Simulación de componentes no estacionarias de viento en orografías complejas

Realistic operation of helicopter flight simulators in complex topographies (such as urban environments) requires appropriate prediction of the incoming wind, and this prediction should be made in real time. Unfortunately, the wind topology around complex topographies shows time-dependent, fully nonlinear, turbulent patterns (i.e., wakes) whose simulation cannot be made using computationally inexpensive tools based on corrected potential approximations. Instead, the full Navier-Stokes plus some kind of turbulent modeling is necessary, which is quite computationally expensive. The complete unsteady flow depends on two parameters, namely the velocity and orientation of the free stream flow. The aim of this MSc thesis is to develop a methodology for the real time simulation of these complex flows. For simplicity, the flow around a single building (20 mx20 m cross section and 100 m height) is considered, with free stream velocity in the range 5-25 m/s. Because of the square cross section, the problem shows two reflection symmetries, which allows for restricting the orientations to the range 0° < a. < 45°. The methodology includes an offline preprocess and the online operation. The preprocess consists in three steps: An appropriate, unstructured mesh is selected in which the flow is sim¬ulated using OpenFOAM, and this is done for 33 combinations of 3 free stream intensities and 11 orientations. For each of these, the simulation proceeds for a sufficiently large time as to eliminate transients. This step is quite computationally expensive. Each flow field is post-processed using a combination of proper orthogonal decomposition, fast Fourier transform, and a convenient optimization tool, which identifies the relevant frequencies (namely, both the basic frequencies and their harmonics) and modes in the computational mesh. This combination includes several new ingredients to filter errors out and identify the relevant spatio-temporal patterns. Note that, in principle, the basic frequencies depend on both the intensity and the orientation of the free stream flow. The outcome of this step is a set of modes (vectors containing the three velocity components at all mesh points) for the various Fourier components, intensities, and orientations, which can be organized as a third order tensor. This step is fairly computationally inexpensive. The above mentioned tensor is treated using a combination of truncated high order singular value, decomposition and appropriate one-dimensional interpolation (as in Lorente, Velazquez, Vega, J. Aircraft, 45 (2008) 1779-1788). The outcome is a tensor representation of both the relevant fre¬quencies and the associated Fourier modes for a given pair of values of the free stream flow intensity and orientation. This step is fairly compu¬tationally inexpensive. The online, operation requires just reconstructing the time-dependent flow field from its Fourier representation, which is extremely computationally inex¬pensive. The whole method is quite robust.

