015950   Dioszegi A;Svensson I L (Dep of Mech Engng and Industrial Organisation Component Technol, Jonkoping Univ Box 1026, SE-551 11 Jonkoping, Sweden, Email: attila.dioszegi@ing.hj.se) : Interpretation of solidification by thermal analysis of cooling rate. Trans Indian Inst Meterol 2005, 58(4), 611-16.

Thermal analysis is a widely used metallurgical process control tool. Registered cooling rate is interpreted with respect to phase transformation events. The thermal behaviour of the transformation used to be connected to the solidification kinetic of growing phases. Depending on the number of thermal points involved in the analysis, the work compares the Newtonian Thermal Analysis (NTA) with the Fourier Thermal Analyses (FTA). The study uses a direct simulation including a kinetic model for simulation of a eutectic phase. Furthermore the NTA and FTA methods are used to interpret the thermal behaviour of solidification together with an inverse kinetic analyse model to calculate the growth parameters of the eutectic phase. Since the kinetic parameters of the direct simulation is known, the effect of the NTA and FTA on the inverse kinetic analyse is investigated. The NTA based on an interpretation of a single thermal point results in less accurate growth coefficients. The FTA based on interpretation of temperature differences between two thermal points results in good quality growth coefficients, where the quality is dependent on the distance between the analysed thermal points.

4 illus, 6 ref

015949   Dhar N R;Khoda A K M B;Khan A H;Bala P;Karim M F (Industrial & Production Engng Dep, Bangladesh Univ of Engng & Technol, Dhaka, Bangladesh) : Effects of acid activated saw dust on the removal of different dissolved tannery dyes (acid dye) from aqueous solutions. J envir Sci Engng 2005, 47(2), 103-8.

Effectiveness of acid activated sawdust in absorbing D-Brown EGP and Lurazol Brown PM dyes from aqueous solutions was studied as a function of agitation time and initial dye concentration. The experimental data were fitted to Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm and found that adsorption process follows both the isotherms. The values of Langmuir and Freundlich constants indicate favorable and beneficial adsorption. Saw dust is an excellent low cost adsorbent of colored organic anions and may have significant potential as a color removal from tannery wastewater.

7 illus, 3 tables, 21 ref

015948   Chakraborty M;Vinod Kumar G S;Murty B S (Dep of Metall and Mater Engng, Indian Inst of Technol, Kharagpur-721 302, Email: madhu@metal.iitkgp.ernet.in) : Poisoning and fading phenomena in the grain refinement of AL AND ITS ALLOYS. Trans Indian Inst Meterol 2005, 58(4), 661-70.

Reviews the grain refinement experiments conducted in the author's laboratory to understand the poisonirlfand fading phenomena in the grain refinement of Al and its alloys. The dissolution and settling behavior of TiAl₃, TiB₂, and TiC particles in Al melt, which cause fading during grain refinement, has been studied in detail. The poisoning effect of the alloying elements such as Cr, Zr and high level of Si with Al-5Ti-lB master alloy as grain refiner has been demonstrated. Boron rich master alloys such Al-3B and Al-lTi-3B and newly developed Al-Ti-C master alloys are found to be more effective grain refiners for Al-Si alloys compared to the conventional Al-5Ti-lB master alloys.

^iia10 illus, 1 table, 43 ref

015947   Cao H;Shen H;Liu B;Xu Q (Dep of Mech Engng, Tsinghua Univ, Beijing 100084, China, Email: liubc@tsinghua.edu.cn) : Simulation of a-segregate formation in binary alloys. Trans Indian Inst Meterol 2005, 58(4), 539-43.

Mathematical model was established to describe the formation and evolution of macrosegregation with thermosolutal convection during solidification of binary alloys. Two ingots of NH₄Cl-H₂O and Pb-Sn with natural convection were simulated to study A-segregates. With comparatively rapid solidification in the study, the system with larger Prandtl number achieves thermal equilibrium more slowly. Thus, smaller buoyancy parameter is conducive to the development of remelting channels and A-segregates in the mushy zone, and so is the larger permeability. The simulated results of Pb-Sn alloy coincide with the experimental results generally.

3 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

015946   Ahmed V;Charniya N N (Electron Engng Dep, B N Coll of Engng, Pusad-445 215, Email: vasifahmed@indiatimes.com) : Automated shutdown of computer during power failure. IETE J Res 2005, 51(5), 335-8.

Possibility of hard disk failure is high whenever shut-down procedure is not carried out in PC with Windows Operating System. A novel and cost-effective machine is developed to ensure that shutdown procedure is executed automatically and data of files, which are open, are saved during the power failure. This machine can relieve the user from anxiety of loss of data due to power failure and reduce the probability of hard disk failure, at a very low cost. The paper discusses the features available in the machine and its advantages over existing UPS.

1 illus, 7 ref

015945   Aberg J;Vynnycky M;Fredriksson H;Nassar H; Berestron T (NO, KTH/Casting of Metals, Brinellvagen 23, S-10044 Stockholm, Sweden, Email: jonasa@matpr.kth.sc) : On-site experimental heat flux study and its interpretation in a FEMLAB finite element simulation of continuous casting of copper in the south-wire process. Trans Indian Inst Meterol 2005, 58(4), 509-15.

South-Wire process, a development of the Properzi process, to continuously cast copper has been studied both experimentally and by finite element computer simulation. The experimental work has been performed on site to get temperature data as a function of time at several locations within the mould. These experimental data have been used to evaluate boundary conditions for the heat transfer from the strand-mould interface and through the mould. A simulation model of the casting process has been developed in the program FEMLAB. In this program temperature varying material data and time varying boundary conditions have been used. The simulation model has been verified by comparing with an analytical solution, and then applied to the real physical process.

14 illus, 1 table, 3 ref

015077   Yadav S;Bandyopadhyay A K;Gupta A C (Natn Phys Lab, Dr K S Krishnan Rd, New Delhi-110 012) : Evaluation of associated uncertainties using linear least squares best fit lines for electro-mechanical transducers. J Instn Engrs-Pt ID 2005, 86(Nov), 49-53.

