017032   Rakesh Kumar;Saini I (Electronics and communication Dep, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar National Institute of Technology, Jalandhar) : Empirical wavelet transform based ECG singal compression. IETE J Res 2014, 60(6), 423-31.

Transmission of biomedical signals over telephone lines or other communication channels is currently an important issue for the telemedicine applications. An efficient compression algorithm is needed to achieve a reduced information rate, for the storage and transmission purposes. In this paper, empirical wavelet transform (EWT) along with discrete wavelet transform (DWT) has been used for compression and reconstruction of the ECG signals. Key point lies in using different threshold for different modes obtained by applying EWT. Proposed algorithm has been tested on self-acquired (on BIOPAC⊗MP150) ECG signals of 20 subjects, each of 12 minutes duration and 360,000 samples with sampling rate 500 Hz and average 31.2 compression ratio (CR) and 3.28% percentage ratio distortion (PRD) have been obtained. Algorithm has also been applied on all 48 arrhythmia signals of Massachusetts Institute of Technology-Beth Israel Hospital (MIT-BIH)77777+766 database, each of 30 minutes duration and 650,000 samples, sampled at 360 Hz and an average 33.1 CR and 3.3% PRD are obtained.

6 illus, 3 tables, 30 ref

017031   Prakash V;Sood Y R (NO, , ) : Penalization for unscheduled interchange based on availability based tariff in competitive electricity market. Trends electl Engng 2013, 3(3), 51-61.

This paper presents a technique for the penalization of unscheduled interchange within deregulated power sector, it derives its features from a successful frequency linked tariff scheme operational in India and known by the name of Availability Based Tariff (ABT). In this paper, combined model consisting of the pool, bilateral and multilateral transaction of deregulated power sector has been considered, the power market is mostly scheduled for 15 min, one or half an hour in competitive electricity market. This schedule has been decided 24 h ahead of real market but it has been observed that some of the market participants are not able to fulfil their commitments regarding either supply of scheduled generation or withdrawal of scheduled load from the pool. Similarly, the transactions may not be able to transfer committed power. Due to these reasons, the power system deviates from the optimized solutions. So there is an urgent need to device a suitable logical technique to penalize such market participants. In this paper, frequency based technique has been proposed for penalization of such market participants in competitive electricity market. The proposed technique has been applied to modified IEEE-30 bus test system comprising of three sections on the basis of prevailing frequency in these regions due to unscheduled interchange occurring in the system.

017030   Pozan G S;Kambur A (Chemical Engineering Dep, Istanbul Univ, Faculty of Engineering, Avcilar, 34320, Istanbul, Turkey, Email: gpozan@istanbul.edu.tr) : Effect of operating parameters and titanium source on photodegradation of phenol. Indian J chem Technol 2014, 21(4), 272-9.

Nanocrystalline TiO₂ catalysts have been successfully prepared by a sol-gel process. The results indicate that the reaction parameters and titanium source (titanium isopropoxid, titanium tetrachloride and titanium tetrabutoxide) affect the photocatalytic activity. The materials are characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller techniques. TiO₂ particle prepared using TiCl₄ is found to be the most active catalyst for photodecomposition of phenol under UV light. TiO₂(TiCl4-600) shows the highest reaction rate (0.62 mg L^{-1 min-1) and 100% mineralization of phenol is achieved within 2 h. Also, the catalytic activity of TiO₂(TiCl4-600) is found to be higher than Degussa P-25 photocatalyst. The photocatalytic performances are in the order TiO₂(TiCl₄-600) <62> TiO₂(TB-600) <62> TiO₂(TIP-600). Anatase form of TiO₂ is more effective for photodegradation of phenol.}

5 illus, 1 table, 50 ref

017029   Panwar S;Nain N (Computer Science and Engineering Dep, Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur-302 017) : Novel segmentation methodology for cursive handwritten documents. IETE J Res 2014, 60(6), 432-9.

Segmentation in handwritten documents is a very challenging task because in handwritten documents curved text lines and non-uniform skews appear frequently. Basically segmentation means to analyse the document image into its sub component as text line, words, or ligatures and finally character. Various handwritten text recognition systems take segmented character as input to recognize them and some recognition systems which are based on holistic approaches use word level segmentation. In this paper, we have implemented a complete framework of segmentation for handwritten documents with various languages. A novel connectivity strength parameter is used for deciding the groups of the components which belong to the same line. Over-segmentation is also removed with the help of depth first search approach and iterative use of the connectivity strength function. We have implemented and tested this approach with English, Hindi, and Urdu text images taken from benchmark database and find that it is a language adaptive approach which provides encouraging results. The average accuracy of the proposed technique is 97.30%.

8 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

017028   Niasar A H;Zamani D (NO, , ) : Power system stabilizer design based on honey-Bee mating optimization algorithm. Trends electl Engng 2014, 4(3), 18-25.

Power system stability is one of the main factors in performance of electrical system. A control system must retain frequency and voltage size under any distortion such as sudden increase in load, to leave a generator from circuit or cut off a transmission line in a constant level. In this paper, Honey-bee mating optimization (HBMO) algorithm has been used to design power system stabilizer. It is based on the mating between queen and bees. Meta-heuristics honey-bee mating optimization algorithm is considered to be an intelligent algorithm. Simulation results show that HBMO algorithm is simple to solve optimization issues.

017027   Nageswari S;Kumar V S (Electrical and Electronics Engineering Dep, A.C. College of Engineering and Technology, Karaikudi) : VCMIPWM scheme to reduce the neutral-point voltage variations in three-level NPC inverter. IETE J Res 2014, 60(6), 396-405.

This paper presents variable common mode injection pulse width modulation (VCMIPWM) technique to reduce the neutral-point voltage variations in three-level neutral-point-clamped (NPC) inverter. The neutral-point voltage varies with the modulation index and the variation is high in the low modulation index region. Therefore, proper common mode voltages are calculated for various modulation index regions and are carefully injected with the reference phase voltages. The calculation is based on equalizing the switching times of the zero/redundant vectors in a switching cycle for various modulation index regions. The simulation results show the improvement in the neutral-point voltage balancing of the inverter in the VCMIPWM scheme compared with the sinusoidal pulse width modulation (PWM). The proposed PWM is implemented in field programmable gate array (FPGA) and the experimental results are shown to verify the practicability of the proposed method.

14 illus, 16 ref

017026   Mannan M A;Dhar R K;Haque M E (NO, , ) : Developing a model in matlab/simulink enviornment for induction motor considering core loss and stray load loss. Trends electl Engng 2014, 4(2), 1-12.