Optimización de aperturas mediante técnicas de algoritmos evolutivos

Los sistemas de imagen por ultrasonidos son hoy una herramienta indispensable en aplicaciones de diagnóstico en medicina y son cada vez más utilizados en aplicaciones industriales en el área de ensayos no destructivos. El array es el elemento primario de estos sistemas y su diseño determina las características de los haces que se pueden construir (forma y tamaño del lóbulo principal, de los lóbulos secundarios y de rejilla, etc.), condicionando la calidad de las imágenes que pueden conseguirse. En arrays regulares la distancia máxima entre elementos se establece en media longitud de onda para evitar la formación de artefactos. Al mismo tiempo, la resolución en la imagen de los objetos presentes en la escena aumenta con el tamaño total de la apertura, por lo que una pequeña mejora en la calidad de la imagen se traduce en un aumento significativo del número de elementos del transductor. Esto tiene, entre otras, las siguientes consecuencias: Problemas de fabricación de los arrays por la gran densidad de conexiones (téngase en cuenta que en aplicaciones típicas de imagen médica, el valor de la longitud de onda es de décimas de milímetro) Baja relación señal/ruido y, en consecuencia, bajo rango dinámico de las señales por el reducido tamaño de los elementos. Complejidad de los equipos que deben manejar un elevado número de canales independientes. Por ejemplo, se necesitarían 10.000 elementos separados λ 2 para una apertura cuadrada de 50 λ. Una forma sencilla para resolver estos problemas existen alternativas que reducen el número de elementos activos de un array pleno, sacrificando hasta cierto punto la calidad de imagen, la energía emitida, el rango dinámico, el contraste, etc. Nosotros planteamos una estrategia diferente, y es desarrollar una metodología de optimización capaz de hallar de forma sistemática configuraciones de arrays de ultrasonido adaptados a aplicaciones específicas. Para realizar dicha labor proponemos el uso de los algoritmos evolutivos para buscar y seleccionar en el espacio de configuraciones de arrays aquellas que mejor se adaptan a los requisitos fijados por cada aplicación. En la memoria se trata el problema de la codificación de las configuraciones de arrays para que puedan ser utilizados como individuos de la población sobre la que van a actuar los algoritmos evolutivos. También se aborda la definición de funciones de idoneidad que permitan realizar comparaciones entre dichas configuraciones de acuerdo con los requisitos y restricciones de cada problema de diseño. Finalmente, se propone emplear el algoritmo multiobjetivo NSGA II como herramienta primaria de optimización y, a continuación, utilizar algoritmos mono-objetivo tipo Simulated Annealing para seleccionar y retinar las soluciones proporcionadas por el NSGA II. Muchas de las funciones de idoneidad que definen las características deseadas del array a diseñar se calculan partir de uno o más patrones de radiación generados por cada solución candidata. La obtención de estos patrones con los métodos habituales de simulación de campo acústico en banda ancha requiere tiempos de cálculo muy grandes que pueden hacer inviable el proceso de optimización con algoritmos evolutivos en la práctica. Como solución, se propone un método de cálculo en banda estrecha que reduce en, al menos, un orden de magnitud el tiempo de cálculo necesario Finalmente se presentan una serie de ejemplos, con arrays lineales y bidimensionales, para validar la metodología de diseño propuesta comparando experimentalmente las características reales de los diseños construidos con las predicciones del método de optimización. ABSTRACT Currently, the ultrasound imaging system is one of the powerful tools in medical diagnostic and non-destructive testing for industrial applications. Ultrasonic arrays design determines the beam characteristics (main and secondary lobes, beam pattern, etc...) which assist to enhance the image resolution. The maximum distance between the elements of the array should be the half of the wavelength to avoid the formation of grating lobes. At the same time, the image resolution of the target in the region of interest increases with the aperture size. Consequently, the larger number of elements in arrays assures the better image quality but this improvement contains the following drawbacks: Difficulties in the arrays manufacturing due to the large connection density. Low noise to signal ratio. Complexity of the ultrasonic system to handle large number of channels. The easiest way to resolve these issues is to reduce the number of active elements in full arrays, but on the other hand the image quality, dynamic range, contrast, etc, are compromised by this solutions In this thesis, an optimization methodology able to find ultrasound array configurations adapted for specific applications is presented. The evolutionary algorithms are used to obtain the ideal arrays among the existing configurations. This work addressed problems such as: the codification of ultrasound arrays to be interpreted as individuals in the evolutionary algorithm population and the fitness function and constraints, which will assess the behaviour of individuals. Therefore, it is proposed to use the multi-objective algorithm NSGA-II as a primary optimization tool, and then use the mono-objective Simulated Annealing algorithm to select and refine the solutions provided by the NSGA I I . The acoustic field is calculated many times for each individual and in every generation for every fitness functions. An acoustic narrow band field simulator, where the number of operations is reduced, this ensures a quick calculation of the acoustic field to reduce the expensive computing time required by these functions we have employed. Finally a set of examples are presented in order to validate our proposed design methodology, using linear and bidimensional arrays where the actual characteristics of the design are compared with the predictions of the optimization methodology.

Otimização acústica e análise numérica do escoamento ao redor de um conjunto cilindro-placa separadora.

