Digital Commons Network^™

A Task Manager For A Multiprocessor Computer System, Peter J. Ingraham

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The advent of the 32-bit microprocessor has sparked the manufacture of a number of 32-bit single-board computers (SBCs). These SBCs rival [performance of minicomputers for a fraction of the cost, and a number of them conform to standard 32-bit bus structures. A 32-bit multiprocessor computer system can be created by connecting two or more SBCs on a 32-bit bus. This computer system has the potential of providing many times the power as a single-processor computer system as well as a significant reduction in cost.

The Multiprocessor Task Manager is designed to efficiently distribute software tasks, schedule their execution, and manage …

Design Of A Two-Layer, Capacitively Coupled, Microstrip Patch Antenna Element For Broadband Applications, Robert T. Cock

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

A broadband, contiguous stacked, two-layer, square microstrip patch antenna element design is described which can be used for a linear or circular polarization. Single layer microstrip patch theory for the rectangular patch radiator is presented and used as a basis for understanding the two-layer patch configuration. The theory is modified to predict radiation patters and resonant frequencies of the two-layer microstrip patch antenna element. Experimental results include the radiation patterns, dominant resonant frequencies (TM₁₀ mode), return loss (S₁₁), and bandwidth for X band elements as a function of dielectric constants, dielectric thicknesses, and patch sizes.

Data Structure Implementation And Investigation For A Prolog Language Interpreter, Hector Iurcovich

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

A developmental Prolog language interpreter is constructed in the C programming language. The data type format is a subset of that of the Project Aquarius Prolog Engine proposed and under development at the University of California, Berkley. The design of the Prolog interpreter is part of an investigation at UCF in design of expert system architecture for real time applications. The interpreter facilities of data structure definition and manipulation are developed and applied. The list data structure is used as an example data structure. The scheme for representing structured data is based on the Lisp cons cell. Run-time generated lists …

Synchronized On-Line Microprocessor Control Of Optical Disk Recorders And Players Using Realtime Interface Hardware/Software, William C. Reese

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The goal of this research report is to describe clearly the development of an operational software program which utilizes a realtime interface hardware unit to synchronously control an optical disc player and optical disc recorder via an external microprocessor. The previous UCF Engineering College’s optical disc hardware configuration consisted of a Panasonic optical disc player and recorder, color monitor, video camera, and PRO-350 to control only one device (player or recorder) at a time as the microprocessor has only one serial input/output (I/O) port. The Digital Equipment Corporation’s realtime interface device provides two serial I/O ports and therefore allows the …

Graphics Package For Portable Alphanumerical/Graphics Terminal, Elsie S. Loh

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This research report describes the design of a highlevel graphics package for use by application programmers t o display pictures of two-dimensional objects on a portable alphanumeric/graphic terminal. The design is implemented on the Digital VAX-11/780™ minicomputer running under the VMS operating system environment as the host computer and uses the DECwriter Correspondent (LA12) as the graphics device. The graphics package consists both the database manipulation software which is completely device dependent, and the interface software between the normal "drawing functions" and the hardware associated with a particular graphics device, which is minimally device-dependent.

Snap, A Contract Pricing Tool For The Micro-Computer, Kris Luella Hoffman

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The amount of time required during the contracting process from the solicitation of bids through contract award can be significant. Two of the main problem areas are evaluating the contractor’s proposal and completing the negotiation process. The SNAP system was developed to simplify Negotiations with Automated Pricing using the microcomputer. SNAP can track three separate positions during negotiations and provide hour/dollar summaries for each of these positions by cost account, lot, department, and Work Breakdown Structure (WBS). Evaluation worksheets and department summaries can be produced to provide the evaluators with different perspectives of the same work effort. SNAP will also …

Multi-Computer Communication Network With Crossbar Switches, Massood. Towhidnejad

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This thesis describes the architecture and organization of a multi-computer communication network employing crossbar switches. The network is implemented using the Motorola EXORset development system. The network provides a flexible communication system capable of application to a wide range of data transfers. In this system each computer will perform its local tasks, in the meantime, each computer could send or receive messages to and from other computers in the network. The system logic has been partitioned into two basic board types: (a) communication interface, and (b) controller. The communication interface provides the interface of computers in the network to the …

Reply, Paul W. Angel, Chandra S. Ray, Delbert E. Day

Materials Science and Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

No abstract provided.

