Spatial load forecasting using a demand propagation approach

A method for spatial electric load forecasting using multi-agent systems, especially suited to simulate the local effect of special loads in distribution systems is presented. The method based on multi-agent systems uses two kinds of agents: reactive and proactive. The reactive agents represent each sub-zone in the service zone, characterizing each one with their corresponding load level, represented in a real number, and their relationships with other sub-zones represented in development probabilities. The proactive agent carry the new load expected to be allocated because of the new special load, this agent distribute the new load in a propagation pattern. The results are presented with maps of future expected load levels in the service zone. The method is tested with data from a mid-size city real distribution system, simulating the effect of a load with attraction and repulsion attributes. The method presents good results and performance. © 2011 IEEE.

A multi-agent system with a percolation approach to simulate the driving pattern of Plug-In ELectric Vehicles

A multi-agent system with a percolation approach to simulate the driving pattern of Plug-In Electric Vehicle (PEV), especially suited to simulate the PEVs behavior on any distribution systems, is presented. This tool intends to complement information about the driving patterns database on systems where that kind of information is not available. So, this paper aims to provide a framework that is able to work with any kind of technology and load generated of PEVs. The service zone is divided into several sub-zones, each subzone is considered as an independent agent identified with corresponding load level, and their relationships with the neighboring zones are represented as network probabilities. A percolation approach is used to characterize the autonomy of the battery of the PVEs to move through the city. The methodology is tested with data from a mid-size city real distribution system. The result shows the sub-area where the battery of PEVs will need to be recharge and gives the planners of distribution systems the necessary input for a medium to long term network planning in a smart grid environment. © 2012 IEEE.

Optimal conductor size selection and reconductoring in radial distribution systems using a mixed-integer LP approach

This paper presents a mixed-integer linear programming model to solve the conductor size selection and reconductoring problem in radial distribution systems. In the proposed model, the steady-state operation of the radial distribution system is modeled through linear expressions. The use of a mixed-integer linear model guarantees convergence to optimality using existing optimization software. The proposed model and a heuristic are used to obtain the Pareto front of the conductor size selection and reconductoring problem considering two different objective functions. The results of one test system and two real distribution systems are presented in order to show the accuracy as well as the efficiency of the proposed solution technique. © 1969-2012 IEEE.

Distributed generators as providers of reactive power support - A market approach

Traditionally, ancillary services are supplied by large conventional generators. However, with the huge penetration of distributed generators (DGs) as a result of the growing interest in satisfying energy requirements, and considering the benefits that they can bring along to the electrical system and to the environment, it appears reasonable to assume that ancillary services could also be provided by DGs in an economical and efficient way. In this paper, a settlement procedure for a reactive power market for DGs in distribution systems is proposed. Attention is directed to wind turbines connected to the network through synchronous generators with permanent magnets and doubly-fed induction generators. The generation uncertainty of this kind of DG is reduced by running a multi-objective optimization algorithm in multiple probabilistic scenarios through the Monte Carlo method and by representing the active power generated by the DGs through Markov models. The objectives to be minimized are the payments of the distribution system operator to the DGs for reactive power, the curtailment of transactions committed in an active power market previously settled, the losses in the lines of the network, and a voltage profile index. The proposed methodology was tested using a modified IEEE 37-bus distribution test system. © 1969-2012 IEEE.

A mixed-integer linear programming approach for optimal type, size and allocation of distributed generation in radial distribution systems

This paper presents a mixed-integer linear programming approach to solving the problem of optimal type, size and allocation of distributed generators (DGs) in radial distribution systems. In the proposed formulation, (a) the steady-state operation of the radial distribution system, considering different load levels, is modeled through linear expressions; (b) different types of DGs are represented by their capability curves; (c) the short-circuit current capacity of the circuits is modeled through linear expressions; and (d) different topologies of the radial distribution system are considered. The objective function minimizes the annualized investment and operation costs. The use of a mixed-integer linear formulation guarantees convergence to optimality using existing optimization software. The results of one test system are presented in order to show the accuracy as well as the efficiency of the proposed solution technique.© 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Green supply chain management in local and multinational high-tech companies located in Brazil

The objective of this article is to analyse how green supply chain management (GSCM) practices are being adopted by some high-tech companies located in Brazil. The research was conducted using the case study approach, focusing on eight companies that are representative of this sector. The main results are: (a) the most adopted GSCM practices in the studied high-tech companies located in Brazil are internal environmental management, investment recovery and reverse logistics and (b) Brazilian environmental legislation and international policies are very important in driving the adoption of GSCM practices. The internationalisation of companies was also found to be a variable that interferes with the adoption of GSCM practices. This is one of the first studies that examine the relationship between GSCM and the internationalisation of companies located in Brazil. © 2013 Springer-Verlag London.

Local data fusion algorithm for fire detection through mobile robot

Multisensor data fusion is a technique that combines the readings of multiple sensors to detect some phenomenon. Data fusion applications are numerous and they can be used in smart buildings, environment monitoring, industry and defense applications. The main goal of multisensor data fusion is to minimize false alarms and maximize the probability of detection based on the detection of multiple sensors. In this paper a local data fusion algorithm based on luminosity, temperature and flame for fire detection is presented. The data fusion approach was embedded in a low cost mobile robot. The prototype test validation has indicated that our approach can detect fire occurrence. Moreover, the low cost project allow the development of robots that could be discarded in their fire detection missions. © 2013 IEEE.