RESUMO Simulações de aeroacústica computacional demandam uma quantidade considerável de tempo, o que torna complicada a realização de estudos paramétricos. O presente trabalho propõe uma metodologia viável para otimização aeroacústica. Através da análise numérica utilizando dinâmica dos fluidos computacional, foi estudada a aplicação de uma placa separadora desacoplada como método de controle passivo da esteira turbulenta de um cilindro e avaliou-se a irradiação de ruído causado pela interação do escoamento com ambos os corpos, empregando ferramentas de aeroacústica computacional baseadas no método de Ffowcs-Williams e Hawkings. Algumas abordagens distintas de metodologias de otimização de projeto foram aplicadas neste problema, com o objetivo de chegar a uma configuração otimizada que permita a redução do nível sonoro ao longe. Assim, utilizando uma ferramenta de otimização multidisciplinar, pode-se avaliar a capacidade de modelos heurísticos e a grande vantagem do emprego de algoritmos baseados em método de superfície de resposta quando aplicados em um problema não linear, pois requerem a avaliação de um menor número de alternativas para se obter um ponto ótimo. Além disso, foi possível identificar e agrupar os resultados em 5 clusters baseados em seus parâmetros geométricos, nível de pressão sonora global e o valor quadrático médio do coeficiente de arrasto, confirmando a eficiência da aplicação de placas separadoras longas desacopladas posicionadas próximas ao cilindro na estabilização da esteira turbulenta, enquanto que o posicionamento de placas acima de um espaçamento crítico aumentou o nível de pressão acústica irradiado devido à formação de vórtices no espaço entre o cilindro e a placa separadora.

Método híbrido para projeto de superfícies seletivas em frequência

This thesis presents a hybrid technique of frequency selective surfaces project (FSS) on a isotropic dielectric layer, considering various geometries for the elements of the unit cell. Specifically, the hybrid technique uses the equivalent circuit method in conjunction with genetic algorithm, aiming at the synthesis of structures with response single-band and dual-band. The equivalent circuit method allows you to model the structure by using an equivalent circuit and also obtaining circuits for different geometries. From the obtaining of the parameters of these circuits, you can get the transmission and reflection characteristics of patterned structures. For the optimization of patterned structures, according to the desired frequency response, Matlab™ optimization tool named optimtool proved to be easy to use, allowing you to explore important results on the optimization analysis. In this thesis, numeric and experimental results are presented for the different characteristics of the analyzed geometries. For this, it was determined a technique to obtain the parameter N, which is based on genetic algorithms and differential geometry, to obtain the algebraic rational models that determine values of N more accurate, facilitating new projects of FSS with these geometries. The optimal results of N are grouped according to the occupancy factor of the cell and the thickness of the dielectric, for modeling of the structures by means of rational algebraic equations. Furthermore, for the proposed hybrid model was developed a fitness function for the purpose of calculating the error occurred in the definitions of FSS bandwidths with transmission features single band and dual band. This thesis deals with the construction of prototypes of FSS with frequency settings and band widths obtained with the use of this function. The FSS were initially reviewed through simulations performed with the commercial software Ansoft Designer ™, followed by simulation with the equivalent circuit method for obtaining a value of N in order to converge the resonance frequency and the bandwidth of the FSS analyzed, then the results obtained were compared. The methodology applied is validated with the construction and measurement of prototypes with different geometries of the cells of the arrays of FSS.

