Dynamics is a science concerned with movement and changes. In the most general approach it relates to life processes as well as behavior in nature in rest. It governs small particles, technical objects, conversion of matter and materials but also concerns people, groups of people in their individual and, in particular, social dimension.

In dynamics we always have to do with causes or stimuli for motion, the rules of reaction or behavior and its result in the form of trajectory of changes.

This book is devoted to dynamics of a wide class of specific but very important objects such as electromechanical systems. This is a very rigorous discipline and has a long tradition, as its theoretical bases were formulated in the first half of the XIX century by d' Alembert, Lagrange, Hamilton, Maxwell and other prominent scientists, but their crucial results were based on previous pioneering research of others such as Copernicus, Galileo, Newton...

This book in its theoretical foundations is based on the principle of least action which governs classical as well as relativistic mechanics and electromagnetism and leads to Lagrange's equations which are applied in the book as universal method to construct equations of motion of electromechanical systems. It gives common and coherent grounds to formulate mathematical models for all lumped parameters' electromechanical systems, which are vital in our contemporary industry and civilized everyday life.

From these remarks it seems that the book is general and theoretical but in fact it is a very practical one concerning modern electrical drives in a broad sense, including electromechanical energy conversion, induction motor drives, brushless DC drives with a permanent magnet excitation and switched reluctance machines (SRM). And of course their control, which means shaping of their trajectories of motion using modern tools, their designed autonomy in keeping a track according to our programmed expectations.

The problems presented in the book are widely illustrated by characteristics, trajectories, dynamic courses all computed by use of developed simulation models throughout the book. There are some classical subjects and the history of the discipline is discussed but finally all modern tools and means are presented and applied.

More detailed descriptions follow in abstracts for the particular chapters.

The author hopes kind readers will enjoy and profit from reading this book.

Increasing legislative and environmental pressure requires businesses to become more responsive to products that either have been returned or that are at the end of their useful lives. Life cycles are getting shorter, and efficient handling can save large amounts of money since many materials can be extracted and reused or redistributed. Reverse logistics (RL) and closed loop supply chains (CLSC) have garnered growing interest as a way to manage this reverse flow of product in a cost effective way. Introduction to Management of Reverse Logistics (RL) and Closed Loop Supply Chain(CLSC) Processes provides an overall treatment of CLSC and RL, a qualitative and quantitative presentation of the size and dimensions of the overall market and industry, and a look at future trends. The author discusses key issues and trends in management and operation, strategic, tactical, and operational issues for implementation, and a pragmatic evaluation of the realities of running a CLSC or an RL business. Since most supply chains are not designed to handle reverse materials flows effectively, this is a crucial resource for managers who wish to ensure a smooth flow of materials while extracting the maximum value from returned and end-of-life goods.

Quality Function Deployment (QFD) is a method for satisfying customers by translating their demands into design targets and quality assurance points. For a thorough "how-to" on the implementation of QFD, we went directly to the source -- Yoji Akao, the creator of QFD and one of the foremost leaders of the Japanese Total Quality Control movement.

In this unprecedented book he explains the concepts and methods of this remarkable systems engineering approach. Filled with case studies, detailed charts, and over 100 diagrams, this book is a complete reference tool for QFD implementation.

It includesa " Use of the demanded quality deployment chart. Using and promoting quality charts. Using quality control process charts: QFD at the pre-production. Quality deployment and reliability deployment. Quality development in the construction industry. QFD for the service industry. QFD for software development.

"Two of the most important trends in sensor development in recent years have been advances in micromachined sensing elements of all kinds, and the increase in intelligence applied at the sensor level. This book addresses both, and provides a good overview of current technology." -- I&CS

Nanorobots can be defined as intelligent systems with overall dimensions at or below the micrometer range that are made of assemblies of nanoscale components with individual dimensions ranging between 1 to 100 nm. These devices can now perform a wide variety of tasks at the nanoscale in a wide variety of fields including but not limited to fields such as manufacturing, medicine, supply chain, biology, and aerospace. Nanorobotics: Current Approaches and Techniques offers a comprehensive overview of this emerging interdisciplinary field with a wide ranging discussion that includes nano-manipulation and industrial nanorobotics, nanorobotic manipulation in biology and medicine, nanorobotic sensing, navigation and swarm behavior and CNT, and protein and DNA-based nanorobotics.