This paper focuses on a Matlab/Simulink model of a squirrel-cage induction motor with consideration of core loss and stray load loss. This model is based on some mathematical expressions and also described through an equivalent circuit including core loss and stray load loss. The model of induction motor has been developed based on the state space equations in a synchronously rotating reference frame, where core loss and stray load losses were taken under consideration. The developed model allows testing the performance of an induction motor in different operating conditions and the performance of different designed control systems to control speed, flux and torque of an induction motor. The designed model has been tested for several operating conditions through the simulation in Matlab/Simulink environment.

017025   Karthikeyan S;Elango A;Silaimani S M;Prathima A (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Syed Ammal Engineering College, Ramanathapuram-623 502, Email: skarthikeya74@gmail.com) : Role of Al₂O₃ nano additive in GSObiodiesel on the working characteristics of a ci engine. Indian J chem Technol 2014, 21(4), 285-9.

The role of combustion, performance and emission characteristics of a diesel engine using when alumina oxide nano additive blended with grape seed methyl ester (GSOME) as a fuel has been studied. Biodiesels are produced from grape seed oil by transesterification process. The fuel properties of D80B20 (80% Diesel + 20% GSOME), D80B20 Al₂O₃50 (80% Diesel + 20% GSOME + 50ppm Al₂O₃ nano particles) and D80B20 Al₂O₃100 (80% Diesel + 20% GSOME + 100ppm Al₂O3 nano particles) have been studied and compared according to ASTM standard test methods for biodiesel. The acquired data are studied for various parameters, such as brake power, breakthermal efficiency, brake specific fuel consumption, exhaust gas temperature, and exhaust emission of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbon and oxides of nitrogen gases.

6 illus, 23 ref

017024   Kamalapur G D;Sheelavant V R;Sachin Kumar; Bhat A K;Mitra P;Khazi S (NO, , ) : Simulation and analysis of UPFC for power transmission. Trends electl Engng 2014, 4(3), 10-7.

Complexity of the power system grows hand in hand with the growth in power transfers which leads to system becoming less secure to ride through outages. Large power flows with inadequate control, excessive reactive power, dynamic swings between different parts of the system and bottlenecks reduce the potential of the transmission interconnections. With the increase in demand for power, has in fact increased the complexity of the power system, greater power system security and quality of supply, Flexible AC Transmission Technology has much potential to cater to most of the needs of present power system and enables utilities to get the most service from their transmission facilities and enhance grid reliability. An attempt is made in this paper to study UPFC, modelling with SIMULINK, voltage regulation and reactive power aspects.

017023   Jalaluddin M;Saikumar H V;Bansilal (NO, , ) : Damping power system oscillations using fuzzy based power system stabilizer with seven and nine linguistic variables. Trends electl Engng 2014, 4(3), 35-40.

Low-frequency oscillations are created in a power system due to insufficient damping. Low-frequency oscillations in a power system can be damped using conventional power system stabilizer (CPSS) or fuzzy-based power system stabilizer (FLPSS). The performance of FLPSS is significantly affected by the number of linguistic variables used in designing FLPSS. In this paper, FLPSS is designed to damp the low frequency oscillations in a power system. The novelty of the work presented in the paper is that the effectiveness of FLPSS in damping the low-frequency oscillations is evaluated with seven and nine linguistic variables. Single machine connected to infinite bus (SMIB) system is subjected to small and large signal disturbances and the effect of the disturbance is analyzed with FLPSS having nine and seven linguistic variables. The significance of linguistic variable selection is highlighted by comparing the performance of CPSS, FLPSS with seven and nine linguistic variables.

017022   Jain R;Menon M K (NO, , ) : Cost effective heart monitoring system. J Instrum Technol Innovation 2014, 4(3), 29-33.

Design and development of a cost effective hearth monitoring system displays the ECG pattern of a human body along with the basic physiological parameters such as body temperature and pulse rate has been developed and reported in this paper. The system consists of surface electrodes and electronic device. The surface electrodes are planted on chest and right limb as surface leads, which picks very sensitive ECG signals and later is displayed on the screen. The temperature is sensed using a temperature sensor by putting the patient's finger or any body part from which temperature can be measured. The pulse rate sensor is worn on finger via a clip which measures and reports the pulse rate. The device is battery powered and also of small size, for outdoor use.

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017021   Hitesh Kumar;Sharma K K;Vig S;Singh B (NO, , ) : Energy management for rural electrification using hybrid optimization model for electric renewable. Trends electl Engng 2014, 4(2), 21-5.

India ranks fourth in terms of purchasing power and is eleventh largest economy of the world. Solar Energy, Animal wastes, and Crop residues are some of the major renewable sources available in rural areas of India that can be harnessed in an efficient way to meet the energy demand. After assessing the Existing Village (Nangal), it was found that Hybrid Renewable Energy System is an optimum solution for complete electrification of rural areas. These natural resources can be used to produce energy to enhance the living standards of the villagers, provide clean energy and reducing the burden on conventional grid. This paper aims to devise a plan for a village with a complete solution to meet domestic energy demand of a village by Renewable energy sources and reliable electricity supply.

017020   Hani S U;Hassan M K;Hazari M R;Mannan M A (NO, , ) : Design and simulation of speed control of DC moter and DC voltage control of two quadrant chopper. Trends electl Engng 2014, 4(3), 26-34.

DC motors are most suitable for wide range speed control and hence it is used in many adjustable speed drives. The DC motors are generally fed by chopper circuit for improved performance. In order to get smooth and precise control over the speed of DC motor, many different types of controllers have already been introduced. In this paper, two discrete-time multi-input and multi-output optimal controllers, one for control of speed of DC motor and another for control of DC voltage of chopper, are designed. The state space models of DC motor and chopper circuit are developed to design the proposed controllers. Based on the developed state space model the proposed controllers are designed. The performances of controllers are verified using the MATLAB/SIMULINK contrivance. The simulation results show that, the proposed controller gives admirable control over the speed and the dc voltage respectively. Again the overall design exhibits ease, less complexity and robustness than any other conventional controllers.

017019   Desa K S;Deshpande A P (NO, , ) : Control technique for back-to-back converter using single pulse width modulation. J Instrum Technol Innovation 2014, 4(3), 1-13.