Método híbrido para projeto de superfícies seletivas em frequência

This thesis presents a hybrid technique of frequency selective surfaces project (FSS) on a isotropic dielectric layer, considering various geometries for the elements of the unit cell. Specifically, the hybrid technique uses the equivalent circuit method in conjunction with genetic algorithm, aiming at the synthesis of structures with response single-band and dual-band. The equivalent circuit method allows you to model the structure by using an equivalent circuit and also obtaining circuits for different geometries. From the obtaining of the parameters of these circuits, you can get the transmission and reflection characteristics of patterned structures. For the optimization of patterned structures, according to the desired frequency response, Matlab™ optimization tool named optimtool proved to be easy to use, allowing you to explore important results on the optimization analysis. In this thesis, numeric and experimental results are presented for the different characteristics of the analyzed geometries. For this, it was determined a technique to obtain the parameter N, which is based on genetic algorithms and differential geometry, to obtain the algebraic rational models that determine values of N more accurate, facilitating new projects of FSS with these geometries. The optimal results of N are grouped according to the occupancy factor of the cell and the thickness of the dielectric, for modeling of the structures by means of rational algebraic equations. Furthermore, for the proposed hybrid model was developed a fitness function for the purpose of calculating the error occurred in the definitions of FSS bandwidths with transmission features single band and dual band. This thesis deals with the construction of prototypes of FSS with frequency settings and band widths obtained with the use of this function. The FSS were initially reviewed through simulations performed with the commercial software Ansoft Designer ™, followed by simulation with the equivalent circuit method for obtaining a value of N in order to converge the resonance frequency and the bandwidth of the FSS analyzed, then the results obtained were compared. The methodology applied is validated with the construction and measurement of prototypes with different geometries of the cells of the arrays of FSS.

Mechanochemistry for Active Materials and Devices

The coupling of mechanical stress fields in polymers to covalent chemistry (polymer mechanochemistry) has provided access to previously unattainable chemical reactions and polymer transformations. In the bulk, mechanochemical activation has been used as the basis for new classes of stress-responsive polymers that demonstrate stress/strain sensing, shear-induced intermolecular reactivity for molecular level remodeling and self-strengthening, and the release of acids and other small molecules that are potentially capable of triggering further chemical response. The potential utility of polymer mechanochemistry in functional materials is limited, however, by the fact that to date, all reported covalent activation in the bulk occurs in concert with plastic yield and deformation, so that the structure of the activated object is vastly different from its nascent form. Mechanochemically activated materials have thus been limited to “single use” demonstrations, rather than as multi-functional materials for structural and/or device applications. Here, we report that filled polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomers provide a robust elastic substrate into which mechanophores can be embedded and activated under conditions from which the sample regains its original shape and properties. Fabrication is straightforward and easily accessible, providing access for the first time to objects and devices that either release or reversibly activate chemical functionality over hundreds of loading cycles.

While the mechanically accelerated ring-opening reaction of spiropyran to merocyanine and associated color change provides a useful method by which to image the molecular scale stress/strain distribution within a polymer, the magnitude of the forces necessary for activation had yet to be quantified. Here, we report single molecule force spectroscopy studies of two spiropyran isomers. Ring opening on the timescale of tens of milliseconds is found to require forces of ~240 pN, well below that of previously characterized covalent mechanophores. The lower threshold force is a combination of a low force-free activation energy and the fact that the change in rate with force (activation length) of each isomer is greater than that inferred in other systems. Importantly, quantifying the magnitude of forces required to activate individual spiropyran-based force-probes enables the probe behave as a “scout” of molecular forces in materials; the observed behavior of which can be extrapolated to predict the reactivity of potential mechanophores within a given material and deformation.

We subsequently translated the design platform to existing dynamic soft technologies to fabricate the first mechanochemically responsive devices; first, by remotely inducing dielectric patterning of an elastic substrate to produce assorted fluorescent patterns in concert with topological changes; and second, by adopting a soft robotic platform to produce a color change from the strains inherent to pneumatically actuated robotic motion. Shown herein, covalent polymer mechanochemistry provides a viable mechanism to convert the same mechanical potential energy used for actuation into value-added, constructive covalent chemical responses. The color change associated with actuation suggests opportunities for not only new color changing or camouflaging strategies, but also the possibility for simultaneous activation of latent chemistry (e.g., release of small molecules, change in mechanical properties, activation of catalysts, etc.) in soft robots. In addition, mechanochromic stress mapping in a functional actuating device might provide a useful design and optimization tool, revealing spatial and temporal force evolution within the actuator in a way that might also be coupled to feedback loops that allow autonomous, self-regulation of activity.

