Multilevel mesh partitioning for optimizing domain shape

Multilevel algorithms are a successful class of optimization techniques that address the mesh partitioning problem for mapping meshes onto parallel computers. They usually combine a graph contraction algorithm together with a local optimization method that refines the partition at each graph level. To date, these algorithms have been used almost exclusively to minimize the cut-edge weight in the graph with the aim of minimizing the parallel communication overhead. However, it has been shown that for certain classes of problems, the convergence of the underlying solution algorithm is strongly influenced by the shape or aspect ratio of the subdomains. Therefore, in this paper, the authors modify the multilevel algorithms to optimize a cost function based on the aspect ratio. Several variants of the algorithms are tested and shown to provide excellent results.

The use of evacuation modelling techniques in the design of very large transport aircraft and blended wing body aircraft

Very Large Transport Aircraft (VLTA) pose considerable challenges to designers, operators and certification authorities. Questions concerning seating arrangement, nature and design of recreational space, the number, design and location of internal staircases, the number of cabin crew required and the nature of the cabin crew emergency procedures are just some of the issues that need to be addressed. Other more radical concepts such as blended wing body (BWB) design, involving one or two decks with possibly four or more aisles offer even greater challenges. Can the largest exits currently available cope with passenger flow arising from four or five aisles? Do we need to consider new concepts in exit design? Should the main aisles be made wider to accommodate more passengers? In this paper we demonstrate how computer based evacuation models can be used to investigate these issues through examination of staircase evacuation procedures for VLTA and aisle/exit configuration for BWB cabin layouts.

Globalising knowledge

The technology enablers of Friedman’s Flat World have made enormous differences to knowledge creation and sharing. The disaggregation of supply chains has been followed by the partial disaggregation of knowledge supply chains as some knowledge producers set up innovation centres in various locations around the world. But there is considerable evidence that instead of a flat world distribution of knowledge production there are hubs of innovation and knowledge creation developing in a relatively limited number of locations around the world. This paper discusses this clustering effect and looks at some of the possible explanations. In particular it looks at the human and social aspects of knowledge creation and sharing that resist distance and are starting to be taken into account in the design of technological approaches to knowledge management.