerations should not be forgotten: standard indoor environmental conditions (IEC) for classrooms (set-point for indoor operative temperature of 20 °C in winter and 26 °C in summer as suggested in EN 15251:2007), electrical and heating consumption values should be kept separately, different education levels usually require different energy consumption values. A good way to normalize heating energy consumption is going through a climatic adjustment based on Heating Degree Days (HDD). For an impartial data comparison, based either on an operating rating or on a simulation carried out for reference conditions, benchmark reference values should be expressed in terms of billed energy data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper deals with a perfectly continuously monitored system which gradually and stochastically deteriorates. The system is renewed by a delayed maintenance operation, which is triggered when the measured deterioration level exceeds an alarm threshold. A mathematical model is developed to study the asymptotic behavior of the reliability function. A procedure is proposed which allows us to identify the asymptotic failure rate of the maintained system. Numerical experiments illustrate the efficiency of the proposed procedure and emphasize the relevance of the asymptotic failure rate as an interesting indicator for the evaluation of the control-limit preventive replacement policy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We study a novel five-species system on two-dimensional lattices when each species have two superior and two inferior partners. Here we simplify the huge parameter space of predation probability to only two parameters. Both of Monte Carlo simulation and Mean Field Theory reveal that two of strategies may die out when the ratio of the two parameters is close to the golden point 0.618, and the remaining three strategies are provided a cyclic dominance system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We prove a theorem for the existence of solutions to a variational problem, under assumptions that do not require the convexity of the integrand. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We study the deviations for the results of the properties of a hard-sphere gas near the walls of a micro/nano channel using the hybrid MD–MC simulation method compared to the pure MD and MC results. Our model for the micro channel consists of two parallel infinite plates situated at distance L apart from each other, and of gas molecules confined between these two walls. We study the dependence of the deviations for higher densities, considering different lengths of the different simulation domains in the hybrid MD–MC method. We find that when density is increased, the deviations in the pure MC results are increasing compared to pure MD results. The deviations in the hybrid simulation results are decreasing and are very small when increasing the width of the solid–gas interface. The deviations of the pure MC simulation results from the pure MD simulation results for the number density are found to be around 0.9%, when the reduced density and the width of the channel , where λ is the mean free path. When the hybrid method is used, the deviations are decreasing with a factor from two to three, and are between 0.32%–0.42%. For more dense gas (), the deviations of the MC simulation results for the number density are found to be 1.71%, and the deviations of the hybrid MD–MC simulation results between 0.246% and 0.6977%. We discuss how these deviations in case of a dense gas () depend on the width of the interface, and we study it for the case when the MD domain is 10% and MC domain is 90% from the simulation domain, and also for the case when the MD domain is 50% and MC domain 50% from the whole simulation domain. For more dilute gas, the MC, MD and hybrid MC–MD simulations are in very good agreement and the deviations are negligible. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Response to discussion of paper "Numerical generation of inflow turbulence by cell perturbation technique in WRF simulation" by Munoz-Esparza et al. Inflow turbulence generation, Cell perturbation, Atmospheric boundary layers. [Extracted from the article]

Discussion of paper "Numerical generation of inflow turbulence by cell perturbation technique in WRF simulation" by Singh et al. (2020). Inflow turbulence generation, Large-eddy simulation, Cell perturbation method, Atmospheric boundary layers. [Extracted from the article]

Integrated geographic modelling and simulation is a computational means to improve understanding of the environment. With the development of Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) and web technologies, it is possible to conduct open, extensible integrated geographic modelling across a network in which resources can be accessed and integrated, and further distributed geographic simulations can be performed. This open web-distributed modelling and simulation approach is likely to enhance the use of existing resources and can attract diverse participants. With this approach, participants from different physical locations or domains of expertise can perform comprehensive modelling and simulation tasks collaboratively. This paper reviews past integrated modelling and simulation systems, highlighting the associated development challenges when moving to an open web-distributed system. A conceptual framework is proposed to introduce a roadmap from a system design perspective, with potential use cases provided. The four components of this conceptual framework - a set of standards, a resource sharing environment, a