In the future, both the specific material and the general approach should be useful in enriching the responsive functionality of soft elastomeric materials and devices. We anticipate the development of new mechanophores that, like the materials, are reversibly and repeatedly activated, expanding the capabilities of soft, active devices and further permitting dynamic control over chemical reactivity that is otherwise inaccessible, each in response to a single remote signal.

Caractérisation des propriétés mécaniques de la pâte de carbone à 150°C dans le but d’optimiser la mise en forme des anodes utilisées dans les cuves Hall-Héroult

Les anodes de carbone sont des éléments consommables servant d’électrode dans la réaction électrochimique d’une cuve Hall-Héroult. Ces dernières sont produites massivement via une chaine de production dont la mise en forme est une des étapes critiques puisqu’elle définit une partie de leur qualité. Le procédé de mise en forme actuel n’est pas pleinement optimisé. Des gradients de densité importants à l’intérieur des anodes diminuent leur performance dans les cuves d’électrolyse. Encore aujourd’hui, les anodes de carbone sont produites avec comme seuls critères de qualité leur densité globale et leurs propriétés mécaniques finales. La manufacture d’anodes est optimisée de façon empirique directement sur la chaine de production. Cependant, la qualité d’une anode se résume en une conductivité électrique uniforme afin de minimiser les concentrations de courant qui ont plusieurs effets néfastes sur leur performance et sur les coûts de production d’aluminium. Cette thèse est basée sur l’hypothèse que la conductivité électrique de l’anode n’est influencée que par sa densité considérant une composition chimique uniforme. L’objectif est de caractériser les paramètres d’un modèle afin de nourrir une loi constitutive qui permettra de modéliser la mise en forme des blocs anodiques. L’utilisation de la modélisation numérique permet d’analyser le comportement de la pâte lors de sa mise en forme. Ainsi, il devient possible de prédire les gradients de densité à l’intérieur des anodes et d’optimiser les paramètres de mise en forme pour en améliorer leur qualité. Le modèle sélectionné est basé sur les propriétés mécaniques et tribologiques réelles de la pâte. La thèse débute avec une étude comportementale qui a pour objectif d’améliorer la compréhension des comportements constitutifs de la pâte observés lors d’essais de pressage préliminaires. Cette étude est basée sur des essais de pressage de pâte de carbone chaude produite dans un moule rigide et sur des essais de pressage d’agrégats secs à l’intérieur du même moule instrumenté d’un piézoélectrique permettant d’enregistrer les émissions acoustiques. Cette analyse a précédé la caractérisation des propriétés de la pâte afin de mieux interpréter son comportement mécanique étant donné la nature complexe de ce matériau carboné dont les propriétés mécaniques sont évolutives en fonction de la masse volumique. Un premier montage expérimental a été spécifiquement développé afin de caractériser le module de Young et le coefficient de Poisson de la pâte. Ce même montage a également servi dans la caractérisation de la viscosité (comportement temporel) de la pâte. Il n’existe aucun essai adapté pour caractériser ces propriétés pour ce type de matériau chauffé à 150°C. Un moule à paroi déformable instrumenté de jauges de déformation a été utilisé pour réaliser les essais. Un second montage a été développé pour caractériser les coefficients de friction statique et cinétique de la pâte aussi chauffée à 150°C. Le modèle a été exploité afin de caractériser les propriétés mécaniques de la pâte par identification inverse et pour simuler la mise en forme d’anodes de laboratoire. Les propriétés mécaniques de la pâte obtenues par la caractérisation expérimentale ont été comparées à celles obtenues par la méthode d’identification inverse. Les cartographies tirées des simulations ont également été comparées aux cartographies des anodes pressées en laboratoire. La tomodensitométrie a été utilisée pour produire ces dernières cartographies de densité. Les résultats des simulations confirment qu’il y a un potentiel majeur à l’utilisation de la modélisation numérique comme outil d’optimisation du procédé de mise en forme de la pâte de carbone. La modélisation numérique permet d’évaluer l’influence de chacun des paramètres de mise en forme sans interrompre la production et/ou d’implanter des changements coûteux dans la ligne de production. Cet outil permet donc d’explorer des avenues telles la modulation des paramètres fréquentiels, la modification de la distribution initiale de la pâte dans le moule, la possibilité de mouler l’anode inversée (upside down), etc. afin d’optimiser le processus de mise en forme et d’augmenter la qualité des anodes.

