SMARTFIRE: an integrated computational fluid dynamics code and expert system for fire field modelling

SMARTFIRE, an open architecture integrated CFD code and knowledge based system attempts to make fire field modeling accessible to non-experts in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) such as fire fighters, architects and fire safety engineers. This is achieved by embedding expert knowledge into CFD software. This enables the 'black-art' associated with the CFD analysis such as selection of solvers, relaxation parameters, convergence criteria, time steps, grid and boundary condition specification to be guided by expert advice from the software. The user is however given the option of overriding these decisions, thus retaining ultimate control. SMARTFIRE also makes use of recent developments in CFD technology such as unstructured meshes and group solvers in order to make the CFD analysis more efficient. This paper describes the incorporation within SMARTFIRE of the expert fire modeling knowledge required for automatic problem setup and mesh generation as well as the concept and use of group solvers for automatic and manual dynamic control of the CFD code.

A dynamically reconfigurable automotive control system architecture

This paper proposes a vehicular control system architecture that supports self-configuration. The architecture is based on dynamic mapping of processes and services to resources to meet the challenges of future demanding use-scenarios in which systems must be flexible to exhibit context-aware behaviour and to permit customization. The architecture comprises a number of low-level services that provide the required system functionalities, which include automatic discovery and incorporation of new devices, self-optimisation to best-use the processing, storage and communication resources available, and self-diagnostics. The benefits and challenges of dynamic configuration and the automatic inclusion of users' Consumer Electronic (CE) devices are briefly discussed. The dynamic configuration and control-theoretic technologies used are described in outline and the way in which the demands of highly flexible dynamic configuration and highly robust operation are simultaneously met without compromise, is explained. A number of generic use-cases have been identified, each with several specific use-case scenarios. One generic use-case is described to provide an insight into the extent of the flexible reconfiguration facilitated by the architecture.

Computational approach for reliable and robust system-in-package design

A computational modelling approach integrated with optimisation and statistical methods that can aid the development of reliable and robust electronic packages and systems is presented. The design for reliability methodology is demonstrated for the design of a SiP structure. In this study the focus is on the procedure for representing the uncertainties in the package design parameters, their impact on reliability and robustness of the package design and how these can be included in the design optimisation modelling framework. The analysis of thermo-mechanical behaviour of the package is conducted using non-linear transient finite element simulations. Key system responses of interest, the fatigue life-time of the lead-free solder interconnects and warpage of the package, are predicted and used subsequently for design purposes. The design tasks are to identify the optimal SiP designs by varying several package input parameters so that the reliability and the robustness of the package are improved and in the same time specified performance criteria are also satisfied

Research supervision and psychotherapeutic theory: bridging the research-practice-gap

Research supervision in the field of counselling and psychotherapy is a fruitful area for investigation in view of the fact that the research supervisory relationship is powerful and highly charged, whether consciously acknowledged or not. Researchers trained as counsellors and psychotherapists possess the skills to facilitate the emergence of, and work creatively with, impasses and crises, both in the research itself and the supervisory relationship, as a result of their training and experience in dealing with crisis and catharsis in clinical work. This paper will demonstrate these points using a case vignette from my work as a supervisor of research dissertations undertaken by students on a Masters in Therapeutic Counselling course. Drawing on narrative analysis, clinical supervision theory and discursive analysis it will look at the strengths and weaknesses of a 'psychotherapeutic' approach to research supervision.