Industrial Engineering Commons^™

Dynamic Allocation Of Responsibility Between Operators With Different Models Of System Information Using Computer-Mediated Communication, Michele Terranova

Psychology Theses & Dissertations

This research focused on the effectiveness of two operator teams for dynamic control of a process simulation. The responsibility for system optimization and failure detection was shared by the operators through computer-mediated communication. System information was displayed to both operators by one of three mental models of the systems: an alphanumeric/separable representation, a graphic/integral system representation, or both representations. The following team-display configurations were used: primary operator with graphic display, support operator with alphanumeric (GRAL); primary operator with alphanumeric display, support operator with graphic (ALGR); both operators with alphanumeric displays (BOAL); both operators with graphic displays (BOGR); and both operators …

Geographic Information Systems: The Developer's Perspective, Johnn B. Henris

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Geographic information systems, which manage data describing the surface of the earth, are becoming increasingly popular. This research details the current state of the art of geographic data processing in terms of the needs of the geographic information system developer. The research focuses chiefly on the geographic data model--the basic building block of the geographic information system. The two most popular models, tessellation and vector, are studied in detail, as well as a number of hybrid data models.

In addition, geographic database management is discussed in terms of geographic data access and query processing. Finally, a pragmatic discussion of geographic …

Dynamic Performance-Based Student Model For An Intelligent Simulation Training System, Jenifer M. Sargeant

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Student modeling has been the subject of research since the mid-1970's. A student model is an evolving description of what the student knows about the subject domain. Much of the previous research has concentrated on evaluating a student in performing cognitive tasks. The Intelligent Simulation Training System (ISTS) applies the techniques of Artificial Intelligence, Intelligent Tutoring Systems and Expert Systems to simulation-based training. The ISTS Student Model is unique in that it evaluates the student in performance-based tasks. It monitors and records the student's ability to maintain relationships between objects in space and time. The scope of this research was …

Efficient Algorithms For The Fixed Charge Problem, Ahmad Abdulah Moreb

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The main thrust of this research is to develop four solution procedures for the Fixed Charge Problem. All are based on approximating the fixed charge component by strictly polygonal linear components. The first procedure uses the functions technique to approximate the fixed charge; then linear programming with the restricted-basisentry technique is used to arrive at the final solution. Although this method starts with an approximated version of the fixed charge component, it arrives at an exact value to the objective function without the need for re-evaluating the objective function. The other three solution procedures are based on approximating the fixed …

Economic Design Of Lot-By-Lot Acceptance Sampling By Attributes, Michael S. Wall

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Risk-based sampling plans have long been the accepted standards in the practice of acceptance sampling for quality control. Usually the economic consequences of a given sampling plan are assessed by experience and intuition at best. With the availability of high speed computers and well-proven statistical methods, economically-optimal sampling pl a ns can now be developed so that much of the guesswork is removed. This study first surveys these methods for deriving economically-optimal sampling plans. Then, recognizing the reluctance in government and industry to abandoning ris k-based design of sampling plans, a method is explored which poses a compromise between the …

An Overview Of Machine Vision, Juan C. Telchi

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The objective of this paper is to examine new ideas and other useful information on the most recent advances in the robotic vision field. A visual system model was introduced and the basic components of this model were explained. The principal areas in robotic vision were researched. This included two dimension and three dimension vision sensors. Industrial applications and future developments of machine vision systems were addressed. A survey was done to summarize the vision system market and the robot market share worldwide.

Removal Of Eucalyptus Vessel Segments Using Centrifugal Cleaners, Amnuay Ponpued

Masters Theses

Two commercial feedforward centrifugal cleaners were used in the study of vessel segment removal from bleached eucalyptus pulp. The reduction of vessel elements yielded a reduction of vessel pick tendency and other problems caused by vessel elements which limit the use of eucalyptus pulp in paper stock furnishes. The operating conditions of the centrifugal cleaners were evaluated for their effect on separation efficiency. Pulp loss with rejects was reduced by multiple stage separation. The Vandercook Proof Press was used to compare the picking of cleaned, original pulp and two higher-vessel-content pulps. Regression analysis and ANOVA showed significant effects of feed …

Robotization For Assembling Small Parts, Frank J. Valese

Theses

The thrust of this paper is directed toward establishing a roboticized small parts assembly line where none currently exist. Technical and pragmatic requisites were established and reviewed prior to installing the proposed robotic workcell. Although the specific model chosen for discussion is the locksmithing industry, the procedures followed, the design tools utilized, and the methods of job-costing employed apply equally to other small parts industries.