collaborative integrated modelling environment, and a distributed simulation environment - are also discussed in detail with the goal of advancing this emerging field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper we describe electrophoresis of charged particles in a thin layer of a nonpolar liquid between two insulating substrates because this configuration is common in recently developed in-plane electronic paper. In the in-plane electrophoresis experiments a model system of charged inverse micelles in dodecane has been used which is well understood from studies of out-of-plane electrophoresis. The transient current due to drift and diffusion of charged inverse micelles is measured in thin in-plane devices upon application of a voltage step. For the modelling of the transient dynamics of charged inverse micelles without chemical reactions or convection a 1-dimensional approximation of the Poisson–Nernst–Planck (PNP) equations is developed. This approximation is valid for a sufficiently thin in-plane device and allows much faster calculations. Firstly, it is verified in the case of a sufficiently thin in-plane device and high applied voltage that the 1-dimensional approximation is in good agreement with the solution of the full 2-dimensional PNP equations with finite elements implementation. Then, the 1-dimensional approximation is used to study the transient current and trajectories of trace amounts of charged colloidal particles in different regimes depending on the screening of the electric field. Also a comparison is made to the well-studied case of out-of-plane electrophoresis. Finally, it is verified that for voltages much larger than the thermal voltage the experimental results are in good agreement with the 1-dimensional approximation, indicating that the charge transport dynamics of charged inverse micelles in the bulk are described well by the model. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] Lignosulfonate is the main by-product in the sulfite process of making paper pulp. [•] Lignosulfonate has sulfonic groups, which do not exist in the lignin. [•] Adsorption of urea on sulfonic group was researched by ab initio calculations. [•] Sulfonic groups have stronger interaction with urea molecules than hydroxyl groups. [•] Water molecules promote desorption of urea on lignosulfonate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper compares and analyzes the present situation and the key technology of the research on the impact loading of the automobile seat at home and abroad, and analyzes the concrete problems existing in the research of the automobile seat in our country at present, this paper puts forward the new principle of impact loading of automobile seat, explains the loading process of impact loading principle in detail, constructs the mathematical model of loading principle and simulates and analyzes the loadability, the hydraulic system of the impact loading system of the automobile seat is designed in detail, and the hydraulic loading process of the automobile seat is refined, the simulation and test of the integrated performance of the vehicle seat impact loading system are carried out, which validates the feasibility of the design and lays a solid foundation for the next development of the entity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prosperity of e-commerce has made our lives more convenient, but the logistics behind it has been silently paying. The e-commerce industry is expanding at an unprecedented rate, and with it comes explosive growth in logistics demand, especially in the warehouse distribution link. In order to meet this demand, the warehouse distribution system needs to be improved both in terms of technology and efficiency. This rapid development also brings a series of problems. First of all is the problem of logistics congestion. Due to the surge in orders, especially during peak shopping periods, logistics centers are often under great pressure. This not only affects the speed of delivery, but can also lead to damage or loss of goods. The purpose of this paper is to find an effective method to optimize the logistics warehouse allocation system of e-commerce, and to provide an efficient and reliable logistics optimization scheme for e-commerce enterprises. In this paper, data analysis and simulation methods are used to analyze. The experimental results show that PSO has the largest improvement in the order clerk operation efficiency (13%) and the smallest improvement in the order status (1%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of the San Gavain hydroelectric power station diversion tunnel project in Peru, this paper studies the surrounding rock instability mechanism using a combination of numerical simulation methods and model test and presents the enclosing rock instability criterion based on the catastrophe model. The study demonstrates that the distribution of stress and displacement during tunnel excavation is more affected by the presence of laminated joints; the thinner the layer thickness, the more prominent the influence of laminations, and the higher the deformation of the surrounding rock. With the increase in layer thickness, the resultant displacement shows the law of gradual decrease; when the layer thickness is greater than 16 cm, the rate of decrease gradually slows down, and the maximum displacement is 0.201 mm. The failure mode of the layered perimeter rock tunnel with a 45° inclination angle primarily shows up as tensile deformation at the left arch shoulder and shear slip deformation at the right arch foot under the combined action of blasting