Paper describes a simple method in a worksheet format that enables the uncertainty calculations for best-fit line parameters to be used in the calibrations of electromechanical transducers. The uncertainty components due to slope of the line, the data points of the line, the interpolated points, and the line as a whole, are also covered. The method of evaluation of associated uncertainties is consistent with ISO guide. For the sake of clarity for the readers, an example is prepared and presented as a case study, which is suitable for use as a model.

1 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

015076   Vivekanandan N (NO, Cent Wat and Pwr Res Stn, Pune-411 024) : Estimation of design flood of a river by frequency analysis. J appl Hydrol 2004, 17(2-3), 15-19.

Estimation of design flood or discharge of desired return period is one of the pre-requisite for rational and economical design of hydraulic structures. Frequency analysis is one of the tachniques to provide an estimate for the design flood from the recorded data. Frequency analysis technique involving standard probability distributions like Extreme Value Type I, Ven Te Chow, Gamma, Generalised Gamma, two-parameter and three-parameter Lognormal, Log Pearson Type III, Pearson Type III, Foster Type I and Box-Cox Transformation are used for estimation of design flood for different return periods. D-index test was used for comparison of design flood estimates. Presents that the two-parameter Lognormal is found to be best among the ten distributions for estimation of design flood.

3 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

015075   Vijay V K;Gaur R K;Rajesh S K (Cent for Rur Dev and Technol, Indian Inst of Technol, Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi-110 016, Email: vkvijay14@hotmail.com) : Developing a small scale unit for biodiesel production from non edible oil seeds - a village enterprise. J rur Technol 2004, 1(5), 247-53.

Biodiesel is an emerging alternative to fossil fuel. It is a renewable source of energy, which can increase fuel supplies, reduce dependence on import of crude oil and minimize green house gases and other pollutants. The production of biodiesel from non edible petro crops i.e. Jatropha Carcus, Pongamia Pinnata (karanja). etc on waste lands available in rural areas are good suurce of biodiesel production. The viscosity is main constraint to utilize these non-edible oils as an alternative to diesel fuel directly. The conversion of these non-edible oils into methyl ester oil by trans-esterification can reduce the viscosity and its properties after conversion is almost similar to the diesel. The trans-esterified biodiesel can be directly used in present diesel engines without any modifications. R&D is progress for process and plants for biodiesel production on large scale. But to make it a rural production unit, a small-scale version is to be developed. Therefore efforts have been made to develop small-scale production of biodiesel system from non-edible oils suitable for promoting rural entrepreuinership. The production of biodiesel from non edible oils through transesterification process in small scale, can deliver enormous rural economic benefits such as decentralized power generation for rural areas, meet out the local demand of petroleum products, act as community based Rural Industrial Set up and generate enormous job opportunities for rural people. This paper presents such visualization and the design of small biodiesel production unit  and discusses its commercial viability right crop from the stage of energy crop production to the biodiesel. This type of complete unit can revive village economy harnessing local resources and generates local market. IIT Delhi in collaboration with various field innovators developed improved Animal Drawn Prime Mover system for various mechanical power applications, which can be used for oil expelling. The oil obtained can be converted into biodiesel through specially developed small-scale trans-esterification unit. The design is completely non-conventional, the energy for the process met by renewable energy sources. The stirrer designed is manually driven to achieve uniform mixing. The setup is cost effective and easy to operate by rural entrepreneurs with minimal training. The paper deals with all technical details of the developed biodiesel production setup at 5 lit/batch.

3 illus, 4 tables, 6 ref

015074   Umapathy M;Bandyopadhyay B (Dep of Instrumentation and Control Engng, Natn Inst of Technol, Tiruchirappalli-620 015, Email: umapathy@nitt.edu) : Design of output feed back compensator for discrete time system via reduced order model. IETE J Res 2005, 51(3), 201-7.

A method to design an output feedback compensator for a higher order discrete time system with distinct complex eigenvalues via its reduced order model has been presented, its application is shown for vibration control of a smart cantilever beam. As the states are not needed for feedback, the method is simple and can be easily implemented.

4 illus, 10 ref

015073   Udayakumar R;Meher A K (Dep of Mech Engng, Natn Inst of Technol, Tiruchirapalli-620 015) : Use of oxygen enriched air in a direct injection diesel engine. J Instn Engrs-Pt MC 2005, 86(October), 156-9.

The internal combution (IC) engine has a predominant role in stationary low power generation and a virtual monopolly in mobile applications today. One of the methods to reduce the emissions in a diesel engine is by oxygen introduction into the combustion chamber which can be done by supplying the oxygen into the inlet manifold during suction stroke. The experimental pan of this work involves the fabrication of a separate system consisting of a mixing chamber. Oxygen is introduced in the inlet manifold through this chamber and different tests like heat balance test, performance test and emission measurements are conducted on a Kirloskar engine (a single cylinder direct injection diesel engine) to get the effect of oxygen on the different parameters like brake thermal efficiency, fuel consumption, NO_x and smoke at different load conditions. Load test was conducted for various flow rates of oxygen (2 cc/s to 2.7 cc/s). It is found that oxygen enrichment results in better combustion which resulting in decrease in fuel consumption and increase in brake thermal efficiency. From the heat balance test it is found that oxygen enrichment increases the heat in the exhaust, consequently increasing the heat in the cooling water. The optimum oxygen flow rate was found to be 2.5 cc/s -which is about 18% of full load air consumption of the base engine.

7 illus, 4 ref

015072   Sudhishri S;Patnaik U S (NO, Cent Soil and Wat Conserv Res and Training Inst Res Cent, PB No. 12, Sunabeda-2, Koraput (Orissa)) : Analysis of water balance for kokriguda watershed. J appl Hydrol 2004, 17(2-3), 34-9.