This paper presents design and implementation of an analog controller for boost rectification and inversion required in the back-to-back converter used in doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) based wind energy conversion systems (WECSs). Detailed design of components of back-to-back converter is explained. The hardware module of this back-to-back converter is fabricated in the departmental laboratory. Testing is carried out on single phase as well as three phase rectifier section and inverter section of back-to-back converter. A cost effective simple analog controller is designed. Single pulse width modulation (PWM) technique is employed. Results show that required boosting of the rectifier and normal operation of inverter is satisfactorily obtained.

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017018   Deka K M;Roy S (Electronics and Communication Engg Dep, Tezpur Univ, Napaam Post, Tezpur, Assam-784 028) : Glutamate gated spiking neuron model. Ann Neurosci 2014, 21(1), 14-18.

Biological neuron models mainly analyze the behavior of neural networks. Neurons are described in terms of firing rates viz an analog signal. The Izhikevich neuron model is an efficient, powerful model of spiking neuron. This model is a reduction of Hodgkin-Huxley model to a two variable system and is capable of producing rich firing patterns for many biological neurons. Purpose: In this paper, the Regular Spiking (RS) neuron firing pattern is used to simulate the spiking of Glutamate gated postsynaptic membrane. Simulation is done in MATLAB environment for excitatory action of synapses. Analogous simulation of spiking of excitatory postsynaptic membrane potential is obtained.

6 illus, 13 ref

017017   Das R;Dash R;Majhi B (Computer Science and Engineering Dep, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Orissa-769 008) : Hyperspectral image classification based on quadratic fisher's discriminant analysis and multi-class support vector machine. IETE J Res 2014, 60(6), 406-13.

In this paper, we present a hyperspectral image classification method based on Quadratic Fisher's Discriminant Analysis (QFDA) and Multi-class Support Vector Machine (M-SVM). QFDA has been utilized for feature extraction and dimensionality reduction of a high dimensional hyperspectral image and M-SVM is used for classification purpose. The suggested scheme is compared with Principal Component Analysis (PCA) with SVM scheme and it is observed that the proposed method is superior with respect to classification accuracy. Further, it is observed that QFDA preserves the class discriminatory information in the reduced features as compared to PCA.

6 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

017016   Cho S;Han H;Cho S B (Automobile/Ship Electronics Convergence Center, Ulsan Univ, 93 Daehak-ro, Nam-gu, Ulsan 680-749, Republic of Korea) : Improved plucked string synthesis model considering tuning and playing style. IETE J Res 2014, 60(6), 389-95.

This paper describes a plucked string synthesis model including a simplified tuning system and a right-hand playing style. The proposed model based on digital waveguide synthesis is applied to the Gayageum, a traditional Korean plucked string instrument. The Gayageum has 12 twisted silk strings, each supported by a movable bridge called an Anjok, which is placed on the body and is moved sideways along a string to tune it. The simplified tuning system is formulated with parameters related to the tension of the string and location of the Anjok, and these determine the pitch of a specific string. The unique right-hand playing style, a consecutive flick in which a player flicks a string twice in succession by the middle and index fingers, is implemented by a simple feed-forward filter. The proposed synthesis model is evaluated based on the frequency signal-to-noise ratio.

8 illus, 24 ref

017015   Babak G;Mahdi H (NO, , ) : Core loss model based on finite element method for switched reluctance generator considering different control modes. Trends electl Engng 2014, 4(2), 26-33.

In the present paper, core loss modeling of switched reluctance generator (SRG) is proposed for the first time. Using ANSYS finite element (FE) package, 2D FE transient analysis of SRG is carried out and the stator pole flux waveform is predicted. To determine the flux waveforms in the different parts of the machine, an introduced mathematical flux model is considered and its algorithm is implemented in ANSYS Parametric Design Language (APDL). Core loss related to the determined flux waveforms are calculated based on the improved Steinmetz equation. The core loss model created totally in APDL can be applied to different conventional types of SRG. Applying the developed core loss model to an 8/6 SRG, simulation results including the flux waveforms and relevant core loss are presented for both single pulse control mode and PWM control mode.

017014   Akhavan A;Mohammadi H R (NO, , ) : Adaptive selective harmonic elimination method for quasi Z-source cascaded multilevel inverters in varying DC Voltage condition. Trends electl Engng 2014, 4(3), 1-9.

In this paper, a new control method for adaptive selective harmonic elimination in a quasi Z-source cascaded multilevel inverter (QZS-CMI) is proposed. According to real condition, the DC sources feeding the inverter are considered to be varying in time. In this condition, the switching angle and shoot-through duty ratio for each module are obtained off-line for different DC source values using particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. The off-line data set which is obtained by the PSO algorithm is used for training an artificial neural network (ANN). Finally, this ANN is used for determining the switching angle and shoot-through duty ratio for each module corresponding to the real-time values of DC sources. In the proposed method, although each one of the DC sources can have different values according to real condition, the fundamental component of the output voltage will stay constant and the harmonic content will still meet the desired specifications. The effectiveness of the proposed method was shown by simulation in PSCAD/EMTDC software.

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017013   Agarwal B;Mittal N (Computer Engineering Dep, Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur) : Semantic feature clustering for sentiment analysis of english reviews. IETE J Res 2014, 60(6), 414-22.

Sentiment analysis research has increased tremendously in recent times due to the wide range of business and social applications. Motivation behind sentiment analysis is that it provides companies' methods to determine the product acceptance and ways to improve its quality. It also helps users to take purchasing decisions. Various parsing schemes/feature extraction methods have been proposed in the literature to process unstructured text to extract patterns that may help machine learning model to learn. The main limitation of the existing feature extraction techniques is the sparseness of the data and inability to incorporate semantic information. In this paper, a new feature extraction method is proposed, namely clustering features. Proposed feature extraction technique focuses on alleviating the data sparsity faced by supervised sentiment analysis by clustering of semantic features. Proposed clustering features are capable of including semantic information and alleviating data sparseness for machine learning algorithm. In all the experiments, support vector machine and Boolean Multinomial Naive Bayes (BMNB) machine learning algorithms are used for classification. Experimental results show that the proposed clustering features significantly outperform other features for document-level sentiment classification. All the experiments are performed on standard movie review data-set and product review data-sets, namely book, electronics, kitchen appliances.

6 tables, 25 ref

016095   Yuce E;Yucel F (Electrical and Electronics Engineering Dep, Engineering Faculty, Pamukkale Univ, Denizli, Turkey, Email: ekanyuce@yahoo.com) : New cascadable CMOS voltage squarer circuit and its application: four-quadrant analog multiplier. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(4), 351-7.