A short-term risk management tool applied to OMEL electricity market using particle swarm optimization

Short-term risk management is highly dependent on long-term contractual decisions previously established; risk aversion factor of the agent and short-term price forecast accuracy. Trying to give answers to that problem, this paper provides a different approach for short-term risk management on electricity markets. Based on long-term contractual decisions and making use of a price range forecast method developed by the authors, the short-term risk management tool presented here has as main concern to find the optimal spot market strategies that a producer should have for a specific day in function of his risk aversion factor, with the objective to maximize the profits and simultaneously to practice the hedge against price market volatility. Due to the complexity of the optimization problem, the authors make use of Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) to find the optimal solution. Results from realistic data, namely from OMEL electricity market, are presented and discussed in detail.

Decision support tool for Virtual Power Players: Hybrid Particle Swarm Optimization applied to Day-ahead Vehicle-To-Grid Scheduling

This paper presents a decision support tool methodology to help virtual power players (VPPs) in the Smart Grid (SGs) context to solve the day-ahead energy resource scheduling considering the intensive use of Distributed Generation (DG) and Vehicle-To-Grid (V2G). The main focus is the application of a new hybrid method combing a particle swarm approach and a deterministic technique based on mixedinteger linear programming (MILP) to solve the day-ahead scheduling minimizing total operation costs from the aggregator point of view. A realistic mathematical formulation, considering the electric network constraints and V2G charging and discharging efficiencies is presented. Full AC power flow calculation is included in the hybrid method to allow taking into account the network constraints. A case study with a 33-bus distribution network and 1800 V2G resources is used to illustrate the performance of the proposed method.

Histogram filtering as a tool in variational Monte Carlo optimization

Optimization of wave functions in quantum Monte Carlo is a difficult task because the statistical uncertainty inherent to the technique makes the absolute determination of the global minimum difficult. To optimize these wave functions we generate a large number of possible minima using many independently generated Monte Carlo ensembles and perform a conjugate gradient optimization. Then we construct histograms of the resulting nominally optimal parameter sets and "filter" them to identify which parameter sets "go together" to generate a local minimum. We follow with correlated-sampling verification runs to find the global minimum. We illustrate this technique for variance and variational energy optimization for a variety of wave functions for small systellls. For such optimized wave functions we calculate the variational energy and variance as well as various non-differential properties. The optimizations are either on par with or superior to determinations in the literature. Furthermore, we show that this technique is sufficiently robust that for molecules one may determine the optimal geometry at tIle same time as one optimizes the variational energy.

Optimization of incubation time of protein Tc85 in the construction of biosensor: Is the EIS a good tool?

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in pH 6.9 phosphate buffer solution was used to investigate each step of the procedure employed to modify a screen-printed electrode (SPE). The SPE was modified with self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of cystamine (CYS, deposited from 20 mM solution), followed by glutaraldehyde (GA, 0.3 M solution). The Trypanosoma cruzi antigen was immobilized using different deposition times. The influence of incubation time (2-18 h) of protein was also investigated. The topography of modified electrode with this protein was investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Interpretation of impedance data was based on physical and chemical adsorption, and degradation of the layer at high and meddle frequencies, and charge transfer reaction involving mainly the reduction of oxygen at low frequencies. EIS studies on modified electrodes with Tc85 protein immobilized for different incubation times indicated that the optimum incubation time was 6-8 h. It was demonstrated that EIS is a good technique to evaluate the different steps and the integrity of the surface modifications, and to optimize the incubation time of protein in the development of biosensors. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Optimization of incubation time of protein Tc85 in the construction of biosensor: Is the EIS a good tool?

