014026   Sharma V;Pattnaik S S;Devi S;Kamal S;Pathak A;Smriti M (Electronics & Communication Engg Dep, Gurukul Kangri Univ, Haridwar-249 404, Email: vipul.s@rediffmail.com) : Nonlinear device modelling using R B F neural network. J Coop Univ Res Ind Enterpr 2010, 3(1), 34-40.

Radial Basis function network (RBFN) techniques are prominently being used in various engineering applications. RBFNs are valuable candidates to represent model of the nonlinear devices whose physics equations are yet to be developed but experimental characteristics are known. In this work, we have developed an RBFN based computer aided design (RBFN-CAD) tool for Gitnn diode and Tunnel diode. Our RBFN-CAD uses feed forward neural network trained with Gaussian function as a activation function in hidden layer. The results of this CAD have been compared with actual experimental values and excellent performance is indicated. The proposed simulation work will be useful for persons working in industry as well as for academia in the area of CAD, neural networks and Matlab application to nonlinear devices.

5 illus, 8 ref

014025   Senthil Kumaran S;Boopathy S R (Mech. Engg., College of Engg. Guindy Campus, Anna Univ, Chennai, Email: Chennai.metrosenk@yahoo.com) : Experimental analysis of cutting force of magnetically molded specimens observed under different conditions of shot size and magnetic field. Mfg Technol Today 2008, 7(8), 27-30.

Magnetic molding is a molding process which can serve as an environmental friendly casting technique and has the potential to provide a solution to many of the manufacturing and environmental problems faced by the metal casting industry today. In this work a solid pattern is used. The pattern is backed up by steel shots, which are consolidated by magnetic field. In this work castings were made with 4824, 7236, 8442 ampere turns under varying shot sizes of 40a, 80μ and 100μ. Trials on machining were carried out on the castings obtained, under eight machining conditions by varying cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut. The variation in the cutting force with respect to steel shot size under a constant magnetic field was determined for each of the machining conditions. The results show that shot size has strong influence on the cutting force in magnetic molding.

11 illus, 3 tables, 6 ref

014024   Sathyamurthy S;Sheerlarani B;Sundaresh S (NO, Sathyabama Univ, Chennai-600 119, Email: s.sunderesh@cvrde.drdo.in) : Optimum location and system engineering of high power, high frequency transmitter-receiver in combat vehicles. Def Sci J 2010, 60(3), 302-6.

This paper discusses the procedure adapted after carrying out several iterations for selecting an ideal location to introduce a high power high frequency (HF) transmitter-receiver in a tactical combat vehicle from electromagnetic compatibility view. This radio set contributes for very high field strength to neighbouring electronic devices and other very high frequency (VHP) Tx-Rx situated in the same vehicular platform. An integrated approach was followed in deciding the optimum solution to locate the HF radio set. Leakage from HF radio set is to be minimised within the vehicle to reduce the field coupling level to neighbouring equipment. Radiation from HF antenna was maximised by careful installation of antenna, outside the vehicle environment to ensure optimum radiation of intended signal. Voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) measurement was carried out to verify this. Four different locations experimented have been reported in this paper. The vehicle penetration loss (VPL) can reveal the amount of leakage from external field generated by antennas to field inside the turret. The HF, being a congested operating spectrum, due care was taken in electromagnetic interference control of HF-VHF radios and other tank electronic subsystems. High RF power of HF transmitter and very high sensitivity of HF receiver could affect systems either way. Hence, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) measures and optimum location of HF radio set are important from MIL-STD461 C, MIL6051-D/MIL-STD464A point of view.

^ssc9 illus, 5 ref

014023   Pawar S S;Sunnapwar V K;Mujawar B A (Mechanical Engineering Dep, LT College of Engineering, Sector-04, Vikas Nagar, KoparKhairane, Navi Mumbai-400 709, Email: sspawar_itcoe@yahoo.co.in) : Experimental determination of heat transfer coefficient of turbulent flow in helical coil with circular cross-section and its comparison with rectangular cross section. J Coop Univ Res Ind Enterpr 2010, 3(1), 13-22.

This study involved the experimental determination of heat transfer rate in helical coil of circular cross section under turbulent flow conditions and its comparison with helical coil of rectangular cross section with earlier literature work. The experiment was conducted in helical heat exchanger with coil (d_i= 9.6 mm d_o = 77.2 mm, D = 140 mm and n = 4) at various flow rates (3.195e^{-5-8.929e-5 m3/s) of water. In order to check the validity of the present work, the heat transfer coefficient obtained was compared with the previous works pertaining to similar kind of conditions. The experimental value of heat transfer coefficient for helical coil of circular cross section is compared with the correlations developed by Rogers et al. (1964), Mori et al. (I967a, 1967b and 1971) and Pablo Coronel et al. (2008) and corresponding deviations are given. However, it was not possible to conduct experiment due to unavailability of the experimental set up for helical coil of rectangular cross section of similar kind of helically coiled duct arrangement. Hence the heat transfer coefficient in terms of Nusselt number from the experiment performed is compared with a similar kind of helical duct whose data is obtained from literature work. The correlation of Kadambi et al. (1996) for turbulent flow (3000<Re<25000) is adopted for comparison. The average enhancement found in heat transfer rate is about 24.8%.}

4 illus, 4 tables, 9 ref

014022   Pandey K M;Deb K;Kumar U (Mechanical Engineering Dep, N.I.T. Silchar, Assam, Email: kmpandey2001@yahoo.com) : Experimental studies on controlling, piston slap noise of standard engine of Hero Honda Splendour. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(1), 239-53.

In this paper the experimental studies on controlling piston slap noise of standard engine of Hero Honda Splendour has been conducted. It is observed that the noise reduction achieved by reducing the clearance in an engine, between piston and cylinder, does not permit reduction in piston clearances, as because danger of seizure may occur without using positive oil cooling of the piston. It is advisable and better to consider noise control measures at the design stage itself rather than after the product is manufactured. The present paper describes one example of noise-reducing design. An experiment was conducted to investigate piston slap noise in Hero Honda Splendor plus and low noise was obtained by reducing the clearance between piston and cylinder.

6 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

014021   Pande P C;Kumar S (NO, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012, Email: kumar.shanmugam@eng.ox.ac.uk) : Adhesively-bonded patch repair with composites. Def Sci J 2010, 60(3), 320-9.

Adhesively-bonded composite patch repairs over cracked or corrosion-damaged metallic aircraft structures have shown great promise for extending life of ageing structures. This study presents the numerical investigation into the interface behaviour of adhesively-bonded cracked aluminum alloy substrate patched with fibre-reinforced composite material. The adhesive is modelled as an elasto-plastic bilinear material to characterise the debond behaviour, while the defective substrate is regarded as linear elastic continuum. Two typical patch shapes were selected based on information available in the literature. Geometric and material nonlinear analyses for square and octagonal patches were performed to capture peel and shear stresses developed between the substrate and the patch to examine the possibility of interface delamination/debonding. Parametric studies on adhesive thickness and patch thickness were carried out to predict their infuence on damage tolerance of repaired structures.

