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A Framework For Safety Training Using Virtual Reality Software, Rana Riad
A Framework For Safety Training Using Virtual Reality Software, Rana Riad
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Safety training is a vital component to the well-being of individuals in all industries. With technology advancing at the current pace, conventional training methods are no longer the most effective way to communicate information. There is a strong need for safety training that incorporates new methods and forms of communication to obtain higher levels of comprehension. Virtual reality systems offer a highly customizable and interactive form of delivering information to users. This research addresses major gaps in the field of safety training using virtual reality systems and provides a design framework for creating a virtual safety-training system. A model for …
Combustion Kinetics Of Advanced Biofuels, Ghazal Barari
Combustion Kinetics Of Advanced Biofuels, Ghazal Barari
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Use of biofuels, especially in automotive applications, is a growing trend due to their potential to lower greenhouse gas emissions from combustion. Ketones are a class of biofuel candidates which are produced from cellulose. However, ketones received rather scarce attention from the combustion community compared to other classes such as, alcohols, esters, and ethers. There is little knowledge on their combustion performance and pollutant generation. Hence their combustion chemistry needs to be investigated in detail. Diisopropyl ketone (DIPK) is a promising biofuel candidate, which is produced using endophytic fungal conversion. A detailed understanding of the combustion kinetics of the oxidation …
Modeling Social Norms In Real-World Agent-Based Simulations, Rahmatollah Beheshti
Modeling Social Norms In Real-World Agent-Based Simulations, Rahmatollah Beheshti
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Studying and simulating social systems including human groups and societies can be a complex problem. In order to build a model that simulates humans' actions, it is necessary to consider the major factors that affect human behavior. Norms are one of these factors: social norms are the customary rules that govern behavior in groups and societies. Norms are everywhere around us, from the way people handshake or bow to the clothes they wear. They play a large role in determining our behaviors. Studies on norms are much older than the age of computer science, since normative studies have been a …
Information Propagation Algorithms For Consensus Formation In Decentralized Multi-Agent Systems, Christopher Hollander
Information Propagation Algorithms For Consensus Formation In Decentralized Multi-Agent Systems, Christopher Hollander
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Consensus occurs within a multi-agent system when every agent is in agreement about the value of some particular state. For example, the color of an LED, the position or magnitude of a vector, a rendezvous location, the most recent state of data within a database, or the identity of a leader are all states that agents might need to agree on in order to execute their tasking. The task of the decentralized consensus problem for multi-agent systems is to design an algorithm that enables agents to communicate and exchange information such that, in finite time, agents are able to form …
A New Methodology For Evaluating The Effectiveness Of Bus Rapid Transit Strategies, Ahmad Alomari
A New Methodology For Evaluating The Effectiveness Of Bus Rapid Transit Strategies, Ahmad Alomari
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Over the last few years, public transportation has become more desirable as capacity of existing roadways failed to keep up with rapidly increasing traffic demand. Buses are one of the most common modes of public transportation with low impact on network capacity, especially in small and congested urban areas. However, the use of regularly scheduled buses as the main public transport mode can become useless with the presence of traffic congestion and dense construction areas. In cases like these, innovative solutions, such as bus rapid transit (BRT), can provide an increased level of service without having to resort to other, …
The Effect Of Videogame Play On Robotic Surgery Skill Acquisition, Alyssa Tanaka
The Effect Of Videogame Play On Robotic Surgery Skill Acquisition, Alyssa Tanaka
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Robotic surgery uses innovative technology to transcend a surgeon's skills when performing complex procedures. Currently, the only FDA approved robotic system is Intuitive's da Vinci Surgical System. While this system offers many advantages over other minimally invasive techniques, it also introduces a need for specialized training. Virtual reality simulators have emerged as valuable tools for standardized and objective robotic surgery skill training and assessments. In recent years, the idea of using video game technology in surgical education for laparoscopy has also been explored; however few have attempted to make a connection between video game experience and robotic surgical skills. Thus, …
