Engineering Commons^™

Electromagnetic Scattering From Stacked Gratings, Pok K. Kwan

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The theory of scattering matrices and microwave network analysis are employed to solve the problem of scattering from cascaded infinite periodic gratings. The total reflection and transmission coefficients are calculated as functions of angle of incidence, wire spacing for each grating, grating separation, wire thickness, and number of gratings that comprise the cascaded structure. Moreover, the problem of stacking dielectric slabs with periodic gratings is formulated and solved. In all cases, the Secant Corrector Spectral Iteration approach is used as a numerical method for calculating the desired currents and fields.

Finally, calculated values of the reflection and transmission coefficients are …

Air Conditioner Fan Speed Controller For Comfort And Dehumidification, Florida Solar Energy Center, Mukesh Khattar

FSEC Energy Research Center®

Air conditioners perform the dual functions of cooling and dehumidifying. Many air conditioner units do not adequately dehumidify the air in Florida's humid climate. The quest for higher energy efficiency ratings (EER) has produced units that perform poorly in moisture removal. What follows is a simple and cheap method to increase the moisture removal performance of any air conditioner.

Fans To Reduce Cooling Costs In The Southeast, Florida Solar Energy Center, Subrato Chandra

FSEC Energy Research Center®

During the hot, humid summer months in the southeastern U. S., air conditioning costs are a substantial part of the average home's utility bill. In Florida, for example, air conditioning accounts for about 30 percent of the annual utility bill for an all electric house. Fans can help lower air conditioning costs.

There are three generic types of fans to reduce summer air conditioning costs: air circulating fans to create air motion which increases comfort, whole house fans to promote fresh air exchange, and attic vent fans to lower attic temperatures.

Window Treatment For Energy Conservation, Florida Solar Energy Center, Ross Mccluney

FSEC Energy Research Center®

This Energy Note gives the non-technical reader a clear look at windows - how to get the most from them in cooling, heating, ventilating and illuminating the home. Although most of the points are applicable anywhere in the country, emphasis is on summer solar heat gain experienced in buildings in Florida. Two common features of Southern building style are large window areas to let the light and breezes in, and shading devices or window films to keep the hot sunshine out. This energy note addresses design guidelines and strategies as well as shading devices and window films for existing windows.

Computer Modeling And Design Of State Space Feedback Control System For A Process Veneer Dryer, Allen D. Nease

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This thesis describes the design of a state space feedback control system for a process veneer dryer. The input variable is dryer atmospheric temperature and the output variable is veneer moisture content. As usual in the design of control systems for real-world processes, the biggest task was modeling the system to obtain the system differential equation and state space representation. The system equation derived from the model was checked against the behavior of the real-world system using the Advanced Continuous Simulation Language (ACSL) software package run on a VAX 11/750 computer. From the system equation a state space control system …

Fiber Optic Fluid Level Sensor, Navid Ghandeharioun

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

A fiber optic fluid level sensor based on light transmission attenuation due to bending losses is designed, built and tested.

Fibers formed with reverse curvatures of decreasing radii will induce and increasing amount of lower order mode light loss to the cladding as the light propagates along the step index multimode fiber. The sensor is arranged in the fluid in a vertical position such that the light travels along the fiber from the bottom or low fluid point to the top or full point. As the fluid covers increasing lengths of the exposed fiber, it strips even more power from …

New Non-Linear Fm Pulse-Compression Technique For Radar Applications, Ronald A. Booher

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The development of pulsed type radar signals is examined, with a brief review of matched filtering. Gated RF, linear and non-linear FM pulse-compression (chirp) and matched filtering of radar signals is reviewed in depth. Emphasis is given to identifying the desirable characteristics of each method. A new method of non-linear FM pulse-compression is introduced; it utilizes the Eigen Function (a form of the raised-cosine family) of functions) as its modulating term. Its properties are then compared to those of the linear and non-linear systems reviewed in the preceding sections. Design considerations for implementation on a surface acoustic wave device are …

A Logic Simulator Interface, John D. Lofgren

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

A software interface between a firmware documentation system and a logic simulator named TEGAS-5¹ is described. The interface accepts PALASM² inputs for PAL files. The output is an ASCII file which defines the firmware parts in TEGAS-5 format. Modules are written in FORTRAN and command routines are written in DCL on VAX 11/780 machines. No system calls are required, so portability is maintained. Limitations include the inability to load two different programs in identical firmware parts on the same design, but this can be overcome.