18 illus, 5 tables, 20 ref

014020   Pal B K;Dey K;Tandia P K (Mining Engineering Dep, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela-769 008, Email: drbkpal2001@yahoo.com) : Vibrations on structures and soils due to industrial activities : unique case studies and mitigation measures. J Envir Res Dev 2010, 4(3), 834-53.

Construction and industrial dynamic sources can produce environmental vibration problems for adjacent and remote structures. High vibrations and unacceptable dynamic settlements could disturb sensitive devices and people and even be the cause of structural damage. The dynamic sources, the geology at a site, and the condition of structures affect ground and structure vibrations. Each construction or industrial site is unique and requires consideration of specific approaches at the site for decreasing vibration effects of construction activities or industrial dynamic sources on surrounding structures. Specifications prepared for a site, calculation and prediction of expected vibrations, and monitoring and control of ground and structural vibrations provide the rational to select measures for prevention or mitigation of vibration problems.

7 illus, 12 ref

014019   ohamed Musthafa M;Sivapirakasam S P; Udayakumar M (Mechanical Engineering Dep, National Institute of Technology, Trichy, Tamil Nadu, Email: mdm_712003@yahoo.co.in) : Experimental investigation of effects of the low heat rejection diesel engine running on jatropha methyl ester. J Envir Res Dev 2010, 4(3), 811-21.

An important alternative for diesel fuel is methyl ester made of vegetable oils. Direct use of these fuels without modification in diesel engines causes some damages on the parts of the engines and also, the viscosity of the methyl ester fuels is quite higher than that of diesel fuel and their calorific value is lower. Therefore it is not possible to obtain more benefit. Coating combustion chamber parts with a ceramic material seems an effective solution for improving performance of these lower-quality fuels compared with diesel. The aim of this study, the cylinder head, cylinder liner, piston surface, exhaust, and inlet valves of a diesel engine were coated with the ceramic material by plasma spray method. Thermal barrier coatings are usually composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) as an oxidation resistant layer of 200 micron that provides thermal insulation toward metallic substrate. The engine that thermal barrier coating is applied is called low heat rejection (LHR) engine. Variances sin performance and emission values of Jatropha methyl ester (JME) and diesel fuel mixtures were studied in the ceramic coated and uncoated engines under the same running conditions An increase in engine power and decrease in specific fuel consumption, as well as significant improvements in exhaust gas emissions and smoke density, were observed for all test fuels used in the coated engine compared with that of the uncoated engine.

7 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

014018   Murthy A R C;Palani G S;Iyer N R (Structural Engineering Research Centre, CSIR, Chennai, Email: murthyarc@sercm.org) : Impact analysis of concrete structural components. Def Sci J 2010, 60(3), 307-19.

This paper presents an overview on the concrete structural components subjected to impact loading. The review includes empirical formulae, analytical models, and numerical simulations. Various empirical formulae on penetration depth, perforation, and scabbing limits as well as their ranges of application have been provided. It has been observed that the information available on the validation of these models is limited. There is wider scope to study the performance of well known empirical formulae. Penetration resistance function play an important role in any analytical model. It has been observed that the major limitation is rigid projectile assumption. There is scope to develop new/improved analytical models to represent projectile characteristics. The numerical simulation of concrete structural components subjected to impact loads is a complex phenomenon. From the review, it is observed that employing appropriate material model for concrete, equation-of-state, contact algorithm and definition of yield surface plays significant role in the accurate simulation of concrete structural components. There is ample scope to develop improved methodologies in terms of development of material models and contact algorithms, which can be employed in nonlinear explicit finite element analysis of concrete structural components subjected to impact loading.

^iia6 illus, 1 table, 89 ref

014017   Murali Krishna M V C;Sarita G;Seshagiri Rao V V R;Chowdary R P;Ramanareddy V (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Chaitanya Bharathi Institute of Technology, Gandipet, Hyderabad-500 075, Email: mvsmk_in@yahoo.com) : Performance and emission characteristics of a low heat rejection engine with different air gap thicknesses with jatropha oil based bio-diesel. J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(2), 97-102.

The research work on alternate fuels has been the topic of wider interest in the context of depletion of fossil fuels and increasing of pollution levels of the engines with conventional fossil fuels. Alcohols and vegetable oils are considered to replace diesel fuels as they are renewable in nature. However, use of alcohols in internal combustion engines is limited in India, as these fuels are diverted to Petrochemical industries and hence much emphasis is given to the non-edible vegetable oils as alternate fuels in internal combustion engines. However, the drawbacks of low volatility and high viscosity associated with non-edible vegetable oils call for hot combustion chamber, provided by low heat rejection (LHR) diesel engine. Investigations are carried out on a LHR diesel engine with varied air gap thicknesses and injection pressures with jatropha oil based bio-diesel at normal temperature. Performance is improved with high degree of insulation with LHR engine with vegetable oil in comparison with conventional engine (CE) with pure diesel operation.

4 illus, 6 tables, 14 ref

014016   Mukhopadhyay P;Verma A K (NO, Defence Institute of Advanced Technology, Pune-411 025, Email: prantikmukherje@yahoo.com) : Development of cube recrystallisation texture and microstructure of an aluminium alloy suitable for cartridge case manufacturing. Def Sci J 2010, 60(3), 330-6.

Electron backscattered diffraction investigations on just fully recrystallised orientation image microstructures, showed that the cube-oriented grains had the largest size in all microstructures of an aluminium alloy, which have potential use in the cartridge case manufacturing for defence purpose. The simulation of cube microstructure and texture of that aluminium alloy was tried. The recrystallisation texture and microstructure simulation by the 3-D cellular automaton model with the consideration of highest mobility of 40°<111M> grain-boundary, predicted the volume fraction of the cube texture orientation which was validated by experiment.

6 illus, 2 tables, 37 ref

014015   Madhan Mohan G;Prasad P S S;Sunitha K (Mechanical Engg Dep, PSG College of Technology, Peelamedu, Coimbatore, Email: gmadhanmohan@yahoo.co.in) : Occupational risk in Indian foundries. Mfg Technol Today 2008, 7(8), 14-20.

The study aims (a) to carry out a survey with an appropriately designed questionnaire amongst Indian foundry workers; and (b) to identify most risky activities using statistical analysis. This study also attempts to establish a logistic regression model to relate the probability of worker facing an accident with demographic data of the worker. Fifty-eight foundry workers were interviewed individually. The study revealed that there is a 92.9% risk in 'Discharging of liquefied metal from furnace to ladle', followed by 'Transfer of molten metal from one furnace to another' with an 88.9% risk. The study has brought forth the major hazardous work in a foundry, such that necessary focus can be directed to reduce occupational health issues amongst workers.