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)

Optimización de la composición del hueco de fachada en materia de eficiencia energética. Propuesta de indicador como herramienta para el análisis integral del elemento acristalado = Energy performance optimization of window systems. Proposal of an indicator as a tool for an integrated analysis of glazing

La hipótesis de esta tesis es: "La optimización de la ventana considerando simultáneamente aspectos energéticos y aspectos relativos a la calidad ambiental interior (confort higrotérmico, lumínico y acústico) es compatible, siempre que se conozcan y consideren las sinergias existentes entre ellos desde las primeras fases de diseño". En la actualidad se desconocen las implicaciones de muchas de las decisiones tomadas en torno a la ventana; para que su eficiencia en relación a todos los aspectos mencionados pueda hacerse efectiva es necesaria una herramienta que aporte más información de la actualmente disponible en el proceso de diseño, permitiendo así la optimización integral, en función de las circunstancias específicas de cada proyecto. En la fase inicial de esta investigación se realiza un primer acercamiento al tema, a través del estado del arte de la ventana; analizando la normativa existente, los componentes, las prestaciones, los elementos experimentales y la investigación. Se observa que, en ocasiones, altos requisitos de eficiencia energética pueden suponer una disminución de las prestaciones del sistema en relación con la calidad ambiental interior, por lo que surge el interés por integrar al análisis energético aspectos relativos a la calidad ambiental interior, como son las prestaciones lumínicas y acústicas y la renovación de aire. En este punto se detecta la necesidad de realizar un estudio integral que incorpore los distintos aspectos y evaluar las sinergias que se dan entre las distintas prestaciones que cumple la ventana. Además, del análisis de las soluciones innovadoras y experimentales se observa la dificultad de determinar en qué medida dichas soluciones son eficientes, ya que son soluciones complejas, no caracterizadas y que no están incorporadas en las metodologías de cálculo o en las bases de datos de los programas de simulación. Por lo tanto, se plantea una segunda necesidad, generar una metodología experimental para llevar a cabo la caracterización y el análisis de la eficiencia de sistemas innovadores. Para abordar esta doble necesidad se plantea la optimización mediante una evaluación del elemento acristalado que integre la eficiencia energética y la calidad ambiental interior, combinando la investigación teórica y la investigación experimental. En el ámbito teórico, se realizan simulaciones, cálculos y recopilación de información de distintas tipologías de hueco, en relación con cada prestación de forma independiente (acústica, iluminación, ventilación). A pesar de haber partido con un enfoque integrador, resulta difícil esa integración detectándose una carencia de herramientas disponible. En el ámbito experimental se desarrolla una metodología para la evaluación del rendimiento y de aspectos ambientales de aplicación a elementos innovadores de difícil valoración mediante la metodología teórica. Esta evaluación consiste en el análisis comparativo experimental entre el elemento innovador y un elemento estándar; para llevar a cabo este análisis se han diseñado dos espacios iguales, que denominamos módulos de experimentación, en los que se han incorporado los dos sistemas; estos espacios se han monitorizado, obteniéndose datos de consumo, temperatura, iluminancia y humedad relativa. Se ha realizado una medición durante un periodo de nueve meses y se han analizado y comparado los resultados, obteniendo así el comportamiento real del sistema. Tras el análisis teórico y el experimental, y como consecuencia de esa necesidad de integrar el conocimiento existente se propone una herramienta de evaluación integral del elemento acristalado. El desarrollo de esta herramienta se realiza en base al procedimiento de diagnóstico de calidad ambiental interior (CAI) de acuerdo con la norma UNE 171330 “Calidad ambiental en interiores”, incorporando el factor de eficiencia energética. De la primera parte del proceso, la parte teórica y el estado del arte, se obtendrán los parámetros que son determinantes y los valores de referencia de dichos parámetros. En base a los parámetros relevantes obtenidos se da forma a la herramienta, que consiste en un indicador de producto para ventanas que integra todos los factores analizados y que se desarrolla según la Norma UNE 21929 “Sostenibilidad en construcción de edificios. Indicadores de sostenibilidad”. ABSTRACT The hypothesis of this thesis is: "The optimization of windows