Integrierte Sicherheitsmerkmale als Schutz vor Produktpiraterie im Maschinen- und Anlagenbau

Die Bedrohung durch Produktpiraterie wächst ständig, besonders der deutsche Maschinen- und Anlagenbau ist mehr und mehr davon betroffen. Um Komponenten und Ersatzteile zu schützen, wurde ein technisches Konzept zur Abwehr von Produktpiraterie entwickelt. In diesem System werden Teile mit kopiersicheren Echtheitsmerkmalen gekennzeichnet, welche an diversen Identifikations- und Prüfpunkten entlang der Supply-Chain und besonders beim Einsatz in der Maschine ausgelesen und geprüft werden. Die Prüfergebnisse werden in einer zentralen Datenbank gespeichert, um neue Services zu ermöglichen und die Kommunikation zwischen Hersteller und Kunde zu erleichtern.

Entwicklung von energieautarken, intelligenten Ladehilfsmitteln am Beispiel des inBin

Das autonome, intelligente Ladehilfsmittel verkörpert die Idee des Internets der Dinge in der Intralogistik in Reinform. Am Beispiel des inBin wird das Energy-Harvesting in der Intralogistik betrachtet und gezeigt, dass ein Behälter mit komplexen logistischen Funktionen unter realistischer Umgebungsbeleuchtung durch Solarzellen betrieben werden kann.

Entwicklung eines Versuchsfelds für große Systeme intelligenter Behälter

Im Rahmen dieses Artikels werden aktuelle Forschungsarbeiten zum Einsatz von Energy-Harvesting und Ultra-Low-Power-Geräten in Materialflusssystemen beschrieben. Ein besonderes Augenmerk wird auf die inBin-Plattform, das Energy-Harvesting und deren Auswirkungen auf die Leistungsverfügbarkeit gelegt. Dazu werden die Hardwareplattform und Architektur der inBin-Plattform sowie der Aufbau eines Versuchsfelds detailliert erläutert. Des Weiteren wird ein Ansatz zur Modellierung und Simulation von Systemen mit einer großen Anzahl von inBin-Plattformen vorgestellt. Darüber hinaus werden die Ergebnisse zweier simulierter Szenarien und mögliche Folgen für die Planung zukünftiger Materialflusssysteme betrachtet.

The German business and information technologies project

The Business and Information Technologies (BIT) project strives to reveal new insights into how modern IT impacts organizational structures and business practices using empirical methods. Due to its international scope, it allows for inter-country comparison of empirical results. Germany — represented by the European School of Management and Technologies (ESMT) and the Institute of Information Systems at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin — joined the BIT project in 2006. This report presents the result of the first survey conducted in Germany during November–December 2006. The key results are as follows: • The most widely adopted technologies and systems in Germany are websites, wireless hardware and software, groupware/productivity tools, and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. The biggest potential for growth exists for collaboration and portal tools, content management systems, business process modelling, and business intelligence applications. A number of technological solutions have not yet been adopted by many organizations but also bear some potential, in particular identity management solutions, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), biometrics, and third-party authentication and verification. • IT security remains on the top of the agenda for most enterprises: budget spending was increasing in the last 3 years. • The workplace and work requirements are changing. IT is used to monitor employees' performance in Germany, but less heavily compared to the United States (Karmarkar and Mangal, 2007).1 The demand for IT skills is increasing at all corporate levels. Executives are asking for more and better structured information and this, in turn, triggers the appearance of new decision-making tools and online technologies on the market. • The internal organization of companies in Germany is underway: organizations are becoming flatter, even though the trend is not as pronounced as in the United States (Karmarkar and Mangal, 2007), and the geographical scope of their operations is increasing. Modern IT plays an important role in enabling this development, e.g. telecommuting, teleconferencing, and other web-based collaboration formats are becoming increasingly popular in the corporate context. • The degree to which outsourcing is being pursued is quite limited with little change expected. IT services, payroll, and market research are the most widely outsourced business functions. This corresponds to the results from other countries. • Up to now, the adoption of e-business technologies has had a rather limited effect on marketing functions. Companies tend to extract synergies from traditional printed media and on-line advertising. • The adoption of e-business has not had a major impact on marketing capabilities and strategy yet. Traditional methods of customer segmentation are still dominating. The corporate identity of most organizations does not change significantly when going online. • Online sales channel are mainly viewed as a complement to the traditional distribution means. • Technology adoption has caused production and organizational costs to decrease. However, the costs of technology acquisition and maintenance as well as consultancy and internal communication costs have increased.

Covalent immobilisation of VEGF on plasma-coated electrospun scaffolds for tissue engineering applications.