Data-Driven Simulation Modeling Of Construction And Infrastructure Operations Using Process Knowledge Discovery, Reza Akhavian
Data-Driven Simulation Modeling Of Construction And Infrastructure Operations Using Process Knowledge Discovery, Reza Akhavian
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) domain, simulation modeling is mainly used to facilitate decision-making by enabling the assessment of different operational plans and resource arrangements, that are otherwise difficult (if not impossible), expensive, or time consuming to be evaluated in real world settings. The accuracy of such models directly affects their reliability to serve as a basis for important decisions such as project completion time estimation and resource allocation. Compared to other industries, this is particularly important in construction and infrastructure projects due to the high resource costs and the societal impacts of these projects. Discrete event simulation …
Integrated Maritime Simulation Complex Management, Quality And Training Effectiveness From The Perspective Of Modeling And Simulation In The State Of Florida, Usa (A Case Study), Yaser Sendi
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Naturally, maritime training simulators at all events are valuable instructional and pedagogical tools. Through the history, the maritime simulation was utilized to train prospective maritime apprentices in whom it has filled the gap left by the acute shortage of opportunities for jobs onboard vessels around the globe. However, professional seafarers are the axis of success and competitiveness in the field of maritime training. They are the ones that, who are well trained and have the responsibilities of their work and the surrounding environment. In order to achieve the success along with effective training skills, both maritime companies and seafarers should …
A Generic Framework For Multi-Method Modeling And Simulation Of Complex Systems Using Discrete Event, System Dynamics And Agent Based Approaches., Konstantinos Mykoniatis
A Generic Framework For Multi-Method Modeling And Simulation Of Complex Systems Using Discrete Event, System Dynamics And Agent Based Approaches., Konstantinos Mykoniatis
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Decisions about Modeling and Simulation (M&S) of Complex Systems (CS) need to be evaluated prior to implementation. Discrete Event (DE), System Dynamics (SD), and Agent Based (AB) are three different M&S approaches widely applied to enhance decision-making of complex systems. However, single type M&S approaches can face serious challenges in representing the overall multidimensional nature of CS and may result in the design of oversimplified models excluding important factors. Conceptual frameworks are necessary to offer useful guidance for combining and/or integrating different M&S approaches. Although several hybrid M&S frameworks have been described and are currently deployed, there is limited guidance …
A Program Manager's Dilemma: Measuring The Effect On Performance Of Different Visual Modalities In Mixed Reality Aerial Door Gunnery, Jonathan Stevens
A Program Manager's Dilemma: Measuring The Effect On Performance Of Different Visual Modalities In Mixed Reality Aerial Door Gunnery, Jonathan Stevens
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
The United States Army continues to develop new and effective ways to use simulation for training. One example is the Non-Rated Crew Member Manned Module (NCM3), a simulator designed to train helicopter crewmembers in critical, high risk tasks such as crew coordination, flight, aerial gunnery, hoist and sling load related tasks. The goal of this study was to evaluate visual modalities' effect on performance in mixed reality aerial door gunnery. There is a strong belief in the United States Army that the greater the degree of immersion in a virtual simulation, the more effective that simulation is. However, little scientific …
Secondary World: The Limits Of Ludonarrative, David Dannelly
Secondary World: The Limits Of Ludonarrative, David Dannelly
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Secondary World: The Limits of Ludonarrative is a series of short narrative animations that are a theoretical treatise on the limitations of western storytelling in video games. The series covers specific topics relating to film theory, game design and art theory: specifically those associated with Gilles Deleuze, Jean Baudrillard, Jay Bolter, Richard Grusin and Andy Clark. The use of imagery, editing and presentation is intended to physically represent an extension of myself and my thinking process and which are united through the common thread of my personal feelings, thoughts and experiences in the digital age.
