Simplified parameter adaptive control

A simple parameter adaptive controller design methodology is introduced in which steady-state servo tracking properties provide the major control objective. This is achieved without cancellation of process zeros and hence the underlying design can be applied to non-minimum phase systems. As with other self-tuning algorithms, the design (user specified) polynomials of the proposed algorithm define the performance capabilities of the resulting controller. However, with the appropriate definition of these polynomials, the synthesis technique can be shown to admit different adaptive control strategies, e.g. self-tuning PID and self-tuning pole-placement controllers. The algorithm can therefore be thought of as an embodiment of other self-tuning design techniques. The performances of some of the resulting controllers are illustrated using simulation examples and the on-line application to an experimental apparatus.

A simplified mathematical model for urban microclimate simulation

Techniques for modelling urban microclimates and urban block surfaces temperatures are desired by urban planners and architects for strategic urban designs at the early design stages. This paper introduces a simplified mathematical model for urban simulations (UMsim) including urban surfaces temperatures and microclimates. The nodal network model has been developed by integrating coupled thermal and airflow model. Direct solar radiation, diffuse radiation, reflected radiation, long-wave radiation, heat convection in air and heat transfer in the exterior walls and ground within the complex have been taken into account. The relevant equations have been solved using the finite difference method under the Matlab platform. Comparisons have been conducted between the data produced from the simulation and that from an urban experimental study carried out in a real architectural complex on the campus of Chongqing University, China in July 2005 and January 2006. The results show a satisfactory agreement between the two sets of data. The UMsim can be used to simulate the microclimates, in particular the surface temperatures of urban blocks, therefore it can be used to assess the impact of urban surfaces properties on urban microclimates. The UMsim will be able to produce robust data and images of urban environments for sustainable urban design.

Simplified PID self-tuning controller for robotic manipulators

The paper describes a self-tuning adaptive PID controller suitable for use in the control of robotic manipulators. The scheme employs a simple recursive estimator which reduces the computational effort to an acceptable level for many applications in robotics.

A simplified pricing model for volatility futures

We develop a general model to price VIX futures contracts. The model is adapted to test both the constant elasticity of variance (CEV) and the Cox–Ingersoll–Ross formulations, with and without jumps. Empirical tests on VIX futures prices provide out-of-sample estimates within 2% of the actual futures price for almost all futures maturities. We show that although jumps are present in the data, the models with jumps do not typically outperform the others; in particular, we demonstrate the important benefits of the CEV feature in pricing futures contracts. We conclude by examining errors in the model relative to the VIX characteristics

A simplified, high-yield synthesis, and crystal structure of [tris{bis(2,4,6-triisopropylphenyl)tin}]

The species [{Sn(C2H2iPr3-2,4,6)2}3] has been obtained in a simple, essentially quantitative, synthesis from SnCl2 and ArLi in diethyl ether at low temperature. The crystal structure analysis confirms the trimeric nature of the molecular units but reveals some unusual features. The crystal contains the unusual feature of an asymmetric unit that consists of three units of [{SnAr2}3] in P21/c; the molecular unit is a scalene triangle, showing high consistency between the three molecules, in contrast to analogous trimeric species of silicon or germanium. The SnSn bonds are lengthened (average value 2.942 Å) owing to steric crowding.

Mutated bodies: stage performances of Beckett's late prose texts by Mabou Mines (1984) and Gare St. Lazare Players, Ireland (2005)

An exploration of the stage adaptations of Beckett's fictional texts by the New York based Mabou Mines theatre company.

A largely intolerable combination of two mainly unconnected texts: 1. Description of the Barefoot in the Head event, at BHQU, NY, 12/11/09; 2. Fictioning and the End

An evaluation of the 'Barefoot in the Head' performance event, I co-curated with Alun Rowlands and Mark Beasley, at Bruce High Quality Foundation University, New York, as part of Performa 09 New York, 12 November 2009 - an examination of my own performance and the other performances occurring simultaneously at the event.

A simplified method for referring the energy and overheating performance of window design

This paper describes a simplified dynamic thermal model which simulates the energy and overheating performance of windows. To calculate artificial energy use within a room, the model employs the average illuminance method, which takes into account the daylight energy impacting upon the room by the use of hourly climate data. This tool describes the main thermal performance ( heating, cooling and overheating risk) resulting proposed a design of window. The inputs are fewer and simpler than that are required by complicated simulation programmes. The method is suited for the use of architects and engineers at the strategic phase of design, when little is available.