Basic industrywide considerations reviewed for each robotization effort included:

1. Choosing the proper application for robotization
2. Obtaining management support and labor input to insure the success of the project
3. Deciding on the economic and production goals …

Current Trends In Facilities Planning, Chaochou Yang

Theses

In the past year the costs of computing and computer graphics have come down dramatically. At the same time, the computer graphic system has become easier to use, As a result, computer support has become more costeffective than before.

In this thesis, the writer describes types of systems first, then looks at computer usage. He first defines the technologies of DSS, CAD and MIS, then takes a detailed, step-by-step look at facilities planning and the various ways in which computers are used for support. Well-conceived planning is an important prerequisite to effective computer use. The remainder of the thesis expands …

Improving Maintenance Effectiveness, Stephen J. Thierry

Masters Theses

A methodology is advanced for measuring the productivity of industrial maintenance operations. A work sampling study and a production to maintenance interface survey are conducted to identify the current level of maintenance effectiveness at a food processing plant. Variables affecting maintenance effectiveness are postulated from site observations of the plant maintenance operation. A total of nine changes are proposed; three are implemented as part of this study and six remaining changes are proposed for the future. All recommendations are targeted at increasing the overall effectiveness of the maintenance operation under study.

Reflections On Solid Modeling In Cad/Cam System, Yuh-Hwa Chyr

Theses

In this thesis, we will first study the mathematical fundamental for geometric modeling. It includes modeling space, representation scheme, and various characteristics for solid modeling. Then we discuss how a solid modeling system is integrated into an overall CAD/CAm system. What functions it performs, and what fuctions must be performed with other parts of the CAD/CAM systems. And how data can be transfered between solid modeling system and other CAD/CAM system.

Solid modeling has created a new era in CAD/CAM. A solid model is an unambiguous, three-dimensional, geometric representation of a design. The more design information a model can represent, …

Capacity Planning In A Discrete Item Manufacturing Environment, Ali M. Alsebaiee

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Capacity planning is a medium-to-long- term production planning tool that enables management to better understand how the demand of its customers have and will affect the available capacity planning. For a successful production and planning control system, management needs to consider the availability of not only the materials and component, but also the required manufacturing capacity. Several capacity planning techniques that deal with capacity planning in a discrete item manufacturing (job shop environment) are discussed in this report. These are Resource Requirement Planning, Rough Cut Capacity Planning, Capacity Requirement Planning, Operation Sequence, Input Output, and Simulation. A computerized capacity planning …

Continuous Statistical Distribution Curve Fitting And Analysis Tool, Gerald Robie

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This paper reports on the implementation and utilization of a micro-computer based simulation modeling verification and validation tool. The interactive software tool, written in BASIC, computes and displays the frequency distribution of a given set of input data, computes appropriate parameters for a continuous statistical distribution which the user selects as likely to represent the population from which the input data sample was obtained, performs several goodness-of-fit analyses on the resultant distribution and provides sensitivity analysis capability on the input data, distribution type selection and distribution parameters.

The Creation Of An Expert System For Teaching Piano Lessons, Carol Chew

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Combining the arts with science and technology has had many beneficial results. Computers and music have been connected for many years. Computers have been used in music composition, electronic keyboards, music publishing and digital sound processing. Artificial intelligence has been used in creating expert systems for training people in various fields. An attempt will be made to tie together expert systems for training with current computerized music technology.

This research report proposes that an expert system be developed to teach piano lessons. The fields of music and artificial intelligence will be drawn upon in developing this expert system structure. While …

The Use Of A Portable Microcomputer As A Data Collection Tool To Support Integrated Simulation Support Environments: A Concept, James E. Wilkinson

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Advances in simulation methodology, and the computer support systems to implement these methodologies, have led to the development of integrated simulation support environments. These environments, or collection of software tools, seek to aid the analyst in developing models, data management and analysis, and data presentation.