Driving Performance Adaptation Through Practice With And Without Distracters In A Simulated Environment, Marc Gentzler
Driving Performance Adaptation Through Practice With And Without Distracters In A Simulated Environment, Marc Gentzler
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
A preponderance of research points to the detrimental effects of distraction on driving performance. An interesting question is whether practice can improve distracted driving. The results from the few longitudinal simulator-based research studies conducted on driving distraction have been inconclusive. This may be because practice effects could be confounded with participants adapting to driving in the simulator. Therefore, participants in the current studies were trained until performance reached a steady state prior to introducing the distracters. In this dissertation, two single-subject design studies were used to investigate the effects of training on distracted driving. The first study included two participants …
The Design And Evaluation Of A Video Game To Help Train Perspective-Taking And Empathy In Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Darin Hughes
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
This paper discusses the design, implementation, and evaluation of a serious game intended to reinforce applied behavior analysis (ABA) techniques used with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by providing a low cost and easily accessible supplement to traditional methods. Past and recent research strongly supports the use of computer assisted instruction in the education of individuals with ASD (Moore & Calvert, 2000; Noor, Shahbodin, & Pee, 2012). Computer games have been shown to boost confidence and provide calming mechanisms (Griffiths, 2003) while being a safe environment for social exploration and learning (Moore, Cheng, McGrath, & Powell, 2005). Games increase …
Understanding The Capabilities And Limitations Of Advanced Interactive M&S: A Cricothyroidotomy Simulation Case Study, Lillian Campbell-Wynn
Understanding The Capabilities And Limitations Of Advanced Interactive M&S: A Cricothyroidotomy Simulation Case Study, Lillian Campbell-Wynn
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Simulation for surgical education and training is increasingly perceived as a valuable contribution to traditional teaching methods providing a structured learning experience. Surgical simulations allow surgeons to practice tactics, techniques and procedures numerous times without the cost, limitations and ethical problems of using cadaver-based models. The goal of this research is to advance the use of modeling and simulation in support of emergency medical training. This research explores questions identified through a case study of two different modeling and simulation techniques – virtual reality and mannequins - in the support of combat emergency medical education and training. To reduce the …
Neurophenomenological Methods: Experiences Of Earth And Space In Simulation, Patricia Morrow
Neurophenomenological Methods: Experiences Of Earth And Space In Simulation, Patricia Morrow
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
The present study explores the nature and structure of spiritual and aesthetic experiences through the interdisciplinary application of neurophenomenology (NP). This approach merges aspects of psychology, neurophysiology, and phenomenology into a unified methodology. The study is nested within a larger project, Space, Science, and Spirituality, and as such, it carries a common goal to use simulation to evoke spiritual and aesthetic responses similar to those expressed by astronauts and cosmonauts. Careful analysis of previous work in NP provided methodological “lessons learned”, which guided the experimental design, execution, and analysis of the present study. The data collected provides support for experience …
Modeling And Simulation Of All-Electric Aircraft Power Generation And Actuation, David Woodburn
Modeling And Simulation Of All-Electric Aircraft Power Generation And Actuation, David Woodburn
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Modern aircraft, military and commercial, rely extensively on hydraulic systems. However, there is great interest in the avionics community to replace hydraulic systems with electric systems. There are physical challenges to replacing hydraulic actuators with electromechanical actuators (EMAs), especially for flight control surface actuation. These include dynamic heat generation and power management. Simulation is seen as a powerful tool in making the transition to all-electric aircraft by predicting the dynamic heat generated and the power flow in the EMA. Chapter 2 of this dissertation describes the nonlinear, lumped-element, integrated modeling of a permanent magnet (PM) motor used in an EMA. …
A Compiler-Based Framework For Automatic Extraction Of Program Skeletons For Exascale Hardware/Software Co-Design, Amruth Rudraiah Dakshinamurthy
A Compiler-Based Framework For Automatic Extraction Of Program Skeletons For Exascale Hardware/Software Co-Design, Amruth Rudraiah Dakshinamurthy
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
The design of high-performance computing architectures requires performance analysis of largescale parallel applications to derive various parameters concerning hardware design and software development. The process of performance analysis and benchmarking an application can be done in several ways with varying degrees of fidelity. One of the most cost-effective ways is to do a coarse-grained study of large-scale parallel applications through the use of program skeletons. The concept of a “program skeleton” that we discuss in this paper is an abstracted program that is derived from a larger program where source code that is determined to be irrelevant is removed for …
Exploration Of The Impact Of Affective Variables On Human Performance In A Live Simulation, Ken Westerlund
