Simon Grimm examines new multi-microphone signal processing strategies that aim to achieve noise reduction and dereverberation. Therefore, narrow-band signal enhancement approaches are combined with broad-band processing in terms of directivity based beamforming. Previously introduced formulations of the multichannel Wiener filter rely on the second order statistics of the speech and noise signals. The author analyses how additional knowledge about the location of a speaker as well as the microphone arrangement can be used to achieve further noise reduction and dereverberation.

A collection of 25 papers presented at the 11th International Symposium on Ceramic Materials and Components for Energy and Environmental Applications (CMCEE-11), June 14-19, 2015 in Vancouver, BC, Canada. Paper in this volume were presented in the below six symposia from Track 1 on the topic of Ceramics for Energy Conversion, Storage, and Distribution Systems: * High-Temperature Fuel Cells and Electrolysis * Ceramic-Related Materials, Devices, and Processing for Heat-to-Electricity Direct Conversion * Material Science and Technologies for Advanced Nuclear Fission and Fusion Energy * Advanced Batteries and Supercapacitors for Energy Storage Applications * Materials for Solar Thermal Energy Conversion and Storage * High Temperature Superconductors: Materials, Technologies, and Systems

MATLAB (R) can be used to execute many mathematical and engineering calculations, as well as a handheld computer can-if not better. Moreover, like many other computer languages, it can perform tasks that a handheld computer cannot. Compared to other computer languages, MATLAB provides many built-in functions that make learning easier and reduce prototyping time. Simulink (R) is a toolbox that extends the possibilities of MATLAB by providing a graphical interface for modeling and simulating dynamical processes. Using examples from mathematics, mechanical and electrical engineering, and control and signal processing, What Every Engineer Should Know About MATLAB (R) and Simulink (R) provides an introduction to these two computer environments and examines the advantages and limitations of MATLAB. It first explores the benefits of how to use MATLAB to solve problems and then process and present calculations and experimental results. This book also briefly introduces the reader to more advanced features of the software, such as object-oriented programming (OOP), and it draws the attention to some specialized toolboxes. Key features of the book include demonstrations of how to: Visualize the results of calculations in various kinds of graphical representations Write useful script files and functions for solving specific problems Avoid disastrous computational errors Convert calculations into technical reports and insert calculations and graphs into either MS Word or LaTeX This book illustrates the limitations of the computer, as well as the implications associated with errors that can result from approximations or numerical errors. Using selected examples of computer-aided errors, the author explains that the set of computer numbers is discrete and bounded-a feature that can cause catastrophic errors if not properly taken into account. In conjunction with The Mathworks-marketers of MATLAB and Simulink-a supplementary website is presented to offer access to software implemented in the book and the script files used to produce the figures. This book was written by Adrian B. Biran of Technion -- Israel Institute of Technology, with contributions by Moshe Breiner, managing director of SimACon.

The book deals with urban transportation planning in light of environmental sustainability and social equity. It begins with a review of the Indian urban transportation system and the issues surrounding it, and discusses the alternatives and policy directions that are being considered. It examines all the environmental issues arising out of transportation as a sector and assesses the alternatives that can be considered to improve sustainability. Further, the book not only analyses transportation modes that cater to the travel needs of the poor, so as to make them more socially equitable, but also explores measures to promote them using a multi-criteria and multi-stakeholder approach. It addresses the barriers that are bottlenecks for the implementation of cleaner fuels and modes of transport and presents an incremental approach to tackle environmental concerns, including climate change, when planning transportation in the long term. Finally, it presents the dilemma of city administrators in choosing between strategies aimed at local pollution control and those aimed at limiting global emissions. This unique book provides a comprehensive overview of "sustainable transportation." It discusses all the important elements that are essential to transportation planners and policy makers when planning a city's transportation. Theoretical presentations augmented by case-specific research work and the methodology used in some of the modules, make it a valuable resource for researchers working at the forefront of this area.

