This book discusses, for the first time, wireless power transfer in the ocean environment. Topics covered include power electronic techniques, advanced control strategies, as well as classic and emerging applications such as smart ocean energy systems and wireless power transfer and charging of underwater autonomous vehicles. Emerging research topics are presented, along with methodologies, approaches, and industrial development of intelligent and energy-efficient techniques. Apart from the basic principles with an emphasis on inductive power transfer and mathematical analysis, the book discusses the emerging implementation for underwater wireless power transfer such as energy encryption, power and data transfer through common links, and secured data- and cyber-security. Specifically, the book comprehensively introduces significant discussions on UWPT coil theoretical and experimental analysis in seawater, optimal design, and intelligent controls. For example, since fast communication is not viable in an underwater environment, the proposed book discusses Maximum Power Efficiency Tracking (MPET) control, which achieves a maximum power efficiency (>85%) without communication or feedback from the transmitting side of the UWPT system. A k-nearest-neighbors-based machine learning approach is used to estimate the coupling coefficiency between the coils. This machine learning-based intelligent control method can offer important guidance for graduate students, academic researchers, and industrial engineers who want to understand the working principles and realize the developing trends in underwater wireless power transfer. Finally, the book includes details on the modeling and design of a smart ocean energy system--a new type of power harvesting system designed to convert ocean energy into electricity, which has the capability of making underwater wireless power connections with distributed marine devices.

This book focuses on the systematic design of architectures, parameters and control of typical hybrid propulsion systems for wheeled and tracked vehicles based on a combination of theoretical research and engineering practice. Adopting a mechatronic system dynamics perspective, principles and methods from the fields of optimal control and system optimization are applied in order to analyze the hybrid propulsion configuration and controller design. Case investigations for typical hybrid propulsion systems of wheeled and tracked ground vehicles are also provided.

The book contains 12 contributions that explain the current state of China's cruise industry and future development. Dating from the 1960s and with the rapid development of over 50 years, the modern cruise industry has developed into one of the fastest growing industries with the most remarkable economic benefits in the global tourism and hospitality industry, known as a "golden industry on the golden waterway". In recent years, with the gradual saturation of international cruise market and the eastward-moving trend of the center of cruise market, China has become a strategic emerging market with which international cruise lines have been competing. A number of international cruise lines, including Costa Crociere, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises, Star Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Dream Cruises, have entered the cruise market in Mainland China.

This edited volume establishes a forum for international experts to explore cutting-edge questions associated with the land use and biomass production. Topics include 'do we have enough land, either primary or marginal, to accommodate future production of biomass?', 'how are farming decisions made in response to biomass incentives?', 'is the current bio-mass production socially, economically and environmentally sustainable?', and 'what are the main constraints currently limiting biofuel deployment?' The expansion of biomass production is often at the cost of reduced land availability for food production and losses of areas with ecological functions such as forests and wetlands. This process often involves complex interplay of physical dynamics and human systems that are driven by numerous geographic and socio-economic factors at different scales. Thus, the state-of-the-art research on the land use issues surrounding the biomass production and its environmental impacts is important for informed land management decision making. This book will be of great use to researchers in land use management and biomass-based renewable energy, as well as practitioners.

Addressing the unprecedented international interest in China's high-speed railways, this book adopts a global perspective to examine the success of the system and probes into its going-global strategy in the context of the "Belt and Road" initiative, providing readers around the world a better understanding of infrastructure construction under the "Belt and Road" plan, as well as the global vision of communication and mutual exchange and prosperity among the countries along the Belt and Road route. The previous American President, Barack Obama, once told President Xi Jinping that there were two things about China that he particularly admired: the high-speed railway system, and the mathematics education. "The Belt and Road, and the Global Strategy of China's High-speed Rail" provides scholarly researchers and those generally interested in China's High-speed rail excellent insight into this impressive and rapid development.

In view of the increased consumption of energy due to the proliferation of electronic devices, this book addresses the trends, similarities, differences and advances in fuel cells of both chemical and biological composition. Fundamentals of microbial fuel cells are described, accompanied by details surrounding their uses and limitations. Chapters on electricigens, microbial group investigations and performance, Rumen Fluid microbes and state-of-the-art advances in microbial fuel cell technology are discussed. The book elaborates upon analytical techniques used for biofilm characterization. It also includes chapters on MFC models that include plant-based MFCs, Algal/Fungi MFCs, MDCs and MFCs using animal waste. A critical review on the performance of MFC technology in field trials is offered in an exclusively dedicated section. By addressing one of the most promising sources for clean and renewable energy, this book fills a pressing need to understand a possible solution for meeting the energy demands in our highly advanced technical world.