¹GE/Calma Corporation trademark

²MMI Corporation trademark

Optimum Input Impedance For An Electro-Oculometer, Robert A. Solomon

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.

A High Level Programming Language And Compiler For The Heathkit Et-18 Hero Robot, Daniel. Fischoff

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Robots are being used extensively i• n industry to increase the productivity and flexibility of manufacturing operations. Personnel must be trained to operate industrial robots safely and effectively. Many educational robotic systems have been developed, but these devices usually lack the high level programming language capabilities found on modern industrial robots. The Heathkit Hero Robot is an educational robotic system. A high level language was developed for the robot to make the Hero a more effective educational device. The high level language and compiler operate on an IBM Personal Computer, allowing robot programs to be written offline without interrupting the …

The Application Of Value Analysis Techniques To Service Organizations, David M. Richardson

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This research involves review of value analysis and value engineering techniques and application of these techniques to a service organization. Application of value analysis techniques to service organizations required some modification due to the amount of labor intensive, manual operations typical of many service industries. The modified value analysis methodology was applied to a fueling operation performed by Kennedy Space Center as part of their space shuttle operations. The successful application of this technique illustrated that value analysis methodology can be applied to service organizations with slight modifications.

A Computer Program To Design Reinforcement For Concrete Beams Subjected To Torsion, James E. Schwarz

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

A concrete beam is rarely subjected to pure torsion loading. However, in many design applications a beam is subjected to torsional loads in addition to bending and shear loading. The American Concrete Institute has developed a specification for the design of beams subjected to torsion. These specifications are found in ACI 318-83. In this research report, a computer program is presented, using these specifications, which will aid engineers in the design of reinforcement for concrete beams subjected to torsional loading. The provisions of the ACI 318-83 specification and their implementation into the computer program are presented. A sample problem is …

Data Compilation And Statistical Analysis Of Bachelor Of Science In Engineering Graduates At The University Of Central Florida, June A. Hagerty

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The College of Engineering at the University of Central Florida (UCF) required a data set containing the Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) graduates from 1970 on, to be updated each semester. The data set was created in 1984, through the use of the Statistical Analysis System/Full-Screen Product (SAS/FSP), a computer system which allows for easy access to and editing of data values, and the use of SAS programming for statistical analysis of the data set. The data set presently (1985) contains 1483 observations each with 70 variables, such as personal information (age, social security number, ethnic origin), degree information …

The Effects Of Magnetic Flux On Suspended Particles In Seawater, Mohammed A. Nehme

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

A study was conducted to investigate the effect of magnetic devices on the precipitates in a condenser’s tubes when seawater is used as cooling water. This test was necessary to evaluate these devices as possible replacements for conventional methods of water treatment. In the test program, a small condenser was operated with conditions similar to utility condensers. This condenser was modified to include twelve tubes. The inlet water box was divided to provide for two parallel magnetic water treatment streams, and one control untreated water stream for comparison purposes. With and without the use of a magnetic device, the chemical …

Fiber Optic Temperature Sensors For A Large Electric Power Generator, Daniel A. Lester

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Fiber optic temperature sensors are excellent candidates for monitoring the temperature along the stator windings of a large electric power generator. Unlike thermocouple thermometers, they are immune to the effects of strong magnetic fields which are present in all power generators. Several different point and line sensors have been evaluated in their ability to resolve temperature and temperature distribution (respectively), as well as their compatibility with the generator environment. The sensor must function inside the generator for long periods of time (up to 25 years) without benefit of recalibration. This constraint has required us to devise methods by which the …

Multi-Computer Communication With Shared Memory, Jane N. Chang

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This thesis describes a design for a multi-computer communication system using a shared memory. The design is implemented using the Motorola EXORset 30/DS35 development systems. The primary use for the shared memory is to act as a message center similar to a mailbox, where each computer can leave messages for other computers and also pick up messages from other computers. Status word residing in shared memory, called semaphore, are used to indicate the condition of the mailbox. Each computer polls unique semaphores associated with unique message transfers when requesting to send a message or to receive a message.