This book highlights the latest advances in AFM nano-manipulation research in the field of nanotechnology. There are numerous uncertainties in the AFM nano-manipulation environment, such as thermal drift, tip broadening effect, tip positioning errors and manipulation instability. This book proposes a method for estimating tip morphology using a blind modeling algorithm, which is the basis of the analysis of the influence of thermal drift on AFM scanning images, and also explains how the scanning image of AFM is reconstructed with better accuracy. Further, the book describes how the tip positioning errors caused by thermal drift and system nonlinearity can be corrected using the proposed landmark observation method, and also explores the tip path planning method in a complex environment. Lastly, it presents an AFM-based nano-manipulation platform to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method using theoretical research, such as tip positioning and virtual nano-hand.

Why are some work partnerships exceptional while most are not? How can we establish and sustain an enhanced level of cohesion, connection, and collaboration in the most important work relationship, the one between a manager and team? What could remedy the high levels of isolation and anxiety so many feel at work these days? Silver and Franz explore the concept of 'meaningful partnership' in the workplace. They present meaningful partnership as a mindset where both leaders and their teams are fully committed to ensuring the support and success of the other. Then, they describe a model called ERTAP, which stands for Empathy, Respect, Trust, Alignment, and Partnership, which is the foundation for meaningful partnership. Finally, they detail a practical yet transformative relationship-building process referred to as the Workplace Covenant. This enables leaders and teams to create mutual commitments with obligatory weight that help them to feel accountable for the success of the relationship and each other. The book includes real client stories that illustrate the dimensions of partnership and the Workplace Covenant process. Silver and Franz also outline other work relationships that can benefit from meaningful partnership, pitfalls to avoid, relevant research, and insights derived from years of consulting experience. This book is a must-read for leaders interested in a better working relationship with their team; for teams who have critical work partnerships with other teams; for individuals who work closely with other individuals and need an exceptional 1:1 partnership; and finally for third-party experts in HR or continuous improvement who are seeking a new powerful way to help clients feel supported and be more successful.

Nonlinear Control of Vehicles and Robots develops a unified approach to the dynamic modeling of robots in terrestrial, aerial and marine environments. The main classes of nonlinear systems and stability methods are summarized and basic nonlinear control methods, useful in manipulator and vehicle control, are presented. Formation control of ground robots and ships is discussed.

The book also deals with the modeling and control of robotic systems in the presence of non-smooth nonlinearities. Robust adaptive tracking control of robotic systems with unknown payload and friction in the presence of uncertainties is treated.

Theoretical and practical aspects of the control algorithms under discussion are detailed. Examples are included throughout the book allowing the reader to apply the control and modeling techniques in their own research and development work. Some of these examples demonstrate state estimation based on the use of advanced sensors as part of the control system.

The pinball book you have been waiting for is finally here! From those fabulous '50s & '60s, Jeffrey Lawton, Bingo Pinball Historian, presents 290+ photos, including original promotional brochures and advertisements, that showcase a fantastic collection of Bally*r Bingo pinball machines, along with a history of the evolution and excitement that surrounds this compelling hobby. All who grew up with street cars, slot machines, pinball machines, pool halls, and diners will enjoy this book tremendously! If you buy only one pinball book, this is the one to have.

This book presents a universal mass-production micro/nano integrated fabrication technology, which can be used to realize micro/nano hierarchical structures on Si-based materials and flexible polymeric materials. This fabrication technology has been systematically investigated by using experimental measurements, mechanism analyses, theoretical simulations and so on. Three common materials (i.e., silicon, PDMS and Parylene-C) with micro/nano hierarchical structures have been successfully fabricated, which also show several attractive properties. Furthermore, this book introduces this fabrication technology into microenergy field, and proposes several high-performance nanogenerators, of which practical applications have also been studied in commercial electronic device and biomedical microsystem.