Simulation Of A Parallel Manufacturing Operations, Charles P. Cochran

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This thesis examines a manufacturing process using a real time interface with a 6502 microprocessor that gives the appearance of parallel processing. Two separate processes are operated, apparently simultaneously with an asynchronous interface between the two processes. An Apple microcomputer, an ISAAC data transfer system and a constructed simulation model are used to demonstrate this process. The model is constructed of Fischertechnik manufactured parts for the support framework, as well as gearing devices, small DC electric motors, and sensing devices in the form of photo-electric switches and single pole double throw switches physically activated by the constructed model. The software, …

Adaptive Discrete Cosine Transform Image Compression Applied To Visual Flight Simulators, Nancy A. Burrell

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

A visual flight simulator requires a huge amount of image data to be stored in the database. To make a photo-based system feasible an image compression scheme must be devised to compress the data.

An adaptive discrete cosine transform (DCT) technique is used to compress 24 bit color images to an average of 3 bits per pixel. The bits for the image are distributed based on the relative activity in different parts of the scene. Results and error analysis are presented.

Companding Flash Analog-To-Digital Converters, Michael P. Brig

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This report will demonstrate how a companding flash analog-to-digital converter can be used to satisfy both the dynamic range and resolution requirements of an infrared imaging system. In the past, infrared imaging systems had to rely on analog electronics to process a thermal image. This was costly and, in many ways, inefficient but the only way to perform the function. Digital processing was impractical because ADC conversion speeds were slow with respect to video frequencies. Furthermore, it is impossible to gain the necessary dynamic range using linear conversion techniques without large digital wordlengths. Therefore, the principles of companding flash analog-to-digital …

Design Of A Laboratory Course In Embedded Computer Systems, Alexander Nikoloff

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This research report discusses and presents the design of a university undergraduate level laboratory course introducing the topic of embedded computer systems. The course utilizes the Rainbow 100 computer and the Data Translation LDT2801 interface board to illustrate this concept.

Lab problems in Digital to Analog conversions, Analog to Digital conversions, Digital input/output, serial communication, motor drivers and parallel communication are presented, as are fully documented solutions. Suggested lecture material appropriate to the course is reviewed.

Interactive Texturing For A Computer Graphics Display System, Yin L. Wah

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Surfaces have texture, and few surfaces are truly smooth in the real world, yet this is how they are modeled. Texturing provides the illusion of increased surface roughness or granularity, and it also gives the illusion of extra detail and realism. This is accomplished by modulating surface color based on gradient function known as texture pattern.

Changing texture pattern data can be expensive and time consuming since the change must be done on database offline system and then reloaded on the Computer Image Generator (CIG) for review of the change. The Interactive Generator (IAT) system is designed for online examination …

Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum Acquisition Design, John C. Fakatselis

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Spread spectrum communication techniques are utilized to provide transmission of signals which have anti-jamming properties, a low probability of being intercepted, and can support a multiple-access system by servicing simultaneously a number of channels. This thesis concentrates on the receiver acquisition problem of a transmitted signal which is the output of a spread spectrum communication system. The acquisition requirements of a spread spectrum system and also the general approaches to the problem of “active and passive correlation” are discussed. A unique general purpose all-digital acquisition hardware design is developed and described to the schematic level of detail, where specific parts …

Water Desalination Using Nocturnal Radiation Cooling, Ali Mufarreh Saleh Al-Amri

Masters Theses

"In this investigation nocturnal radiation condensation cooling is considered to determine the possibility of using this method as a desalination process in remote areas, villages and resorts, etc. An experimental study was made and programs were developed to calculate water collection under ideal conditions. Both experimental and theoretical work indicated that this process is useful for small scale water production where there is no available energy sources. It can be used also in conjunction with solar desalination processes. Cost analysis and a preliminary design are included"--Abstract, page ii.

Automation Of A High-Potential Test Instrument, Jeffery D. Breshears

Masters Theses

"Microcomputer controlled automation of a high-potential test set is presented. The design and development of a controller, the support circuits used to interface between the existing electronics and the controller, the IEEE-488 Bus Interface, and a new control panel design with options for manual, automatic, or computer-controlled operation of the instrument are given. Software subroutine listings which exemplify the computer-automation feature of the instrument are also presented. Recommendations for modification and improvement of the given design conclude the paper"--Abstract, page ii.