This book focuses on recent trends in the areas of green and renewable energy, especially as applied to the carbon footprint of energy production, transmission, and use. Discussing the latest developments and advances in the materials and processes involved in energy generation, transmission, distribution and storage, with a particular focus on the management and policies related to these systems, it is a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and policy makers working in these areas.

This book focuses on soft computing techniques for enhancing voltage security in electrical power networks. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) have been chosen as a soft computing tool, since such networks are eminently suitable for the study of voltage security. The different architectures of the ANNs used in this book are selected on the basis of intelligent criteria rather than by a "brute force" method of trial and error. The fundamental aim of this book is to present a comprehensive treatise on power system security and the simulation of power system security. The core concepts are substantiated by suitable illustrations and computer methods. The book describes analytical aspects of operation and characteristics of power systems from the viewpoint of voltage security. The text is self-contained and thorough. It is intended for senior undergraduate students and postgraduate students in electrical engineering. Practicing engineers, Electrical Control Center (ECC) operators and researchers will also find the book useful.

Introduces the concept of combined cycles for next generation nuclear power plants, explaining how recent advances in gas turbines have made these systems increasingly desirable for efficiency gains and cost-of-ownership reduction. Promulgates modelling and analysis techniques to identify opportunities for increased thermodynamic efficiency and decreased water usage over current Light Water Reactor (LWR) systems. Examines all power conversion aspects, from the fluid exiting the reactor to energy releases into the environment, with special focus on heat exchangers and turbo-machinery. Provides examples of small projects to facilitate nuanced understanding of the theories and implementation of combined-cycle nuclear plants. This book explores combined cycle driven efficiency of new nuclear power plants and describes how to model and analyze a nuclear heated multi-turbine power conversion system operating with atmospheric air as the working fluid. The included studies are intended to identify paths for future work on next generation nuclear power plants (GEN-IV), leveraging advances in natural-gas-fired turbines that enable coupling salt-cooled, helium-cooled, and sodium-cooled reactors to a Nuclear Air-Brayton Combined Cycle (NACC). These reactors provide the option of operating base-load nuclear plants with variable electricity output to the grid using natural gas or stored heat to produce peak power. The author describes overall system architecture, components and detailed modelling results of Brayton-Rankine Combined Cycle power conversion systems and Recuperated Brayton Cycle systems, since they offer the highest overall energy conversion efficiencies. With ever-higher temperatures predicted in GEN-IV plants, this book's investigation of potential avenues for thermodynamic efficiency gains will be of great interest to nuclear engineers and researchers, as well as power plant operators and students.

This contributed volume contains the conference proceedings of the Simulation of Urban Mobility (SUMO) conference 2014, Berlin. The included research papers cover a wide range of topics in traffic planning and simulation, including open data, vehicular communication, e-mobility, urban mobility, multimodal traffic as well as usage approaches. The target audience primarily comprises researchers and experts in the field, but the book may also be beneficial for graduate students.

Using MATLAB? examples wherever possible, Multi-Sensor Data Fusion with MATLAB explores the three levels of multi-sensor data fusion (MSDF): kinematic-level fusion, including the theory of DF; fuzzy logic and decision fusion; and pixel- and feature-level image fusion. The authors elucidate DF strategies, algorithms, and performance evaluation mainly for aerospace applications, although the methods can also be applied to systems in other areas, such as biomedicine, military defense, and environmental engineering.

After presenting several useful strategies and algorithms for DF and tracking performance, the book evaluates DF algorithms, software, and systems. It next covers fuzzy logic, fuzzy sets and their properties, fuzzy logic operators, fuzzy propositions/rule-based systems, an inference engine, and defuzzification methods. It develops a new MATLAB graphical user interface for evaluating fuzzy implication functions, before using fuzzy logic to estimate the unknown states of a dynamic system by processing sensor data. The book then employs principal component analysis, spatial frequency, and wavelet-based image fusion algorithms for the fusion of image data from sensors. It also presents procedures for combing tracks obtained from imaging sensor and ground-based radar. The final chapters discuss how DF is applied to mobile intelligent autonomous systems and intelligent monitoring systems.