New cascadable CMOS based voltage squarer circuit having voltage input/current output and its analog four-quadrant multiplier application are presented. The proposed structure has high input impedance and high output impedance; thus, it can be easily connected to other circuits without requiring any extra buffers. Moreover, its two symmetrical bias voltages have high input impedances; accordingly, bias voltages can be easily connected without requiring additional circuits. Another advantage of the proposed circuit is its low power consumption. It consists of only six MOS transistors. However, it needs several active component matching constraints. Some SPICE simulation and experimental test results are included to confirm the proposed theory.

10 illus, 18 ref

016094   Yan K;You L (College of Civil Engineering, Hunan Univ, Changsha 410082, China, Email: yankz2004@163.com) : Investigation of complex modulus of asphalt mastic by artificial neural networks. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(4), 445-50.

This study investigates the complex modulus of asphalt mastic by using artificial neural networks (ANNs). The complex modulus of asphalt mastic samples are determined by using dynamic shear rheometer (DSR). Seven filler-asphalt ratios (F/A) are considered in this study: 0.0, 0.4, 0.6, 0.9, 1.2, 1.5, 1.8 by the weight of asphalt binder. In ANN model, the asphalt mastic temperature, frequency and F/A are the parameters for the input layer where as the complex modulus is the parameter for the output layer. The variants of the algorithm, such as the Levenberg-Marquardt (LM), scaled conjugate gradient (SCG) and Pola-Ribiere conjugate gradient (CGP) algorithms are used in this study. A tangent sigmoid transfer function is used for both hidden layer and the output layer. The statistical indicators, such as the root-mean squared error (RMSE), the coefficient of multiple determination (R^{2) and the coefficient of variation (COV) are utilized to compare the predicted and measured values for model validation. Results indicate that the LM algorithm appears to be the most optimal topology. It is also demonstrated that neural networks is an excellent method that can reduce the time consumed and can be used as an important tool in evaluating complex modulus of asphalt mastic.}

8 illus, 3 tables, 24 ref

016093   Yamik H;Solmaz H;Icingur Y (Engineering Faculty, Bilecik Univ, 06570, Bilecik, Turkey, Email: hamit-solmaz-gazi@hotmail.com) : Comparative study on engine performance and emissions of biodiesel and JP-8 aviation fuel in a direct injection diesel engine. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(4), 438-444.

Biodiesel is one of the most important renewable energy sources for diesel engines. Studies have been carried out on different kinds of renewable fuels such as raw vegetable oil, waste cooking oil and biodiesels derived from various vegetable oils. In addition research on biodiesel has gained momentum in recent years because of the increasing environmental issues caused by fossil fuels and depletion of oil reserves. However, problems such as high viscosity, low lower heating value and increase in NO_x emissions due to oxygen content are limiting the scope of biodiesel application. JP-8 is a kerosene-based aviation fuel. JP-8 is a strategically important fuel due to properties such as lower cold filter plugging point and high lower heating value. There are some application problems on existing internal combustion engines because of the low cetane number of JP-8. In this study, diesel, sunflower methyl ester and JP-8 fuel blends are tested in a direct injection diesel engine and the possibility of the use of biodiesel and JP-8 together is investigated. As a result of tests carried out at full load conditions, engine performance and exhaust emissions are compared with those for diesel fuel. By using 25% JP-8 and 75% sunflower methyl ester, engine torque decreased by 3% and brake specific fuel consumption increased by 3.9%. Although it has been ascertained that the NO_x emissions increased, smoke emissions decreased. As a result it has been determined that biodiesel and JP-8 can be used together.

5 illus, 5 tables, 35 ref

016092   Vijayakumar M;Vijayan S (Electrical and Electronics Engineering Dep, K S R College of Engineering, Tiruchengode-637 215, Email: mvijayksrce@gmail.com) : Photovoltaic based three-phase four-wire series hybrid active power filter for power quality improvement. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(4), 358-70.

This paper proposes a photovoltaic (PV) and battery interfaced series hybrid active power filter (SHAPF), which consists of series active power filter and an LC shunt passive filter. The main benefits of the proposed system provide the compensation against the voltage harmonics, current harmonics and voltage interruption for the whole day. A series active power filter (SAPF) demands a source of energy for compensating the voltage sag/swell. The proposed topology utilizes the green energy source with an energy storage unit to meet the DC-link voltage requirement of the SAPF. The control strategy is based on the dual formulation of the compensation system principles with adaptive fuzzy logic controller (AFLC). In addition the new coordination logic control is proposed to provide the continuous harmonics compensation and outage compensation at the different conditions. The simulation and experimental studies are carried out to validate the effectiveness of the proposed PV interfaced three-phase four-wire SHAPF.

16 illus, 5 tables, 29 ref

016091   Thawrania V;Londhea N D;Singh R (Electrical Engineering Dep, National Institute of Technology, Raipur) : Crowdsourcing of medical data. IETE Tech Rev 2014, 31(3), 249-53.

Right from open innovation to creativity, content generation to software development, marketing to crowdfunding, the tremendous growth of crowdsourcing has touched almost every field. The realm has entered even in medical sector now. This paper deals with this new concept of crowdsourcing medical data covering the reasons behind this revolution, prevailing examples of medical crowdsourcing, and the probable issues that can be encountered.

1 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

016090   Summart S;Thongsopa C;Jaikla W (School of Telecommunication Engineering, Suranaree Univ of Technology, Thailand, Email: ton3555@hotmail.com) : CCCIIs-based sinusoidal quadrature oscillators with non-interative control of condition and frequency. Indian J pure appl Phys 2014, 52(4), 277-83.

The paper presents two current-mode quadrature oscillators with non-interactive two current controls for both of the condition of oscillation (CO) and the frequency of oscillation (FO) using current controlled current conveyors (CCCIIs). The proposed oscillators can provide two sinusoidal output currents with 90 degrees phase difference. It also provides high output impedances that make the circuit can directly drive load without additional current buffer. The condition of oscillation and frequency of oscillation can be controlled by adjusting the bias currents of the CCCIIs. The proposed circuits use only grounded capacitors without any external resistor which is very appropriate for further development into an integrated circuit. The results of PSPICE simulation program are corresponding to the theoretical analysis.

10 illus, 4 tables, 34 ref

016089   Singh K L;Keswani K;Vaggar M (STTD, CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories, Bangalore-56 017, Email: kls@nal.res.in) : Crack growth simulation of stiffened fuselage panels using XFEM techniques. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(4), 418-28.