Water balance of Kokriguda watershed in Semiliguda block of Orissa has been computed using pan evaporation and Thornthwaite book keeping technique. On an annual basis the watershed has a water need of 1041.7mm, whereas the rainfall is 1372.9mm, actual evapotranspiration is 710.7mm, water surplus 662.2 mm and deficit is 331 mm. There is a water surplus from July to October and water deficit from November to May. The surplus month of June and part of July contribute to recharge the soil moisture deficit. The study reveals that the entire kharif season is deficit free and during rabi season the deficit amount is 248 mm.

3 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

015071   Srivastava R K;Vinod Kumar;Singh J P;Raina A K (Div of Agric Engng, Sher-E-Kashmir Univ of Agric Sci and Technol, Main campus, Chatha, P.O.- Bhour Camp, Jammu-180 009) : Conjuctive use planning of surface & sub - surface water resources for optimal crop production. J appl Hydrol 2004, 17(2-3), 6-14.

Keeping the importance of conjunctive use of surface and ground water for crop irrigation in view, the study was conducted at Kharagpur Block -I of district Midnapur (W.B.). The total geographical area of the block is 32600 ha which is having 18500 ha cultivable land. The existing cropping system of the block has been taken to calculate the net water requirement for the different crops. The excess-deficit of rainfall is computed from the value of rainfall at 60 per cent and evaporation at 40 per cent probability level. All the surface and sub surface water resources like dug well, shallow tube wells, river lifts, tanks, canals and deep tube wells have been taken in to account for estimating the weekly water supply during Kharif, Rabi and Summer seasons. The total water availability through these resources are found to be 45066.80, 34334.97 and 21763.97 ha-cm, respectively during Kharif, Rabi and Summer season. The analysis of rainfall data and other available water resources show that the excess of rainwater is available during 25^th to 33rd and 35^th to 37^th standard weeks only. In rest of the period the deficit condition prevails. The large deficit in most of the periods calls for conjunctive use planning to optimize water use to satisfy the crop requirement for entire cropping period.

4 tables, 4 ref

015070   Srinath A (Mech Engng Dep, PVP Siddhartha Inst of Technol, Kanuru, Vijaywada-52007) : Improved synthesis of planetary gear trains. J Instn Engrs-Pt MC 2005, 86(October), 172-4.

In the synthesis of planetary gear trains testing for isomorphism is to be done at two stages, for getting distinct graphs with specified number of links, gear pairs and then; and for isolating rotationally distinct graphs. The second stage involves discarding some of the graphs generated in the first stage and this is done arbitrarily. In this process some of the graphs, which may have, otherwise better characteristics, such as, greater parallelism might be dropped and the weaker one may be retained. Thus, a scientific approach is clearly desirable. An attempt is made to associate characteristics like parallelism and symmetry with each group so that only the superior graph is retained out of the rotationally isomorphic graphs. This in turn may lead to entirely different and better gear trains (arrangements).

3 illus, 12 ref

015069   Singh J;Singh N;Sharma J K (Dep of Mech and Production Engng, Beant Coll of Engng and Technol, Gurdaspur-143 521) : Linguistic modelling of mechanical systems. J Instn Engrs-Pt MC 2005, 86(October), 115-20.

Describes possible entry of linguistic modelling in mechanical systems. The experience of a design engineer and an operator can be used to carry out linguistic modelling of various control systems. Human experts can express the relationship between the known and what needs to be decided which is considered as the bask requirement of linguistic modelling. Linguistic modelling simplifies even the complex behaviour of various control systems. The application of the fuzzy logic methodology in mechanical systems has been established by implementing it on real-world problems of anti-sway control of a crane and HVAC in a car.

5 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

015068   Shekhar H (NO, High Energy Mater Res Lab, Pune-411 021) : Parametric studies on star port propellant grain for ballistic evaluation. Def Sci J 2005, 55(4), 459-69.

Star port propellant grains have been extensively studied for their operating as well as geometrical parameters. It is observed that reduced tail-off and better neutrality cannot be achieved simultaneously in a configuration. Parametric study is conducted to know the effect of various parameters of star-shaped propellant grains for ballistic evaluation motor. For reduced tail-off, higher characteristic velocity, lower outer diameter of the star, and lower value of angular fraction is preferred. Star angle, burning rate, and throat diameter have negligible effects on the tail-off factor. For better neutrality, higher value of angular fraction, higher star outer diameter, and star angle near to neutrality, is needed. An alternate configuration is suggested using this parametric study to ascertain least tail-off and enhanced neutrality.

15 illus, 3 tables, 5 ref

015067   Shanmugam S;Sakthivel S (Dep of Mech Engng, Natn Inst of Technol, Tiruchirapalli-620 015) : On the modification of spray line in pressure reducing and desuperheating station at thermal power stations. J Instn Engrs-Pt MC 2005, 86(October), 145-8.

In thermal power stations, the temperature at pressure reducing and desuperheating station (PRDS) header is sometimes unable to contain within a specific limit. This causes instability in PRDS that leads to unsatisfactory performance of the auxiliary systems, resulting in shut down. The cause of the problem is identified, analysed and remedial measures are suggested that spray water for desuperheating the main steam supplied to PRDS can be tapped from the condensate extraction pump discharge line instead of from the boiler feed pump discharge line being practiced. Analyses show that a sum of Rs 20 744 can be saved per day in addition to a substantial saving in the layout cost.

2 illus, 2 tables, 6 ref

015066   Saini J S;Garg M P;Nanda T (Dep of Mech Engng, Thapar Inst of Engng and Technol, Patiala-147 004) : Finding the natural frequencies and mode shapes for vibration analysis of upright drilling machine. J Instn Engrs-Pt MC 2005, 86(October), 164-71.

Increasing demand for greater accuracy and output from machine tools has caused vibration problems to gain importance. Both forced and sustained vibrations are known to be prejudicial to accuracy and output. The work includes finding the natural frequencies and mode shapes of F-shaped structures using finite element method. A framed structure is proposed, which approximates the properties and the shape of the F-structure. Natural frequencies and mode shapes are obtained by making a computer program in C++. Work is then extended to vibration analysis of upright drilling machine structure. Finite element modelling of the drilling machine structure is done. Thereafter, the natural frequencies and mode shapes are obtained taking into consideration the mass of work pieces placed over the machine table.