Fusing sensors? data can lead to numerous benefits in a system's performance. Through real-world examples and the evaluation of algorithmic results, this detailed book provides an understanding of MSDF concepts and methods from a practical point of view.

Select MATLAB programs are available for download on www.crcpress.com

Energy experts predict that wholesale electricity prices could easily rise 35 to 65 percent by 2015. Add to this the growing need for energy independence and the need to reduce carbon emissions and it is very clear that the development of low-cost renewable energy, such as solar energy, is essential for our economy and our national security. With the potential for low-cost, renewable energy that can create jobs while reducing our dependency on foreign oil, solar cell technology provides a very attractive and plausible option. Presenting a well-balanced mix of theory and applications, Solar Cell Technology and Applications addresses critical design aspects representing cutting-edge solar cell technology. It offers complete coverage of the latest advances in the field, including low-cost, high-efficiency elements and the latest approaches in solar cell designs. The book discusses: Performance parameters and cost projections for cells and complete solar energy systems Important properties of the semiconductor and compound materials best suited for the fabrication of solar cells Techniques for performance improvements in solar cells and panels-emphasizing cost, reliability, and longevity Integration of organic dye technology in the development of solar devices Mathematical expressions and their derivations-highlighting performance enhancement Using conventional nomenclature, a consistent set of symbols, and identical units for ease of comprehension, this time-saving resource supplies pioneering engineers, research scientists, professors, and students with the understanding needed to spark the advancements that must be made to maximize the economic and environmental benefits of this relatively untapped and abundant renewable energy resource.

This book details the design and technology of the on-line electric vehicle (OLEV) system and its enabling wireless power-transfer technology, the "shaped magnetic field in resonance" (SMFIR). The text shows how OLEV systems can achieve their three linked important goals: reduction of CO2 produced by ground transportation; improved energy efficiency of ground transportation; and contribution to the amelioration or prevention of climate change and global warming. SMFIR provides power to the OLEV by wireless transmission from underground cables using an alternating magnetic field and the reader learns how this is done. This cable network will in future be part of any local smart grid for energy supply and use thereby exploiting local and renewable energy generation to further its aims. In addition to the technical details involved with design and realization of a fleet of vehicles combined with extensive subsurface charging infrastructure, practical issues such as those involved with pedestrian safety are considered. Furthermore, the benefits of reductions in harmful emissions without recourse to large banks of batteries are made apparent. Importantly, the use of Professor Suh's axiomatic design paradigm enables such a complicated transportation system to be developed at reasonable cost and delivered on time. The book covers both the detailed design and the relevant systems-engineering knowledge and draws on experience gained in the successful implementation of OLEV systems in four Korean cities. The introduction to axiomatic design and the in-depth discussion of system and technology development provided by The On-line Electric Vehicle is instructive to graduate students in electrical, mechanical and transportation engineering and will help engineers and designers to master the efficient, timely and to-cost implementation of large-scale networked systems. Managers responsible for the running of large transportation infrastructure projects and concerned with technology management more generally will also find much to interest them in this book.

The Definitive Guide to Large-Scale, Grid-Connected Solar Power System Design and Construction

This "GreenSource" book provides comprehensive engineering design and construction guidelines for large-scale solar power system projects. Proven design methodologies are detailed installation diagrams are included in this practical resource.

"Large-Scale Solar Power System Design" offers complete coverage of solar power system technologies and components, planning, cost estimates, financing, project management, safety, and testing. This authoritative guide fully addresses the complex technical and management issues associated with large-scale, grid-connected solar power system implementations.