5 tables, 17 ref

014014   Liu H B;Tan J C;Yang J K;Li X J;Fan Q C (NO, School of National Univ of Defence Technology, Changsha, China-400 073, Email: yuhan120483@yahoo.com.cn) : Method for thermo-optic analysis in a star sensor. Def Sci J 2010, 60(3), 276-81.

An autonomous star sensor is a highly accurate attitude-measuring instrument used in spacecraft, and its performance is restricted by ambient temperature of the outer space. This paper puts forward an effective scheme to the thermo-optic analysis using finite element analysis (FEA) and ray tracing in star sensor. Specific difficulties: (a) how to evaluate thermo-optic effect in star sensor, and (b) how to make FEA results useful in optical design mode have been resolved using the scheme. Based on this scheme, the errors of star sensor, which are caused by thermo-optic effects, can be investigated in any complicated temperature condition, and the required temperature scope for the thermal design can be achieved. For example, the errors of the star sensor were 0.0863" and 2.2933", when the temperature differences of the experimental optical system were 10 °C and 5 °C in axial and lateral, respectively.

7 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

014013   Li W;Zhang H Yan Q;Ji Y H (State Key Laboratory of Explosion Science and Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing-100 081) : Compression process of pore inside explosive charge in a warhead under launching load. Def Sci J 2010, 60(3), 244-50.

In this paper, the compression process of the pore inside explosive charge in a warhead under launching load is simulated and its influence on premature explosion is discussed. The relationship between the pore compression, distortion, and the form of 'igniting hot spot' has been established. The analysis of result indicates that the stress wave in the explosive charge developed due to launching load is a key factor in the pore compression process. The volume change of the pore, which is related to its original volume, is a major factor affecting the form of 'ignition hot spot'. It appears that a specific size of the pore may not lead to the premature explosion of explosive charge in a warhead under launching load. The quantitative relationship between the dangerous size range of the pore and the launching load is a core research subject of warhead safety during launching. With this objective, numerical computing was undertaken to assess the pore's distortion parameter inside the explosive charge of a warhead, and generate database for warhead safety under launching load.

8 illus, 6 tables, 12 ref

014012   Li W K;Soong C Y;Liu C H;Tzeng P Y (Chung Cheng Institute of Technology, National Defense Univ, Tahsi, Tooyan 33509, Taiwan, ROC, Email: g990401@ccit.edu.tw) : Parametric analysis of energy absorption in micro-particle photophoresis in absorbing gaseous media. Def Sci J 2010, 60(3), 233-7.

The study deals with photophoresis of a spherical micro-particle suspended in absorbing gaseous media. Photophoretic motion of the particle stems from the asymmetric distribution of absorbed energy within the particle. By evaluating the so-called heat source function at various conditions, the study focuses on the effects of governing parameters on the energy distribution within the particle and their potential influences to the photophoresis. The results reveal that the increase in either particle size or absorptivity enhances the energy intensity on the illuminated (leading) side and tends to generate positive photophoresis. For a particle of low absorptivity, the energy distribution is dominated by particle refraction. Enhancing particle refractivity, the energy tends to be focused onto a certain spot area on the shaded (trailing) side and leads to a tendency of negative photophoresis. Increasing medium absorptivity significantly degrades the level of energy absorbed by the particle and in turn weakens the driving force of the particle photophoresis.

5 illus, 25 ref

014011   Kostoff R N;Bhattacharya S (NO, , The MITRE Corpotation, 7515 Colshire Drive, McLean, VA 22102, USA, Email: sujit_academic@yahoo.com) : Identification of military-related science and technology. Def Sci J 2010, 60(3), 259-70.

A proof-of-prmciple demonstration for extracting military-related technologies from a country's total technology publications has been performed, and applied to the Indian science and technology literature No. The method is general and can be applied to the extraction of any meta-category (e.g., intelligence-relevant technologies, infrastructure-relevant technologies, etc) which is not easily obtained from document clustering or factor analysis. The methodology for identifying relevant literature on military science appears to provide credible results. The volume of literature retrieved will vary depending on how strongly relevant is the desired literature. For the same definitions of 'military relevant', the volume of India's literature in the Ei Compendex database was an order of magnitude less than that of the USA or China.

2 illus, 4 tables, 20 ref

014010   Khandekar P D;Subbaraman S (E & TC Dep, Vishwakarma Institute of Information Technology, 2/3/4, Kondhwa (Bk), Pune-411 048, Email: khandekar.prasad@gmail.com) : Low power inverter and barrel shifter design using adiabatic principle. Adv Computnl Sci Tech 2010, 3(1), 57-65.

Adiabatic switching technique based on energy recovery principle is one of the innovative solutions at circuit and logic level to achieve reduction in power dissipation. Adder was considered as one of the bench mark circuits by many researchers. Since most of the scientific applications require floating point computations which require barrel shifter as one of the components for hardware implementation and since not much efforts have been reported to be taken by the researchers to minimize its power dissipation, it is proposed to implement barrel shifter using adiabatic logic. A barrel shifter needs nlog₂n multiplexers for n-bit shifting. Hence designing a low power MUX for using as a repetitive block in the barrel shifter will considerably reduce the power dissipation in barrel shifter. This paper compares the simulation results for power and delay parameters of basic multiplexer using conventional CMOS approach and adiabatic logic approach. The circuits are designed using cell based approach with 180nm device size. Cadence ASIC tools are used to design and simulate the performance. The outcome of this research work will provide guidelines for designing barrel shifter using low power multiplexers.

8 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

014009   Khan A S;Narulkar S M (Civil Engineering Dep, Ujjain Engineering College, Ujjain-456 010, Email: askhanujn@gmail.com ) : Comparative lysimeters studies for Landfill leachate characterization and settlement variation in partly sorted municipal solid waste and fully sorted organic wastes. J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(2), 107-12.

About three-quarters of the countries and territories around the world use crude 'open dumping' method of disposal for municipal solid waste (MSW) which is the easiest and cheapest method of removing waste from the immediate environment but it creates serious environmental problems like groundwater contamination and air pollution. Land-filling is considered to be the most cost-effective method for solid waste disposal in developing countries if adequate sites are available. Bioreactor landfill is a promising biotechnological option for faster stabilization of municipal solid waste. The bioreactor landfill provides control and process optimization, primarily through the addition of leachate or other liquid amendments. In the present study, Lysimeter experiments were carried out for the comparison of leachate characterization and settlement variation of "MSW except recyclable and domestic hazardous wastes" and "organic waste" to know the bioreactor feasibility in Indian context, because in India organic content of the solid waste is more due to consumption of unprocessed food items. Three Lysimeters under different operational conditions have been experimented for leachate characterization and settlement variation of the wastes. The results indicate the faster decay of pollutants in bioreactor in comparison to open dumps. The trend indicating the decay of pollutants elements in the produced leachate is encouraging.