This research book provides state-of-the-art advances in several areas of energy generation from, and environmental impact of, fuels and biofuels. It also presents novel developments in the areas of biofuels and products from various feedstock materials along with thermal management, emission control and environmental issues. Availability of clean and sustainable energy is of paramount importance in all applications of energy, power, mobility and propulsion. This book is written by internationally renowned experts from around the globe. They provide the latest innovations in cleaner energy utilization for a wide range of devices. The energy and environment sustainability requires a multipronged approach involving development and utilization of new and renewable fuels, design of fuel-flexible combustion systems and novel and environmentally friendly technologies for improved fuel use. This book serves as a good reference for practicing engineers, educators and research professionals.

This book reports on the 12th International Workshop on Railway Noise held on 12-16 September 2016 at Terrigal, Australia. It gathers peer-reviewed papers describing the latest developments in rail noise and vibration, as well as state-of-the-art reviews by distinguished experts in the field. The papers cover a broad range of rail noise topics including wheel squeal, policy, regulation and perception, wheel and rail noise, predictions, measurements and monitoring, interior noise, rail roughness, corrugation and grinding, high speed rail and aerodynamic noise, and structure-borne noise, ground-borne vibration and resilient track forms. It offers an essential reference-guide to both scientists and engineers in their daily efforts to identify, understand and solve a number of problems related to railway noise and vibration, and to achieve their ultimate goal of reducing the environmental impact of railway systems.

Electrical Engineering Understanding FACTS Concepts and Technology of Flexible AC Transmission Systems The Flexible AC Transmission System (FACTS)--a new technology based on power electronics--offers an opportunity to enhance controllability, stability, and power transfer capability of ac transmission systems. Pioneers in FACTS and leading world experts in power electronics applications, Narain G. Hingorani and Laszlo Gyugyi, have teamed together to bring you the definitive book on FACTS technology. Drs. Hingorani and Gyugyi present a practical approach to FACTS that will enable electrical engineers working in the power industry to understand the principles underlying this advanced system. Understanding FACTS will enhance your expertise in equipment specifications and engineering design, and will offer you an informed view of the future of power electronics in ac transmission systems. This comprehensive reference book provides in-depth discussions on:

• Power semiconductor devices
• Voltage-sourced and current-sourced converters
• Specific FACTS Controllers, including SVC, STATCOM, TCSC, SSSC, UPFC, IPFC plus voltage regulators, phase shifters, and special Controllers with a detailed comparison of their performance attributes
• Major FACTS applications in the U.S.

This book presents the latest technologies and operational methods available to support sustainable freight transport practices. It highlights market requirements, cutting edge applications, and case studies from innovators in the logistics services industry. The goal is to help bridge the gap between advanced computational techniques and complex applied problems such as those in sustainable transport and logistics operations. Freight transport has traditionally focused on costs and service levels. However, it is no longer possible or socially responsible to neglect the environmental, social, climate, and energy implications of the freight moving globally. This book places sustainability at the forefront of the freight transport agenda. Sustainable Freight Transport: Theory, Models and Case Studies is divided into three sections. Section I focuses on green freight transport policies for air and marine ports. Section II is devoted to using modelling techniques and optimization for achieving sustainable freight transport, while Section III examines policies to support sustainable freight transport practices in urban areas. The contributions come from authors from different areas, backgrounds, and countries to cover a global perspective.

The proceedings collect the latest research trends, methods and experimental results in the field of electrical and information technologies for rail transportation. The topics cover novel traction drive technologies of rail transportation, safety technology of rail transportation system, rail transportation information technology, rail transportation operational management technology, rail transportation cutting-edge theory and technology etc. The proceedings can be a valuable reference work for researchers and graduate students working in rail transportation, electrical engineering and information technologies.

A guide to the latest developments in grid dynamics and control and highlights the role of transmission and distribution grids Dynamics and Control of Electric Transmission and Microgrids offers a concise and comprehensive review of the most recent developments and research in grid dynamics and control. In addition, the authors present a new style of presentation that highlights the role of transmission and distribution grids that ensure the reliability and quality of electric power supply. The authors -- noted experts in the field -- offer an introduction to the topic and explore the basic characteristics and operations of the grid. The text also reviews a wealth of vital topics such as FACTS and HVDC Converter controllers, the stability and security issues of the bulk power system, loads which can be viewed as negative generation, the power limits and energy availability when distributed storage is used and much more. This important resource: Puts the focus on the role of transmission and distribution grids that ensure the reliability and quality of electric power supply Includes modeling and control of wind and solar energy generation for secure energy transfer Presents timely coverage of on-line detection of loss of synchronism, wide area measurements and applications, wide-area feedback control systems for power swing damping and microgrids-operation and control Written for students of power system dynamics and control/electrical power industry professionals, Dynamics and Control of Electric Transmission and Microgrids is a comprehensive guide to the recent developments in grid dynamics and control and highlights the role of transmission and distribution grids that ensure the reliability and quality of electric power supply.