considering energy and indoor environmental quality issues simultaneously (hydrothermal comfort, lighting comfort, and acoustic comfort) is compatible, provided that the synergies between these issues are known and considered from the early stages of design ". The implications of many of the decisions made on this item are currently unclear. So that savings can be made, an effective tool is needed to provide more information during the design process than the currently available, thus enabling optimization of the system according to the specific circumstances of each project. The initial phase deals with the study from an energy efficiency point of view, performing a qualitative and quantitative analysis of commercial, innovative and experimental windows. It is observed that sometimes, high-energy efficiency requirements may mean a reduction in the system's performance in relation to user comfort and health, that's why there is an interest in performing an integrated analysis of indoor environment aspects and energy efficiency. At this point a need for a comprehensive study incorporating the different aspects is detected, to evaluate the synergies that exist between the various benefits that meet the window. Moreover, from the analysis of experimental and innovative windows, a difficulty in establishing to what extent these solutions are efficient is observed; therefore, there is a need to generate a methodology for performing the analysis of the efficiency of the systems. Therefore, a second need arises, to generate an experimental methodology to perform characterization and analysis of the efficiency of innovative systems. To address this dual need, the optimization of windows by an integrated evaluation arises, considering energy efficiency and indoor environmental quality, combining theoretical and experimental research. In the theoretical field, simulations and calculations are performed; also information about the different aspects of indoor environment (acoustics, lighting, ventilation) is gathered independently. Despite having started with an integrative approach, this integration is difficult detecting lack available tools. In the experimental field, a methodology for evaluating energy efficiency and indoor environment quality is developed, to be implemented in innovative elements which are difficult to evaluate using a theoretical methodology This evaluation is an experimental comparative analysis between an innovative element and a standard element. To carry out this analysis, two equal spaces, called experimental cells, have been designed. These cells have been monitored, obtaining consumption, temperature, luminance and relative humidity data. Measurement has been performed during nine months and results have been analyzed and compared, obtaining results of actual system behavior. To advance this optimization, windows have been studied from the point of view of energy performance and performance in relation to user comfort and health: thermal comfort, acoustic comfort, lighting comfort and air quality; proposing the development of a methodology for an integrated analysis including energy efficiency and indoor environment quality. After theoretical and experimental analysis and as a result of the need to integrate existing knowledge, a comprehensive evaluation procedure for windows is proposed. This evaluation procedure is developed according to the UNE 171330 "Indoor Environmental Quality", also incorporating energy efficiency and cost as factors to evaluate. From the first part of the research process, outstanding parameters are chosen and reference values of these parameters are set. Finally, based on the parameters obtained, an indicator is proposed as windows product indicator. The indicator integrates all factors analyzed and is developed according to ISO 21929-1:2011"Sustainability in building construction. Sustainability indicators. Part 1: Framework for the development of indicators and a core set of indicators for buildings".

Differential Evolution: A Tool for Global Optimization

This report describes a tool for global optimization that implements the Differential Evolution optimization algorithm as a new Excel add-in. The tool takes a step beyond Excel’s Solver add-in, because Solver often returns a local minimum, that is, a minimum that is less than or equal to nearby points, while Differential Evolution solves for the global minimum, which includes all feasible points. Despite complex underlying mathematics, the tool is relatively easy to use, and can be applied to practical optimization problems, such as establishing pricing and awards in a hotel loyalty program. The report demonstrates an example of how to develop an optimum approach to that problem.