Fuel Loading For A Low-Leakage Core In A Pressurized Water Reactor, Omar Ivan Aguilar

Masters Theses

"A study of low-leakage core fuel loading as a means to reduce fast neutron flux incident upon the pressure vessel is presented. The specific case under study is Cycle 5 of Arkansas Nuclear One - Unit Two (ANO-2), a Combustion Engineering Pressurized Water Reactor. Neutron transport calculations were performed using the DOT two-dimensional transport code. The results from DOT provide the angular distribution of the fast neutron flux at the surface of the pressure vessel.

Seven different fuel loading schemes were studied and compared to the Reference Case. The angular distribution of the fast neutron flux for all cases studied …

Guide Manual—Records And Reports For Indiana County Highway Departments, Jean E. Hittle

Indiana Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP) Publications

This Guide Manual on Records and Reports for Indiana County Highway Departments has been prepared, in collaboration with the State Board of Accounts, to assist County Road Officials in complying with the statutory requirements. (IC 8-17-4.1)

The procedures on the keeping of the forms, the sample entries that demonstrate the use of the forms, and the summary charts, showing the relationship of the several forms to each other, have been reviewed by the State Board of Accounts and are believed to be correct and authoritative. It must be recognized, however, that such a Guide Manual as presented here cannot cover …

Soil Erosion From Tillage And Planting Systems Used In Soybean Residue: Part I - Influences Of Row Spacing, David P. Shelton, Paul J. Jasa, Elbert C. Dickey

Department of Agricultural and Biological Systems Engineering: Faculty Publications

A rainfall simulator was used to compare soil losses from various tillage and planting systems used in residue from soybeans which had been grown in both wide and narrow spaced rows the previous season. Up and- down hill tillage and planting treatments ranging from a double disk system to no-till planting were evaluated using replicated plots on a silt loam soil in the Nora Series having a 10% slope.

Tillage and planting systems used in soybean residue from narrow spaced rows had soil erosion and soil erosion rates that were reduced by approximately 50% compared to the same systems used …

Utah Water Research Laboratory, Utah Center For Water Resources Research, A Program Overview, L. Douglas James, Donna H. Falkenborg

Reports

Organization of Prepared Material: This overview presents the water resources research program administered through the Utah Water Research Laboratory and the Utah Center for Water Resources Reserach. The document is prepared for an internal review by a faculty team organized by the Administration of Utah State university and an external review by a team organized by the U.S. Geological Survey as part of a national effort to evaluate the water research centers in every state over a 2-year period. These materials are prepared to stimulate discussion and spark innocative ideas for building an even stronger program. The UWRL/UCWRR administration sees …

Expected Effects Of In-Lake Dikes On Water Levels And Quality In The Farmington Bay And The East Shore Areas Of The Great Salt Lake, Utah (Executive Summary), Duane G. Chadwick, J. Paul Riley, Alberta J. Seierstad, Darwin L. Sorensen, Norman E. Stauffer

Reports

Introduction: The Great Salt Lake is a terminal lake and as such is one of the major inland bodies of salt water in the world, and the largest lake of brine in the western hemisphere. Its unique features, including its mineral rich waters and interesting shores and islands, make it appealing to both industry and vacationers. Until recently, some of the great waterfowl sanctuaries in the U.S. existed along the easterly and northerly shores of the lake. However, during the past three years record breaking inflow volumes and lower than normal evaporation rates have caused an unprecidented rate of rise …

Expected Effects Of In-Lake Dikes On Water Levels And Quality In The Farmington Bay And The East Shore Areas Of The Great Salt Lake, Utah, Duane G. Chadwick, J. Paul Riley, Alberta J. Seierstad, Darwin L. Sorensen, Norman E. Stauffer

Reports

Introduction: The Great Salt Lake is a terminal lake and as such is one of the major inland bodies of salt water in the world, and the largest lake of brine in the western hemisphere. Its unique features, including its mineral rich waters and interesting shores and islands, make it appealing to both industry and vacationers. Until recently, some of the great waterfowl sanctuaries in the U.S. existed along the easterly and northerly shores of the lake. However, during the past three years record breaking inflow volumes and lower than normal evaporation rates have caused an unprecidented rate of rise …

Potential Arkansas And White Rivers Water Available For Diversion To The Grand Prairie, W. Douglass Dixon, Richard C. Peralta

Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty Publications

At the present time. the rate of groundwater use in the Grand Prairie region of Arkansas exceeds natural replenishment of the underlying aquifer. Most of the groundwater is used for agricultural production. [f current agricultural water needs of the region are to be satisfied under sustained yield conditions. supplemental surface water will be required. The objective of this study is to assess the viability of the Arkansas and White Rivers as sources of supplemental water for meeting water needs in excess of those which can be met with groundwater.