7 illus, 6 tables, 16 ref

015065   Roopchand J;Hanumanna J;Radhakrishnan R (NO, CVRDE, Avadi, Chennai-600 054) : Emerging trends of the protection system for AFVs. J Instn Engrs-Pt ID 2005, 86(Nov), 37-8.

Currently the ballistic protection of the ground-based vehicles is purely based on the passive protection by metallic and non-metallic armour alone. The revolution in the information technologies and the advancement in the electronic field had an impact on the protective armour systems. Armour systems are becoming intelligent, smarter and lighter due to the influence of the information technologies. The paper highlights the emerging technologies in the protective armour systems due to the revolution in the information technologies.

1 illus, 4 ref

015064   Rohella R S;Sahu D K;Mahapatra H (NO, M M Inst of Engng and Technol, Sijua, Patropoda, Khandgiri, Bhubaneshwar-751 019) : Coir pith for eco-development. Asian J Chem 2005, 17(3), 1625-36.

Due to poor or non-utilization of coir pith all round the world, its accumulation in the cocount producing countries since the last century has created ecological imbalance and thus has been designated as an unwanted waste. The huge generation of coir pith over the years, therefore, has caused serious problems like shortage of space, pollution of land, water and air, loss of soil fertility due to percolation of lignin in the soil, deforestation, soil erosion, etc. In the paper, the physical and chemical properties of coir pith carried out by laboratories of Auburn and Arkansas Universities at United States laboratory have been presented. The recent reported use of coir pith in conjunction with coir in the field of horiticulture, agriculture as coil brick, coir block and agro manure have been discussed. Many more specific applications with innovative designs of above materials in erosion control, vine hops, geo-textile, packaging, chemical industry and as rolls, matting and twines, fire resistant fabrices, portable readymade lawns, etc., have paved the way for the large-scale utilization of coir and coir pith for revenue generation commodities. The results of investigations carried out for the characterization of coir pith and process for the extraction and purification of lignin from coir pith has expected to enhance the utilization and industrial applications of coir pith have also been presented.

4 illus, 5 tables, 11 ref

015063   Rehling U;Pradhan M (Int Inst of Mgmt, Univ of Flensburg, Germany, Email: rehling@uni-flensburg.de) : Down sized energy technology: from technocracy to development. J rur Technol 2004, 1(5), 241-6.

All technologies commence on small scale base and then overtime getting upscaled, accompanied by changes in economy, technology and society. Does downsizing mean to swim against the mainstream? What are prerequites, frame conditions and impact of downsized technology ? Examples of downsized rural electrification through renewable sources of energy (micro hydro power) in Vietnam, Philippines and Nepal clearly demonstrate that technology is required for the development of society - but development is not automatically coming if the community is not prepared for the process.

10 illus, 18 ref

015062   Rathore T S;Khot U P (Dep of Electl Engng, Indian Inst of Technol, Bombay, Powai, Mumbai-400 076, Email: tsrathor@ee.iitb.ac.in) : Single FTFN realization of current transfer functions. IETE J Res 2005, 51(3), 193-9.

Reports three different synthesis procedures for realizing a class of current transfer functions of any order with negative real poles using only one four terminal floating nullor (FTFN). Relations for the minimum number of elements required in the three procedures are derived. One of the realizations requires minimum number of elements, and can have all the capacitors grounded and the total capacitance a minimum. Such a realization is very much suitable for fabrication in VLSI. Simulation results obtained on an all-pass filter are in agreement with the theoretical ones.

6 illus, 10 ref

015061   Rama Kumar B V N;Prasad B V S S S (Dep of Mech Engng, Indian Inst of Technol Madras, Chennai-600 036) : A combined CFD and network approach for the simulation of flow systems. J Instn Engrs-Pt MC 2005, 86(October), 129-33.

Novel approach combining the CFD with traditional flow network models is developed and demonstrated for two example problems. The network resistance factors (K values) are computed by CFD and fed as input to the network model. In the first problem of air distribution facility, the nodal pressures and loop flow rates are found for a given set of demands at the utility points. In the second problem, the minimum flow rates are estimated for allowable heat flux values of electronic components.

8 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

015060   Ram R;Padmakar C;Shukla J P;Yadava R N (Regional Res Lab, (CSIR), Hoshangabad Road, Bhopal-462 026, Email: raghuvanshiram@indiatimes.com) : Village level water budgeting for micro-watershed management in semi-arid region. J rur Technol 2004, 1(3), 125-8.

Village level water budgeting of semi-arid area of Madhya Pradesh was conducted using conventional meteorological, available irrigation parameters; regular well inventory data and PRA exercise data for consumption of water for different utilities. In the study, Ground Water Resources Estimation (GWRE) committee norms were adopted along with PRA exercise for better and more accurate values. The recharge in the study area due to rainfall and other sources during monsoon varies from 70.745 ham (1997) to 68.215 ham (2001) and 0.002 ham (1997) to 0.137 ham (2001). The total gross ground water draft is about 44.10 ham and final net water balance is about 183.484 ham has been calculated. The study reveals that the proper assessment of water potential at village level helps at optimal management of both surface as well as ground water resources.

3 ref

015059   Raghuwanshi I R S;Thakur G S (Dep of Geol, Govt. Motilal Vigyan Mahavidyalaya, Bhopal-08) : Irrigational suitablity of surface & subsurface waters for agricultural development of the region around Choral river basin, Indore & Khargone districts, Madhya Pradesh, India. J appl Hydrol 2004, 17(2-3), 27-33.

The Choral river basin 22°10' - 22°30'N latitude and 75°45' - 76°10'E longitude in the Narmada valley region, forms a part of Indore and Khargone districts of Madhya Pradesh, where agriculture is the only mean to support the population. On the basis of chemical character of natural waters an attempt has been made to evaluate the suitability of surface & subsurface waters of the area for irrigational purposes and its possible effects on plant growth. Various parameters like Kelley's ratio ; Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR); Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC); Magnesium hazards and chloride concentrations were determined to evaluate the suitability of waters for irrigation purposes. On the basis of Kelley's ratio, RSC and SAR, it is proposed that the water is suitable for irrigation purpose according to the specifications proposed by various agencies.