In this paper, crack growth modelling and simulation of stiffened and un-stiffened fuselage panels has been presented using commercially available finite element software package. Computation of stress intensity factor for a single edge notch specimen has been computed using extended finite element method (XFEM), FEM and compared with the analytical solution. The geometric nonlinear and elastic-plastic (material nonlinear) analysis has been performed on a specimen, stiffened and un-stiffened fuselage panels. XFEM techniques like cohesive segment and XFEM based LEFM using virtual crack closure technique (VCCT) are used for crack growth analysis. Various crack domain selection and parametric studies of stiffener thickness are presented. It is observed from the numerical analyses that the stiffened panels have about 20% higher yield strength compared to the un-stiffened panel.

14 illus, 6 tables, 34 ref

016088   Selvakumar S;Ravikumar R (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Reoever Engineering College, Elambalur, Perambalur-621 212, Email: sdy.12@rediffmail.com) : Experimental analysis and mathematical modeling of optimized cutting parameters in microturning. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(4), 397-408.

In the present study, an attempt has been made to investigate the effect of process parameters cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut on tool wear and surface roughness in micro-turning of titanium alloy using Cermet insert. The experiments are carried out based on response surface methodology and sequential approach using rotatable second-order Box-Behnken design. Mathematical model is developed and used to evaluate the minimum tool wear and surface roughness under optimum micro-turning conditions. Analytical and graphical optimization techniques have been carried out to find out the optimum process parameters. Direct and interaction effects of the process parameters are analyzed, and the major parameter influencing tool wear and surface roughness is found to be feed rate, followed by the cutting speed and depth of cut. The following cutting conditions result in minimum tool wear and surface roughness: 3180 rpm cutting speed, 8 μm/rev feed rate and 15 μm depth of cut, which improve the productivity and surface quality with minimum machining cost.

11 illus, 7 tables, 26 ref

016087   Ray K P;Thakur S S;Kakatkar S S (SAMEER, IIT Campus, Powai, Mumbai-400 076) : Bandwidth enhancement techniques for printed rectangular monopole antenna. IETE J Res 2014, 60(3), 249-56.

Printed rectangular monopole antennas (PRMAs) have been investigated for increasing bandwidth. PRMAs with single, dual and triple microstrip line feed have been studied to show the effect of feed network to enhance the impedance bandwidth. Systematic study has been carried out to show the effects of patch width variation along with its offset feed, which leads to wideband antenna characteristics. The increase in bandwidth in the case of off-centred feed PRMAs is from 1.7 GHz (1.4-3.1GHz) to 3.9 GHz (1.3-5.2 GHz); this is more than 2.2 times as compared to single-centre-feed PRMA. Experiments have been carried out to verify the simulation results, which are in good agreement.

10 illus, 12 ref

016086   Ramesh S;Natarajan N;Krishnaraj V (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Bannari Amman Institute of Technology, Sathyamangalam-638 401, Email: ssrames@gmail.com) : Experimental investigation of Al6061/SiC_p/B₄C_p hybrid MMCs in wire electrical discharge machine. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(4), 409-17.

Usage of composite materials has been increasing globally in all manufacturing industries. Non-traditional machining methods like electrical discharge machining, electrochemical machining, ultrasonic machining, etc are used to accomplish better results in the machining of composite materials. In this study, an attempt is made to study the effect of wire electrical discharge machining parameters like voltage, pulse on time, pulse off time and current on material removal rate and surface roughness in hybrid metal matrix composites. The composite material containing aluminium alloy as a matrix, silicon carbide and boron carbide as reinforcement is produced using stir casting method. The experiments are conducted based on the design of experiments approach with molybdenum as electrode material and with various proportions of silicon carbide and boron carbide. The results of analysis of variance reveal the significance of the factors. The influence of volume fraction of reinforcements on the machining performance is also addressed. The results show that increase in silicon carbide leads to decrease in material removal rate and surface finish and addition of boron carbide results in further decrease in machining performance. Finally, fuzzy models are developed for the prediction of material removal rate and surface roughness.

8 illus, 6 tables, 22 ref

016085   Ramadoss R;Kumar N;Dash S;Arivuoli D;Tyagi A K (NO, Crystal Growth Centre, Anna Univ, Chennai-600 025, Email: niranjan@igcar.gov.in) : Tribological properties of γ-TiAl alloy sliding with various counterbodies. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(4), 475-6.

Tribological behavior of gamma titanium aluminide (γ-TiAl) alloy is investigated while sliding against 100Cr6 steel, SiC and Al₂O₃ as counterbodies for friction pairs. Depending upon the type of counterbody, two different types of interaction and friction mechanism is governed that is harder γ-TiAl alloy and softer ball (γ-TiAl/steel sliding combination). However, in SiC and Al₂O₃ balls, the harder/harder sliding combination acts to describe the wear mechanism. The deformation of the wear track is governed by these sliding combinations.

5 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

016084   Pattnaik A B (NO, CSIR-Advanced Materials and Processes Research Institute, Habibganj, Bhopal-462 026, Email: amulyapattnaik@gmail.com) : Erosive wear analysis of normalised and thermally aged 2.25Cr-1 Mo steel using taguchi experimental design. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(4), 379-86.

In this paper a systematic study has been undertaken to study the erosive wear analysis of 2.25Cr-1Mo steel in normalised and thermally aged conditions. The design of experimental technique using Taguchi's orthogonal array is used to carry out experiments in an air jet erosion tester. The L9 orthogonal array is used to study the effect of erodent size, impact angle, impact velocity and erodent temperature on erosive wear of 2.25Cr-1Mo steel both in normalised and thermally aged conditions. The results indicate that in case of normalised condition, impact velocity is found to be the significant factor which results in maximum erosion and in case of thermally aged condition erodent size is the most powerful factor influencing the wear response. The confirmation test is carried out by taking an arbitrary set of parameters. The existing model predicts the erosion rate with reasonable accuracy. The contour plots are used to analyze the interaction of various design parameters with the significant controlling factor and erosion rate.

8 illus, 10 tables, 15 ref

016083   Pandey K;Asthana N;Dixit A;Dwivedi M M (National Centre of Experimental Mineralogy and Petrology, University of Allahabad, Allahabad-211 002) : Small review on the study of Diamond to Nano Diamond. Bhartiya Vaigyanik Evam Audyogik Anusandhan Patrika 2014, 22(1), 58-66.