Alternate Presentation Of Fourier Transform Development From Fourier Series., Gordon E. Carlson

Electrical and Computer Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

An alternate presentation of the development of the Fourier transform from the complex exponential Fourier series is presented. It uses spectral concepts to aid the mathematical development and a redefined spectral form for the spectral information obtained with the Fourier series. It has been used a number of times in the classroom and has been found to aid the students' understanding of the Fourier transform and the spectra of an aperiodic signal.

Expert System Technology Applied To The Sensor Allocation Problem For Multisensor Integration, Edwin Rowe Carney

Masters Theses

"The use of multiple sensors for target acquisition provides both redundant and complementary coverage of the target observation space. To effectively utilize the sensor suite and to reduce the number of operator tasks, a high level of automation is required. An expert system is used to control the sensor suite. The expert system acts as an interface between the operator and the multisensory system. The sensors and their modes of operation are selected by the expert system. The mode selections are dependent upon the operator objective, the environment, and the physical and logical constraints of the system. The goal is …

On The Mean Time Between Failures For Repairable Systems, Max Engelhardt, Lee J. Bain

Geosciences and Geological and Petroleum Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

Much of the recent work on modeling repairable systems involves Poisson processes with nonconstant intensity functions, viz, nonhomogeneous Poisson processes. Since times between failures are not identically distributed when the process is nonhomogeneous, it is not clear what concept should take the place of the mean time between failures in assessing the reliability of a repairable system. A number of alternate concepts can be found in the literature. We investigate the relationship between two of the most frequently considered alternatives: the reciprocal of the intensity function, and the mean waiting time from t until the next failure. Theorem 1 states …

Preparation Of Perovskite Pb(Mg1/3nb2/3)03 Using Pb3nb208 And Mgo, Jyoti P. Guha, Harlan U. Anderson

Materials Science and Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

The synthesis of perovskite Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 from an equimolar mixture of Pb3Nb208 and MgO was studied by solid‐state reaction techniques. An addition of 1 wt% excess MgO to the stoichiometric composition enhances the formation of the cubic perovskite phase. The absence of free PbO in the initial starting materials minimizes the volatilization loss during firing, thereby reducing the possibility of any compositional change and resulting in a substantial improvement of the perovskite phase purity over the conventional mixed‐oxide processing. Copyright © 1986, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved

Career Counseling Practices In Abet-Accredited Engineering Cooperative Education Programs, Gary Richard Martin

University of the Pacific Theses and Dissertations

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to describe and evaluate the career counseling practices in all schools of engineering in the United States with ABET-accredited engineering Cooperative Education programs. Procedure. A thirty-two item questionnaire was developed and sent out to all ABET-accredited Cooperative Education offices. All the engineering coordinators in each office filled out the questionnaire. Eighty-six percent of the schools responded to the surveys. Findings. (1) Most engineering Co-op coordinators have educational backgrounds in engineering and have taken at least one class in career counseling. (2) Co-op coordinators tend to have caseloads and other responsibilities which restrict the …

A New Automated Pulse Testing Analysis Method Applying Inflection Point Theory, Jose Maria Donoso

Masters Theses

"This paper describes a new technique for pulse test analysis that combines the simplicity of the tangent method with the result repeatability of the iterative methods. Inflection points are used instead of time lag with the added advantage that they are calculated by a simple algorithm and are not subject to graphical misinterpretation. Charts are made for the calculation of transmissibility and storage for unequal pulse and shut-in periods from 0.1 to 0.9 relating inflection time to pulse response amplitude and dimensionless inflection time.

The graphs presented for this technique have the same dimensionless cycle period ranges (from 0.44 to …

The Effect Of Steel Fibers On The Toughness Properties Of Large Aggregate Concrete : Informational Report, Stephen Brent Tatro

JTRP Technical Reports

No abstract provided.