COVERAGE INCLUDES: Solar power system technologies, including photovoltaic and thin-film solar cells Solar power system physics Photovoltaic power system feasibility study Solar power system costing Solar power system design Large-scale solar power system construction Concentrator photovoltaic systems Solar power system project management Smart-grid systems Solar thermal power Solar power financing and feed-in tariff programs

Developed from the author's academic and industrial experiences, Modeling and Control of Engineering Systems provides a unified treatment of the modeling of mechanical, electrical, fluid, and thermal systems and then systematically covers conventional, advanced, and intelligent control, instrumentation, experimentation, and design. It includes theory, analytical techniques, popular computer tools, simulation details, and applications.

Overcoming the deficiencies of other modeling and control books, this text relates the model to the physical system and addresses why a particular control technique is suitable for controlling the system. Although MATLAB(r), Simulink(r), and LabVIEW are used, the author fully explains the fundamentals and analytical basis behind the methods, the choice of proper tools to analyze a given problem, the ways to interpret and validate the results, and the limitations of the software tools. This approach enables readers to thoroughly grasp the core foundation of the subject and understand how to apply the concepts in practice.

Control ensures accurate operation of a system. Proper control of an engineering system requires a basic understanding and a suitable representation (model) of the system. This book builds up expertise in modeling and control so that readers can further their analytical skills in hands-on settings.

As one of the eighteen field-specific reports comprising the comprehensive scope of the strategic general report of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, this sub-report addresses long-range planning for developing science and technology in the field of advanced manufacturing technology. They each craft a roadmap for their sphere of development to 2050. In their entirety, the general and sub-group reports analyze the evolution and laws governing the development of science and technology, describe the decisive impact of science and technology on the modernization process, predict that the world is on the eve of an impending S&T revolution, and call for China to be fully prepared for this new round of S&T advancement. Based on the detailed study of the demands on S&T innovation in China s modernization, the reports draw a framework for eight basic and strategic systems of socio-economic development with the support of science and technology, work out China s S&T roadmaps for the relevant eight basic and strategic systems in line with China s reality, further detail S&T initiatives of strategic importance to China s modernization, and provide S&T decision-makers with comprehensive consultations for the development of S&T innovation consistent with China s reality. Supported by illustrations and tables of data, the reports provide researchers, government officials and entrepreneurs with guidance concerning research directions, the planning process, and investment. Founded in 1949, the Chinese Academy of Sciences is the nation s highest academic institution in natural sciences. Its major responsibilities are to conduct research in basic and technological sciences, to undertake nationwide integrated surveys on natural resources and ecological environment, to provide the country with scientific data and consultations for government s decision-making, to undertake government-assigned projects with regard to key S&T problems in the process of socio-economic development, to initiate personnel training, and to promote China s high-tech enterprises through its active engagement in these areas.

This book discusses recent advances in intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs), focusing on material development and design, mechanism study, reaction kinetics and practical applications. It consists of five chapters presenting different types of reactions and materials employed in electrolytes, cathodes, anodes, interconnects and sealants for IT-SOFCs. It also includes two chapters highlighting new aspects of these solid oxide fuel cells and exploring their practical applications. This insightful and useful book appeals to a wide readership in various fields, including solid oxide fuel cells, electrochemistry, membranes and ceramics. Zongping Shao is a Professor at the State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering and the College of Energy, Nanjing University of Technology, China. Moses O. Tade is a Professor at the Department of Chemical Engineering, Curtin University, Australia.

Electric power systems worldwide face radical transformation with the need to decarbonise electricity supply, replace ageing assets and harness new information and communication technologies (ICT). The Smart Grid uses advanced ICT to control next generation power systems reliably and efficiently. This authoritative guide demonstrates the importance of the Smart Grid and shows how ICT will extend beyond transmission voltages to distribution networks and customer-level operation through Smart Meters and Smart Homes.

"Smart Grid Technology and Applications" Clearly unravels the evolving Smart Grid concept with extensive illustrations and practical examples.Describes the spectrum of key enabling technologies required for the realisation of the Smart Grid with worked examples to illustrate the applications.Enables readers to engage with the immediate development of the power system and take part in the debate over the future Smart Grid.Introduces the constituent topics from first principles, assuming only a basic knowledge of mathematics, circuits and power systems.Brings together the expertise of a highly experienced and international author team from the UK, Sri Lanka, China and Japan.

