Engineering Commons^™

Pilot Study Of Applicability Of A Generic Microprocessor Assembly Language, Joseph H. Bartlett

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this investigation is to research the utility of a standardized generic microprocessor assembly language. More precisely, use of a generic language implementation on a given microprocessor and its effect on programmer productivity will be investigated. Programmer productivity will be scored in terms of an inverse function of the time taken to complete a programming task correctly. Shorter times imply better programmer productivity and longer times imply the opposite

Processing Of Thin Film Devices, Ramzi Delpak

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The ability to do thin film processing has been established at UCF. This paper describes the facilities available. RF and DC sputtering was used for material deposition. The parameters for both were established experimentally, and the results are presented. Resistor and capacitor test patterns were used to test the accuracy of the system. The devices were fabricated and tested; experimental results are discussed.

Investigation And Evaluation Of Random Number Generators For Digital Implementation, Ylberto V. Ruiz

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The continuous improvement in the speed of digital components in conjunction with reduction of size has brought about a revolutionary age of microprocessors. Mathematical functions, which at one time could only be implemented by complex analog circuitry, can now be easily implemented via microprocessors and high density digital components. Principles of random number generation must be understood in order to implement pseudo-random algorithms in a digital random frequency generator (DRFG) design. Chapter 1 is a discussion of several types of random number algorithms which have been used in the past and outlines the deficiencies and advantages associated with each individual …

A Gate-Array Realization Of An Algorithm For Division, Salman Y. Abbasi

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

A realization of a division algorithm suitable for high speed pipeline and realtime processors is presented. Implementation of the divide algorithm can be achieved by utilizing LSI / VLSI gate array technology. The divider performs precision, high speed 9 bit sign magnitude division. The design consist of combinational logic, where input and output data are latched into input and output registers. Data propagates through 16 divide stages. The n'th stage generates the n'th quotient bit upon receiving the updated dividend and controls from the previous stage. A simulation program is developed to verify the algorithm, and an analysis for speed …

A Microcomputer Controlled Contouring Machine, Kripaker K. Punja

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

An Apple microcomputer and a three axis milling machine are the basis for a CAD/CAM system with the capability of drilling and contour milling operations. The milling machine axes are driven by three stepper motors under the control of the Apple microcomputer and the ISAAC data acquisition module. An interactive part design program using high resolution color graphics has been developed. It employs lines, circles and points to define the geometry for the part. The design is entered at the CRT and stored as a CAM database on the user disc. Once the design is complete it is postprocessed and …

Wastewater Characterization And Treatability For Aneastern Coal Slurry, Mark J. Flint

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

A complete wastewater characterization study was performed on an eastern Kentucky coal slurry after a 10-day circulation period in a 40 foot (12.2 m) pilot-scale pipeline. The resulting wastewater was settled and decanted for additional lime and alum treatability studies. Easter coal slurries were characterized by high TDS, conductivity, sulfates and iron. Significant concentrations of a number of trace metals were also found; however, organics were very low. Wastewater quality varied considerably among several experiments and was presumed to be influenced by different properties of the coal and the addition of a corrosion inhibitor. The major treatment concern was removal …

Graphic Display Of Geographic Spatial Data, Jill G. Ashby

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This project developed computer graphics to display spatial and statistical data in a functional, appropriate and articulate manner. The spatial data creates mapping of Orange County focusing on traffic zones. The graphs display statistical data projecting from spatial areas presented in a simple form. The graphs produced by the system are geared towards an audience involved with transportation and planning decisions for Orange County. The graphics employ population, income, number of dwelling units, trip generation and trip production data based upon the 1980 census. The population, income, and number of dwelling unites statistics include predictions for 1985 through 2005 in …

Using Simulation To Predict The Financial Effect Of Hospital Management Policies Under A Prospective Reimbursement, Timothy G. Atkins

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Recent legislation by Medicare restricts its reimbursement per patient according to the patient's particular type of disease. The reimbursement is based on a set of Diagnosis Related Groups (DRG's), which categorizes patients into disease classifications. As a result, hospitals must make efficiency gains and managers must look for new ways to provide quality care while containing costs. A simulation technique was developed by which the financial results of particular administrative policies can be predicted. Patient billing data were collected over a three-month period and analyzed for the purpose of simulating length of stay and resource consumption per cost center. Regression …

Biotoxicity Of Highway Runoff Metals To Gambusia, John M. Bateman

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

A research study was conducted to examine the relationship between speciation of heavy metals (Zn, Cd, Pb, Cu) and their biotoxicity. Therefore, static bioassay experiments were designed to determine LC-50 values for those metals on mosquitofish, Gambusia affinis. The standard bioassay scheme consisted of twelve 16-liter all-glass aquaria that provided duplicates of five different metal concentrations and a control for each run. Deionized tap water and filtered retention/detention water from Maitland Pond were used for bioassays. The effects of various physiochemical parameters such as pH, alkalinity, hardness and organic complexation on metal toxicity were determined. Also, synergistic and antagonistic effects …

The Development Of An Automated Production System, Brian M. Cardinal

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This paper describes the development of an automated production system recently completed by the Martin Marietta Aerospace Division, Orlando, Florida, for the assembly, inspection and test of printed circuit boards. The project began in January 1981 with the purpose of increasing the then existing production capability and to create the building block for the total automation of the printed circuit board assembly area of the plant in Ocala, Florida. The system was implemented using a combination of off the shelf equipment modified and integrated to create a single production system. The system employs much of the new production philosophies tailored …

Estimating Methods For Production Test Labor, Garry K. Stonebraker

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This report mentions some of the difficulties faced by labor estimators when predicting the labor necessary to produce complex weapon systems. Specific attention is focused on estimating the durations and frequencies of testing, troubleshooting, and retesting activities. Emphasis is placed on estimating in a logical manner while using factors based on subjective judgment.