Recent findings in the field of biomaterials and tissue engineering provide evidence that surface immobilised growth factors display enhanced stability and induce prolonged function. Cell response can be regulated by material properties and at the site of interest. To this end, we developed scaffolds with covalently bound vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and evaluated their mitogenic effect on endothelial cells in vitro. Nano- (254±133 nm) or micro-fibrous (4.0±0.4 μm) poly(ɛ-caprolactone) (PCL) non-wovens were produced by electrospinning and coated in a radio frequency (RF) plasma process to induce an oxygen functional hydrocarbon layer. Implemented carboxylic acid groups were converted into amine-reactive esters and covalently coupled to VEGF by forming stable amide bonds (standard EDC/NHS chemistry). Substrates were analysed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), enzyme-linked immuno-assays (ELISA) and immunohistochemistry (anti-VEGF antibody and VEGF-R2 binding). Depending on the reaction conditions, immobilised VEGF was present at 127±47 ng to 941±199 ng per substrate (6mm diameter; concentrations of 4.5 ng mm(-2) or 33.3 ng mm(-2), respectively). Immunohistochemistry provided evidence for biological integrity of immobilised VEGF. Endothelial cell number of primary endothelial cells or immortalised endothelial cells were significantly enhanced on VEGF-functionalised scaffolds compared to native PCL scaffolds. This indicates a sustained activity of immobilised VEGF over a culture period of nine days. We present a versatile method for the fabrication of growth factor-loaded scaffolds at specific concentrations.

Plasma-functionalized electrospun matrix for biograft development and cardiac function stabilization.

Cardiac tissue engineering approaches can deliver large numbers of cells to the damaged myocardium and have thus increasingly been considered as a possible curative treatment to counteract the high prevalence of progressive heart failure after myocardial infarction (MI). Optimal scaffold architecture and mechanical and chemical properties, as well as immune- and bio-compatibility, need to be addressed. We demonstrated that radio-frequency plasma surface functionalized electrospun poly(ɛ-caprolactone) (PCL) fibres provide a suitable matrix for bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) cardiac implantation. Using a rat model of chronic MI, we showed that MSC-seeded plasma-coated PCL grafts stabilized cardiac function and attenuated dilatation. Significant relative decreases of 13% of the ejection fraction (EF) and 15% of the fractional shortening (FS) were observed in sham treated animals; respective decreases of 20% and 25% were measured 4 weeks after acellular patch implantation, whereas a steadied function was observed 4 weeks after MSC-patch implantation (relative decreases of 6% for both EF and FS).

Use of outdoor ranges by laying hens in different sized flocks.

In studies assessing outdoor range use of laying hens, the number of hens seen on outdoor ranges is inversely correlated to flock size. The aim of this study was to assess individual ranging behavior on a covered (veranda) and an uncovered outdoor run (free-range) in laying hen flocks varying in size. Five to ten percent of hens (aged 9–15 months) within 4 small (2–2500 hens), 4 medium (5–6000), and 4 large (≥9000) commercial flocks were fitted with radio frequency identification (RFID) tags. Antennas were placed at both sides of all popholes between the house and the veranda and the veranda and the free-range. Ranging behavior was directly monitored for approximately three weeks in combination with hourly photographs of the free-range for the distribution of hens and 6h long video recordings on two parts of the free-range during two days. Between 79 and 99% of the tagged hens were registered on the veranda at least once and between 47 and 90% were registered on the free-range at least once. There was no association between the percentage of hens registered outside the house (veranda or free-range) and flock size. However, individual hens in small and medium sized flocks visited the areas outside the house more frequently and spent more time there than hens from large flocks. Foraging behavior on the free-range was shown more frequently and for a longer duration by hens from small and medium sized flocks than by hens from large flocks. This difference in ranging behavior could account for the negative relationship between flock size and the number of hens seen outside at one point of time. In conclusion, our work describes individual birds’ use of areas outside the house within large scale commercial egg production.

[Future cardiac pacemakers – technical visions].

Cardiac pacemakers are routinely used for the treatment of bradyarrhythmias. Contemporary pacemakers are reliable and allow for a patient specific programming. However, pacemaker replacements due to battery depletion are common (~25 % of all implantation procedures) and bear the risk of complications. Batteryless pacemakers may allow overcoming this limitation. To power a batteryless pacemaker, a mechanism for intracorporeal energy harvesting is required. Such a generator may consist out of subcutaneously implanted solar cells, transforming the small amount of transcutaneously available light into electrical energy. Alternatively, intravascular turbines may harvest energy from the blood flow. Energy may also be harvested from the ventricular wall motion by a dedicated mechanical clockwork converting motion into electrical energy. All these approaches have successfully been tested in vivo. Pacemaker leads constitute another Achilles heel of contemporary pacemakers. Thus, leadless devices are desired. Miniaturized pacemaker circuits and suitable energy harvesting mechanisms (incorporated in a single device) may allow catheter-based implantation of the pacemaker in the heart. Such miniaturized battery- and leadless pacemakers would combine the advantages of both approaches and overcome major limitations of today’s systems.