1 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

015058   Raffiq H M;Ahamed K M B (Dep of Mech Engng, Coll of Engng and Technol, Vellore-632 507) : Emission control for a direct injection CI engine using preheated coconut oil blended diesel. J Instn Engrs-Pt MC 2005, 86(October), 149-52.

Discusses the experimental study on the reduction of energy utilisation and thereby abiding an indirect control on the emission strategies for a CI engine. Three different methods for the control of emission were carried out and the results were compared. The first method was to improve the combustion by incorporating a copper perforated medium beneath the atomised fuel spray and thereby improve the combustion through vaporisation. The second method was to use coconut oil directly as an additive to diesel. The last method was to preheat the coconut oil blended diesel. The analysis showed that of all the coconut blends, namely, 10% to 50%, 20% blended ratio found a good place in both fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Similarly, the preheated blends showed still drastic reductions in emissions even for higher proportions of coconut oil.

6 illus, 5 ref

015057   Pundhir N K S;Kamaraj C;Nanda P K (NO, Cent Rd Res Inst, New Delhi-110 020, Email: root@crridom.org) : Use of copper slag as construction material in bituminous pavements. J scient ind Res 2005, 64(12), 997-1002.

Copper Slag (CS) is produced as waste from roasting of copper, in which sulphur (as SO₂) is eliminated. CS was used as fine aggregate (up to 30%) in the design of bituminous mixes like Bituminous Macadam, Dense Bituminous Macadam, Bituminous Concrete and Semi-Dense Bituminous Concrete. Mechanical properties of mix such as Marshall stability, Indirect Tensile Strength was determined. Addition of CS as fine aggregate in various bituminous mixes provides good interlocking and eventually improves volumetric and mechanical properties of bituminous mixes.

9 illus, 6 tables, 12 ref

015056   Prabhakar S (Dep of Mech Engineeringm, Univ of Bath, BA2 7AY, UK.) : Identification of single and multiple crack locations in a rotor-bearing system using wavelet transforms. J Instn Engrs-Pt MC 2005, 86(October), 153-5.

The dynamic behaviour of structures, in particular, that of a rotor, containing cracks is a subject of considerable current interest. Both single and multiple shaft crack locations in a rotor bearing system are identified by using continuous wavelet transforms (CWT). The rotor bearing system with and without shaft cracks are modelled using finite element method (FEM) to get the mode shapes of the system. The fundamental mode shapes of the rotor bearing systems are wavelet transformed to identify the single and multiple crack locations. The position of the crack is located by the sudden change in the spatial variation of the wavelet-transformed response of the rotor system.

4 illus, 11 ref

015055   Poornachandra S;Kumaravel N (Dep of Biomed Engng, SSN Coll of Engng Anna Univ, Chennai) : Wavelet-based adaptive denoising models for biological signals. J Instn Engrs-Pt ID 2005, 86(Nov), 39-42.

The paper discusses three new noise cancellation models using wavelet transform based adaptive algorithm implemented and tested on ECG with white Gaussian noise. LMS algorithm had been studied and it was found that the proposed models performed better than other noise cancellation models. The wavelet coefficients had been smothened at every sub-band level and then adapted to mean square value. These models find many application such as noise cancellation in communication model, biomedical instrumentation etc.

6 illus, 13 ref

015054   Patwardhan M K;Wachhe R S;Bapat V N;Kelkar M D;Dahasahasra S V (NO, Maharashtra Jeevan Pradhikarna, Thane, Maharashtra) : Design of eco-sullage systems - an approach for smaller towns. J Indian Wat Wks Ass 2005, 37(4), 267-4.

Study of sullage system design for Khed, a town in Ratnagiri district has been presented. It highlights on the design of combined storm and sullage drains in an economical way. Design of combined flow drainage system is tedious as it involves a number of trials required to arrive at a suitable cross section satisfying the constraints of minimum self cleansing velocity and maximum scour velocity. Objective of this paper is to present an iterative approach to design of the drainage system which is an essential part of ecological sanitation. A user friendly computer program is presented here to design a cross section of the combined flow of storm water as well as sullage drain water. On adoption of this program a user can save computation time as well as cost.

5 illus, 4 tables, 4 ref

015053   Pankaj A C;Basu J;Shome S N;Mehta P K;Singh B (Cent, Mech Engng Res Inst, Durgapur 713 209, Email: acpankaj@cmeri.res.in) : Performance evaluation of first stage support system of launcher. J scient ind Res 2005, 64(12), 949-56.

First Stage Support (FSS) system of a launcher based on slider-crank mechanism is presented. The unit has to withstand high magnitude of load and operates at high speed. Study includes dynamic analysis of FSS theoretically to examine effects of different parameters at design stage and experimentation to establish the desired reliability. Unit has been designed, fabricated and its performance has been studied for final installation on launcher.

5 illus, 2 tables, 7 ref

015052   Nagamani K;Chellappan V;Manickam K (NO, Anna Univ, Chennai) : Design, construction and cost benefit analysis of closed and open type structure. NICMAR J Constr Mgmt 2005, 20(3), 1-6.

In developing countries the different types of structural system being adopted for the foundation of port structures, such as wharves, quays, docks are 1. Caisson foundation 2. Block-work 3. Open piled structure, with suspended deck on it 4. Diaphragm wall with tie back system. The choice of the type of structure mainly depends on Geological stratification, such as rock, sand, clay, environmental conditions, system of cargo handling operations, harbour oscillation, level of disturbance in the protective basins, relative costs, contractor's limitations and so on. The rapid spectacular technological development in the field of port construction exploited to the maximum immense versatility of the Diaphragm wall system as a better construction technique than the other types of structure. In one of the Indian ports two different types of construction are provided although the purpose of the berths, size of the vessels and other soil characteristics are same. Further the construction aspect should constitute an integral part of the design process to avoid failure. Traces briefly the design construction of closed and open type structure and their pros and cons and cost benefit analysis.