While an integrated simulation environment provides a more organized structure for managing and performing simulation projects, and provides a database management structure for storing, manipulating, and analyzing data, they do not address the actual process of going out and obtaining the data. As a result, many of the common problems associated with poor problem and …

Production Of Blanking Circles And Dies - An Appropriate Method, V Bhandari

Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology (TJET)

A large important blanking die for production of multiwick stoves oil tanks was damaged beyond repair during normal maintenance. A replacement die could not be made available immediately. Initially an alternative blank production system based upon the adaptation of the inhouse and locally available tools was set up. Subsequently a temporary low cost and a permanent replacement blanking die was designed, developed and manufactured out of pad welding of mild steel plate. Recommendations have been drawn in light of the experiences gained in the deployment of these appropriate methods.

Distributive Mixing Performance Of Rubber Internal Mixers, B Mutagahywa

Tanzania Journal of Engineering and Technology (TJET)

Results of experiments to study the distributive mixing performance of Internal mixers are reported in this paper. Distributive mixing was assessed by monitoring the uniformity of sulphur distribution throughout rubber mixes subjected to a range of rotor revolutions. The results indicate that distributive mixing in a well controlled Internal mixer is rapid and unlikely to be a source of mix variability.

Electric Power Transmission & Purchases : Report Of A Study By The Joint Standing Committee On Utilities, 112th Maine Legislature, Maine. Legislature. Joint Standing Committee On Utilities

Maine Collection

Electric Power Transmission & Purchases : Report Of a Study By the Joint Standing Committee on Utilities, 112th Maine Legislature

Maine Legislature. Joint Standing Committee on Utilities.

Augusta, Maine (December 2, 1986).

Contents: Introduction / Issues & Recommendations / Review of 1986 Legislation / Maine's Electric Power Picture / Technical Analysis of Transmission & Wheeling / Economic Implications of Transmission & Wheeling /. Legals Analysis of Transmission & Wheeling / Proposed Legislation / Appendices / Tables & Figures

Sensitivity Analysis Of Linear Goal Programming On Priority Level Reordering, Fu-Chia Hor

Theses

The purpose of this research is to study on the sensitivity analysis of priority level reordering of a goal programming model. Two approaches are presented in this study to handle this priority level reordering analysis. The first one is an algorithm to generate the solution of a similar problem with different priority level ordering of the original one utilizing the final solution tableau of the original problem. In doing so, calculation steps and time are saved tremendously.

The second approach is based on the fact that some goal programming problem of different priority level ordering has the same solution as …

Utilization Of The Microcomputer To Improve The Productivity Of Small Manufacturing Companies, Hung-Gi Chang

Theses

The ongoing microcomputer development has led to its increasing application in manufacturing to reduce costs and improve productivity. Being more aware of this technology, most of these benefits have accrued to large firms. The intent of this thesis is to show that it is equally advantageous for small manufacturing companies to utilize them and show how they can do so.

The paper discusses the role and characteristics of microcomputers. Available software to do engineering designs, materials requirements planning, process planning, and master production scheduling is described. Using a case study a method that can be followed in selection and implementation …

Computerized Work Measurement System, Vrajesh Shah

Theses

This thesis is concerned with the application of computerized work measurement to improve productivity and efficiency of production workers. In doing so, the techniques of MOST (Maynard Operation Sequence Technique) is studied to determine its appropriateness for industrial use. The advantages and disadvantages of the system are studied as to its value to large and small industries.

The Impact Of Fms On Batch Production Processes, Jan-Sheau Ho

Theses

A Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS) is an integrated system of combining metalcutting and other processes with materials handling under computer control. With computer control, FMS is capable of processing a variety of different types of workpieces simultaneously. FMS is an approach towards a balancing of high output on the one hand and great flexibility on the other hand. FMS stands as a new technology to improve the productivity of mid-volume, mid-variety production; therefore the manufacturing world will soon feel the impact of FMS.