The Cabbage Patch Kid craze started in the 1980s, and continued into the 1990s, where it is perpetuated by a strong community of collectors. This excellent book picks up the story at the start of the 1990s, where the authors' successful first book left off. It shows the full line of Kids produced by Hasbro from 1990-1994, including Birthday Kids, Kissin' Kids, and the 10th Anniversary dolls. All the Kids produced by Mattel between 1995-1998 are here as well, including OlympiKids, Snacktime Kids, and the Keepsake Collection. The book also features pets, with lots of valuable information about the adorable Koosas. The authors have included an excellent 85-photo reference for head molds used through both the '80s and '90s. Learn to recognize fakes and altered Kids in the marketplace, and see some creative ways to turn shabby flea market finds into beautiful Kids again.

The key to effective leadership is being fit for the challenge. Leadership is a perpetual boxing match in many respects in which preparation, stamina and skill are required. Only the strongest survive. Every decision and tollgate along the career journey is laden with risk. Those leaders who harness risk to their advantage will land the knockout punch in every fight. The only question is how many leaders will be fit enough for the challenge? The purpose of this book is to provide insight on how risk impacts every aspect of leadership, including the mundane, routine and nonglamorous aspects of leadership. This is important because often the small things can easily turn into big disruptors. Moreover, the end goal is to equip leaders with a journey map and quick guide to win in high-risk environments. Change is the new normal and only constant in today's world. As change increases, so will risk and its subsequent impacts on humanity. This includes leaders, organizations and customers. No one is exempt. In this book, readers learn how to: Determine which career battles to fight and which ones to avoid Prepare to fight the unavoidable challenges along the career journey Leverage risk to choose the right leaders for the team Leverage risk to invest time wisely and avoid wasting it Leverage risk to predict, identify and resolve leadership burnout Risk assess leadership credentials so only those that produce a return are added to the portfolio Risk assess performance outcomes so the path ahead is smooth sailing instead of a rough ride Leverage risk so high performance is a reality instead of a pipe dream Leverage risk to find the right leadership sponsor

The book Smart Sensors and MEMS provides an unique collection of contributions on the latest achievements in sensors area and technologies that have been made by eleven internationally recognized leading experts from Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Israel, Portugal, Switzerland, Ukraine and USA during the NATO Advanced Study Institute (ASI) in Povoa de Varzim, Portugal, from 8 to 19 September 2003. The aims of this volume are to disseminate wider and in-depth theoretical and practical knowledge about smart sensors and its applications, to create a clear consciousness about the effectiveness of MEMS technologies, advanced signal processing and conversion methods, to stimulate the theoretical and applied research in these areas, and promote the practical using of these techniques in the industry. With that in mind, a broad range of physical, chemical and biosensors design principles, technologies and applications were included in the book.

It is a first attempt to describe in the same book different physical, chemical, biological sensors and MEMS technologies suitable for smart sensors creation. The book presents the state-of-the-art and gives an excellent opportunity to provide a systematic, in-depth treatment of the new and rapidly developing field of smart sensors and MEMS.

The volume is an excellent guide for practicing engineers, researchers and students interested in this crucial aspect of actual smart sensor design.

This book is devoted to a wide range of problems concerning applications of nanomaterials and nanodevices as effective solutions to modern ecological problems. Leading experts in nanoscience and nanotechnology present the key theoretical, experimental and implementation issues related to the creation and utilization of novel nanoscale devices to help ensure ecological security. The authors discuss appropriate nanotechnologies for minimizing various types of risk: to human life, technogenic risk, or indeed terrorist threats. Particular emphasis is placed on defining and studying the required materials properties, and - in the field - on nanoscale devices for sensors and monitoring."

Covering the complete design cycle of nanopositioning systems, this is the first comprehensive text on the topic. The book first introduces concepts associated with nanopositioning stages and outlines their application in such tasks as scanning probe microscopy, nanofabrication, data storage, cell surgery and precision optics. Piezoelectric transducers, employed ubiquitously in nanopositioning applications are then discussed in detail including practical considerations and constraints on transducer response. The reader is then given an overview of the types of nanopositioner before the text turns to the in-depth coverage of mechanical design including flexures, materials, manufacturing techniques, and electronics. This process is illustrated by the example of a high-speed serial-kinematic nanopositioner. Position sensors are then catalogued and described and the text then focuses on control.