Diamond is an attraction for the human kind due to its unique properties. A brief detail of the synthesis of nanodiamond is reviewed. Scientifically the conversion of graphite into diamond takes place by high transient pressure and high adiabatic temperature. The production of synthetic diamonds has opened the floodgates to evermore innovative applications. The diamond industry is now facing a "new diamond age" in which synthetic diamonds have chemically, physically and scientifically become identical to natural diamonds. Scientists developed the nano diamond in 1963 in past USSR, but the commercial nano diamond was marketed only after 1990. The nano diamond is characterised by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy and XRD technique. Nano diamond became the prominent candidate due to their small size and hardness. It is frequently used for the production of hardest material for polishing medium for the hard surface. The use in the biomedical and life saving drugs are significantly appreciable in saving the life of human.

^iia10 illus, 40 ref

016082   Norouzia A;Rahima M S M;Altameemb A;Tanzila Sabac;Abdolvahab Ehsani Rada;Rehmand A;Uddin M (Faculty of Computing, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor, Malaysia) : Medical image segmentation methods, algorithms, and applications. IETE Tech Rev 2014, 31(3), 199-213.

Medical images have made a great impact on medicine, diagnosis, and treatment. The most important part of image processing is image segmentation. Many image segmentation methods for medical image analysis have been presented in this paper. In this paper, we have described the latest segmentation methods applied in medical image analysis. The advantages and disadvantages of each method are described besides examination of each algorithm with its application in Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Computed Tomography image analysis. Each algorithm is explained separately with its ability and features for the analysis of grey-level images. In order to evaluate the segmentation results, some popular benchmark measurements are presented in the final section.

9 illus, 1 table, 103 ref

016081   Mohajer A;Yousefvand M;Ghalenoo E N;Mirzaei P;Zamani A (Integrated Network Management Group, Communications Technology Dep, Iran Telecommunications Research Center (ITRC), Tehran, Iran) : Novel approach to sub-graph selection over coded wireless networks with QoS constraints. IETE J Res 2014, 60(3), 203-9.

Studied the problem of minimum-cost multicast with network coding, while the maximum end-to-end weight, such as delay, throughput, and security, along paths from the source to each destination is bounded by a constant. We propose a path-based mixed integer programming model for the problem and show that the problem is non-deterministic polynomial (NP)-hard. Authors apply a column-generation approach to solve this model, where the problem is decomposed into a master linear programming problem and several integer programming sub-problems. We also introduce an approach to get a lower bound of optimal solution. Simulation results demonstrate that using of column-generation approach in combination with network coding to solve this problem can enhance the efficiency of final solution, no matter of the size of underlying network.

1 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

016080   Mishra A;Jain P K;Sinha A K (NO, CSIR- Central Electronics Engineering Research Institute, Pilani-333 031) : Electrical breakdown analysis of Magnetron Injection Gun for 42GHz/200kW gyrotron. Bhartiya Vaigyanik Evam Audyogik Anusandhan Patrika 2014, 22(1), 7-10.

This paper describes the high voltage electrical breakdown analysis of Magnetron Injection Gun which is the most important part of 42GHz gyrotron. The gyrotron MIG is a triode type gun which consists of a single cathode and two anodes (namely modulating and accelerating anode) at voltages 29kV, 65kV, respectively with large negative cathode voltage. This is the kind of triode type gun having more technical complexity in the design and fabrication. Therefore, under the high voltage condition (operational) and due to the design complexity of MIG it becomes possible that the electrical stress increase more than the theoretically designed acceptable value of the breakdown voltage i.e. 5kV/mm. So breakdown voltage analysis becomes more significant to avoid the causes of failure for any kind of microwave tubes. Hence, the paper presents the high voltage electrical breakdown analysis done with the help of two different softwares TRAK and FEMM 4.2 and validate their simulation results with the acceptable breakdown condition for the design of MIG.

6 illus, 1 table, 3 ref

016079   Mezaal Y S;Eyyuboglu H T;Ali J K (Electronic and Communication Engineering Dep, Cankaya Univ, Ankara, Turkey) : New microstrip bandpass filter designs based on stepped impedance hilbert fractal resonators. IETE J Res 2014, 60(3), 257-64.

The proposed microstrip bandpass filters in this paper have compact sizes and narrow band responses which are the requirements of modern wireless communication circuits. These filters are constructed from dual-edge coupled resonators; each resonator is based on applying step impedance resonator generator on first and second iteration of Hilbert fractal resonators on each segment of each iteration level. They have been designed for the industrial, scientific, and medical band (ISM) band applications at a centre frequency of 2.4 GHz using a substrate with a dielectric coefficient of 9.6 and thickness of 0.508 mm. The performance of bandpass filters has been analysed using a method of moments (MoM) based on software package, Microwave Office 2009, from Advanced Wave Research Inc., which is widely adopted in microwave research and industry. Simulation responses show that these filters possess good frequency response characteristics with second harmonics suppression. Moreover, these filters-showed noticeable miniaturization which is an important feature for many communication applications. The simulated and measured results are in good agreement.

14 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

016078   Marrero-Fern ndeza P;Montoya-Padr¢nb A; Jaume-i-Cap¢c A;Rubio J M B (NO, Universidad de Oriente, Santiago de Cuba, Cuba) : Evaluating the research in automatic emotion recognition. IETE Tech Rev 2014, 31(3), 220-32.

In this paper, authors present a systematic literature review of the scientific research on the automatic recognition of personal emotions. Based on an overview of the existing evidence, we further discuss the main limitations, future directions, institutions, and influential figures in this field. Authors conducted a systematic literature search of four electronic databases. Papers were systematically analysed in relation to specific research questions. The literature review yielded a pool of 110 references, which was narrowed down to a final set of 32 based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Findings reveal a growing volume of research in this field, with the USA and the UK leading these efforts and the researcher Maja Pantic as a pioneer and central figure in this area. Overall, our work revealed nine topics, with 98 databases identified. Further examination of the selected works exposed specific problems. Despite the growing number of existing research in each area of this vast field, most of the work is not systematic. To increase the efficiency and efficacy of obtaining information, they recommend the use of the standard systematic literature method in future efforts toward information syntheses on each of the topics.

5 illus, 8 tables, 39 ref

016077   Mandeep J S (Electrical Electronic and System Engineering Dep, Faculty fo Engineering and Built Environment, Univ Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Malaysia, Email: mandeep@eng.ukm.my) : Prediction of signal attenuation due to rain models at Tronoh, Malaysia. MAPAN 2013, 28(2), 105-11.