Desenvolvimento local-territorial e o programa Territórios da Cidadania: Território Integração Norte Pioneiro (PR)

Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES)

A new approach to soil classification mapping based on the spatial distribution of soil properties

Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES)

Minimally Invasive Selective Neck Dissection: A Prospective Study of Endoscopically Assisted Dissection via a Small Submandibular Approach in cT(1-2)N(0) Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Selective neck dissection (SND) in clinical N-0 (cN(0)) cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) has been performed by surgeons using a retroauricular or modified facelift approach with robotic or endoscopic assistance. However, these procedures provide cosmetic satisfaction at the cost of possible maximal invasiveness. In this prospective study, we introduced and evaluated the feasibility as well as surgical invasiveness and cosmetic outcome of endoscopically-assisted SND via a small submandibular approach.Forty-four patients with cT(1-2)N(0) oral SCC (OSCC) were randomly divided into two groups of endoscopically-assisted SND and conventional SND. Perioperative and postoperative outcomes of patients were evaluated, including the length of the incision, operating time for neck dissection, estimated blood loss during the operation, amount and duration of drainage, total hospitalization period, total number of lymph nodes retrieved, satisfaction scores based on the cosmetic results, perioperative local complications, shoulder syndrome, and follow-up information.The mean operation time in the endoscopically-assisted group (126.04 +/- A 12.67 min) was longer than that in the conventional group (75.67 +/- A 16.67 min). However, the mean length of the incision was 4.33 +/- A 0.76 cm in the endoscopically-assisted SND group, and the amount and duration of drainage, total hospital stay, postoperative shoulder pain score, and cosmetic outcomes were superior in the endoscopically-assisted SND group. Additionally, the retrieved lymph nodes and complications were comparable.Endoscopically-assisted SND via a small submandibular approach had a longer operation time than the conventional approach. However, endoscopically-assisted SND was feasible and reliable while providing minimal invasiveness and satisfactory appearance.

Linear codes over finite local rings in a chain

For a positive integer $t$, let \begin{equation*} \begin{array}{ccccccccc} (\mathcal{A}_{0},\mathcal{M}_{0}) & \subseteq & (\mathcal{A}_{1},\mathcal{M}_{1}) & \subseteq & & \subseteq & (\mathcal{A}_{t-1},\mathcal{M}_{t-1}) & \subseteq & (\mathcal{A},\mathcal{M}) \\ \cap & & \cap & & & & \cap & & \cap \\ (\mathcal{R}_{0},\mathcal{M}_{0}^{2}) & & (\mathcal{R}_{1},\mathcal{M}_{1}^{2}) & & & & (\mathcal{R}_{t-1},\mathcal{M}_{t-1}^{2}) & & (\mathcal{R},\mathcal{M}^{2}) \end{array} \end{equation*} be a chain of unitary local commutative rings $(\mathcal{A}_{i},\mathcal{M}_{i})$ with their corresponding Galois ring extensions $(\mathcal{R}_{i},\mathcal{M}_{i}^{2})$, for $i=0,1,\cdots,t$. In this paper, we have given a construction technique of the cyclic, BCH, alternant, Goppa and Srivastava codes over these rings. Though, initially in \cite{AP} it is for local ring $(\mathcal{A},\mathcal{M})$, in this paper, this new approach have given a choice in selection of most suitable code in error corrections and code rate perspectives.

Desenvolvimento local e a construção de uma nova territorialidade: a implantação do Programa Territórios da Cidadania no norte pioneiro do Paraná

The territorial approach of development took an important place in the public politics of the State, also guiding the actions originated from different organizations of the society. The territorial focus, infl uenced by the analysis related to the industrial districts, is highlighted as a specifi c form to dealing with process and situations spatially delimited. In Brazil, the Secretary of Territorial Development, linked to the Ministry of Agrarian Development, since 2003, has adopted it strategically through the Programa Nacional de Desenvolvimento Sustentável dos Territórios Rurais (PRONAT). In 2008, had occurs the implantation of the Programa Territórios da Cidadania, a part of the PRONAT and of the rural development politic directed to the dynamization of the depressed territories constituted by small counties that cover rural and urban areas and activities, overcoming the focus on the rural world. The analysis of the assumptions underlying to the adoption of this strategy on the politic of the rural development in Brazil made through the study of the constitution of the Território Integração Norte Pioneiro (PR), which indicates that the focus of this politic falls more on the effectiveness of the decentralization than the concretization, and implementation, of the social management.

Patch-based local histograms and contour estimation for static foreground classification

Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES)

Robust controller design of a wheelchair mobile via LMI approach to SPR systems with feedback output

This article discusses the design of robust controller applied to Wheelchair Furniture via Linear Matrix Inequalities (LMI), to obtain Strictly Positive Real (SPR) systems. The contributions of this work were the choice of a mathematical model for wheelchair: mobile with uncertainty about the position of the center of gravity (CG), the decoupling of the kinematic and dynamical systems, linearization of the models, the headquarters building of parametric uncertainties, the proposal of the control loop and control law with a specified decay rate.