Several forms of control are treated: shunt control, feedback control, force feedback control and feedforward control (including an appreciation of iterative learning control). Performance issues are given importance as are problems limiting that performance such as hysteresis and noise which arise in the treatment of control and are then given chapter-length attention in their own right. The reader also learns about cost functions and other issues involved in command shaping, charge drives and electrical considerations. All concepts are demonstrated experimentally including by direct application to atomic force microscope imaging.

Design, Modeling and Control of Nanopositioning Systems will be of interest to researchers in mechatronics generally and in control applied to atomic force microscopy and other nanopositioning applications. Microscope developers and mechanical designers of nanopositioning devices will find the text essential reading.

Provides leaders with strategies and methods to change the way learning and training occurs for new engineers Takes a holistic view behind the low numbers of women in engineering using a problem solving approach centered on Lean Development (LD) Provides a direct comparison with the field of STEM and medicine and how the methods of training and learning can help minimizes bias and increase gender confidence Explores the lack of written knowledge (reusable knowledge) and uses methods of Lean Development (LD) to level the playing field between men and women Highlights the critical need for new female engineers to have access to mentors using technical coaching methods

Validation of computer systems is the process that assures the formal assessment and report of quality and performance measures for all the life-cycle stages of software and system development, its implementation, qualification and acceptance, operation, modification, requalification, maintenance and retirement (PICS CSV PI 011-3). It is a process that demonstrates the compliance of computer systems functional and non-functional requirements, data integrity, regulated company procedures and safety requirements, industry standards, and applicable regulatory authority's requirements. Compliance is a state of being in adherence to application-related standards or conventions or regulations in laws and similar prescriptions. This book, which is relevant to the pharmaceutical and medical devices regulated operations, provides practical information to assist in the computer validation to production systems, while highlighting and efficiently integrating worldwide regulation into the subject. A practical approach is presented to increase efficiency and to ensure that the validation of computer systems is correctly achieved.

The vast expansion of the sensor and actuator field in recent years has necessitated the creation of a handbook series to clarify scientific developments.

First in the new series, Handbook of Sensors and Actuators, which will examine a broad range of topics across the discipline, this volume explores thick-film technology. The area has already achieved a high rank in the families of advanced solid sensor technologies but there has been limited acknowledgement of its future potential. This publication aims to increase the involvement of internationally recognised sensor experts by suggesting possible directions for further investigation. In this pursuit, it disseminates the data identifying the actual performances and applications of thick-film sensors manufactured all over the world and presents ideas underlying current activities in the research and development of new devices.

Three major areas are explored in which thick film technology contributes as a sensor technology, namely: hybrid circuits for signal processing (in combination with either thick-film sensing elements or transducing elements derived from other technologies), creation of architectural structures (eg. multilayer structures, integrated chips with chemical sensing elements, sensor arrays) and transducing elements derived from thick-film pastes. However, the unique properties and chances offered by thick-film technology for sensor manufacture might not be appreciated without emphasis on both scientific and technological features which are either common or distinguished from those of the major alternative technologies, namely silicon, thin films and ceramic. These are therefore also considered, enabling the volume to offer a balanced view of the state-of-the-art in this exciting field.

This book reviews the recent development of fabrication methods and various properties of lotus-type porous metals and their applications. The nucleation and growth mechanism of the directional pores in metals are discussed in comparison with a model experiment of carbon dioxide pores in ice. Three casting techniques are introduced to produce not only metals and alloys but also intermetallic compounds, semiconductors, and ceramics: mold casting, continuous zone melting, and continuous casting. The latter has merits for mass production of lotus metals to control porosity, pore size and pore direction. Furthermore, anisotropic behavior of elastic, mechanical properties, thermal and electrical conductivity, magnetic properties, and biocompatibility are introduced as peculiar features of lotus metals.

This book presents part of the proceedings of the Manufacturing and Materials track of the iM3F 2020 conference held in Malaysia. This collection of articles deliberates on the key challenges and trends related to manufacturing as well as materials engineering and technology in setting the stage for the world in embracing the fourth industrial revolution. It presents recent findings with regards to manufacturing and materials that are pertinent towards the realizations and ultimately the embodiment of Industry 4.0, with contributions from both industry and academia.