Adaption And Optimization Of The Ibrahim Time Domain (Itd) Modal Parameter Identification Algorithm For Mini-Computer Use, Mary T. Cogeos

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Conventional modal analysis is performed using FFT Analyzers with modal analysis software developed by one of many test/analysis software vendors. The analysis is performed in the frequency domain using frequency response functions. A recent advancement in modal analysis involves analyzing the measured free response of a structure in the time domain. The Ibrahim Time Domain (ITD) Algorithm is such a method which has been used and verified at government environmental test facilities. The ITD is an accurate numeric solution. Minimal operator interaction is required for proper performance of the algorithm. The results of the ITD Algorithm are far superior to …

A Comparative Study Of Computer Interfacing Techniques For Military Training Devices, Gary R. Fraas

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This report surveys many of the interfacing techniques currently in use on emerging military training devices. The primary focus of this report is associated with the hardware aspects of computer interfacing. After a brief introduction into the various aspects of military training devices, this study presents various computer related interfacing techniques used on military training devices. Topics addressed in the study include custom designed interfaces, commercial packages, serial communications with an emphasis on RS-232, -422, -423, and -449 serial standards as well as local area networks. Then, a number of bus standards are presented and finally, interface products pertaining to …

Non-Iterative Finite Impulse Response Design Techniques, Carlton D. Bishop

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

A general, non-iterative design technique for low shapefactor, transversal filters is presented. This design approach uses two cosine series to specify appropriate eigenfunctions. An infinite set of such eigenfunctions are defined and the method for choosing the coefficients is discussed.

The total filter response is specified as the product of two individual frequency responses. The impulse response of each is then determined by applying the superposition of appropriate eigenfunctions. The criteria for choosing the appropriate eigenfunctions is discussed.

A synthesis procedure for designing surface acoustic wave filters is presented. The effects of truncating the impulse response are also explored. A …

Effects Of Finite Length Registers On A Modified Directform Realization Of A High Order H(Z) Transfer Function, Angel Vanrell

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

When a digital process is realized on a general-purpose computer or a special-purpose hardware, errors due to finite register length are introduced. These errors are due primarily to arithmetic roundoff, coefficient quantization, and scaling rules. This paper addresses the effects of finite word length on a direct-form implementation of a high order H (z) transfer function. The development and analysis of a modified direct-form realization suggested by Dr. Fred O. Simons, are carried out via FORTRAN emulation of a fourth-order low-pass Butterworth filter. The results are presented as a parametric tradeoff of signal-to-noise ratio at the filter output versus word …

Filter Settle Time For Signal Processing Applications, Michael T. Mccord

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

In this paper, the step modulated sine wave [u(t)Asin2πft] response of the low-pass, band-pass, and high-pass filters are evaluated. Butterworth filters from the first order on up to the ideal filter are analyzed, and expressions for the settle times developed. The longest settle time occurs for the ideal filter, with all other filters taking progressively less time to settle as the order decreases. A significant point is that the transient settle time for a filter depends on the difference in applied signal frequency and the filter cut off frequency. The set of expressions developed in this report are primarily intended …

Analytical Investigation Of Performance Of A Solar Powered Free-Piston Stirling-Stirling Heat Pump Cooling An Insulated Enclosure, Gary D. Beckfeld

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

An analytical investigation was attempted of a solar driven free-piston Stirling engine driving a second free-piston Stirling engine as a heat pump. A dynamic model and a thermodynamic model with free convection heat transfer were derived. The governing equations were programmed to obtain numerical solutions by computer. Graphs of piston displacements, volumes, pressures, mass cycles, and temperatures versus time are presented. Engine work output, operating frequencies, and efficiencies are calculated. Effects of parameter variations are presented. However, because proper phase angles could not be obtained for this model, the cooling performance of the system could not be evaluated. Limitations of …

A Model For Scattering In Dense Clouds, Richard A. Leblanc

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Lights is almost always detected by its interaction with matter. One of these interaction phenomena is the scattering of light by small particles. A model is developed that estimates the amount of energy that is scattered towards a detector from a beam given the locations of the source, detector and particle. This collection of particles is allowed to be very dense so that a photon scattered from the beam can be scattered several times before leaving the scattering medium. By considering the single-scatter component and multiple-scatter component separately, the model retains the characteristics of both types.

Analog Flight Simulators To Computer Interface, William J. Selph

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The College of Engineering at the University of Central Florida has a flight simulator. This simulator was built as a stand-alone Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) training aid. The college has attempted on several occasions to augment this simulator system with a visual (out the cockpit view) simulation for the trainee pilot. Funding and resources have restricted or limited these enhancements to non real-time simulation. This project/thesis provides the university with part of the solution to accurate real time simulation. The simulated aircraft position and direction is acquired at 9 to 40 Hertz with 10-bit resolution. This data is made available …