Exploration Of The Impact Of Affective Variables On Human Performance In A Live Simulation, Ken Westerlund
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Live simulations play an important role in allowing users to practice and develop skills they learn in training. Although live simulations are playing an increasingly important role in training, ways to improve them are not well understood or documented. In order to improve the efficacy of live simulation and maximize results from funds spent on training; this research examines the relationship between the affective variables of the participants and their performance in the live simulation. Prior to participating in the instructor development live simulation used in this study two training preference scales were administered to a group of trainees. These …
A Framework For Process Data Collection, Analysis, And Visualization In Construction Projects, Reza Akhavian
A Framework For Process Data Collection, Analysis, And Visualization In Construction Projects, Reza Akhavian
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Automated data collection, simulation and visualization can substantially enhance the process of designing, analysis, planning, and control of many engineering processes. In particular, managing processes that are dynamic in nature can significantly benefit from such techniques. Construction projects are good examples of such processes where a variety of equipment and resources constantly interact inside an evolving environment. Management of such settings requires a platform capable of providing decision-makers with updated information about the status of project entities and assisting site personnel making critical decisions under uncertainty. To this end, the current practice of using historical data or expert judgments as …
Application Of Modeling And Simulation To Reduce Costs Of Acquisition Within Triple Constraints, Syed N. Mohammad
Application Of Modeling And Simulation To Reduce Costs Of Acquisition Within Triple Constraints, Syed N. Mohammad
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
A key component of defense acquisition programs operating using the Integrated Defense Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Life Cycle Management System is the reliance on the triple constraints of cost, schedule, and performance. While the use of Modeling and Simulation tools and capabilities is prevalent and well established in the Research and Development, Analysis, and Training domains, acquisition programs have been reluctant to use Modeling and Simulation in any great depth due to inaccessibility of tools, Subject Matter Experts, and implications to cost and schedule. This presents a unique Simulation Management challenge which requires an in-depth understanding of the technical capabilities …
Simulations For Financial Literacy, Angela Hamilton
Simulations For Financial Literacy, Angela Hamilton
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Financially literate consumers are empowered with the knowledge and skills necessary to make sound financial decisions that ensure their long-term economic well-being. Within the context of the range of cognitive, psychological, and social factors that influence consumer behavior, simulations enhance financial literacy by developing consumers’ mental models for decision-making. Technical communicators leverage plain language and visual language techniques to communicate complex financial concepts in ways that consumers can relate to and understand. Simulations for financial education and decision support illustrate abstract financial concepts, provide a means of safe experimentation, and allow consumers to make informed choices based on a longitudinal …
Coaching In An Interactive Virtual Reality To Increase Fidelity Of Implementation Of Discrete Trial Teaching, Krista Vince Garland
Coaching In An Interactive Virtual Reality To Increase Fidelity Of Implementation Of Discrete Trial Teaching, Krista Vince Garland
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
In teacher preparation, more effective pathways and practices are needed for preparing, placing, and supporting beginning teachers and principals (Darling-Hammond, 2010; U.S. Department of Education, 2009b). A common issue in the field of special education is the lack of skill transfer from one setting to another (Dieker, Hynes, Hughes, & Smith, 2008). It has been posited that “practicing up” is not ethical in that novice teachers must attempt to teach with a limited knowledge of appropriate pedagogy and skill (Dieker et al., 2008). The new challenge becomes finding an effective mechanism that provides essential learning experiences and opportunities to refine …
A Production And Cost Modeling Methodology Of 2nd Generation Biofuel In The United States, David A. Poole
A Production And Cost Modeling Methodology Of 2nd Generation Biofuel In The United States, David A. Poole
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
The use of biofuels in the United States has increased dramatically in the last few years. The largest source of feedstock for ethanol to date has been corn. However, corn is also a vitally important food crop and is used commonly as feed for cattle and other livestock. To prevent further diversion of an important food crop to production of ethanol, there is great interest in developing commercial-scale technologies to make ethanol from non-food crops, or other suitable plant material. This is commonly referred to as biomass. A review is made of lignocellulosic sources being considered as feedstocks to produce …
A Methodology To Stabilize The Supply Chain, Alfonso Sarmiento
A Methodology To Stabilize The Supply Chain, Alfonso Sarmiento
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