10 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

014008   Jayaraman B;Senthil Kumar P (NO, Sathyabama Univ, Chennai-600 119, Email: tabjayaraman@yahoo.co.in) : Optimisation of pulse tube space cryocoolers. J Coop Univ Res Ind Enterpr 2010, 3(1), 23-33.

Research Satellites, earth observing platforms in space, extended-life orbital transfer vehicles and ginnimi-rav & infrared instruments use Cryocoolers or cryogenic refrigeration to improve dynamic range or to extend wavelength coverage. It is necessary to assess the impact of Cryocoolers on the overall thermal budget of a spacecraft. This requires simulation in a simplified yet representative milliner of a Ciyocooler mathematical model. This paper discusses the modelling and simulation of an Orifice Pulse Tube Ciyocooler. A computer program based on the equations obtained from applying ideal gas laws, energy and mass balances to the Pulse Tube model is coded. Performances are evaluated based on the model developed and the results are compared with published experimental data. Optimisation of regenerator inside the Ciyocooler is attempted, thereby increasing its effectiveness by 0.16% and decreasing the pressure drop by 29.2%. This improves the Coefflcient of Performance of the system thereby reducing input power.

4 illus, 3 tables, 13 ref

014007   Forkuo E K (Geomatic Engineering Dep, Kwame Nkrumah Univ of Science & Technology, Kumasi, Ghana, Email: eforkuo.soe@knust.edu.gh.com) : Digital elevation modelling using ASTER stereo imagery. J envir Sci Engng 2010, 52(2), 81-92.

Digital elevation model (DEM) in recent times has become an integral part of national spatial data infrastructure of many countries world-wide due to its invaluable importance. Although OEMs are mostly generated from contours maps, stereo aerial photographs and air-borne and terrestrial laser scanning, the stereo interpretation and auto-correlation from satellite image stereo-pairs such as with SPOT, IRS, and relatively new ASTER imagery is also an effective means of producing DEM data. In this study, terrain elevation data were derived by applying photogrammetric process to ASTER stereo imagery. Also, the quality of DEMs produced from ASTER stereo imagery was analysed by comparing it with DEM produced from topographic map at a scale of 1:50,000. While analyzing the vertical accuracy of the generated ASTER DEM, fifty ground control points were extracted from the map and overlaid on the DEM. Results indicate that a root-mean-square error in elevation of ± 14m was achieved with ASTER stereo image data of good quality. The horizontal accuracy obtained from the ground control points was ±14.77, which is within the acceptable range of ± 7m to ±25m. The generated (15m) DEM was compared with a 20m, 25m, and a 30m pixel DEM to the original map. In all, the results proved that, the 15m DEM conform to the original map DEM than the others. Overall, this analysis proves that, the generated digital terrain model, DEM is acceptable.

15 illus, 24 ref

014006   Dubey M;Rajput S P S (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal-462 051, Email: d.maneesh@gmail.com) : First law analysis of an organic rankine cycle powered compression refrigeration cycle. J Envir Res Dev 2010, 4(3), 822-33.

This paper presents the first law analysis of a coupled power-refrigeration cycle which eliminates the requirement of electrical power for driving the compressor of the vapour compression refrigeration cycle. The coupled cycle which uses R-134a as working fluid in the topping power and bottoming refrigeration loop have been assessed with different combinations such as cycle with recuperator, reheater and economizer with a view to augment the performance. At the condenser temperature range of 30-42° C, the COP of the coupled with the introduction of the recuperator, increased by 60% and in the cycle with recuperator, reheater and economizer, it increased by 80%. It is found that at elevated condenser temperatures, the decrease in COP and increase in mass flow rate in power cycle can be compensated by increasing the temperature of the refrigerant vapours at the inlet of the turbine at the same pressure.

17 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

014005   Dhandapani C;Sivaramakrishnan R;Kalaichelvan K (Mechanical Engg Dep, Rajagopal Polytechnic College, Gudiyattam-632 602, Email: srk@mitindia.edu) : Modelling, simulation and analysis of three degrees of freedom triglide parallel manipulator. Mfg Technol Today 2008, 7(8), 3-8.

Presents modelling, simulation, Kinematic and workspace analysis of a triglide type of three degrees of freedom parallel manipulator actuated by screw pairs and spherical pairs. A fabricated model of the manipulator has been used for experimental analysis to find the angular tilt of moving platform. A computer program with suitable algorithms is developed to find the displacement of the nuts of the screw pairs and the kinematic analysis is performed. In order to further validate the model the software package ADAMS (Automatic Dynamic Analysis of Mechanical Systems) is used to simulate to verify the displaceinent and angular tilt of the moving platform. The results obtained from experimental, analytical and simulation methods are verified and found to be closer in all the three cases. This mechanism of parallel manipulator, no doubt shall find its way for performing applications like machining inclined holes, contour milling and angular machining with accuracy and precision.

8 illus, 4 tables, 7 ref

014004   Bawiskar A (T.Y.B. (Civil), College of Engineering, Pune, Email: abd291088@gmaillcom) : Recycled plastic as a part substitute to concrete aggregates. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(1), 258-62.

The project is a study of the use of recycled plastic in the form of granules to replace certain amount of aggregates in concrete. Concrete of various plastic proportions was tested to find the strength and workability curves. The aim is to optimise the substitution amount of plastic, based on strength and workability criteria of different proportions of substitution. Such concrete could be used for low strength applications; some of these being footpaths, slabs of foot over bridges, road fenders, support moulds and shallow foundations of electricity and light poles. Currently, for all the above applications conventional concrete is used, of which, only a part of its bearing capacity is utilised. The plastic substitute will save on the amount of aggregates used, while more importantly reducing plastic waste. There have been substitutions and additions in concrete mainly for increasing its strength, such as fibre reinforced concrete, but the proposed project focuses on utilising waste plastic which is an environmental concern.

^ssc4 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref

014003   Baig R U;Hussain M A (College of Engg., King Khalid Univ, Abha, Kingdom Saudi Arabia, Email: rub786@gmail.com) : Kinematic analysis and variation of leg length of a parellel manipulator on triangular, Hexagonal and octagonal platform. Mfg Technol Today 2008, 7(8), 9-13.

Presents a detailed analysis of three shapes of parallel manipulator also called as Stewart platform. In a parallel manipulator, the end effector is attached to a movable plate that is supported in-parallel by a numbers of actuated links. These are suitable for applications in which high speed, high positioning accuracy and fast dynamic response are required. However, despite these advantages, this type of manipulator has a major drawback of their restricted workspace. In this work a positional analysis has been done on three types of platforms having triangular, hexagonal and octagonal shapes of the Stewart platform. Simulation of these three different shapes of platform has been visualized using Matlab. For validating the results variation in leg length of each leg is plotted against the angle when the platform centre is made to move in a circular trajectory about the z axis. This variation has been simulated for all three shapes of the platform using Matlab.