Uhf Frequency Synthesizer, Christopher W. Shenefelt

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This thesis describes the design, implementation and testing of a UHF frequency synthesizer. The synthesizer is designed to provide a sine wave output programmable from 400 MHz to 500 MHz in 0.1 MHz increments. The synthesis technique utilized is Digital Coherent Indirect Synthesis. This technique uses phase locking to provide a range of stable output frequencies all derived from a single crystal reference. Component design and system level analysis are presented in detail.

Using N.2 To Model A Microprocessor System, Benjamin J. Patz

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Due to the complexity of designing digital systems using VLSI parts, a tool for aiding in system level design specification and verification is needed. Functional level modeling languages and simulators provide that tool. An example of such a tool is the N.2 package of software produced by Endot Inc. and soon to be running on a VAX computer at the University of Central Florida. An overview of the N.2 system is presented in this paper with emphasis on the modeling language of N.2, ISP’. A Small Instruction set Computer (SIC), originally specified in HAPL, is designed with this software using …

The Quantity Of Stormwater Entering The Drainage Wells Of Orlando, Florida, James M. Mcbee

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

An extensive literature survey revealed there have been no in-depth studies of the quantity of water entering Orlando area drainage wells. Previous values ranging from 30 to 85 MGD were based on water supply withdrawal information or gross drainage area estimates. This paper presents a detailed study of the quantity of water entering 208 drainage wells in the Orlando Ubran Stormwater Management Manual (OUSWMM) area. Extrapolation of results to the remaining wells in Orange County is discussed briefly. Field experiments on one 20 in drainage well yielded a mathematical relationship that was reasonable for estimating acceptance rates for drainage wells …

Evaluation Of Percolation Ponds For Design And Operation, David A. Baar

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Land application of domestic wastewater effluent by rapid rate infiltration (i.e., percolation ponds) is a very successful and cost-effective method for wastewater management. Municipal percolation pond systems have been successfully operated in the United States for about 100 years. The disposal concept depends on a relatively high rate of secondary wastewater effluent infiltration into the soil by rapid percolation, either vertically or horizontally, away from the application surface area. This study was accomplished to determine infiltration rates at two working percolation pond systems and the variability of these rates, to compare the operating results with the initial design, and to …

Design Of A Gold Code Generator For Use In Code Division Multiple Access Communication System, Mark W. Young

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

A Gold code sequence generator suitable for use in a code division multiple access spread spectrum communication application is designed. A dual, single return shift register configuration is used to generate Gold code sequences. The code sequences are generated by the mod-2 addition of two linear maximal length pseudo-random noise codes, each of which corresponds to a sixth-order primitive polynomial. A computer model of the design is used to generate all 65 possible members of the Gold code sequence family. A tabulation of all sequences and their initial condition “keys” is provided, along with a designation as to which code …

Dipstk-A Process Control Language, Charles C. Strange

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Process control languages are generally complex and machine-oriented. Their use requires a high degree of skill, not only in process control knowledge, but also in the programming. On one extreme, control programs are written in assembler language. This is a time-consuming process and the high investment is tailored to a specific application. The resulting programs are difficult to communicate between the programmer and the user. On the other extreme, recent attempts have used high-level languages, i.e., FORTRAN, but these still require assembly-level supplements. In general, only the programmers know what the program does. Thus, a void exists between the programmer …