Remote Monitoring of Fish in Small Streams: A Unified Approach Using Pit Tags

Accurate assessments of fish populations are often limited by re-observation or recapture events. Since the early 1990s, passive integrated transponders (PIT tags) have been used to understand the biology of many fish species. Until recently, PIT applications in small streams have been limited to physical recapture events. To maximize recapture probability, we constructed PIT antenna arrays in small streams to remotely detect individual fish. Experiences from two different laboratories (three case studies) allowed us to develop a unified approach to applying PIT technology for enhancing data assessments. Information on equipment, its installation, tag considerations, and array construction is provided. Theoretical and practical definitions are introduced to standardize metrics for assessing detection efficiency. We demonstrate how certain conditions (stream discharge, vibration, and ambient radio frequency noise) affect the detection efficiency and suggest that by monitoring these conditions, expectations of efficiency can be modified. We emphasize the importance of consistently estimating detection efficiency for fisheries applications.

Low current performance of the Bern medical cyclotron down to the pA range

A medical cyclotron accelerating H- ions to 18 MeV is in operation at the Bern University Hospital (Inselspital). It is the commercial IBA 18/18 cyclotron equipped with a specifically conceived 6 m long external beam line ending in a separate bunker. This feature is unique for a hospital-based facility and makes it possible to conduct routine radioisotope production for PET diagnostics in parallel with multidisciplinary research activities, among which are novel particle detectors, radiation biophysics, radioprotection, radiochemistry and radiopharmacy developments. Several of these activities, such as radiobiology experiments for example, require low current beams down to the pA range, while medical cyclotrons are designed for high current operation above 10 μA. In this paper, we present the first results on the low current performance of a PET medical cyclotron obtained by ion source, radio-frequency and main coil tuning. With this method, stable beam currents down to (1.5+/- 0.5 ) pA were obtained and measured with a high-sensitivity Faraday cup located at the end of the beam transport line.

Particle filtering for indoor RFID tag tracking

In this paper, we propose a particle filtering (PF) method for indoor tracking using radio frequency identification (RFID) based on aggregated binary measurements. We use an Ultra High Frequency (UHF) RFID system that is composed of a standard RFID reader, a large set of standard passive tags whose locations are known, and a newly designed, special semi-passive tag attached to an object that is tracked. This semi-passive tag has the dual ability to sense the backscatter communication between the reader and other passive tags which are in its proximity and to communicate this sensed information to the reader using backscatter modulation. We refer to this tag as a sense-a-tag (ST). Thus, the ST can provide the reader with information that can be used to determine the kinematic parameters of the object on which the ST is attached. We demonstrate the performance of the method with data obtained in a laboratory environment.

Fabrication process of Mo/Au TES at RT

We report on the fabrication details of TES based on Mo/Au bilayers. The Mo layer is deposited by radio frequency (RF) sputtering and capped with a sputter deposited thin Au protection layer. Afterwards, a second Au layer of suitable (lower) resistivity is deposited ex‐situ by e‐beam evaporation, until completion of the total desired Au thickness. The deposition was performed at room temperature (RT) on LPCVD Si3 N4 membranes. Such a deposition procedure is very reproducible and allow controlling the critical temperature (Tc) and normal electrical resistance (RN ) of the Mo/Au bilayer. The process is optimized to achieve low stress bilayers, thus avoiding the undesirable curvature of the membranes. Bilayers are patterned using photolithographic techniques and wet etching procedures. Mo superconducting paths are used to contact the Mo/Au bilayers, thus ensuring good electrical conductivity and thermal isolation. The entire fabrication process let to stable and reproducible sensors with required and tunable functional properties

Modelado de materiales piezoeléctricos para aplicaciones de autoalimentación en entornos viales