13 illus, 4 tables

014002   Asha A;Kannan S M;Jayabalan V (Mech. Engg Dep, K L N College of Engg., Pottapalayam, Sivagangai Dist, Tamil Nadu, Email: ashaa200@yahoo.co.in) : Selective assembly for a valve train assembly using memetic algorithm. Mfg Technol Today 2008, 7(8), 21-6.

A valve train assembly with three mating parts (cam shaft, tappet, valve stem) is considered for analysis. Subsequently, a memetic algorithm is used to obtain the best combination of selective groups. Based on the best combination, obtained the assembly is done in three stages to completely use all the components. The variation in clearance is minimized and the surplus parts are reduced to a great extent.

3 illus, 7 tables, 14 ref

014001   Agrawal A B;Shrivastava V;Khare A (Mechanical Engg. Dep, Rajiv Gandhi Technical Univ, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, Email: alk_agr@yahoo.co.in) : Challenges before refrigeration industry in the light of montreal protocol and Kyoto agreement. J Envir Res Dev 2009, 4(1), 283-90.

Modern refrigeration and air-conditioning equipments use refrigerants belonging to the family of Cloroflurocarbons. Cloroflurocarbons have been identified as one of the major gas contributing to the depletion of protective ozone layer of the earth. After years of successful deliberations for tackling the grievous problem of ozone depletion, the United Nation's Environmental Protection agency concluded multinational agreement called "Montreal Protocol' for controlling the use of gases threatening the ozone layer. The successful implementation of the "Montreal Protocol's in developed countries is being appreciated for its significant reduction in emission level of ozone depleting substances Now it is the turn of developing countries to fulfill their obligation of Montreal Protocol. The dead line for complying to the phase out of ChloroFluroCarbon in Developing countries like India is fast approaching. The refrigeration industry has accepted the challenge of Cloroflurocarbons phase out and new eco-friendly refrigerant like HydroFIuroCarbons and Hydrocarbons are replacing Cloroflurocarbons in all commercial and industrial application. But the recent finalization of "Kyoto Agreement" has again changed the concept of Eco-friendly refrigerant. This paper takes a fresh look at the alternative refrigerants that are being considered as replacement to Cloroflurocarbons.

4 tables, 7 ref

013064   Yadahalli R M;Vani R M;Hunagund P V (Electronics & Communication Engineering Dep, S D M College of Engineering & Technology, Dharwad-580 002, Email: ravimyadahalli@yahoo.com ) : Comparative study of compact stacked rectangular microstrip antennas using a pair of T-shaped slots. Icfai Univ J Sci Technol 2009, 5(1), 58-66.

Presents the size reduction of a Stacked Rectangular Microstrip Antenna (SRMSA) using a co-axial probe feed. The site of the SRMSA is reduced by embedding a pair of T-slots either in the lower patch, upper patch or on both patches. Using co-axial probe feed, 23.66% of compactness in the antenna size with a bandwidth of 1.63% is obtained for the embedded T-slots in the lower patch of the SRMSA. This compactness is more than that of the other compact SRMSA using T-slots in upper or on both patches of SRMSA. The parameter study is carried out in all the three cases using IE3D simulation software by varying the slot length of the T-slots. Later these simulation results are confirmed by verifying them with the experimental results.

7 illus, 4 tables, 6 ref

013063   Waghmare U V (Theoretical Sciences Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Jakkur PO, Bangalore-560 064) : Theoretical and computational studies of nano-structures and nano-materials. J Indian Inst Sci 2009, 89(1), 9-19.

Theoretical analysis and computer simulations have proven to be cost-effective and powerful tools in scientific studies of materials, particularly at nano-scale where synthesis of nano-structures, interpretation of their observed character and exploration of new structures are not always straightforward. Presents here fundamental principles of techniques used today for computational simulations of materials, their capabilities and limitations. Illustrates efficacy of such studies through review of their applications to nano-structures of oxide materials, carbon and boron nitride based nano-tubes and mechanical behavior of nano-structured materials. Presents a wish-list of new tools and augmentation of existing tools that would allow expansion of the range of applications of computer simulations to nano-structures and materials.

4 illus, 35 ref

013062   Tomar G S;Singh Kushwah R P;Singhal P K (NO, Vikrant Institute of Technology & Management, Indore-452 001, Email: gstomar@ieee.org) : Design of bootlace lens beam forming network of three input ports. Icfai Univ J Sci Technol 2009, 5(1), 48-57.

In this paper, a modified geometry and design approach for equal height circular lens has been proposed. This design will overcome the shortcomings of conventional design of Rotman lens, which has been in practice for decades. The new design of equal height circular lens is the most appropriate choice for multiple beam forming due to its reduced spillover features. The new design of Equal height circular lens at Ultra High frequency (UHF) band has been created and fabricated to justify the proposed design, and the results are encouraging, as it perfectly matches with the theoretical evaluation.

6 illus, 4 tables, 7 ref

013061   Prasad M J N V;Ghosh P;Chokshi A H (Materails Engineering Dep, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012) : Synthesis, thermal stability and mechanical behavior of nano-nickel. J Indian Inst Sci 2009, 89(1), 43-8.

Nanocrystalline materials exhibit very high strengths compared to conventional materials, but their thermal stability may be poor. Electrodeposition is one of the promising methods for obtaining dense nanomaterials. It is shown that use of two different baths and appropriate conditions enables the production of nano-Ni with properties similar to commercially available materials. Microindentation experiments revealed a four fold increase in hardness value for nano-Ni compared to conventional coarse grained Ni. An improved thermal stability of nano-Ni was observed on co-deposition of nano-Al₂O₃particles.

^iia4 illus, 2 tables, 7 ref

013060   Prabhu C M R;Singh A K (Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Multimedia Univ, Melaka, Malaysia, Email: c.m.prabu@mmu.edu.my) : Binary-aware high performance static random access memory cell. Asian J Phys 2009, 18(1), 57-62.

Low power SRAM cell is a critical component in modern VLSI systems. The write power is usually larger than the read power due to large power dissipation in driving the cell long bit-lines to full swing. A new binary-aware SRAM cell is proposed in this paper for simultaneously minimizing the write power consumption and reducing the write access delay. The proposed BA cell contains two extra tail transistors in the respective inverter to avoid charging/ discharging of the bit-lines. The simulated result shows at least 57.22% write power saving and lower write delay with additional 34.3% silicon area.

5 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

013059   Patil A;Patil V;Phadkule A;Choi J W;Jinyoon S (NO, Vishwakarma College of Arts Commerce and Science, Kondhwa Bk. Pune, Email: ajitphadkule@hotmail.com) : Structural and electrical properties of nasicon type solid electrolyte nanoscaled glass-ceramic powder by mechanical milling for thin film batteries. Bionano Front 2010, NCANDT(spl), 1-5.