This book is devoted to the systematic description of the role of microgeometry of modern piezo-active composites in the formation of their piezoelectric sensitivity. In five chapters, the authors analyse kinds of piezoelectric sensitivity for piezo-active composites with specific connectivity patterns and links between the microgeometric feature and piezoelectric response. The role of components and microgeometric factors is discussed in the context of the piezoelectric properties and their anisotropy in the composites. Interrelations between different types of the piezoelectric coefficients are highlighted. This book fills a gap in piezoelectric materials science and provides readers with data on the piezoelectric performance of novel composite materials that are suitable for sensor, transducer, hydroacoustic, energy-harvesting, and other applications.

This book explores mobilities as a key to understanding the practices that both frame and generate contemporary everyday life in the urban context. At the same time, it investigates the challenges arising from the interpretation of mobility as a socio-spatial phenomenon both in the social sciences and in urban studies. Leading sociologists, economists, urban planners and architects address the ways in which spatial mobilities contribute to producing diversified uses of the city and describe forms and rhythms of different life practices, including unexpected uses and conflicts. The individual sections of the book focus on the role of mobility in transforming contemporary cities; the consequences of interpreting mobility as a socio-spatial phenomenon for urban projects and policies; the conflicts and inequalities generated by the co-presence of different populations due to mobility and by the interests gathered around major mobility projects; and the use of new data and mapping of mobilities to enhance comprehension of cities. The theoretical discussion is complemented by references to practical experiences, helping readers gain a broader understanding of mobilities in relation to the capacity to analyze, plan and design contemporary cities.

This book discusses the potential of travel behaviour modification (TBM) as a persuasive tool to promote low-carbon mobility among adolescents on Penang Island by highlighting the role of bus usage in a sustainable urban lifestyle. The participants of the Reduce Carbon Footprint Campaign, which aimed to create sustainable transport and pro-environmental awareness among adolescents, were recruited from secondary schools on Penang Island. Campaign materials, such as bus routes maps and discount travel cards for students, were provided by Rapid Penang, the leading bus operator in Penang. The campaign also involved several intervention programmes, including motivational sessions and classes for travel journey planning.

This book details aluminum alloys with special focus on the aluminum silicon (Al-Si) systems - that are the most abundant alloys second only to steel. The authors include a description of the manufacturing principles, thermodynamics, and other main characteristics of Al-Si alloys. Principles of processing, testing, and in particular applications in the Automotive, Aeronautical and Aerospace fields are addressed.

This book is the fourth volume of the sub series of the Lecture Notes in Mobility dedicated to Road Vehicle Automation. lts chapters have been written by researchers, engineers and analysts from all around the globe. Topics covered include public sector activities, human factors and challenges, ethical, legal, energy and technology perspectives, vehicle systems development, as well as transportation infrastructure and planning. The book is based on the Automated Vehicles Symposium which took place in San Francisco, California (USA) in July 2016.

This book provides a thorough overview of cutting-edge research on electronics applications relevant to industry, the environment, and society at large. It covers a broad spectrum of application domains, from automotive to space and from health to security, while devoting special attention to the use of embedded devices and sensors for imaging, communication and control. The book is based on the 2016 ApplePies Conference, held in Rome, Italy in September 2016, which brought together researchers and stakeholders to consider the most significant current trends in the field of applied electronics and to debate visions for the future. Areas addressed by the conference included information communication technology; biotechnology and biomedical imaging; space; secure, clean and efficient energy; the environment; and smart, green and integrated transport. As electronics technology continues to develop apace, constantly meeting previously unthinkable targets, further attention needs to be directed toward the electronics applications and the development of systems that facilitate human activities. This book, written by industrial and academic professionals, represents a valuable contribution in this endeavor.

This edited volume discuses urban transport issues, policies, and initiatives in twelve of the world's major emerging economies - Brazil, China, Colombia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia, South Africa, Turkey, and Vietnam - countries with large populations that have recently experienced large changes in urban structure, motorization and all the associated social, economic, and environmental impacts in positive and negative senses. Contributions on each of these twelve countries focus on one or more major cities per country. This book aims to fill a gap in the transport literature that is crucial to understanding the needs of a large portion of the world's urban population, especially in view of the southward shift in economic power. Readers will develop a better understanding of urban transport problems and policies in nations where development levels are below those of richer countries (mainly in the northern hemisphere) but where the rate of economic growth is often increasing at a faster rate than the wealthiest nations.