3 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

015051   Muthurajanl H;Kumar H H;Kharat D K (DRDO Cent for Piezoceramics and Devices, Armament Res and Dev Establ, Pune-411 0211) : Piezoceramic-based chlorofluorocarbon-free tunable ultrasonic cleaning system. J scient ind Res 2005, 64(12), 960-4.

Use of piezoceramic based ultrasonic cleaning is becoming increasingly popular, since it is free from chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) solvents and removes tough contaminants (yet gentle enough not to damage the delicate substrate), grease, soil, oil, abrasive dust, blast debris, swarf, paint, corrosion etc., from the surface of components either individually or coming off the product lines. The critical component manufacturers and surface treaters are therefore preferably using lead zirconium titanate (PZT) based cleaning systems for intricately shaped components. The significant advantages of this technique are an ability to clean the delicate and complex shapes in a short time without damaging the materials geometry. Highlights the design and manufacturing technique of a tunable ultrasonic cleaning system using indigenously developed PZT elements in which the output frequency and duration of cleaning cycle can be adjusted for a particular application.

7 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

015050   Muralidharan D;Shankar G B K;Sathyanarayana U (NO, Natn Geophys Res Inst, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: muralidharan@ngri.res.in) : Safe drinking water source creation through artificial recharge and recovery in desert areas harnessing surplus storm runoff. J rur Technol 2004, 1(3), 113-8.

Availability of fresh water in Thar desert of Indian Sub-continent is very limited. The major part of fresh water is contributed by meagre seasonal annual rainfall. Traditional rainwater harvesting practices are unable to tap the full potential of the rainfall volume and estimated to harvest only 2.3% of total rainfall volume. Groundwater having high dissolved solids, total hardness and fluoride aggravate the drinking water problem during the monsoon failure years. A detailed mapping of fluoride and conductivity of groundwater from 180 dug wells was carried for Rajgarh Tehsil in Churu district of Rajasthan. Analysis of daily rainfall records suggests that there are one or two years of monsoon having 10-12 daily rainfall days with 20-50 mm rainfall and the cycle follows once in 5-6 years. During these years, the traditional water harvesting structures unable to harvest the runoff volume and spill-over and lost through soil moisture evaporation. The surplus storm runoff was utilized for recharging the groundwater using a simple artificial recharge technique. The experiment demonstrated that using the surplus storm runoff water and a simple artificial recharge technique, a safe groundwater source with potable quality for drinking purpose could be created in any of the the villages in Rajasthan.

5 illus, 2 tables, 6 ref

015049   Mukherjee P;Gupta B (NO, Inst of Engng & Mgmt, Kolkata-700 091) : Genetic algorithm-based design optimisation of aperture-coupled rectangular microstrip antenna. Def Sci J 2005, 55(4), 487-92.

Paper presents a study on the effect of aperture dimensions and stub length on the voltage-standing wave ratio bandwidth of an aperture-coupled microstrip antenna. Without any additional matching network, optimal impedance matching of the antenna has been achieved using genetic algorithm. In the algorithm, each chromosome consists of three binary encoded genes, one for aperture length, second one for aperture width and the last one for stub length. Finally, the algorithm determines the parameters of the antenna that provides the minimum value of the average reflection coefficient. The investigation was made at different microwave frequency ranges and it extends up to K_u band. The results show that the percentage of fractional bandwidth improves for higher design frequencies and has a maximum of 13.2 per cent for centre frequency of 17.5 GHz. Experimental results are presented for a particular range of frequency and the accuracy of the analysis has been briefly discussed.

^ssc2 illus, 2 tables, 7 ref

015048   Mondal D P;Das S;Ramakrishna N (Metal Composite Grp, Regional Res Lab (CSIR), Bhopal-462 026, Email: info@rrlbpl.org) : Aluminium foam in the perspective of rural applications. J rur Technol 2004, 1(3), 110-12.

Aluminium foam has excellent characteristics such as lightweight, high specific strength and stiffness and porous structure. The open pore structure act as heat exchanger whereas the closed pore structure act as heat insulator. The deformation behavior shows no increase in stress until it reaches to its densification strain. As a result, the structure can absorb considerable amount of impact energy without transmitting the stress to the other side. These characteristics can be used as packing and storing system of food and vegetables and can be used as a climatizer in rural areas. It can be synthesized by different methods such as powder metallurgy route, liquid metallurgy route and melt infiltration technique.

2 illus, 4 ref

015047   Miilleth J K;Giridhar K;Jalihal D (Telecommunications and Computer Networks (TeNeT) Grp, Dep of Electl Engng, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai-600 036, Email: {klutto,giri,dj}@tenet.res.in) : Open-loop and closed loop transmit diversity techniques. IETE J Res 2005, 51(3), 223-34.

An overview of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) wireless communication systems followed by some of the new techniques proposed by us to enhance performance. Firstly, some of the popular transmit and receive diversity schemes available in the literature has been discussed and issues like diversity, rate, power distribution, decoding complexity, decoding delay, amount of feedback and feedback delay and their tradeoffs to achieve reliable and cost effective communications has been described. Analyzed the merits and demerits of some of the open-loop (no feedback) and closed-loop (with feedback) schemes, and discuss various methods proposed by us recently to improve the performance of such schemes. The symbol error rate (SER) performance of the various schemes were compared through computer simulations.

^iia7 illus, 2 tables, 29 ref

015046   Majali V;Prasad B N;Bhat A K (Dep of Mech Engng, Gogte Inst of Technol, Belgaum) : Computer aided building energy simulation. J Instn Engrs-Pt AR 2005, 86(Oct), 28-31.

Presents the development and applications of computer aided building energy simulation. A survey of available building simulation software is conducted across many different countries. Important features of some popular building simulation software are mentioned. The choice of building simulation software depends upon user requirements and the capabilities of the building simulation program. With the growing trend towards environmental protection, the design of energy efficient buildings will surely gain attention. In view of this and the rapid advancement in computer technology, some of the possible research and development trends in building design and simulation have been mentioned.