Attenuation due to rain plays an important part in satellite industries. These attenuation could be measured directly via satellite beacon at frequency 12.255 GHz (Ku-band). Therefore, measurements of 3 years signal attenuation due to rain data at Tronoh are presented. The measured data are compared with four prediction signal attenuation due to rain models such as Ramachandran Kumar, Garcia Lopez, International Telecommunication Union-Region and Goddard Thurai model. The Ramachandran Kumar model performed the best with the lowest percentage error below 10% compared with the other two models.

7 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

016076   Madan A;Gupta V K (Civil Engineering Dep, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi-110 016, Email: vimalkumar.gupta.hcst@sgei.org) : Structural control of building frames subjected to earthquake-induced excitations using shape memory alloys. Curr Sci 2014, 107(10), 1694-700.

Article presents a concept for semi-active control of earthquake-induced vibrations in building frames based on smart stressing of the frames using shape memory alloys. Smart Cables composed of nickel-titanium shape memory alloy wires are proposed to be installed externally with concrete building frame elements. Upon regulated electrical heating, the nickel-titanium shape memory alloy wires will undergo a martensite to austenite phase transformation resulting in large shrinkage strains. The strain energy thus induced can be used to generate significantly effective control forces in the building frame. The concept is analytically studied by numerical simulations of concrete building frames.

4 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

016075   Lakhani R;Tomar P (Organic Building Materials Div, CSIR - Central Building Research Institute, Roorkee-247 667) : Development of flooring tiles from Kota stone waste and study of their physical properties. Bhartiya Vaigyanik Evam Audyogik Anusandhan Patrika 2014, 22(1), 41-5.

Stone is the main construction material from the ancient times. In recent years, large amount of slurry stone waste have been generated in stone production plants with significant environmental impacts. This waste causes serious environmental problems. This disposal of waste in agricultural land causes a reduction of water infiltration, soil fertility, plant growth etc. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to investigate the possibility of replacing stone waste in making flooring tiles as a filler material. For this purpose the stone powder was characterized by chemical and physical analysis. The result showed that this type of industrial by-product can be used in making tiles due to its similarity to cement properties. Mixtures were prepared by 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% replacement of fine aggregate substituted by Kota stone powder waste. Various mechanical properties such as compressive strength, flexural strength were evaluated. The obtained test results were indicated that the replacement of natural sand by Kota stone waste up to 25% of any formulation is favourable for making the tiles.

7 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

016074   Karthiyaini S;Nagan S (NO, Latha Mathavan Engineering College, Madurai-625 301, Email: karthiyaini.s@gmail.com) : Behaviour of geopolymer concrete circular column using glass fiber reinforced polymer. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(4), 458-64.

Experimental investigation is carried out on the behaviour of axially loaded geopolymer concrete short columns that have been strengthened by wrapping with glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP). An experiment has been conducted to study the load-deflection behaviour and compressive strength of reinforced geopolymer concrete short circular columns of M30 and G30 grade concrete, under axial compression. Several aspects related to the use of GFRP to strengthen the geopolymer concrete short column are examined. The objectives of the hypothesis are: potential behaviour of geopolymer reinforced concrete short circular columns, evaluate the effects of GFRP layers under ultimate load and evaluate the ductility of short columns, analyse the stiffness and compressive strength indices for geopolymer short columns and analyse the mechanical behaviours of the glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) while wrapping around the column. Totally six specimens are subjected to axial compression which includes control specimens. All the test specimens are loaded to identify the point of failure in axial compression and investigated subsequently in axial and transverse direction. The overall length of the column is 800 mm. The reinforcement ratio is kept constant throughout the study as 2.16%. The load carrying capacity and deflection pattern are arrived and compared against ordinary Portland cement reinforced column and also the results are compared against column wrapped with GFRP sheets.

9 illus, 4 tables, 13 ref

016073   Joshi D;Kumar A;Gupta R;Yadav S (NO, Apex Level Standards and Industrial Metrology, CSIR-National Physical, New Delhi-110 012, Email: akumar@nplindia.org) : Sensitivity enhancement of concurrent technique of acoustic impedance measurement. MAPAN 2013, 28(2), 79-83.

Measurement of acoustic impedance requires both the measurement of ultrasonic velocity as well as density. The present work is an extension of our previous novel method reported and validated through a series of acoustic impedance studies carried out in a number of pure, binary and ternary liquid mixtures. To bypass the ambiguity of measurement of velocity and density independently, and to overcome the limitation of previously developed concurrent method for measurement of acoustic impedance, a new novel mathematical approach has been developed. Admittedly, in case of two liquids of approximately identical impedances, it is difficult to detect the variation using the proposed method. Consequently, the method requires some modification to study the small changes in acoustic impedance. In order to achieve the desired sensitivity, a novel mathematical approach has been developed and reported in this paper which overcomes the limitations of our previously developed concurrent method for the measurement of acoustic impedance. Present work analyses the factors that contribute to the sensitivity. Finally, a methodology has been suggested for achieving the maximum sensitivity. Several experiments were carried out using the present technique and results obtained clearly show higher sensitivity over the results obtained using previous technique. The modified method would be a useful tool for the researchers in a number of applications, such as the study of intermolecular interactions in liquids, adulteration estimation, finalization of process parameters, etc.

4 illus, 12 ref

016072   Jiun-Wei H;Chang-Ming W;Herencsar N (Electronic Engineering Dep, Chung Yuan Christian Univ, Chung-Li, 32023, Taiwan, Email: jwhorng@cycu.edu.tw) : Fully differential first-order allpass filters using a DDCC. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(4), 345-50.

Two voltage-mode high input impedance differential input-differential output first-order allpass filters based on differential difference current conveyor (DDCC) are presented. Each of the proposed circuit uses one plus-type DDCC, one grounded capacitor and three resistors. The proposed circuits enjoy the features of high input impedance, tunable of the allpass gains and using only grounded capacitors. The tracking error and sensitivity analysis of the proposed circuits are given. Simulation results confirm the theoretical analysis.

12 illus, 27 ref

016071   Irhoumah J M S;Ahmad A;Agarwal V C (Civil Engineering Dep, SHIATS, Allahabad-211 007) : Comparison of digital photogrammetric software in the production of digital orthophoto and digital map. Allahabad Fmr 2014, 70(1), 99-113.