Este proyecto continua con el estudio iniciado en los proyectos: Alimentación “Energy Harvesting” basada en fuentes piezoeléctricas, Alimentación autónoma: aplicación a fuente piezoeléctrica y Banco de pruebas para sistemas autoalimentados en aplicaciones viales, que se realizaron anteriormente. Este estudio se basa en la búsqueda de soluciones de alimentación Energy Harvesting centrados en fuentes piezoeléctricas. El objetivo de este estudio es conocer las posibilidades que pueden ofrecer los materiales piezoeléctricos para alimentación autónoma cuando son excitados por vehículos en diferentes circunstancias y entornos viales. Para la realización de este estudio se han utilizado señales provenientes del banco de ensayos, así como señales obtenidas de una instalación construida en un vial del Campus. Para poder realizar el estudio de los diversos materiales piezoeléctricos utilizados en este proyecto, se necesitan conocer las características de los modelos eléctricos. Para obtener estas características se ha diseñado un programa basado en LabView, este programa además puede modificar la señal para que simule las diversas circunstancias a las que pueden estar sometidos los diferentes materiales piezoeléctricos. En este estudio se ha tenido en cuenta la distancia de seguridad entre vehículos para diferentes velocidades y la posibilidad de poder amplificar la excitación que pueden recibir los diversos materiales. Utilizando el programa PSpice OrCAD® se realizan los diferentes modelos con el objetivo de observar el comportamiento de los materiales bajo diversas circunstancias. También se han utilizado varias topologías rectificadoras diferentes para poder comprobar en que situación se puede obtener la máxima tensión acumulada posible. Además también se ha evaluado la máxima potencia que puede entregar cada material en cada situación. Por ultimo se han realizado varias pruebas prácticas con el banco de ensayos para comprobar la acumulación energética real que se puede obtener de los materiales instalados en él. También se ha realizado el estudio de una aplicación práctica que sea capaz de alimentar pequeños circuitos o sensores de poco consumo. Abstract This Project goes on with the study started in the projects Feeding “Energy Harvesting” based on piezoelectric sources, independent feeding: application to piezoelectric source and testing bench to self fed systems in roads applications that were previously done. This study is based on the search of feeding solutions Energy Harvesting focus on piezoelectric sources. The aim of this study is know the different piezoelectric materials possibilities that can offer to independent feeding when different circumstances and road surroundings are excited by vehicles in. To develop this study several signals of the testing bench have been used and also signals get from an installation constructed on a Campus road. As far as the study of the different piezoelectric materials used in this project is concerned we should know the electrical models features. In order to obtain these characteristics a program based on LabView was designed, this program can modify the signal so that it simulates the diverse circumstances to which they can be put under the different piezoelectric materials. In this study I have bearded in mind the safe distance between vehicles for different speeds and the possibility of being able to amplify the excitation that can receive the diverse materials. Using the program PSpice OrCAD® the different models with the objective are made to observe the behaviour of the materials under diverse circumstances. Also several different rectifying topologies have been used to be able to verify the maximum overvoltage accumulated. In addition I have assessed the maximum power that can give each material in each situation. Last but not least different practical proofs with the testing bench have been done to check the actual energy accumulation that can be obtained from the materials installed on it. Also the study of a practical application has been made that is able to feed small circuits or low consumption sensor.

Estudio de la precisión de los modelos de transistores de radiofrecuencia y su efecto en un circuito real

Este Proyecto Fin de Carrera trata sobre el estudio de la precisión de los modelos de transistores de radiofrecuencia y el efecto que la misma produce en un circuito real, como es la variabilidad de diversas magnitudes tales como la ganancia y el punto de compresión a 1 decibelio. Para ello se ha construido un circuito de pruebas que ha sido sometido a diversas simulaciones y sobre el que se han realizado numerosas medidas que han sido analizadas mediante software de análisis estadístico. This Final Year Project is about the study of the precision of models of radio frequency transistors and the effect it produces in a real circuit, as is the variability of various magnitudes such as gain and one‐decibel compression point. For this we have built a test circuit that has been subjected to various simulations and on which there have been numerous measures that have been analyzed by statistical analysis software.

Pounding force assessment in performance-based design of bridges

Bridges with deck supported on either sliding or elastomeric bearings are very common in mid-seismicity regions. Their main seismic vulnerabilities are related to the pounding of the deck against abutments or between the different deck elements. A simplified model of the longitudinal behavior of those bridges will allow to characterize the reaction forces developed during pounding using the Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research Center framework formula. In order to ensure the general applicability of the results obtained, a large number of system parameter combinations will be considered. The heart of the formula is the identification of suitable intermediate variables. First, the pseudo acceleration spectral value for the fundamental period of the system (Sa(Ts)) will be used as an intensity measure (IM). This IM will result in a very large non-explained variability of the engineering demand parameter. A portion of this variability will be proved to be related to the relative content of high-frequency energy in the input motion. Two vector-valued IMs including a second parameter taking this energy content into account will then be considered. For both of them, a suitable form for the conditional intensity dependence of the response will be obtained. The question of which one to choose will also be analyzed. Finally, additional issues related to the IM will be studied: its applicability to pulse-type records, the validity of scaling records and the sufficiency of the IM.