12 ref

015045   Maitra M;Pradhan R K;Saha D;Mukherjee A (Dep of Electl Engng, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata-700 032, Email: m_madhubanti@hotmail.com) : Optimal location area planning for mobile cellular network using evolutionary computing methods. IETE J Res 2005, 51(3), 235-44.

In a mobile wireless cellular network the size of a location area (LA) could vary from one single cell to the entire service area under a Mobile Switching Center. These two situations depict two extreme possibilities. For the first case paging cost would be minimal whereas location update (LU) cost will be significantly high. For the latter possibility, the situation will just be the reverse. The work addresses the problem of designing an optimum LA within available spectrum such that total network cost, comprising of LU cost and cost for paging, can be minimized by resolving the inherent trade-off between these two cost components. Formulated a constrained cost optimization problem to find out the optimal LA size. Since the optimization problem is combinatorial in nature, as solution methodologies have presented two heuristics, based on Simulated Annealing and Genetic Algorithm. The quality of the solutions obtained proves that in near future these two evolutionary methods will be strong contenders for solving NP-Hard problems.

9 illus, 20 ref

015044   Liu C Y;Wang H M;Tuan P C (Lee-Ming Inst of Technol, Taiwan, Republic of China) : Input estimation algorithms for reentry vehicle trajectory estimation. Def Sci J 2005, 55(4), 361-75.

Fast and accurate estimation of trajectory is important in tracking and intercepting reentry vehicles. Validating model is a real challenge associated with the overall trajectory estimation problem. Input estimation technique provides a solution to this challenge. Two input estimation algorithms were introduced based on different assumptions about the input applied to the model. Investigation presents approaches consisting of an extended Kalman filter and two input estimation algorithms to identify the reentry vehicle trajectory in its terminal phase using data from a single radar source. Numerical simulations with data generated from two models demonstrate superior capabilities as measured by accuracy compared to the extended Kalman filter. Evaluation using real flight data provides the consistent results. The comparison between two input estimation algorithms has also presented. The trajectory estimation approaches based on two algorithms are effective in solving the reentry vehicle tracking problem.

26 illus, 18 ref

015043   Kumkar J K;Virendra Kumar;Makin I (Irrigation and Drainage Engng, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri) : Agricultural land cover discrimination in irrigated command using IRS 1C satellite data. J appl Hydrol 2004, 17(2-3), 1-5.

Efficient resource management particularly in the command areas of irrigation schemes requires vast and varied spatial and temporal database. Remote Sensing is recognized to provide such database at varied spatial and time scales. With the help of limited ground validation it provides better spatial and more frequent coverage of command area thereby giving information on change in cropping pattern, crop acreage and crop status over a season on near real time basis. A study was undertaken in Chambal command area of Rajasthan for the year 1997-98 rabi season on crop discrimination and acreage estimation using IRS 1C-LISS III data. The crop discrimination only with the help of spectral responses of wheat and mustard was found difficult. The separation was done based upon the variation in growth stages of these crops. The results when compared with field observations are found to be within 90 per cent accuracy.

2 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

015042   Khuntia S;Sahu A K (NO, Regional Res Lab (CSIR), Bhubaneswar-751 013, Email: skhuntia@rrlbhu.res.in) : Devlopment of vertical flow power operated pulse thresher and winnower. J rur Technol 2004, 1(5), 231-4.

Regional Research Laboratory, (CSIR), Bhubaneswar has developed a vertical flow power operated pulse thresher for complete threshing of dry crops of a variety of pulses, irrespective of different size and shape of plants, pods & grains, and crushing the residues in to small pieces for animal feed and winnowing of the grains. The machine consumes less energy, unlike any axial flow thresher, due to multiple progressive shear actions executed by the combination of the beaters and flow of the materials in side the thresher under gravity. Therefore 2hp single phase electric motor or oil engine is appropriate to operate the machine. It reduces 60% labour and removes 99% grain from the crops, thereby increases 15% extra yield over the traditional harvesting methods, which is generally lost with the crop residues. The threshing capacity of the machine is 400 to 500 kg of dry crops where as winnowing capacity is 500 kg grain per hour. The grains do not break during threshing and germination of the grains is as good as the grains obtain in manual threshing.

2 illus, 3 tables, 5 ref

015041   Kharul U K (Chem Engng Div, Natn Chem Lab, Pune- 411 008, Email: kharul@che.ncl.res.in) : Oxygen enrichment of air and drinking water purification using membrane technology. J rur Technol 2004, 1(3), 119-24.

Application of membrane technology for the need of common man is demonstrated while keeping rural Indian scenario in mind. Technology for (i) oxygen enrichment of air and (ii) removal of pathogenic species from water were developed. These developments underwent through following stages: (i) laboratory scale membrane design with desired permeation and selectivity/rejection characteristics, (ii) pilot scale membrane preparation and optimization, (iii) spiral module preparation and optimization, (iv) prototype development and (iv) prototype evaluations. The oxygen enrichment unit capable of catering the need of oxygen therapy in rural areas where cylinder supply is difficult was developed. The prototype unit can enrich oxygen upto 30-35% with <126> 8-10 lit/min of permeate (output). The unit underwent performance evaluations at rural as well as urban hospitals near Pune. Prototypes were then distributed to various well known hospitals in the country. Membranes used for this application are of thin film composite (TFC) type gas separation membranes. Another type of membrane, viz. ultrafiltration (UF) membranes were developed that has adequate porosity. These membranes are capable of rejecting smallest known pathogenic species, i.e. viruses to a log reduction of 5 and still can be operated at tap water pressure (0.5 bar). Prototype units were prepared with different designs and configurations. Units based on hand operated pump were supplied to Orissa cyclone affected areas while units with larger capacity and operated on electricity were supplied to earthquake affected areas in Gujarat. Some units were also distributed to various NGOs in different socio-geological regions of the country for performance evaluations. These efforts offered various types of inputs for betterment of this technology, which has reached to the final destination of technology transfer.