Photogrammetry is a discipline where several output such as Orthophoto, digital map contour lines, three dimensional coordinates and others can be produced from aerial photograph. The orthophoto is a photographic representation on which effect of terrain height and camera attitude are removed. The orthophoto constitutes a platform on which accurate measurement can be done which is similar to a map. A map or topographic map is commonly produced using photogrammetric technique. With the advances in computer hard, software and digital technique, photogrammetry has embraces this advances. Today the photogrammetry discipline is known as digital phothogrammetry. In digital photogrammetry, product such as digital a orthophoto and digital map can be produced within short period. These outputs are becoming very popular and very useful to Geographical Information System (GIS) community. The aim of this study is to assess the accuracy of digital orthophoto and digital map produced using tow digital photogrammetric softwares known as ERDAS and PCI. A good understanding of photogrammetry and its component is essential. A well structured criteria was used to assess the accuracy of the digital Orthophoto and digital map produced from the analysis. From this study, based on the findings it was found that PCI software produces superior results or accuracy compared to Erdas software. Even though Erdas software produces less accurate results, it has other function that is superior than the PCI software. In this study, it can be concluded that user should select appropriate software to produce accurate results in producing photogrammetric output.

7 illus, 4 tables, 7 ref

016070   Huo Y;Wang B;Lin J;Jiang Y;Zhou J (School of Mechanical Engineering, Univ of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China, Email: bywang@ustb.edu.cn) : Modeling of austenitic grain growth of 25CrMo4 steel for the high-speed railway axle during hot working. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(4), 371-8.

After hot deformation, the fine grains due to recrystallization are apt to grow up at high temperatures. The grain size affects directly the performance and quality of products, so it is of great significance to investigate the grain evolution. In this paper, 25CrMo4 steel samples are compressed until a strain of 0.6, under isothermal conditions using Gleeble-1500 at deformation temperatures in the range of 950-1100°C and at same strain rate 1.0 s^{-1, and then the samples are held at deformation temperatures for 0, 10, 20 and 30 min. Microstructure is retained by using water quench. The grain growth model is expressed by a differential function of both temperature and holding time. The material constants in grain growth model are determined using genetic algorithm (GA) optimization technology from experimental data. A good agreement between predicted results and experimental data is obtained, which shows that the developed grain growth model enables the grain size evolution at various high temperatures to be well predicted.}

5 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

016069   Hunaashikatti P T;Suresh K R;Prathima B; Sachdeva G (School of Renewable Energy and Efficiency, National Institute of Technology, Kurukshetra-136 119, Email: praveenh17@gmail.com ) : Development of desalination unit using solar still coupled with evacuated tubes for domestic use in rural areas. Curr Sci 2014, 107(10), 1683-93.

Potable water and energy are two main priorities of mankind. The rural communities, especially of developing and under-developed countries are facing acute shortage of both. A sustainable, domestic water de- salination process for rural India to meet the demand 1 for potable water is the need of the hour and solar thermal desalination proves to be a promising alterna- tive. In this article, experimental studies of single-slope, single-basin solar still integrated with evacuated tubes, in natural mode (coupled system) are carried out for the climatic conditions of Bangalore (12.96°N, 77.56°E), Karnataka, India. For solar still basin area of 0.51 m^{2, the distillate yields obtained from the coupled system for water depths of 0.06, 0.04 and 0.02 m are 3.289, 4.652 and 5.534 kg respectively, from 7:00 h to 19:00 h. The variation of instantaneous energy effi- ciency for the coupled system is found to be in the range 0.33-73.18% between 9:00 and 17:00 h for water depth of 0.02 m, which decreases with increase in water depth in the solar still. Chemical analysis of 1 inlet water sample and outlet distillate was carried out and compared with Indian drinking water standards, IS-10500:2012. It is observed that the values for chemical composition of distillate are well below the limits of drinking water standards. The total cost of the developed coupled system was estimated to be Rs 6980 (US$ 1 = Rs 60.25 as on 15 April 2014). This eco-friendly system does not depend on any conventional source of energy for its operation and is easy to build and maintain.}

9 illus, 5 tables, 33 ref

016068   Himabindu M;Ravikrishna R V (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012, Email: himabindu@mecheng.iisc.ernet.in) : Performance assessment of a small biogas-fuelled power generator prototype. J scient ind Res 2014, 73(12), 781-5.

This study reports the development and performance evaluation of prototypes of biogas-fuelled stationary power generators in the range of 1 kW. Strategies to achieve high engine efficiency namely pulsed manifold injection, electronic throttle control and dual spark plugs, have been incorporated in the prototype. A complete closed-loop control of the engine operation to maintain a steady engine speed of 3000 rpm (±5%) across the entire load range while maintaining an optimum fuel-air equivalence ratio is made possible by an electronic control unit (ECU) controlling the injection duration, ignition timing and throttle position. This study specifically focuses on the response of the generator to transient loads, and the overall efficiency obtained. The results obtained from testing the prototype have been found to be satisfactory and show that biogas power generators for low power applications can be made efficient (overall efficiency of 19% at electrical load of 640 W) using the strategies of biogas fuel injection.

3 illus, 3 tables, 9 ref

016067   Guler H;Ozcan R (Mechanical Engineering Dep, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Uludag Univ, 16059 Gorukle-Bursa, Turkey, Email: handeguler@uludag.edu.tr) : Comparison of hot and cold stamping simulation of usibor 1500 prototype model. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2014, 21(4), 387-96.

Now a days, high strength steels are being increasingly used in the automotive industry and hot stamping of high strength steel plays an important role of light weighting without affecting the structural performances of final products. Unlike the cold stamping process, blank is formed and quenched, simultaneously during the hot stamping process. This affords the opportunity to manufacture components with complex geometric shapes and high strength. In this paper, the hot and cold forming simulations of a prototype model are processed with Usibor 1500 steel. The forming simulations are performed by DYNAFORM. For this purpose, tensile tests are implemented at elevated and room temperatures. Mat 106 and Mat 18 material models are selected for the hot and cold stampings, respectively. The results from the simulations show that the hot stamping process is safer than cold stamping.

9 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

016066   Guana D;Yuana W;Leea Y K;Najeebullaha K;Rasel M K (Computer Engineering Dep, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea) : Review of ensemble learning based feature selection. IETE Tech Rev 2014, 31(3), 190-6.

Feature selection is an important topic in machine learning. In recent years, via integrating ensemble learning, the ensemble learning based feature selection approach has been proposed and studied. The general idea is to generate multiple diverse feature selectors and combine their outputs. This approach is superior to conventional feature selection methods in many aspects. Among them, its most prominent advantage is the ability to handle stability issue that is usually poor in existing feature selection methods. This review covers different issues related to ensemble learning based feature selection, which include the main modules, the stability measurement, etc. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review that focuses on ensemble feature selection. It can be a useful reference in the literature of feature selection.

3 illus, 5 tables, 54 ref