FMS scheduling based on timed Petri Net model and reactive graph search

This paper presents a new scheduling method for manufacturing system based on the Timed Petri Net model and a reactive fast graph search algorithm. The following two typical problems are addressed in this paper. (1) Minimization of the maximum completion time. (2) Minimization of the total tardiness. As for the problem (1), a new search algorithm which combines the RTA^∗ and a rule-based supervisor is proposed. As for problem (2), the original Petri Net model is converted to its reverse model and the algorithm developed for the problem (1) is applied, regarding the due date as the starting time in the reverse model. Some numerical experiments are carried out to demonstrate usefulness of our algorithm.     

Locating and counting bifurcation points of satellite components from the main component in the degree-n bifurcation set

The bifurcation point where a satellite component buds from another component is characterized by the existence of the common tangent line between the two osculating components appearing in the degree-n bifurcation set. We investigate the existence, location and number of bifurcation points for satellite components budding from the main component in the degree-n bifurcation set as well as a parametric boundary equation of the main component of the degree-n bifurcation set. Cusp points are also located on the boundary of the main component. Typical degree-n bifurcation sets and their components are illustrated with some computational results.     

Analysis of the manufacturing lead time in a production system with non-renewal batch input,threshold policy and post-operation

In this paper, we analyze the manufacturing lead time in a production system with BMAP (Batch Markovian Arrival process) input and post-operation operated under the N-policy. We use the factorization principle to derive the waiting time distribution (hence the manufacturing lead time) and the mean performance measures. A numerical example is provided.     

Synthesis and electrical characteristics of polyaniline nanoparticles and their polymeric composite

Monodisperse polyaniline nanoparticles (PAPSSA) were synthesized from an oxidative dispersion polymerization using poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (PSSA) as both a polymeric stabilizer and a dopant agent due to its acidity. The nanoparticles were being stabilized with two different molecular weight of PSSA. Size effect of PAPSSA particles were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The d.c. electrical conductivity of composite films on the glass substrate was measured by a four-probe method. It was found that the electrical properties of the composite films are affected by the content of nano-sized polyaniline and different molecular weights of stabilizer in the poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) matrix.     

Logarithmic Sobolev trace inequality

A logarithmic Sobolev trace inequality is derived. Bounds on the best constant for this inequality from above and below are investigated using the sharp Sobolev inequality and the sharp logarithmic Sobolev inequality.

     

Influence of support properties on the sound radiated from the vibrations of rectangular plates

The control of the forced vibration response of structures through the optimal tuning of its supports is desirable in many applications. Tuning may enhance the dissipation of vibration energy within the supports, thereby reducing fatigue and structure-borne noise. Two different models were developed to calculate the optimal support stiffness that minimizes the velocity response of homogeneous plates. The first model, based on the wave propagation at the edge, yields a good first cut approximation of the optimal properties. The optimal viscous and viscoelastic support stiffness for minimal reflection at the edge was calculated. Maximum absorption of the incident waves occurs when the viscous support stiffness matches the characteristic mechanical impedances of the plate. The second model, based on the Rayleigh-Ritz method, yields more accurate estimates of the optimal support stiffness required to minimize the forced velocity response of the finite rectangular plate. The optimal support properties calculated from the two different methods were in good agreement. This suggested that the modal response of the plate is strongly influenced by the wave reflections at the edges. Finally, the effects of support properties on the sound radiated from the plate were investigated. The optimal support stiffness that minimizes the radiated sound power was found to be smaller than the value that minimizes the velocity response. The results show that both the velocity response and sound radiation are strongly influenced by dissipation of vibration energy at the edges, and demonstrate that support tuning can yield significant noise and vibration reduction.     

Metallization of U3O8via catalytic electrochemical reduction with Li2O in LiCl molten salt

The concept of a novel electrochemical reduction process for the treatment of spent nuclear fuels in Li₂O-LiCl molten salt was proposed and fresh tests using U₃O₈ powder were carried out to elucidate the reaction mechanism and verify the feasibility of the process. Electrolysis of Li₂O and reduction of U₃O₈ powder took place simultaneously at the cathode part of the electrolysis cell via a catalytic EC mechanism and the conversion of U₃O₈ to U metal was more than 99%. This revised version was published online in June 2006 with corrections to the Cover Date.     

Formation of p-type ZnO film on InP substrate by phosphor doping

ZnO thin film was initially deposited on InP substrate by radio frequency (rf) magnetron sputtering and the diffusion process was performed using the closed ampoule technique where Zn₃P₂ was used as the dopant source. To verify the junction formation of ZnO thin films, the electrical properties were measured, and the effects of Zn₃P₂ diffusion on ZnO thin films were investigated. It is observed that the electrical property of the film is changed from n-type to p-type by dopant diffusion effect. Based on the results, it is confirmed that ZnO thin films can be a potential candidate for ultraviolet (UV) optical devices.     

Brightness and decay time of Zn2SiO4:Mn phosphor particles with spherical shape and fine size

Green-light-emitting Zn₂SiO₄:Mn phosphor particles were synthesized by modified large-scale spray pyrolysis using a colloidal solution containing fumed silica particles. The particles had a fine size, filled morphology, spherical shape and non-aggregation characteristics even after post-treatment at 1150 °C. The luminescence characteristics of Zn₂SiO₄:Mn phosphor particles having spherical shape, such as brightness and decay time under VUV excitation light, were investigated as a function of Mn content. The luminescence intensity exhibits a maximum at 5 mol% Mn-doped powder. The decay time increases consistently with decreasing Mn content and more saturated color coordinates are obtained with the composition having 12 mol% Mn. As a consequence, the 10 mol% Mn-doped powder proved to provide a good combination of favorable luminance and acceptable decay time. The influence of post-treatment temperature on the decay time and photoluminescence characteristics of Zn₂SiO₄:Mn particles was also investigated. Particles post-treated at 1155 °C had the maximum photoluminescence intensity, which was identical to 113% that of the commercial product, and a comparable decay time of 5.8 ms. PACS 81.20.Rg; 78. 55.Hx; 78.40.Ha; 81.05.Hd; 81.40.Tv