Abstract

In recent years, driver assistance systems have become a strong trend in automotive engineering. Such systems increase safety and comfort by supporting the driver in critical or stressful traffic situations. A great variety of surround sensors with different fields of view include radar, ultrasonic, laser, and vision systems. These sensors are based on different technologies and measurement principles. They all have their specific advantages and disadvantages and range from low-cost to high-end systems. They also differ in size, mounting position, maintenance, and weather compatibility. Hence, such sensors are used in various configurations to explore the surroundings ahead, sideways, and behind a vehicle. In addition, vehicle dynamics information from speed, steering angle, yaw rate, and acceleration sensors is available. Data fusion algorithms on raw data, feature, or object levels are used to collect all this information and set up vehicle surround models. An important issue in this context is the question of data accuracy and reliability. Situation interpretation of the traffic scene is based on these surround models. Any situation interpretation has to be performed in real-time, independent of the situation complexity. Typically, the prediction horizon is a couple of seconds. Depending on the results of the driving environment analysis critical situations can be identified. In consequence, the driver can be informed or warned. Some driver assistance systems already perform driving tasks like following, lane changing, or parking autonomously. The art of designing new, valuable driver assistance systems includes many factors and aspects and is still an engineering challenge in automotive research. Document type: Part of book or chapter of book

Abstract

In this chapter we presented the robotic systems MRINSPECT series for a long-distance inspection of pipelines. The systems show outstanding mobility and several characteristic features, which make it possible to apply the proposed systems in pipelines with complicate geometries regardless of the effect of gravity, its postures, and the direction of moving. Though the algorithms were described based on MRINSPECT series, the ideas can be generalized to the other robots. However, according to our experiences on this work, the mechanism of the in-pipe robot should be adaptable to the characteristic condition of the pipelines and it is the preliminary requirement for the successful movement. The use of a general- purpose robot may not be possible in in-pipe applications. For that means, MRINSPECT series has the possibility of being used in practical applications, although it is still under improvement through testing in the field conditions. In the near future, field tests will be conducted with the system and the system is to be modified according to the results of field evaluation. Document type: Part of book or chapter of book

Abstract

Current developments in Car2X communication technology provide the basis for novel driver assistance systems. To assess the impact of such a system on a group of cars approaching a non moving traffic jam, the driver behavior resulting from a system which supports anticipatory driving is modeled and used in a sub-microscopic traffic simulation. By equipping various percentages of a simulated group of cars with the model, the effect of the system on maximum deceleration and fuel consumption can be assessed. Finally the problems resulting from switching between different driver models are discussed. Document type: Part of book or chapter of book

Abstract

Under the necessities of reducing emissions and air pollution, and also for increasing fuel economy, automotive companies have been developing electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Since these vehicles are parked when the batteries are being charged, it is possible to use the traction power converter as on-board charger, also allowing to reduce weight, volume and costs of components in the vehicle. In this context, this paper presents a model predictive control algorithm for an on-board fast battery charging that uses the traction power converter of an electric vehicle. Simulation results and system implementation are depicted, and finally, are presented some experimental results obtained with the proposed control system. (undefined) info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion Document type: Part of book or chapter of book

Abstract

Faced with the challenge of providing adequate transport services with limited resources, cities have, for several decades, been investing in Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). ITS utilize Information and Communications Technology (ICT) to make more efficient use of existing transport infrastructure with the aim of improving transport services and reducing congestion, accidents, and air pollution. In the past two decades, with the rapid advancement of ICT and intensive advocacy from big technology vendors, the concept of ‘smart cities’ has gained great popularity and many cities have started to undertake a more holistic approach to improving urban services using technology in the name of smart city initiatives. Section two introduces these themes, which serve as the analytical framework to understand how smart mobility investments lead to energy savings. The comparison in the search for similarities among the case studies and interviews helped us develop a conceptual model, emphasizing cause and effect and presented in section three, of how ITS deployment and operation in the context of smart cities leads to energy saving benefits. This conceptual model is presented with detailed discussions of institutional, technological, and physical conditions at each step in the model. Section four focuses on energy savings with quantitative evidence of energy saving potential of ITS investments collected from literature and case studies. Section five links the results of this study to the Wuhan Integrated Transport Development Project and how the knowledge has been incorporated into project design. To further explore the energy efficiency potential of Wuhan and to mainstream ITS and smart transport solutions as a source of achieving energy efficiency using results of this study, a TRACE analysis was also completed as part of this research effort. This analysis focused on the passenger transport sector. Finally, policy recommendations on the major conditions under which ITS investments in the context of smart cities achieve energy savings are summarized in Section 6 with specific implications for cities in the developing countries. Document type: Book

Abstract

Air pollution in one of the main problems that big cities have nowadays. Traffic congestion, heaters, industrial activities, among others produce large quantities of Particulate Matter (PM) that have harmful effects on citizens’ health. This paper presents the design, development and initial validation of a wearable device for the detection of PM concentration, with communication capacity via WiFi and Bluetooth Low Energy and an end user interface. The results are promising due to the high accuracy of measurements collected by the developed device. This solution is a step forward in empowering citizens to prevent being exposed to high levels of air pollution and is the beginning of what could be a macro-network of air quality sensors within a Smart City. Document type: Part of book or chapter of book