This thesis attempts to specify what FMS is and how it works, the influence of FMS on …

Development And Testing Of A Heuristic Line Balancing Program For A Microcomputer, Dean B. Creech

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Development, operation, and testing of a heuristic line balancing program for a microcomputer are discussed. Tasks are grouped into work stations along an assembly line such that the number of work stations required is minimized.

The model is built primarily using the Hoffman (1963) procedure with modifications described by Gehrlein and Patterson (1975). For purposes of comparison the Rank Positional Weight technique (Helgeson and Birnie, 1961) is also included in the model.

Testing included thirty-seven different balances using problems from the literature. For each balance, both Rank Positional Weight and Hoffmann solutions were obtained in the forward and reverse directions. …

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 …

Utilization Of Expert Systems In The Work Place: Performing Project Software Cost Estimation On Training Systems, Henry A. Marshall

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This research report investigates the use of an expert system to aid project engineers at the Naval Training Systems Center in making decisions concerning the requirements of the computer systems used in simulators. For a prototype system domain, the author chose an expert system that would generate a software development cost estimate. This system questions the user about the features and options required on the training system. The expert system then analyzes the information to generate a “lines of code” estimate. A selected model will combine various factors to generate s value answer for the user. The capabilities and features …

The Application Of Expert Systems To Automated Storage And Retrieval, Robert E. Mcdonald

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This report discusses the major functions, decisions, and strategies of automated storage and retrieval systems (AR/RS). The report surveys the essential features of expert systems and discusses how they can be applied in automated warehousing environments. A blackboard expert system architecture was examined and found to be a flexible and responsive control system for automated warehousing applications. A simple AR/RS expert system was constructed using an expert system software package. A warehousing simulation was performed which compared the expert system’s performance to a typical AR/RS control system. The expert system produced increased efficiency of operation because of the intelligent rules …

An Investigation Of The Application Of Utility Theory To Determine The Value Of Time: The Demand For Interactive Information Systems In Student Markets, Gordon S. Kalley

Theses

The economic rational of many contemporary businesses is the provision of services or labor saving equipment which their customers' pay for in order• to save themselves time. A major decision such an enterprise must make prior to entry into the market i=_ whether enough of a market exists to make its entry worthwhile. Such firms would be able to make better resource allocation decisions if they could have a quantitative measure of the relationship of their consumer's valuation of time vis a vi money. This study proposes such a measure.

Interactive information systems, whose viability depends to a large degree …

Basic Concepts In Cad & Cam, Chao-Ming Liu

Theses

As the computer revolution is nearing its end, CAD/CAM concepts are being widely accepted and evolving rapidly. This thesis begins with a disscussion of the significance and advantages of CAD/CAM and their relationship with automation. Hardware and software components involved are then introduced. Product design under CAD is done by computers. Computers perform engineering analysis, necessary calculations, and dynamic simulation to complete the complex design. The geometric elements and operational primitives are provided by a data base system. The major components of CAM are then introduced. The term CAM is used in a broader sense to include CAPP, MRP, NC, …

The Flexible Manufacturing System And Its Development In Taiwan, Chi-Shuan Liu

Theses

FMS is a new kind of manufacturing system which is flexible enough to handle a limited variety of parts. It usually consists of three main components: machine tools, a material handling system, and a computer control system. The material handling system is the key to integrating manufacturing cells into the FMS. The machine tools used in FMS are programmable and computer-controlled, having the ability to change their operation process rapidly to deal with product changeovers and part design changes. The digital computer used in FMS has the capability of handling various manufacturing processes which are not capable of being controlled …

Human Factors In The Design Of Computer Graphics Input/Output Interfaces, Michael Uche Amadi

Theses

Computers are used for solving problems of various kinds and therefore, if the users are to fully benefit from the systems, they must be considered during the earliest stages of the system development. There are three major classes of computer users namely: naive, managerial, and scientific-technical. These users have different characteristics that the designer must consider within his/her system. Only by including such distinctions will these user groups each be able to perform at their respective optimum levels. Just as there are different users, there are also numerous applications to which computers can be applied. This thesis will be restricted …