During last two decades, lithium-based glasses have been studied extensively as electrolytes for solid-state secondary batteries. For practical use, solid electrolyte must have high ionic conductivity as well as chemical, thermal and electrochemical stability. Recent progresses have focused on glass electrolytes due to advantages over crystalline solid. Glass electrolytes are generally classified into two types oxide glass and sulfide glass. Oxide glasses do not react with electrode materials and this chemical inertness is advantageous for cycle performances of battery. In this study, major effort has been focused on the improvement of the ion conductivity of nanosized LiAlTi(PO₄)₃ oxide electrolyte prepared by mechanical milling (MM) method. In LiTi₂(PO₄)₃, Ti^{4+ ions are partially substituted by Al3+ ions by heat-treatment of Li₂O-Al₂O₃-TiO₂-P₂O₅ glasses at 1000°C for 10h. The glass-ceramics show fast ion conduction and low E_a value. It is suggested that high conductivity, easy fabrication and low cost make this glass-ceramics promising to be used as inorganic solid electrolyte for all-solid-state Li rechargeable batteries.}

4 illus, 16 ref

013058   Mhaisagar Y S;Joshi B N;Jain P;Mahajan A M (Electronics Dep, North Maharashtra Univ, Jalgaon-425 001, Email: ammahajan@nmu.ac.in) : Deposition of porous SiO₂ thin film for enzyme immobilization in biosensor application. Bionano Front 2010, NCANDT(spl), 151-4.

The porous films were deposited using sol-gel spin coating technique using HCl catalyst. These deposited films were further activated by activation solution and the surface was modified by HMDS. The chemical composition of films has been determined using FTIR characterization. The stretching peak at 1077 cm^-1 confirms the formation of Si-O-Si network. The thickness and Refractive index (RI) of the surface modified films have been measured using Ellipsometer. Further from RI of films density and porosity of the film was estimated using standard formula. The results show that the oxide activation step enhances the porosity in the film. Such porous SiO₂ films will be suitable for enzyme immobilization in biosensor application.

013057   Mangaraj S;Goswami T K (NO, CIAE, Nabibagh, Berasia Road, Bhopal-462 038) : Determination of maturity indices of fruits based on physico-chemical properties. Indian Fd Packer 2009, 63(1), 67-79.

Maturity is that stage at which a commodity has reached a sufficient stage of development that after harvesting and post harvest handling, its quality will be at least the minimum acceptable to the ultimate consumer. Fruit quality is a combination of attributes and properties that give them value in terms of human consumption. This arises the need to study the relationship between maturity indices, fruit quality and taste. The details on fruit maturity indices are presented. Apple (cv. Royal Delicious), guava (cv. Baruipur) and litchi (cv. Shahi) were assessed for their physico-chemical characteristics (maturity) prior to modified atmosphere packaging study at different storage temperatures. The physical properties such as size, shape, true density, textural properties (firmness and puncture strength) and color; and chemical parameters like total soluble solids, titratable acidity and ascorbic acid content of fruits were determined. The starch-iodine index used for the assessment of apple fruit maturity was estimated. The textural properties and color was measured by using texture analyzer and chromameter respectively. The flesh firmness and color values (L *, a*, b* and Hue angle) of litchi; Guava; and Apple were found as 1259.68, 45.26, 39.55, 25.81 and 33.15; 9527.40, 57.83, -17.58, 39.41 and 114.00; 7625.16, 40.43, 42.18, 18.73 and 23.82 respectively. The starch-iodine index of apple was determined to be 4.5. These experimentally obtained maturity indices for litchi, guava and apple indicate that the fruits were physically matured.

6 illus, 3 tables, 75 ref

013056   Gupta S K;Azam A;Akhtar J (NO, Central Electronics Engineering Research Institute, Pilani-333 031) : Wet thermal oxidation of epitaxial 4H-SiC substrate: an experimental process for device fabrication. Icfai Univ J Sci Technol 2009, 5(1), 7-15.

A thoroughly optimized wet thermal oxidation process of epitaxial 4H - SiC on both terminating faces has been presented here. The optimum flow of molecular oxygen and inertial pressure inside the quartz horizontal furnace have to be taken as the initial parameter during the whole oxidation process. Wafers are loaded in nitrogen ambient to increase the mean free path for incoming oxidizing agent. The time of oxidation varies from 0.5 hours to 6 hours with 0.5 hours step time. Rate of oxidation on C-face has been found nearly 10 times faster than on Si-face of 4H-SiC wafer. The oxide thickness has been measured by a variable angle ellipsometer and the result has been verified by a surface profiler. A number of samples have been oxidized for each experiment in order to generate the statistical data.

6 illus, 18 ref

013055   Chattopadhyay K;Bhattacharya V (Materials Engineering Dep, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012) : Microstructure, shape, stability and melting in embedded nanoparticles. J Indian Inst Sci 2009, 89(1), 49-62.

Reviews some of the current work on a new class of materials which are nanoscale granular materials. Discusses two phase granular materials where one of the phases having nanometric dimension is embedded in a matrix of larger dimension. Known as nanoembedded materials, nanocomposites or ultrafine granular materials, this class of materials has attracted attention because of the opportunity of basic studies on the effect of size and embedding matrix on transformation behaviors as well as some novel properties, which include structural, magnetic and transport properties. These are in addition to the tremendous interests in what is known as quantum structures (embedded particles size less than 5 nm) for the case of semiconductors, which will not be discussed here. We shall primarily review the work done on metallic systems where the dispersed phases have low melting points and borrow extensively from the work done in our group. The phase transformations of the embedded particles show distinctive behavior and yield new insights. Highlights briefly the strategy of synthesis of these materials by non-equilibrium processing techniques, which will be followed by examples where the effect of length scales on phase transformation behaviors like melting and solidification are discussed.

6 illus, 1 table, 89 ref

013054   Balakrishnan A J;Divya J;Manogna S;Vaishnavi S;Mohandas K;Korath M P (NO, Sri Siva Subramaniya Nadar College of Engineering, Kalavakam) : Role of theatre design in the prevention of wound infection. Bombay Hosp J 2009, 51(2), 209-14.

Operation theatre has to be properly designed to function efficiently in order to avoid discomfort for surgeons, anaesthetists, sisters, and also to prevent the micro bacterial contaminations. Wound infection can be defined as a type of secondary infection which occurs when an un-healed wound is exposed to infectious agents which may be the surrounding air, unsterilized wound dressing, etc. Post operative infections add to the risk to patient's life, recovery and increases length of stay and reduce the man-hours which the individual can contribute to the nation thus bringing down the overall productivity of the country. The theatre suite should be in a right position, made with right materials, correctly lit, ventilated, sterilized properly (clothes of staff, patients). Controversy exists over the extent and frequency of micro biological surveillance of operation theatres, causing post-operative wound infections. The sources of infection may be either endogenous (from the patient himself) or exogenous (from the theatre environment). Prevention of post-operative wound infection is dependent on several factors including effective sterilization and disinfection procedures, good surgical techniques, theatre design, bacterial contamination of theatre air, discipline which includes restricting the movement of staff near the operating table, appropriate use of antibiotics (for patients with septic wounds). Modern design of theatre should be able to meet all the requirements of surgeons and be flexible to adapt any changes in future.