This book gives a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in both theory and practical implementation of plasmonic probes. Encompassing multiple disciplines, the field of plasmonics provides a versatile and flexible platform for nanoscale sensing and imaging. Despite being a relatively young field, plasmonic probes have come a long way, with applications in chemical, biological, civil, and architectural fields as well as enabling many analytical schemes such as immunoassay, biomarkers, environmental indexing, and water quality sensing, to name but a few. The objective of the book is to present in-depth analysis of the theory and applications of novel probes based on plasmonics, with a broad selection of specially-invited chapters on the development, fabrication, functionalization, and implementation of plasmonic probes as well as their integration with current technologies and future outlook. This book is designed to cater to the needs of novice, seasoned researchers and practitioners in academia and industry, as well as medical and environmental fields.

"A powerful and urgent introduction to lean marketing and the magic of getting it right." -- Seth Godin, author, This is Marketing You may be familiar with the Silicon Valley expression about the iterative approach to software development, "We're learning to fly the plane while we're building it." If so, think of a startup-with all its moving parts, phases, and personalities-as flying a plane, while you're building it, booking passengers, marketing the airline, interviewing co-pilots, and serving coffee. In this book, Orly Zeewy navigates the turbulence and provides a flight plan so you know when you've landed in the right airport. Orly Zeewy is a brand architect who helps startups cut through the noise. She has worked with dozens of founders and entrepreneurs to uncover their brands' DNA. In Ready, Launch, Brand: The Lean Marketing Guide for Startups you will learn how to close the marketing gaps that can slow down sales and make it harder to scale your business. Orly shares her brand process for building the right team, attracting brand evangelists, and cultivating a sustainable company culture. Prior to starting her brand consulting practice, Orly ran the award-winning Zeewy Design and Marketing Communications firm and directed marketing programs for national clients such as CIGNA, Kraft Foods, and Prince Tennis. She has lectured at the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania, taught at the Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship at Drexel University, and been featured in the business section of the Philadelphia Inquirer.

This book covers the basics of nanotechnology and provides a solid understanding of the subject. Starting from a brush-up of the basic quantum mechanics and materials science, the book helps to gradually build up understanding of the various effects of quantum confinement, optical-electronic properties of nanoparticles and major nanomaterials. The book covers the various physical, chemical and hybrid methods of nanomaterial synthesis and nanofabrication as well as advanced characterization techniques. It includes chapters on the various applications of nanoscience and nanotechnology. It is written in a simple form, making it useful for students of physical and material sciences.

In his latest offering, John Davis tackles the "human" side of a lean initiative -- cultivating a lean culture and gaining employee buy-in. How managers deal with these issues will ultimately determine their success. Leading the Lean Initiative: Straight Talk on Cultivating Support and Buy-in shows you how to lead a lean effort and effectively manage change. It is a practical manual for the new manager. Though directed at plant managers, and specifically those new to their jobs, this book benefits anyone taking on a leadership role. Davis provides complete direction on the crucial first steps and advise on competently responding to the "unknown and unexpected." In addition the book covers how to: Gain the respect and active support of the workforce. Work effectively with unions and customers. Create a culture for change. Actively seek out key people in your organization. Diplomatically buck the system. Extend lean to the entire enterprise. Develop and effectively earmark your plan for operation. Cultivate a winning relationship with your boss. Deal with major setbacks in business conditions.Throughout the text, Davis weaves the story of Jim Warring, a plant manager who is new to the job, detailing his frustrations, challenges, and accomplishments, and how he handles the daily responsibilities of a plant manager. At the end of each chapter, Davis rates Warring on how he performed in his role as plant manager and as a leader of the plant's lean initiative by presenting "The Warring Scorecard." Davis points out where he succeeded, and where he made some serious mistakes. Leading the Lean Initiative: Straight Talk on Cultivating Support and Buy-in, is a valuable resource or all managers in any industry. This book will show you how to effectively lead in your organization and how to cultivate a cooperative environment.