Bessel collocation approach for solving continuous population models for single and interacting species

In this paper, we present a collocation method to obtain the approximate solutions of continuous population models for single and interacting species. By using the Bessel polynomials and collocation points, this method transforms population model into a matrix equation. The matrix equation corresponds to a system of nonlinear equations with the unknown Bessel coefficients. The reliability and efficiency of the proposed scheme are demonstrated by two numerical examples and performed on the computer algebraic system Maple.     

Locally Optimal Risk-Sensitive Controllers for Strict-Feedback Nonlinear Systems1,2

For a class of risk-sensitive nonlinear stochastic control problems with dynamics in strict-feedback form, we obtain through a constructive derivation state-feedback controllers which (i) are locally optimal, (ii) are globally inverse optimal, and (iii) lead to closed-loop system trajectories that are bounded in probability. The first feature implies that a linearized version of these controllers solve a linear exponential-quadratic Gaussian (LEQG) problem, and the second feature says that there exists an appropriate cost function according to which these controllers are optimal.     

On the problem of starting points for iterative methods

Numerical Algorithms - We propose an algorithm to find a starting point for iterative methods. Numerical experiments show empirically that the algorithm provides starting points for different...     

An analysis of p-median location problem: Effects of backup service level and demand assignment policy

Any solution to facility location problems will consider determining the best suitable locations with respect to certain criteria. Among different types of location problems, involving emergency service system (ESSs) are one of the most widely studied in the literature, and solutions to these problems will mostly aim to minimize the mean response time to demands. In practice, however, a demand may not be served from its nearest facility if that facility is engaged in serving other demands. This makes it a requirement to assign backup services so as to improve response time and service quality. The level of backup service is a key, strategic-level planning factor, and must be taken into consideration carefully. Moreover, in emergency service operations conducted in congested demand regions, demand assignment policy is another important factor that affects the system performance. Models failing to adopt sufficient levels of backup service and realistic demand assignment policies may significantly deteriorate the system performance.Considering the classic p-median problem (pMP) location model, this paper investigates the effects of backup service level, demand assignment policy, demand density, and number of facilities and their locations on the solution performance in terms of multiple metrics. For this purpose, we adopt a combined optimization and simulation approach. We will first modify the classic pMP to account for distances to backup services. Next, we employ a discrete event simulation to evaluate the performance of location schemes obtained from the deterministic mathematical model. Our results provide insights for decision-makers while planning ESS operations.     

Numerical damage assessment of Haghia Sophia bell tower by nonlinear FE modeling

In the present paper, the numerical damage assessment of the masonry bell tower called “Haghia Sophia” in Trabzon, Turkey is performed by nonlinear 3D finite element modeling. The behavior of bell tower is determined under several different conditions: nonlinear static analysis containing dead and wind loads and nonlinear seismic analysis. In addition to, an assessment of the tower’s stability with respect to the tilt of the tower is carried out by means of a nonlinear analysis. In the nonlinear dynamic analysis, the east–west component of 1992 Erzincan earthquake is used. Cracking and crushing of the masonry have been taken into account, as well as the influence of material nonlinearity. The numerical analysis has given a valuable picture of possible damage evolution, providing useful hints for the prosecution of structural monitoring. The displacement and stress fields, as well as the distribution of cracking have been calculated and compared to the actual distribution of fractures in the tower. It is seen from the numerical results that there is a good agreement with present damages of the bell tower.     

Mathematical models and solution algorithms for computational design of RC piles under structural effects

The paper presents mathematical models and solution algorithms for RC pile design, through scanning soil stratums from top to downwards with an interactive scanner band. The equilibrium of transferred loads from the superstructure, friction forces and tip bearing forces are considered for the design, which leads to optimum pile length. The most important contribution of this research for designers is supplying an efficient tool to obtain optimum pile length and reinforced concrete design of pile foundation systems. A program package has been developed in MATLAB depending on the proposed algorithm. Soil behaviors depending on external effects, active and passive zone distributions are considered. All possible effects in all freedom degrees are taken into account in design process. Stress and strain distributions due to axial loads, bending moments, shear forces and torsional moments may be monitored. The optimum pile length, cross section dimension and reinforcement details may be found by using developed algorithm.     

Multiscale expansions in discrete world

In this paper, we show the attainability of KdV equation from some types of nonlinear Schrödinger equation by using multiscale expansions discretely. The power of this manageable method is confirmed by applying it to two selected nonlinear Schrödinger evolution equations. This approach can also be applied to other nonlinear discrete evolution equations. All the computations have been made with Maple computer packet program.