A Survey Of Microcomputers In Training Devices, Kenneth P. Kelly

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This report surveys the use of microcomputers in existing and emerging training devices, with an emphasis on military training devices. Other major purposes of this report are to familiarize the training device designer with the capabilities of the microcomputer and present the designer with the set of issues to consider in determining if a microcomputer could be used in his particular trainer. After providing a description of training devices, this study addresses the definition and capabilities of current microcomputers. Current applications of training devices that utilize both single and multiple, or distributed, microprocessors are given. Next, an overview of the …

Visual Observations Of An Air-Water Mixture Flowing Through A Tube Support Plate With Circular-Hole And Trefoil-Hole Designs, Gary W. Caille

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The flow patterns of an air-water mixture at atmospheric pressure were visually observed through a simulated vertical steam generator tube support plate of circular hole and trefoil designs. Flow oscillations with a period on the order of 0.4 seconds were observed in both support plates at similar mass flow rate combinations. The oscillation consisted of a period of rapid surging followed by a low flow or stagnation period on the order of 0.1 seconds. Reverse (downward) flow was also observed for part of the oscillation cycle in the trefoil support plate. The flow oscillations that exist in one tube support …

An Interactive Training Device Using A Laser Video Disc, Mary C. Bertrand

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The goal of this paper is to develop an interactive training system. Although the system developed was used to train tank gunners, the system concepts are generic in that they can be applied to many training scenarios. Applications of computer-based training systems are briefly discussed. The system concepts are defined and hardware and software subsystems are outlined. An architectural overview will precede a detailed discussion of subsystems.

Ipcl1- An Interactive Process Control Language, Richard A. Erlandson

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This report documents a Process Control Language. It was written to provide an easy-to-use, user-friendly language to control a manufacturing-type process. It is not assumed the user is proficient or even familiar with any computer languages. The user should be able to grasp the simple set of commands available and begin writing user programs in a short period of time. Emphasis has been placed on error messages to inform the user of the type of error and enough information to correct it. The language was written in PDP-11 assembly language and run on a 11/34 computer in the Microcomputer Laboratory …

Modal Split Alternative To Ucf Using The Urban Transportation Planning Process, Waddah S. Farah

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This research evaluated the existing forms of transportation to the University of Central Florida (UCF) and analyzed the feasibility of a mass transportation alternative for the commuting students. During the past twenty years at UCF, the automobile has been the only major means of transportation used by the students and employees. Opinion surveys conducted during 1983 and 1984 indicated that the University commuters are confronted with a number of transportation problems including the high cost of using private automobiles, lack of parking spaces, congestion on roads leading to the University, and the walking time between the parking lots and the …

Display Format Development Station, Paul A. Valentine

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

An interactive Display Format Development Station (DFDS) was created to generate, modify, and document static background graphic displays for use in process control and monitoring environments. The purpose of the system is to organize and simplify the display generation process in order to reduce the costs associated with this activity. A review of the display generation process was done in order to identify the types of graphics constructs needed to generate the graphics display screens. Since the system uses an interactive process to generate the displays, the human interface software was developed to take advantage of various user friendly methods …

The Effect Of Recycle Control On Activated Sludge Clarification Efficiency, Joseph A. Margio

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Recent advances in activated sludge facilities operations utilize sludge recycle flow rate control to minimize adverse effects on the clarifier during peak solids loading situations. Although this control action is directed at the thickening function, there has been speculation that the elevated recycle rates may be responsible for an increased effluent solids concentration. To evaluate the significance of recycle rate to the steady-state effluent suspended solids concentration, identical side-by-side settling columns were operated with recycle rates spanning the range of normal practice. The studies were conducted so that each side-by-side unit received identical activated sludge feed slurries. Replicate experimental units …

Survey Of Fiber Optic Connectors And Cables, John B. Ostlund

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Today the world of fiber optics is bigger than ever. What is available to the engineer and the technician is now only apparent to the well informed. Not all engineers and technicians have a background or an education in the field of fiber optics. This report is intended to be an informative preliminary guide to those readers whose interest lies in the field of fiber optics.

The advantages of fiber optic systems are discussed and compared to conventional systems. Although a fiber optic system includes transmitters and receivers, this report concentrates primarily on fiber optic connectors and cables. It also …