In today's world, supply chains are facing market dynamics dominated by strong global competition, high labor costs, shorter product life cycles, and environmental regulations. Supply chains have evolved to keep pace with the rapid growth in these business dynamics, becoming longer and more complex. As a result, supply chains are systems with a great number of network connections among their multiple components. The interactions of the network components with respect to each other and the environment cause these systems to behave in a highly nonlinear dynamic manner. Ripple effects that have a huge, negative impact on the behavior of the …
Adaptive Feedback In Simulation-Based Training, Deborah Billings
Adaptive Feedback In Simulation-Based Training, Deborah Billings
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Feedback is essential to guide performance in simulation-based training (SBT) and to refine learning. Generally outcomes improve when feedback is delivered with personalized tutoring that tailors specific guidance and adapts feedback to the learner in a one-to-on environment. Therefore, emulating by automation these adaptive aspects of human tutors in SBT systems should be an effective way to train individuals. This study investigates the efficacy of automating different types of feedback in a SBT system. These include adaptive bottom-up feedback (i.e., detailed feedback, changing to general as proficiency develops) and adaptive top-down feedback (i.e., general feedback, changing to detailed if performance …
Unified Large And Small Signal State-Space Based Modeling And Symbolic Simulation For Pwm Converters, Ehab Shoubaki
Unified Large And Small Signal State-Space Based Modeling And Symbolic Simulation For Pwm Converters, Ehab Shoubaki
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
In this Dissertation, which concentrates on discrete modeling for control purposes of DC/DC converters and simulation through symbolic techniques. A Unified Discrete State-Space Model for power converters in CCM is presented. Two main approaches to arriving at the discrete model are used. The first approach involves an impulse function approximation of the duty cycle modulation of the converter switches, and this approach results in a small signal discrete model. The Second approach is direct and does not involve any approximation of the modulation, this approach yields both a large signal nonlinear discrete model and a linear small signal model. Harmonic …
Safety And Operational Evaluation Of Dynamic Lane Merging In Work Zones, Rami Harb
Safety And Operational Evaluation Of Dynamic Lane Merging In Work Zones, Rami Harb
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Traffic safety and mobility of roadway work zones have been considered to be one of the major concerns in highway traffic safety and operations in Florida. In intent to expose Florida's work zones crash characteristics, the Florida Traffic Crash Records Database for years 2002, 2003 and 2004 were explored. Statistical models were estimated and Florida's work zone crash traits for single vehicle crashes and two-vehicle crashes were drawn. For the single-vehicle crashes, trucks were found more likely to be involved in single vehicle crashes in freeway work zones compared to freeways without work zones. Straight level roadways are significantly affected …
Dod Acquisition Workforce Education: An Sba Education Case Study, Richard Davenport
Dod Acquisition Workforce Education: An Sba Education Case Study, Richard Davenport
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
A Department of Defense (DoD) M&S education task force is in the process of studying the Modeling and Simulation (M&S) education of the acquisition workforce. Historically, DoD acquisition workforce education is not referred to as education, but rather what the Defense Acquisition University (DAU) refers to as "practitioner training, career management, and services." The DAU is the organization primarily responsible for training the DoD acquisition corps in conjunction with service schools and strategic partners in the civilian sector. DAU programs primarily focus on program management, contracting, and management of logistics across the system life cycle. Further, the examples and cases …
Presence-Dependent Performance Differences Between Virtual Simulations And Miniature Worlds, Andre Huthmann
Presence-Dependent Performance Differences Between Virtual Simulations And Miniature Worlds, Andre Huthmann
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of simulation is to avoid reality-based constraints by the implemen-tation of a synthetic model. Based on this advantage, interactive simulations have conquered all areas of applications from acquisition, and training, to research. Simulation results are transferred in many ways into reality and conclusions are drawn from the simulation to the application. Many anecdotal observations on human-in-the-loop simulations have shown a significant difference in actor behavior between simulations and reality-based applications. It seems that the factors that makes simulation so attractive, namely the absence of constraints and especially of imminent danger for persons and equipment, influence the behavior and …
The Calibration, Validation, And Comparison Of Vissim Simulations Using The Two-Fluid Model, Jeremy Crowe
The Calibration, Validation, And Comparison Of Vissim Simulations Using The Two-Fluid Model, Jeremy Crowe
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
The microscopic traffic simulation program VISSIM is a powerful tool that has been used by transportation engineers and urban planners around the world. A VISSIM simulation is meant to depict the performance of the physical road network through the use of modeling tools and behavioral parameters. The process which gets the model to the point of matching real world conditions is called calibration and requires a means of relating the real world to the simulated world. The topic of this thesis discusses a new means of calibration using the two-fluid model. The two-fluid model is a macroscopic modeling technique which …