Electrical, electronics and computer engineering researchers, practitioners and consultants working in inter-disciplinary Smart Grid RD&D will significantly enhance their knowledge through this reference. The tutorial style will greatly benefit final year undergraduate and master's students as the curriculum increasing focuses on the breadth of technologies that contribute to Smart Grid realisation.

This popular guide focuses on common misconceptions in the application of the IET Wiring Regulations. It explains in clear language those parts of the regulations that most need simplifying, outlining the correct procedures to follow and those to avoid. Emphasis has been placed on areas where confusion and misinterpretation are common, such as earthing and bonding, circuit design and protection, and in particular the increased use of RCDs. With the content covering the requirements of both City & Guilds and EAL courses and containing sample exam questions and answers, this book is also an ideal revision guide.

Describing the formation, integration, planning, composition and operation of microgrids, this book explains how local power systems can address limitations in conventional electric power grids and provides insights into the practical implementation needs and outcomes of microgrid technology. All aspects of microgrid design and applications are covered, including the main technologies involved in microgrids and other local area power and energy systems. The reliability and economic characteristics of microgrid system architecture, energy storage and grid interaction are explored in depth. Over 300 illustrations and real-world application examples make this a fully self-contained resource, ideal for graduate students and professionals in electrical, mechanical and chemical engineering and materials science.

Telemetry is a technology that allows the remote measurement and reporting of information of interest to the system designer or operator. Telemetry typically refers to wireless communications, but can also refer to data transferred over other media, such as a telephone or computer network or via an optical link. This book provides a brief overview of the telemetric technique and how it has evolved over the years as well as its numerous applications. By providing the geographical location of animals, and sometimes concurrently allowing the registration of other parameters (e.g. activity, temperature), this technique is often used to study home-range size and shape, habitat selection etc. Medical telemetry may be defined as "the measurement and recording of physiological parameters and other patient-related information via radiated bi- or unidirectional electromagnetic signals." This book discusses the telemetric devices that can be coupled with biosensors and micro sensors that generate electrical signals related to electrochemical processes. The engagement of fisheries and polar biologists in acoustic telemetry studies on inshore polar fish is explored by sharing their experiences of the issues surrounding environmental constraint, equipment limitations, tracking protocols, choice of species, and safety in the field. Different steps taken for the telemetric system to record the electroencephalogram (EEG) from adult freely moving rats are described. This novel telemetric system was also used to record brain activity in small animals. The development of a cost-effective telemetric system is addressed, through a combination of a wireless microphone for signal transmission and a computer sound card for recording of signals in the audible range. Finally, the telemetry of body temperature for long-term recordings of breathing is described.

Gravity Energy Storage provides a comprehensive analysis of a novel energy storage system that is based on the working principle of well-established, pumped hydro energy storage, but that also recognizes the differences and benefits of the new gravity system. This book provides coverage of the development, feasibility, design, performance, operation, and economics associated with the implementation of such storage technology. In addition, a number of modeling approaches are proposed as a solution to various difficulties, such as proper sizing, application, value and optimal design of the system. The book includes both technical and economic aspects to guide the realization of this storage system in the right direction. Finally, political considerations and barriers are addressed to complement this work.

This thesis reports the discovery of metal nanoparticles having new structures that do not exist in bulk state and that exhibit hydrogen storage ability or CO oxidation activity. Research into the reaction of hydrogen with metals has attracted much attention because of potential applications as effective hydrogen storage materials, as permeable films, or as catalysts for hydrogenation. Also, CO oxidation catalysts have been extensively developed because of their importance to CO removal from car exhaust or fuel-cell systems. At the same time, atomic-level (solid solution) alloying has the advantage of being able to continuously control chemical and physical properties of elements by changing compositions and/or combinations of constituent elements. This thesis provides a novel strategy for the basis of inter-elemental fusion to create highly efficient functional materials for energy and material conversions.