Variational aspects of Faddeev calculations

We examine differences between³H binding energies obtained by solving the Faddeev equations using standard partial-wave expansion procedures and results from solving the Schrödinger equation by means of the coupled-rearrangement-channel variational method. Variational bounds generated from Faddeev solutions for several contemporary, realistic potential models are presented as a function of the number of partial waves retained in the potential expansion. We demonstrate that the Faddeev wave function yields an optimal variational bound for the partial-wave truncated potential from which it is generated, but it does not yield optimal bounds for the full Hamiltonian or when the potential is partial-wave truncated at a different level. Finally, qualitative differences between³H solutions for static models such as the AV14 and RSC potentials and for momentum-dependent models such as the Nijmegen soft-core and Paris potentials are explored, and comparison is made with solutions for the RSC/TM two-body-force plus three-body-force model.     

Rule-based procedures in short-term electricity load forecasting

A short-term load-forecasting system has been developed to predictload demand for the Irish Electricity Supply Board from 1 to10 days in advance. Model output is acceptably accurate at mosttimes, but special days such as public holidays and the Easterweekend etc. require individual treatment. The basic model usedin everyday load forecasting is presented first, and specialdays when this model fails in accuracy are then examined andtreated separately using rule-based procedures. These proceduresare based on identified relationships between weather conditionsand prevailing daily load shapes. Comparisons are made betweenthe forecasts for these special days as given by the standardmodel and the ruled-based procedures.     

The effect of complexing processes on energy transfer Tl+→Gd3+ and Tl+→Tb3+ in glass

T. Shevchenko Kiev University, 252022 Kiev, Pr. Akad. Glushakova, 6, Ukraine. Translated from Zhurnal Prikladnoi Spektroskopii, Vol. 62, No. 3, pp. 192–196, May–June, 1995.     

Developing a risk-assesment methodology in the U.K.defence industry

As a leading defence equipment company, the Dynamics Divisionof British Aerospace Defence Company (BAeDef(DD)) has experiencedthe worst effects of post-Coldwar defence cuts, a global recession,and a determination by the U.K. Government to achieve greatervalue for money in defence procurement. The major tenet of thisnew approach to defence prwurement was 'eyes on, hands off',promoting a shift of the management of project risks from theMinistry of Defence (MOD) to industry. Initial industry reactionwas sceptical but bxame increasingly compliant as tenderingrequirements included visibility of contractors' risk assessment.This paper describes the risk-assessment methodology createdby BAeDef(DD) to meet these changed conditions. The human and organizational aspects of these developments onrisk have helped create a pro-active risk-management cultureat BAeDef(DD). Continuous assessment of project risks providesthe impetus for wider thinking beyond risk-taking or risk-aversionpreferences, leading to greater realism in planning. Decisionsto implement risk resolution measures require competence incost-benefit analysis. The conditions to foster this new behaviourare better-informed senior management, with the rejection ofbad news eliminated at all levels, and the laying of a pathto becoming a learning company.     

Some inverse problems of internal-diffusion kinetics of adsorption

Methods are proposed for determining the diffusion coefficients of adsorbed molecules and the adsorption isotherms from given concentrations of the solutes in the external solution. The methods are based on a comparison of experimental data with the numerical results produced by a mathematical model of internal-diffusion kinetics of adsorption from a constant bounded volume.Translated from Vychislitel'naya i Prikladnaya Matematika, No. 66, pp. 41–46, 1988.