Abstract

Abstract : The report covers the development of improved surveillance and communication subsystems to meet the demands of the automated NAS/ARTS Air Traffic Control system. Field measurements of the beacon interference environment were completed and studies to upgrade sensor efficiency were intensified. Effort toward the development of a discrete address interrogator with a data link was concentrated upon the core problem of designing the signaling waveforms for both up and down links of the system. Particular attention is being given to system performance in the interference and multipath environment, as well as to system and equipment compatibility with ATCRBS. The project to develop an airborne situation display of NAS/ARTS data has reached the stage for definition of an experimental system. The computer simulated cockpit display has evoked enthusiastic response from experienced pilots and traffic controllers. Preliminary work on the laser beam warning system for Logan Airport was completed with successful demonstration of the prototype hardware in the Laboratory. Document type: Report

Abstract

This document provides a mid-term update for the ''Advanced Compressor Engine Controls to Enhance Operation, Reliability, and Integrity'' project. SwRI is conducting this project for DOE in conjunction with Cooper Energy Services, under DOE contract number DE-FC26-03NT41859. The objective of this one-year project is to develop, evaluate, and demonstrate advanced engine control technologies and hardware, specifically, closed-loop NO{sub x} emissions control on a two-stroke integral reciprocating engine/compressor used for pipeline gas transmission service. This work uses a Cooper-Bessemer GMVH-6 laboratory engine owned by Cooper Energy Services (CES) and installed in a test facility at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI). The gas transmission industry operates over 4,000 integral engine compressors, the majority being two-stroke, with a median age of 45 years and a median size of 2000 horsepower. These engines have historically exhibited poor performance and high emissions, due in part to poor engine control. The end results are misfires and partial burns that lead to increased fuel usage and exhaust emissions. Many of the slow-speed integral engines in the gas compression industry utilize control systems that are outdated, slow, and suffer from poor resolution. Research into more advanced control systems for integral compressor engines has increased tremendously in recent years. Themore » recent advancements in control logic are being reviewed and analyzed in this program to understand the effectiveness of each. In addition, the application of a real-time NO{sub x} sensor feedback for closed-loop control is being investigated. To date, the strategies involving fuel/air equivalence ratio for a NO{sub x} prediction algorithm have been reviewed and analyzed. A hierarchy of control strategies will be outlined at the conclusion of this program. This hierarchy will range from the simplest and least expensive closed-loop control to an advanced system utilizing individual cylinder control. The ultimate control strategy is thought to be one that integrates both compressor and engine control, with the engine control based on individual power cylinders. The hierarchy of engine control may be desirable for the variety of engines in various locations that are subject to varying regulated levels of NO{sub x} emissions. The engines in non-attainment areas will require the maximum level of complexity in engine controls.« le Document type: Report

Abstract

This report documents the first year's effort towards a 3-year program to develop micropilot ignition systems for existing pipeline compressor engines. In essence, all Phase I goals and objectives were met. We intend to proceed with the Phase II research plan, as set forth by the applicable Research Management Plan. The objective for Phase I was to demonstrate the feasibility of micropilot ignition for large bore, slow speed engines operating at low compression ratios. The primary elements of Micropilot Phase I were to develop a single-cylinder test chamber to study the injection of pilot fuel into a combustion cylinder and to develop, install and test a multi-cylinder micropilot ignition system for a 4-cylinder, natural gas test engine. In all, there were twelve (12) tasks defined and executed to support these two (2) primarily elements in a stepwise fashion. Task-specific approaches and results are documented in this report. Research activities for Micropilot Phase I were conducted with the understanding that the efforts are expected to result in a commercial product to capture and disseminate the efficiency and environmental benefits of this new technology. An extensive state-of-art review was conducted to leverage the existing body of knowledge of micropilot ignition with respect to retrofit applications. Additionally, commercially-available fuel injection products were identified and applied to the program where appropriate. This approach will minimize the overall time-to-market requirements, while meeting performance and cost criteria. The four-cylinder prototype data was encouraging for the micro-pilot ignition technology when compared to spark ignition. Initial testing results showed: (1) Brake specific fuel consumption of natural gas was improved from standard spark ignition across the map, 1% at full load and 5% at 70% load. (2) 0% misfires for all points on micropilot ignition. Fuel savings were most likely due to this percent misfire improvement. (3) THC (Total Hydrocarbon) emissions were improved significantly at light load, 38% at 70% load. (4) VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) emissions were improved above 80% load. (5) Coefficient of Variance for the IMEP (Indicated Mean Effective Pressure) was significantly less at lower loads, 76% less at 70%. These preliminary results will be substantiated and enhanced during Phase II of the Micropilot Ignition program. Document type: Report

Abstract

This annual progress report describes the third year's technical progress in a three-year program. This report introduces the benefits of improved surge detection and summarizes what is known about internal flows as surge precursors in centrifugal compressors. Early research results and findings concerning surge in centrifugal compressors and possible precursors to surge are presented. Laboratory test results in modern compressors with 3D impellers are described in detail and used to show the changes in internal flow patterns that occur as a compressor approaches surge. It was found that older compressors with recessed impeller blading (2D geometry) do not have the same accessible flow patterns. The laboratory test results indicate a large increase in potential operating range for modern compressors. This annual report also presents results from the field testing conducted during the course of this third year. The field test results showed similar changes in the surge probe strain signals and the same type, although of less magnitude, of indication that the compressor is approaching surge. An algorithm for identifying the nearness of surge has been proposed and evaluated with the available data. This project is co-funded by the Gas Machinery Research Council (GMRC) and by Siemens Energy and Automation (Siemens). The results of the project include a step-by-step process for design, sizing, and installation of surge detection probes and for implementation of the direct surge control in centrifugal compressor controllers. This work is considered a step towards the successful implementation of direct surge control for improved flexibility and efficiency in natural gas transmission compressors. Document type: Report