This book outlines issues related to massive integration of electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles into power grids. Electricity is becoming the preferred energy vector for the next new generation of road vehicles. It is widely acknowledged that road vehicles based on full electric or hybrid drives can mitigate problems related to fossil fuel dependence. This book explains the emerging and understanding of storage systems for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The recharging stations for these types of vehicles might represent a great advantage for the electric grid by facilitating integration of renewable and distributed energy production. This book presents a broad review from analyzing current literature to on-going research projects about the new power technologies related to the various charging architectures for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Specifically focusing on DC fast charging operations, as well as, grid-connected power converters and the full range of energy storage systems. These key components are analyzed for distributed generation and charging system integration into micro-grids. The authors demonstrate that these storage systems represent effective interfaces for the control and management of renewable and sustainable distributed energy resources. New standards and applications are emerging from micro-grid pilot projects around the world and case studies demonstrate the convenience and feasibility of distributed energy management. The material in this unique volume discusses potential avenues for further research toward achieving more reliable, more secure and cleaner energy.

This book reviews and examines how power system low-frequency power oscillations and sub-synchronous oscillations may be affected by grid connection of wind power generation. Grid connection of wind power generation affects the power system small-signal stability and has been one of the most actively pursued research subjects in power systems and power electronics engineering in the last ten years. This book is the first of its kind to cover the impact of wind power generation on power system low-frequency oscillations and sub-synchronous oscillations. It begins with a comprehensive overview of the subject and progresses to modeling of power systems and introduces the application of conventional methods, including damping torque analysis, modal analysis and frequency-domain analysis, presented with detailed examples, making it useful for researchers and engineers worldwide.

This book explores the opportunities and challenges of the sharing economy and innovative transportation technologies with regard to urban mobility. Written by government experts, social scientists, technologists and city planners from North America, Europe and Australia, the papers in this book address the impacts of demographic, societal and economic trends and the fundamental changes arising from the increasing automation and connectivity of vehicles, smart communication technologies, multimodal transit services, and urban design. The book is based on the Disrupting Mobility Summit held in Cambridge, MA (USA) in November 2015, organized by the City Science Initiative at MIT Media Lab, the Transportation Sustainability Research Center at the University of California at Berkeley, the LSE Cities at the London School of Economics and Politics and the Innovation Center for Mobility and Societal Change in Berlin.

This volume discusses post-socialist urban transport functioning and development in Russia, within the context of the country's recent transition towards a market economy. Over the past twenty-five years, urban transport in Russia has undergone serious transformations, prompted by the transitioning economy. Yet, the lack of readily available statistical data has led to a gap in the inclusion of Russia in the body of international transport economics research. By including ten chapters of original, cutting-edge research by Russian transport scholars, this book will close that gap. Discussing topics such as the relationship between urban spatial structure and travel behavior in post-soviet cities, road safety, trends and reforms in urban public transport development, transport planning and modelling, and the role of institutions in post-soviet transportation management, this book provides a comprehensive survey of the current state of transportation in Russia. The book concludes with a forecast for future travel development in Russia and makes recommendations for future policy. This book will be of interest to researchers in transportation economics and policy as well as policy makers and those working in the field of urban and transport planning.

The volume will include selected and reviewed papers from CONAT - International Congress of Automotive and Transport Engineering to be held in Brasov, Romania, in October 2016. Authors are experts from research, industry and universities coming from 14 countries worldwide. The papers are covering the latest developments in automotive vehicles and environment, advanced transport systems and road traffic, heavy and special vehicles, new materials, manufacturing technologies and logistics, accident research and analysis and innovative solutions for automotive vehicles. The conference will be organized by SIAR (Society of Automotive Engineers from Romania) in cooperation with FISITA.

This book written by a world-renowned expert with more than forty years of active gas turbine R&D experience comprehensively treats the design of gas turbine components and their integration into a complete system. Unlike many currently available gas turbine handbooks that provide the reader with an overview without in-depth treatment of the subject, the current book is concentrated on a detailed aero-thermodynamics, design and off-deign performance aspects of individual components as well as the system integration and its dynamic operation.This new book provides practicing gas turbine designers and young engineers working in the industry with design material that the manufacturers would keep proprietary. The book is also intended to provide instructors of turbomachinery courses around the world with a powerful tool to assign gas turbine components as project and individual modules that are integrated into a complete system. Quoting many statements by the gas turbine industry professionals, the young engineers graduated from the turbomachinery courses offered by the author, had the competency of engineers equivalent to three to four years of industrial experience.