5 illus, 3 tables, 8 ref

015040   Jha A K;Dasgupta R;Prasad B K;Modi O P (Regional, Res Lab, Bhopal-462 026, Email: jhaamolkumar@hotmail.com) : Role of materials technology in rural development. J rur Technol 2004, 1(3), 105-9.

Deals with the observations made pertaining to investigate the feasibility of improving the performance of a soil engaging and a post harvesting implements namely duckfoot sweep and thresher peg respectively. The cost involved and resulting improvement in performance through adopting the technique (in terms of metallurgical treatments) have been analyzed to assess their practical significance on a techno-economic basis. The study shows that the developed techniques can be adopted in rural areas leading to efficient use of material on a cost-economic basis. Establishment of training cum demonstration centres has been observed to be a requirement to promote the developed technologies and make them sustainable and popular. This could play a dominant role in the rural development in actual practice.

9 illus, 5 tables

015039   Jantikar M M (NO, Natn Inst of Constr Mgmt and Res, Pune) : Role of SQC in construction quality management. NICMAR J Constr Mgmt 2005, 20(3), 7-15.

With globalisation and fierce competition, companies are competing with each other by achieving excellence through quality. Improving quality in construction has always been an issue and SQC can be used as a very effective tool for improving quality and maintaining quality in various methods and processes and thus make the structures more durable and functional. Quality control needs a proactive approach and especially in construction can be executed in two phases namely primary and secondary phase. It is during these phases that the various tools and techniques of Statistical Quality Control can be used to have a proper check and remedial measures can be taken to correct the ongoing process. Quality assurance and quality control form the basic elements for TQM to be effective and SQC plays a very important role in quality control as inferences can be drawn immediately. Highlights on how SQC can be used for improving construction quality. Focus is also drawn to the fact that SQC and TQM alone will not help the organisation to compete but they should try to move towards Strategic Quality Management (SQM). For quality to be acceptable to all, there is a need for one standard the world over. Also it is felt that if the quality of construction the world over has to improve, all the standards need to be made available free to all.

3 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

015038   Jain P K;Pal S;Pandharipande V M (Dep of Space, ISRO Headquarters, Antariksh Bhawan, New BEL Road, Bangalore-560 094) : Analysis and implementation of the long loop PLL method for real-time measurement of E_b/N₀ ratio. IETE J Res 2005, 51(3), 245-55.

Article published earlier provides the mathematical analysis of the method along with the derivation of the mathematical model of the long-loop PLL and nonlinear equations used for the on-line estimation of the E_b/N₀ ratios. Design considerations and practical implementation of the method in a multi-mission remote sensing satellite ground station along with various unpublished and practically measured test results have also been included.

9 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

015037   Jain M;Singh I;Sharma S C (Dep of Archit, Natn Inst of Technol, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh) : Traditional architecture and planning techniques in Himachal Pradesh. J Instn Engrs-Pt AR 2005, 86(Oct), 35-41.

Highlights the evolution of traditional architecture and settlement pattern in the hill region of Himachal Pradesh. Discusses the art and architecture which grew out of the man and natural interaction. It discusses the various Architectural Styles of temples evolved over a period of time, their construction techniques and materials used by the people of Himachal Pradesh. The design and planning consideration in the hills which require extra sensitivity and care because of the delicate nature of terrain and eco-system are described. Suggests that the traditional architecture which is the outcome of man's interaction with nature should not be disturbed. The planning techniques which have been scientifically proved successful due to difficult terrain and the scientific use of locally available material should be encouraged.

13 illus, 9 ref

015036   Hawanale S;Bakare A K;Chavan S P (NO, Walchand Coll of Engng, Sangli-416 415) : Novel method for the determination of stress intensity factor for a crack emanating from riveted hole. J Instn Engrs-Pt MC 2005, 86(October), 160-3.

Geometric stress concentration combined with fretting between the pin and surface of hole may cause cracks to initiate. These cracks may further propagate leading to catastrophic failure of entire structure. Highlights a novel method to determine stress intensity factor, which is pre-requisite to study crack behaviour for damage tolerant design. The analytical formulation is carried out by using Muskhelishvilli's complex stress functions, for a crack emanating from a riveted hole in an infinite plate subjected to realistic sinusoidal contact stresses over the hole boundary. The same problem is also analysed by using finite element software FRANC2D.

8 illus, 6 ref

015035   HansRaj K J;Sharma R S;Mishra G S;Dua A; Pradhan C (Fac of Engng, Dayalbagh Educ Inst, Dayalbagh, Agra-282 005) : Evolutionary computational technique for constrained optimisation in engineering design. J Instn Engrs-Pt MC 2005, 86(October), 121-8.

Presents a general, flexible, and yet efficient real coded evolutionary computational technique (ECT) for solving mechanical engineering design optimisation problems. This technique incorporates simulated annealing (SA) in the selection process of genetic algorithm (GA). It has been designed with genetic operator called the blend crossover (BLX) to provide a better search capability. Other features include concentration of search in 'better areas of search space and incorporation of some constraints into the coding. Extensive testing has been carried out on standard test problems taken from the literature. The efficiency, effectiveness and ease of application of the proposed technique are demonstrated by solving a gear design problem, a truss design problem and a spring design problem. The results obtained compare favourably with those reported in the literature and suggest the use of proposed technique in mechanical engineering design and process optimisation and is a step forward in meeting the challenges posed in the design by present day intelligent manufacturing systems.

4 illus, 4 tables, 28 ref

015034   Haghi A K;Arabani M (Dep of Text Chem, The Univ of Guilan, P.O. Box 3756, Rasht, Iran, Email: haghi@guilan.ac.ir) : Interaction of expanded polystyrene beads polyamide 66 yarns with components of cement. Asian J Chem 2005, 17(3), 2031-3.

Studies polystyrene beads as lightweight aggregate and mortars containing silica fume as a supplementary cementitious material and polyamide 66 to reduce cracks in concrete were used. The idea of this new composite has been reported for the first time.

^ssc1 illus, 11 tables, 3 ref