5 illus, 9 ref

012150   Zhongcai Y;Jiaming S;Jiachun W;Bo X (State Key Laboratory of Pulse Laser Technology, Hefei Electronic Engineering Institute, Hefei 230037, China) : Error analysis of aerosol extinction cross section measurement due to forward scattering and diffraction. Def Sci J 2009, 59(5), 545-8.

Aerosol is a useful mean in electro-optical defence. The optical transmissivity is usually used to evaluate the performance of the aerosol. However in transmissivity measurement, forward-scattered or diffracted light might reach the detector and would be incorrectly recorded as unscattered and transmitted one, which results in the final optical density rise and experimental extinction cross-section becoming erroneously low. Based on forward scattering and diffraction analysis, the beam efficiency and effective extinction efficiency are introduced to examine the error. The results indicate that large particles and detector increase the error. To minimise the error, the distance between the aerosol and the detector must be large enough, and the detector of small area and small view angle is favourable.

2 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

012149   Zeren M;Karakulak E (Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Dep, Kocaeli Univ, Turkey, Email: erdemkarakulak@kocaeli.edu.tr) : Study on hardness and microstructural characteristics of sand cast Al-Si-Cu alloys. Bull Mater Sci 2009, 32(6), 617-20.

In this study, the influence of Cu content on the hardness and microstructural characteristics of sand cast Al-Si-Cu alloys have been investigated. Al-Si alloys with 2% and 5% Cu have been utilized for this purpose. Solidification of Al-Si-Cu alloys have been realized by melting in a gas furnace with a crucible and casting in green sand molds at 690°C. The solution treatment has been performed at 500°C for 7 h and then specimens were quenched in water. The samples have been aged at 190°C for 15 h to observe the effect of aging on mechanical properties.

6 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

012148   Yupeng Z;Liang W;Hongqiang W;Xiang L (NO, National Univ of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan 410073, China) : Anti-jamming of inverse synthetic aperture radar based on slope-varying linear frequency modulation signal. Def Sci J 2009, 59(5), 537-44.

Deceptive jamming technology against inverse synthetic aperture radar is matured now, which is meaningful in military application. But the research on anti-jamming technology for inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) is still not a mature technology. Through the analysis on the theory of deceptive jamming technology against ISAR, a new method for anti-jamming against ISAR based on linear frequency modulation signal's frequency slope-varying is presented. The false target echo energy is suppressed due to frequency modulation slope mis-matching. Doppler domain averaging is adopted for improving the quality of the ISAR image, which helps automatic target recognition. Simulation result based on simulating data shows the validity of the new algorithm.

11 illus, 7 ref

012147   Yongxiang D;Shunshan F;Changjing X;Lele G (NO, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing China-100 081) : Dynamic behaviour of concrete sandwich panel under blast loading. Def Sci J 2009, 59(1), 22-9.

Surface contact explosion experiments were performed to study the dynamic behaviour of concrete sandwich panel subjected to blast loading. Experimental results have shown that there arc four damage modes explosion cratering, scabbing of the backside, radial cracking induced failure, and circumferential cracking induced failure. It also illustrates that different foam materials sandwiched in the multi-layered medium have an important effect on damage patterns. Due to the foam material, the stress peak decreases one order of magnitude and the duration is more than four times that of the panel without the soft layer by numerical simulation. Additionally, the multi layered medium with concrete foam demonstrates the favourable protective property compared with that of aluminum foam. Meanwhile, the optimal analysis of the thickness of the foam material in the sandwich panel was performed in terms of experimental and numerical analyseis. The proper thickness proportion of soft layer is about 20 percent to the total thickness of sandwich panel under the conditions in this study.

16 illus, 5 tables, 16 ref

012146   Yawale P R;Shaligram A D (Electronics Dep, Pune Univ, Pune 7., Email: yawalepravin@yahoo.co.in) : Measurement of effective working life of LED illumination sources. Bionano Front 2010, ICLAM(spl), 63-6.

Lighting and illumination is of significant importance in modem day life. Energy efficient lighting is always on the priority list of technocrats. Tungsten filament lamps were replaced by fluorescent tubes, which gave way to CFL lamps. Recent developments are towards use of solid state lighting system using LED as a source. Though LED offers a very energy efficient option, its cost and working life have always been a matter of concern. Technological advancements produced long life LEDs (to the tune of 50000 hours continuous operation) but presently they are costly. On the contrary for low cost LEDs generally the life data is not available. The system reliability depends on intensity of light. The requirement of long term reliability is one of the main concerns for these light sources to be incorporated in to sophisticated systems in many optoelectronics applications. Reliability of semiconductor devices refers to the ability of a device to operate in a defined environment for a certain period of time. Reliability is expressed as the probability that a device will be operating in a normal operating situation under the required time period without failure. The reliability of LEDs strongly depends on the degradation modes and device characteristics such as current versus optical'output power and operating temperature. The phenomenon of deterioration of the product performance is called degradation. Degradation may take place due to thermal changes, change in electrical parameters, defects in junction diodes, humidity conditions etc. The optical output decreases with ambient temperature as well as junction temperature. This paper reports experimental studies on low cost LEDs under highly stress conditions. The goal of this study was to determine the effect of aging on optical output power of light emitting diodes. The LED samples were stressed at four levels of operating current (recommended current 20 mA) 20 mA, 30mA, 40mA, and 45mA with stress time up to 1000 hour. We find that degradation rate increases with increasing operating current. When LEDs are overstressed by driving at higher current the optical power degraded with stress time.

5 illus, 4 tables, 10 ref

012145   Warwick K;Xydas D;Nasuto S J;Becerra V M; Hammond M W;Downes J H;Marshall S;Whalley B J (School of System Engineering, Reading Univ, UK, Email: k.warwick@reading.ac.uk) : Controlling a mobile robot with a biological brain. Def Sci J 2010, 60(1), 5-14.

The intelligent controlling mechanism of a typical mobile robot is usually a computer system. Some recent research is ongoing in which biological neurons are being cultured and trained to act as the brain of an interactive real world robot-thereby either completely replacing, or operating in a cooperative fashion with, a computer system. Studying such hybrid systems can provide distinct insights into the operation of biological neural structures, and therefore, such research has immediate medical implications as well as enormous potential in robotics. The main aim of the research is to assess the computational and learning capacity of dissociated cultured neuronal networks. A hybrid system incorporating closed-loop control of a mobile robot by a dissociated culture of neurons has been created. The system is flexible and allows for closed-loop operation, either with hardware robot or its software simulation. The paper provides an overview of the problem area, gives an idea of the breadth of present ongoing research, establises a new system architecture and, as an example, reports on the results of conducted experiments with real-life robots.