disturbance load and excavation. Based on the instability analysis of the fold catastrophe model and cups catastrophe model, the influence of bending deformation between layers of surrounding rock is generally greater than shear slip deformation. The instability criterion Δ＜0 exists in all working conditions, bending instability damage may occur in all cases. When the layer thickness is greater than 24 cm, the shear slip instability criterion is greater than zero for 0–2 ms, and the system is always in a stable state, and when the layer thickness is less than 24 cm, the system may be destabilized at 1.5 ms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pre-cooling for refueling high-pressure hydrogen not only avoids safety hazards but also extends the driving range of vehicles. In this paper, a simulation model for hydrogen refueling with a compact heat exchanger is developed to analyze the dynamic process in HRS with three-stage storage tanks. According to the simulated results, the hydrogen temperature at the heat exchanger's outlet is greatly influenced by the mass flow rate and the inlet temperature. The pre-cooling duration is a feasible method to save energy. Moreover, optimization discussions about the pre-cooling temperature and the pre-cooling duration have been carried out for the sake of the low final gas temperature, high SOC, and minimum energy consumption. If the ambient temperature decreases by 10 K, the optimal pre-cooling temperature could be adjusted to increase by 4 K. And if the initial vessel pressure increases by 2 MPa, the optimal pre-cooling duration could be shortened by 10 s. [Display omitted] • A refueling simulation model considering a heat exchanger model has been developed in a HRS with cascade storage system. • The hydrogen temperature at the heat exchanger's outlet is predicted and analyzed. • Impacts of pre-cooling duration on final gas temperature and energy consumption have been discussed. • The optimal pre-cooling temperature could increase by 4 K–6 K if the ambient temperature increases by 10 K. • The pre-cooling duration at the initial stage could be optimized by 10 s if the initial vessel pressure increases by 2 MPa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a quick convergence adaptive structure is proposed for trajectory tracking of an articulated type robotic manipulator using the Hardware in the Loop (HIL) simulation technique. A novel Nonlinear Quick Convergence Adaptive Sliding Backstepping Control (QCASBC) algorithm is implemented on a C2000 real-time controller board. The performance of the proposed control algorithm is inspected concerning the sliding mode PID (SM-PID) control technique to estimate its correlation with the proposed algorithm. The experimental part of the HIL simulation tests has been carried out on a simulated model of a three-link serial robot manipulator. A dynamic model of the robotic manipulator has been developed using Matlab Simulink software and its performance is analyzed using the HIL technique via a C2000 real-time controller for tracking the desired trajectory. Results show that the speed of convergence while tracking the desired trajectory of the manipulator is better in the proposed algorithm. It is also estimated that the positional error of the QCASBC algorithm is superior to the SM-PID control algorithm. The observed average angle error is improved by 14% and the average response time error is improved by 11% by using the proposed QCASBC algorithm compared to the SM-PID approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increase in the number of vehicles on roads has compounded the difficulty in parking them when people go out for movies, shopping, theatre, etc. Thus, this paper proposes smart parking system. The reservation of the parking slots can be made using this proposed smart parking system. Unlike the methods proposed in the existing research, the system proposed in this paper divides the parking area into 3 parts. One for conventional parking, one for vehicles with reservation and the other for the vehicles with and without reservation. Learning automata is used in the proposed system to determine the percentage of the parking area for conventional parking. In general, the proportionate of the slots for reserved parking, conventional parking and common slots need to be assumed. Learning Automata helps in determining this proportionate optimally. The AES-256 encryption algorithm is used to provide security for the details provided by the user during reservation process. Goodput value is maintained for each vehicle which increases or decreases the chances of getting a reservation. The time limit for the reservation of the parking slot is also maintained after which the reservation gets cancelled automatically. Markov Model is used to represent the system. The performance of the proposed algorithm, Learning Automata and Reservation based Secure Smart Parking System (LA-RSSPS) is simulated and evaluated in terms of average waiting time, search time, the probability with which the vehicles do not get parking slot when they do not have reservation and the probability with which the vehicles do not get reservation and is compared with ProNet and iERS. Results have shown that our scheme preforms better than the ProNet and iERS competing schemes. The comparison of analytical and simulations results are also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Some of the limitations of the model recently used by Nicoleau in a recent article [Accelerated growth of calcium silicate hydrates: experiments and simulations, Cement Concr. Res. 21 (2011) 1339 -1348.] are discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Due to the complexity of open-channel networks in which a lengthy procedure is required to understand and analyze their behavior. This paper introduces a methodology for the skeletonization of complex tree-shaped open channel systems. The aim is to aggregate separate branches into one equivalent branch, which has a new skeletonization factor. Three different illustrative examples of river systems using two approaches are analyzed. The software package HEC-RAS is employed to simulate the proposed open channel networks as a one-dimensional steady, gradually varied flow state. Results show that there is a strong correlation between the skeletonization factor required for the equivalent branch and the flow rate of the equivalent branch. The skeletonization factor is also significantly affected by an increase in the ratio of the bed width of each branch canal to that of the main channel in Approach A. The water depth along the main channel has increased more significantly in approach B than in approach A, with average increases of 49.5 %, 29.2 %, and 14.1 % for a number of branches equal to 2, 4, and 6, respectively. Finally, the developed skeletonization concept can be used to represent complex open-channels network models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiphysics simulations of solid oxide cell (SOC) require extensive experience and can be labor intensive. This paper reports the first successful implementation of automated multiphysics simulation process for industrial-scale planar SOC stacks. The automation is realized through Python based Ansys SpaceClaim scripting for building geometric model, Python based Ansys Workbench Meshing scripting for setting numerical grids, and Scheme based Ansys Fluent TUI commands for performing multiphysics simulations. The model building process allows for customized dimensions of all stack components and the corresponding edge grid counts. The automation of simulations streamlines all the computational steps in multiphysics modeling. The multiphysics model is shown to agree well with the experimental data. The automated tool is illustrated in a parametric analysis of SOC operations, illuminating the influences of size, shape and thermal boundary on the stack performance. The automation makes the simulations simple and efficient, invaluable for the SOC design and operation analysis. • First realization of automated multiphysics modeling of production-scale SOC stacks. • Techniques for automated high-fidelity geometry model building and mesh creation. • Simulation of 6 different sized kW-scale stacks & with different thermal conditions. • Mechanism for the influences of stack size and shape on physical fields revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the widespread use of substation intelligent simulation systems, existing substation intelligent simulation systems have problems such as platform redundancy, system dispersion, and information sharing, which can lead to the insecurity of substation intelligent simulation systems. Therefore, this paper proposes a security operation analysis of substation intelligent simulation system based on improved genetic algorithms, aiming to improve the security of substation intelligent simulation system by using improved genetic algorithms. This paper experimentally tests that the number of vulnerabilities in a substation intelligent simulation system using improved genetic algorithms is between 0 and 20 within a month, while the number of vulnerabilities in a traditional substation intelligent simulation system is between 30 and 50, indicating that improved genetic algorithms do have the effect of improving the safety coefficient of the substation intelligent simulation system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present paper, discrete element method (DEM) was employed to investigate the effect of pigment morphology on packing dynamics and compressive behavior of paper coating layers in calendering process. Spherical, platy, and needle-like particles, representing GCC, delaminated clay, and aragonite PCC pigments, were considered in this study. For each particle shape, the compression of coating structures formed by mono-sized and poly-dispersed pigments were modeled. Stress–strain behavior of the coating layers and in-plane and out-of-plane movements of the pigment particles during the compression were computed under the same maximum compressive stress. Simulation results revealed that the in-plane movements of the pigment particles during compression in the calender nip were small in magnitude (<0.35μm). These findings help to better understand the smoothening phenomena of coating structures during the calendering process. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this work, published experimental result data of the pulping of tagasaste (Chamaecytisus proliferus L.F.) with soda and anthraquinone (AQ) have been used to develop a model using a neural network. The paper presents the development of a model with a neural network to predict the effects that the operational variables of the pulping reactor (temperature, soda concentration, AQ concentration, time and liquid/solid ratio) have on the properties of the paper sheets of the obtained pulp (brightness, traction index, burst index and tear index). Using a factorial experimental design, the results obtained with the neural network model are compared with those obtained from a polynomial model. The neural network model shows a higher prediction precision that the polynomial model. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper introduces a flexible framework to enable high-fidelity simulations of the fuel slosh dynamics for verification of the Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) algorithms. The sloshing phenomenon must be tackled during the control system design phase and the GNC software run and validated within appropriate simulation frameworks. Equivalent mechanical models can well approximate sloshing under specific assumptions, allowing the derivation of the multibody vehicle's equations of motion; however, while suitable for analysis and control synthesis purposes, this approach presents several limitations for implementation as a simulation model. In this work, the multibody plant embedding slosh dynamics is modeled by means of the DLR's Vertical Landing Vehicles Library (VLVLib) written using the object-oriented Modelica modeling language. The advantages of using Modelica are explored throughout the paper. Given that control synthesis, analyses and simulation campaigns are usually performed in the Matlab/Simulink environment, a core point of the proposed solution is to achieve a good synergy within the latter and the Modelica plant model with the least readaptation burden for the developer. The strategies to achieve a full integration and verification tool chain are illustrated. The potential of this approach is demonstrated via two different test cases: a lunar landing scenario of the ALINA spacecraft developed by PTS, and CALLISTO reusable rocket demonstrator. • A flexible framework to enable high-fidelity simulations of the fuel slosh dynamics for verification of the GNC algorithms is introduced. • The spacecraft model embedding the slosh dynamics is implemented exploiting Modelica language. • A GNC testing framework is obtained with the integration of the causal Simulink environment with the compiled Modelica model. • Two test cases are presented: the ALINA spacecraft lunar landing scenario and CALLISTO reusable Vertical-Takeoff–Vertical-Landing demonstrative mission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the simulation of two-phase flow dominated by surface tension, accurate surface tension modeling is beneficial to better reproduce and understand the mechanism of interphase flow. In this paper, based on an ISPH-FVM coupling framework, three different surface tension models are implemented and tested respectively, including the generally used continuum surface force (CSF) model, the continuous surface stress (CSS) model and the height function (HF) model. In the present ISPH-FVM coupling framework, the ISPH particle approximate interpolation technique combined with a volume fraction correction scheme is employed to ensure the volume conservation in the computational domain during the information transfer between particles and grids. Meanwhile, the three surface tension models are discretized and calculated by the volume fraction defined on the FVM grid. The volume fraction of the FVM grid is obtained by approximate interpolation of ISPH particles within the grid support domain. Several benchmark cases are tested to verify the performance of three surface tension models in the ISPH-FVM coupling method. The results show that the CSF model and CSS model have less spurious currents and better robustness than HF model under the present coupling method. In addition, the CSF model and CSS model can simulate the flow regime involving complex interface topology changes more accurately than HF model. • An ISPH-FVM coupling method is developed to simulate two-phase flows. • The volume conservation is guaranteed during the information transfer. • Three surface tension models are implemented and compared under the present coupling method. • The CSF and CSS model can get relatively small spurious currents than HF model. • The CSF and CSS model perform well in predicting the complex interface topological changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The launcher recovery method known as 'In-Air Capturing' is an innovative approach where a winged rocket stage is captured mid-air by an aircraft and subsequently towed back to the launch site. To achieve this, a capturing device attached to a tether is released from the towing aircraft. This device autonomously connects the reusable launch vehicle to the aircraft, while the two vehicles are in proximity. The tether's flexible dynamics have a strong influence on the maneuverability of the capturing device. Thus, it is critical to model the dynamics of the tether to get a realistic understanding and to evaluate feasibility of the concept. However, precise modelling and control of highly flexible systems with large deformations is both challenging and computationally intensive. For engineering applications which involve closed-loop simulations, finding a trade-off between accuracy and computational effort is crucial. In this paper, the tether is modelled as a discretized chain of rigid bodies connected by rotational springs at the joints. The tether along with the capture system is integrated in a simulation model and open loop tests are performed to analyse the system characteristics. The tether properties are studied to find a suited configuration for 'In-Air Capturing'. • Multibody modelling approach for long cable like bodies with large deformation. • Capture system dynamics for the unique 'In-Air Capturing' launcher recovery concept. • Dynamic modelling for the complete capturing system including towing aircraft, capturing device and tether. • Assessment of tether properties suited for 'In-Air Capturing' with sensitivity studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]