4 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

012144   Wang G;Duan X J;Wang Z M (NO, National Univ of Defence Technology, Changsha, CO 410073, China) : Conversion method of impact dispersion in substitute equivalent tests based on error propagation. Def Sci J 2009, 59(1), 15-21.

Since mere are discrepancies of lest environment, target and range between substitute equivalent tests and overall operational tests, this study explores a method for converting the impact dispersion of missiles with homing radar from the substitute equivalent test to that in the overall opcrational lest. According to the law of error synthesis, differcnces between impact dispersion in different tests are decomposed and propagated to the measurement elements of the homing radar by analysing factors which influence the impact dispersion. Furthermore, the measurement errors in different tests were drawn from their related parameters of radar measurement elements in different tests by analysing the error sources. Then, the different measurement errors were propagated and synthesised into the impact dispersion in different environments. Precision of the conversion process and reliability of the conversion results have also been analysed. Feasibility and effectiveness of this method have been proved in simulation tests.

3 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

012143   Walambe R;Gupta N K;Bhange N;Ananthkrishnan N;Park I S;Choi J H;Yoon H G (NO, , Coral Digital Technologies (P) Ltd, Bangalore-560 043, Email: walambe.rahee@gmail.com) : Novel redundant sensor fault detection and accommodation algorithm for an air-breathing combustion system and its real-tim implementation. Def Sci J 2010, 60(1), 61-75.

Failure of sensors used to provide a feedback signal in control system can cause serious deterioration in performance of system, and even instability may be observed. Based on knowledge of aircraft engine systems, the main cause of fault in such air-breathing combustion systems (ACS) with no rotating parts is due to the pressure sensors. Fast online detection of faults before the error grows very large and accommodation is critical to the success of the mission. However, at the same time, it is necessary to avoid false alarms. Hence, early detection of small magnitude faults with acceptable reliability is very challenging, especially in the presence of sensor noise, unknown engine-to-engine variation and deterioration and modeling uncertainty. This paper discusses the novel fault detection and accommodation (FDA) algorithm based on analytical redundancy based technique for ACS.

10 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

012142   Vrinthavani R;Kaimal M R (NO, Center for Airborne Systems, DRDO, Hyderabad) : Motion segmentation algorithm using spectral framework. Def Sci J 2010, 60(1), 39-47.

This paper presents a new motion segmentation method using iterative maximum likelihood framework. The method consists of two steps. In the first step, motion regions are detected and motion vectors are computed for these detected regions. In the second step, a similarity matrix is computed from the motion vectors and motion segmentation is done using maximum likelihood method. The method has been tested using real world motion sequences and is found to give very low error rate and it also detects the slow moving objects.

8 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

012141   Verma S;Sharma A K;Yadav J S;Srivastava J K (Chemical Engineering Dep, Govt. Engineering College, Ujjain-456 010, Email: sanjaym61@rediffmail.com) : Chlorine decay kinetics in drinking water. Asian J chem envir Res 2009, 2(3-4), 43-8.

Disinfection is applied as a drinking water treatment process to provide inactivation of pathogenic microorganisms, and to prevent microbial recontamination throughout the distribution system. Chlorine is the most widely used disinfectant since it is effective against a broad range of pathogens, and provides residual in the distribution system to prevent microbial re-growth. However, disinfectants, especially chlorine, react with natural organic matter (MOM) to form disinfection by-products (DBFs), which are considered to be of concern from a chronic exposure point of view. A better understanding of the relationship between the chlorine decay kinetics and THMs formation can help the drinking water treatment plants to minimize the DBF concentrations, providing healthier and microbially safer water. Chlorination strategies should viewed from the point of view of minimizing formation of DBPs. In this study, kinetics of the chlorine decay was investigated using conventional first order kinetics and three other models. Kinetic experiments were carried out from treated water samples of two drinking water sources at Ujjain city.

8 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

012140   Verma B B (Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Dep, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela-769 008, Email: verma_bipin@rediffmail.com) : Continuous jute fibre reinforced laminated paper composite and reinforcement-fibre free paper laminate. Bull Mater Sci 2009, 32(6), 589-95.

Plastic bags create a serious environmental problem. The proposed jute fibre reinforced laminated paper composite and reinforcement-fibre free paper laminate may help to combat the war against this pollutant to certain extent. The paper laminate, without reinforcement fibre, exhibited a few fold superiority in tensile properties than single paper strip. The studies further show that an appreciable improvement in tensile properties can be achieved by introducing continuous jute fibre in paper laminates.

10 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

012139   Vasuki A;Kavitha K;Vanathi P T (ECE Dep, Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore-641 006, Email: avasuki@hotmail.com) : Robust error protection using turbo coded OFDM for JPEG2000 bit streams. Natn J Technol 2009, 5(4), 82-91.

A novel error protection algorithm using turbo coded OFDM has been proposed for compressed images transmitted through wireless channels. The progressive compression algorithm given in JPEG2000 standard has been used for source coding. The wavelet used is Daubechies 9/7 since it is suitable for different types of images. Turbo codes have been applied to give equal error protection as well as unequal error protection to the transmitted bit streams. Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing has been used to make the transmission robust against fading for high rate data transmission in wireless channels. It gives improved performance since the high rate data stream is split into several lower rate data streams and each low rate bit stream is coded using orthogonal subcarriers. The performance improvement is in terms of coding gain, without appreciable degradation in speed. The system has been evaluated in AWGN and Rayleigh fading channels, with peak-signal-to-noise ratio and bit error rate as the parameters.

17 illus, 5 tables, 9 ref

012138   Vaish R;Varma K B R (Materials Research Centre, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012, Email: kbrvarma@mrc.iisc.ernet.in) : Influence of seeding on crystallization behaviour of BaNaB₉O₁₅ glasses. Bull Mater Sci 2009, 32(4), 387-92.

Transparent BaNaB₉O₁₅ (BNBO) glasses were fabricated via the conventional melt-quenching technique. X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) followed by differential scanning calorimetric (DSC) studies confirmed the amorphous and glassy nature of the as-quenched samples, respectively. The effect of seeding on the crystallization of BNBO glasses was studied by non-isothermal DSC method and was modeled using the John-son-Mehl-Avrami and Ozawa equations. The activation energy for seeded glasses decreased with the increase in fraction of crystallization. The values for the onset of crystallization and Avrami exponent were found to be lower for seeded samples which were associated with the heterogeneous nucleation and epitaxial processes.

7 illus, 23 ref